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Japanese Zucchini & Onion Stir-Fry

Japanese Zucchini & Onion Stir-Fry

This Japanese Zucchini & Onion Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy side dish with tender-crisp vegetables tossed in a light savory-sweet umami glaze and finished with toasted sesame oil.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Japanese
Calories: 120
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Vegetables
  • 2 medium zucchini sliced into half-moons (about 300 g)
  • 1 medium yellow onion thinly sliced
Sauce & Finishing
  • 1 tbsp neutral oil canola or avocado
  • 1 tsp toasted sesame oil add at the end
  • 1 tbsp Japanese soy sauce (shoyu)
  • 1 tsp mirin
  • 1 tsp sake optional
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Skillet or Wok
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the neutral oil and allow it to shimmer.
  2. Add the sliced onion and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent.
  3. Add the zucchini and stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until tender-crisp.
  4. In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, mirin, sake (if using), and sugar until the sugar dissolves.
  5. Pour the sauce into the pan and toss to coat. Cook 1–2 minutes, letting the sauce reduce into a light glaze.
  6. Remove from heat. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil, season with black pepper, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the best texture, keep the heat fairly high and avoid overcooking the zucchini. You can add tofu, edamame, or mushrooms for extra heartiness. For gluten-free, use tamari.