Delicious Zucchini with Soy Butter

Featured in Tasty Vegetarian Meals Made Simple.

This zucchini side dish mixes fresh veggies with some Asian flavors, and it's super quick to make. Zucchini and onions are cooked until they're just right, then we add a mix of soy sauce and butter. The butter gets all melty with the soy sauce, making a tasty coating. Garlic is in there too, and you can throw on some sesame seeds if you want. It's done in less than 15 minutes, and you can eat it with just about anything.
Emily Watson
Updated on Fri, 14 Feb 2025 23:27:30 GMT
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Master the art of hibachi-style zucchini at home with this restaurant-inspired recipe. The perfect combination of tender-crisp vegetables and rich savory flavors creates an impressive side dish in just minutes.

This recipe captures the essence of teppanyaki cooking techniques used by hibachi chefs. The method focuses on achieving ideal vegetable texture while building layers of umami flavor.

Key Ingredients

  • Zucchini: Select medium, firm squash
  • Onion: Fresh yellow onion for base flavor
  • Oil: Neutral cooking oil with high smoke point
  • Soy Sauce: Premium dark soy recommended
  • Butter: Unsalted for flavor balance
  • Garlic: Fresh cloves, finely minced
  • Sesame Seeds: For garnish and texture

Preparation Method

Step-by-Step Process:
Heat pan until oil shimmers over medium-high heat. Sauté onions until translucent, 2-3 minutes. Add zucchini and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp. Incorporate garlic and cook 60 seconds. Add soy sauce and butter, stirring until sauce reduces slightly. Finish with optional sesame seed garnish.
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Temperature Control

Consistent medium-high heat develops proper caramelization while preserving vegetable texture. Allow pan to regain heat between batches. Listen for a strong sizzle when adding ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Accompany with grilled proteins, hibachi chicken, or seafood. Excellent alongside Asian-style rice or noodle dishes. Particularly complementary to teriyaki-glazed fish.

Texture Guide

Uniform cutting ensures even cooking. Zucchini should maintain structure while being easily pierced. Properly cooked onions provide natural sweetness.

Storage Guidelines

Consume immediately for optimal texture. Store remaining portions in sealed container for up to 48 hours. Quick high-heat reheating helps maintain quality.

Recipe Variations

Consider adding sliced mushrooms or colorful peppers. Enhance with spicy chili oil or sweet teriyaki sauce for different flavor profiles.

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Professional Tips

This classic hibachi preparation elevates simple vegetables into a memorable dish. Mastering these fundamental techniques creates restaurant-quality results that become a regular kitchen staple.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the zucchini from getting mushy?
Cook it fast over high heat so it browns a little, and don't cook it too long.
→ Can I toss in other veggies?
Sure, mushrooms, bell peppers, or carrots would be great.
→ Is this good for a keto diet?
Yep, zucchini is low in carbs, so this is perfect for keto.
→ What if I don't have butter?
You can use olive oil, or a bit more sesame oil, if you're avoiding dairy.
→ Can I prep this in advance?
It's really best right after it's cooked. If you reheat it, the zucchini might get too soft.

Zucchini with Soy Butter

Crispy zucchini and onions cooked with soy sauce and butter. It's a super fast and tasty side.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
25 Minutes

Category: Vegetarian

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Asian-Fusion

Yield: 4 Servings (4 side servings)

Dietary: Low-Carb, Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Vegetables

01 2 zucchinis, medium-sized
02 A big onion
03 1 clove of garlic, finely chopped

→ Sauce & Seasonings

04 2 tbsp of oil—try sesame or canola
05 2 tbsp of soy sauce
06 A pat of butter (about 1 tbsp)
07 A pinch of salt and a generous dash of pepper
08 A sprinkle of sesame seeds as a finishing touch (if you'd like)

Instructions

Step 01

Cut the zucchinis into sticks about 2-3 inches long and half an inch thick. Slice the onion into slim, curved strips.

Step 02

Warm the oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Toss in the onion and cook it for 2-3 minutes until it gets soft and a little transparent. Then, add the zucchini.

Step 03

Throw in the garlic and pour the soy sauce. Stir and cook for around 5-7 minutes until you reach that tender-crisp texture. Mix in the butter until it melts completely.

Step 04

Season with some salt and pepper. If you’re using them, sprinkle on the sesame seeds. Serve while hot.

Notes

  1. This dish tastes best when served right away so the veggies keep that perfect crisp-tender bite.

Tools You'll Need

  • A big frying pan or a griddle with a flat surface
  • A sharp knife and a cutting board to prep ingredients

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • This uses soy ingredients.
  • Contains dairy, as it includes butter.