Zucchini Chinese Style
A quick, flavorful stir-fry combining tender zucchini with smoky bacon and savory seasonings, perfect for a satisfying Asian-inspired side or light main dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon until crisp; remove from skillet and crumble.
- Add sliced zucchini to bacon drippings in skillet; toss to coat.
- Pour chicken broth over zucchini and cover.
- Steam for 4 to 5 minutes until zucchini is almost tender.
- In a small bowl, blend cornstarch, monosodium glutamate, and salt with cold water.
- Stir the cornstarch mixture into the zucchini mixture and cook, stirring constantly, until it boils and thickens.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with crumbled bacon.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding minced garlic or ginger to the skillet when cooking the zucchini. You can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it for a vegetarian option. If you want a spicier kick, adding a dash of chili flakes can enhance the dish. Make sure to score the zucchini well to help it absorb the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
This Zucchini Chinese Style dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a perfect side for chicken recipes like Sizzling Stir-Fry Chicken 'N Peppers. You can also serve it alongside a light salad to balance the meal. Garnishing with sesame seeds or fresh herbs can add a vibrant touch.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover zucchini can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain its texture, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Zucchini Chinese Style contains roughly 164 calories, with 5g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1159mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen zucchini for this recipe?
While fresh zucchini is recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen zucchini. However, be aware that it may release more water during cooking, so adjust the chicken broth accordingly to avoid a watery dish.
How can I make this dish vegan?
To make this Zucchini Chinese Style dish vegan, simply omit the bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also enhance the flavor by adding soy sauce or a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy kick.
What can I serve with this dish?
This dish pairs well with various proteins, especially chicken recipes. Consider serving it alongside grilled or stir-fried chicken, or as part of a larger spread of Chinese recipes that includes rice, noodles, and spring rolls for a delightful meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).