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Zucchini “Unagi” (Japanese Eel)

Soy glazed zucchini, garnished with furikake (Japanese seaweed and sesame seasoning) and chopped green onions, served over a bed of white rice

This is unagi... but with zucchini instead of unagi. My eggplant "unagi" recipe went viral a few weeks ago, so I'm back with a zucchini version for anyone who doesn't eat eggplant (shoutout to the viewer who suggested this idea)!

Zucchini has a high water content, so the trick is to air fry (or bake) it first until golden and crispy on the outside. Then we braise it in a savory, slightly sweet sauce until it's beautifully coated and glazed. Serve over rice, and you've basically got yourself a vegan unadon (Japanese eel rice bowl).

Prep Time 5 mins
Cook Time 20 mins
Total Time 25 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Cuisine: ,
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Servings: 2
Calories: 135
Dietary: Vegan, Vegetarian
Description

Charred, tender zucchini coated in a savory-sweet soy glaze. Serve over rice for an easy, vegan version of unadon (Japanese eel rice bowl).

Ingredients
  • 2 medium zucchinis
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
    • Sauce:
  • 1/2 tbsp light soy sauce (can add more to taste)
  • 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp mirin
  • 1 tsp sugar
  • 1 tsp corn starch
  • 1/2 cup water
  • Furikake (for garnish)
  • Chopped scallions (for garnish)
Instructions
  1. 1
    Slice the zucchini in half lengthwise. Score the surface by tapping the sharp side of your knife vertically across it to create a textured, vertically striped pattern. If the zucchini is very long, slice each half crosswise.
  2. 2
    Sprinkle the surface with salt and let rest for 10 minutes. Pat dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture, then drizzle with olive oil and spread evenly over the surface.
  3. 3
    Air fry (or bake), surface-side up, at 425°F for 8-10 minutes, then broil for an additional 2 minutes, until the surface is lightly charred.
  4. 4
    Combine all the sauce ingredients in a pan and stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Turn the heat on to medium. Once the sauce comes to a simmer, add the zucchini, surface-side up, and braise for 5 minutes. Flip and continue to simmer until the sauce thickens.
  5. 5
    Serve over warm rice, and optionally garnish with furikake and chopped scallions.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2

Amount Per Serving
Calories 135kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 8g13%
Total Carbohydrate 15g5%
Dietary Fiber 2g8%
Protein 4g8%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

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Read it online: https://ricesprinkles.com/recipe/zucchini-unagi-japanese-eel/
Iris
Hey! I'm Iris, a casual home cook and rice enthusiast. I share Chinese-ish recipes that prioritize health and convenience.