Welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, I present to you a delicious and healthy recipe for Japanese Zucchini Rice. This dish is a perfect combination of fluffy rice and nutritious zucchini, seasoned with savory Japanese flavors. A versatile meal that can be enjoyed as a main dish or as a side dish. With the help of your trusty rice cooker, this recipe is quick and hassle-free. Let’s get started on this culinary adventure! We’ve made this japanese zucchini rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

japanese zucchini rice ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 cup rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp mirin (optional)
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds, toasted

Instructions

  1. Cook the rice according to the package instructions.
  2. While the rice is cooking, heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat.
  3. Add the diced zucchini to the pan and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until slightly tender.
  4. Add the soy sauce and mirin (if using) to the pan and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
  5. When the rice is done cooking, add the stir-fried zucchini to the rice and mix well.
  6. Serve the zucchini rice in bowls and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.

japanese zucchini rice

How long does japanese zucchini rice last in the fridge?

Japanese zucchini rice is a delicious and nutritious dish that can be stored in the fridge for up to four days after cooking. To properly store the rice, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container and placing it in the refrigerator. It’s important to refrigerate the rice as soon as possible after cooking to prevent bacterial growth. When reheating the rice, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure that it’s safe to eat. With proper storage and reheating, your Japanese zucchini rice should maintain its flavor and texture for up to four days in the fridge.

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Low calorie japanese zucchini rice recipe substitutions

To make this Japanese zucchini rice recipe lower in calories, there are a few substitutions that could be made. Firstly, you could switch out the vegetable oil for a non-stick cooking spray in order to reduce the amount of added fat. Additionally, you could replace the regular rice with a lower calorie alternative, such as cauliflower rice or brown rice. Another option would be to reduce the amount of sesame seeds used, or to leave them out altogether. Lastly, you could use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce to cut down on the sodium content. By making these substitutions, you can still enjoy the delicious flavors of this dish while also making it lower in calories and healthier overall.

What to serve with a japanese zucchini rice?

To complement the flavors of Japanese zucchini rice, you can serve it with some delicious protein options like teriyaki glazed salmon, grilled chicken yakitori or tofu. You can also add a side salad with a light ginger dressing, steamed edamame or a miso soup to balance the meal. For a complete experience, you can serve some chilled green tea, Japanese plum wine or sake to complement the taste and bring out the flavors of the dish.

Whats the best sauce for a japanese zucchini rice?

The best sauce for Japanese zucchini rice would be a simple yet flavorful combination of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and mirin. Mix together these three ingredients in equal portions and add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. You can also add a bit of grated ginger or garlic for some extra kick. Drizzle the sauce over the zucchini rice just before serving and garnish with some chopped green onions or cilantro for a fresh and vibrant finish. The savory and slightly tangy sauce perfectly complements the nutty and subtly sweet flavors of the rice and zucchini, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.

Japanese zucchini rice health benefits

Japanese zucchini rice is a healthy dish that contains various nutrients that are essential for the human body. Zucchini, which is the primary ingredient, is rich in antioxidants and dietary fiber, making it helpful in preventing chronic diseases such as heart diseases and cancer. Additionally, Rice is an effective source of carbohydrates, which supply energy to the body. The dish also includes garlic and onions, which possess antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds. Thus, consuming Japanese zucchini rice is an excellent way to obtain various vital nutrients that prevent various illnesses and promote good health. If you are looking for an alternative healthy recipe, I recommend trying quinoa vegetable stir fry. Quinoa is an excellent source of protein and dietary fiber, and it combines various wholesome veggies that are packed with vitamins and minerals, promoting general wellbeing.

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