Korean Zucchini Archives

What is Korean zucchini ?

Korean zucchini and onions on a chopping board — A cut up Korean zucchini & onions

Korean zucchini is similar to the zucchini you find in most American grocery stores, except that it has a more yellow-green appearance. It also has a thinner, smoother skin, and the interior is more delicate and soft. It is one of the most commonly used vegetables in Korean cooking, and is prepared on its own with seasonings or dipped in egg as a side dish, as well as being added to various stews, soups and pancakes. Young squash is an essential ingredient for doenjang jjigae (beanpaste stew), namul (seasoned vegetables), or jeon (pan-fried dishes).

Where and What To Buy

Korean zucchinis can be bought at Korean grocery stores.

How to Clean/Store

Korean courgettes can be kept at room temperature, however, if you store it in your fridge, make sure it is uncut and dry. It can then be placed into a bag (paper or plastic), leaving it open to encourage air circulation, and avoiding moisture build up. If you have a large amount of zucchini and can't use all of it at once, you can cut them up and blanch them, then store it in the freezer in freezer bags. You can also grate up and freeze raw zucchini for future recipes.

Nutrition/Health Info

Zucchini contains a good amount of vitamins, namely vitamin A and C. Vitamin A, is responsible for protecting eyesight, and the immune system. Vitamin C is mainly found in the skin, so it is recommended that it be left on, as the vitamin is capable of protecting your body from free radicals. The zucchini also contains small amounts of vitamin B, iron, calcium, zinc, and various other beneficial minerals.

Since zucchinis are high in water content, and is fibrous, it can easily digested, and promotes guts health.

Additionally, Korean courgettes assists with brain development, and may help prevent dementia.