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South Korea · Food

Stir-fried Zucchini (Hobak-bokkeum)

40 min
180 kcal
4 servings

By eatmundo · August 3, 2026

Stir-fried Zucchini (Hobak-bokkeum)🇰🇷AI-generated image

Same ingredients, elsewhere in the world

16 matches

Dishes from other countries' kitchens, made from the same core ingredients as Stir-fried Zucchini (Hobak-bokkeum). The percentage is the share of ingredients the two recipes have in common.

Same technique: Stir-fry94 recipes from 24 countriesSee all 16 matches

A classic, quick-to-prepare Korean side dish featuring tender zucchini sautéed with savory beef and aromatics. It is a humble yet flavorful addition to any meal.

According to eatmundo's ingredient comparison, the closest dish to Stir-fried Zucchini from another cuisine is Beef Sup Oh (Malaysia): the two share 57% of their ingredients.

Ingredients

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Adapt this recipe:
4 servings

How to Make It

  • 1

    Cut 2 medium zucchinis into 3mm thick half-moon slices and sprinkle with a pinch of salt to draw out excess moisture.

  • 2

    Finely mince 150g of beef and season with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 minced garlic clove.

  • 3

    Finely dice 1 medium onion and mince the remaining 2 garlic cloves.

  • 4

    Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and stir-fry the seasoned beef until fully browned.

  • 5

    Add the diced onion and garlic, stirring until fragrant, about 1 minute.

  • 6

    Drain the moisture from the salted zucchini slices and add them to the skillet.

  • 7

    Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the zucchini is tender but still retains a slight crunch, adding 2 tbsp soy sauce to taste.

  • 8

    Finish with 1 tbsp sesame oil, give it a final quick toss, and serve warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Hobak-bokkeum?

Hobak-bokkeum is a Korean side dish consisting of stir-fried zucchini, beef, and onions seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. It is typically served as a banchan alongside rice in Korean meals.

Should I peel the zucchini?

No, keep the skin on; it provides color, texture, and keeps the slices from turning into mush during stir-frying.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the beef and add mushrooms, such as shiitake, for an earthy, savory flavor profile.

Why does my zucchini turn into mush?

You may have overcooked it or failed to drain the excess water after salting the zucchini.

What is the best type of zucchini to use?

Korean summer squash (ae-hobak) is traditional, but standard green zucchini works perfectly as a substitute.

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