VIETNAMESE GARLIC STIR-FRIED WATER SPINACH

VIETNAMESE GARLIC STIR-FRIED WATER SPINACH

Vietnamese Garlic Stir-Fried Water Spinach is a beloved Vietnamese side dish known for its simplicity and bold garlic aroma. This dish features tender water spinach (or its close substitute, spinach) flash-cooked in hot oil with fragrant garlic and seasoned with soy sauce, often served alongside rice and grilled meats. The result is a crisp-tender texture and deep umami flavour that complements virtually any meal. It’s incredibly quick to prepare, packed with nutrients and low in calories, making it a staple in home kitchens and street-side eateries alike. This single-serving recipe is perfect for solo diners, light lunches or rounding out a Vietnamese-inspired meal. Whether you use Morning Glory or regular spinach, this garlicky Vietnamese Garlic Stir-Fried Water Spinach brings out the essence of Vietnamese home cooking with minimal effort and maximum taste.

RECIPE CATEGORY

Side

SERVING SIZE

1

CUISINE

Vietnamese

PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES

Stir-Fry

OCCASION/HOLIDAY

Casual Dinner

SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS

Vegan

DISH TYPE

Main Course

INGREDIENTS

Here is a list of ingredients for Vietnamese Garlic Stir-Fried Water Spinach:

• 30 grams | 1.06 ounces | ½ cup morning glory (water spinach) or spinach
• 4 grams | 0.05 ounces | ½ teaspoon garlic, minced
• 5 millilitres | 0.08 fluid ounces | ½ teaspoon soy sauce
• 5 millilitres | 0.08 fluid ounces | ½ teaspoon oil

FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION

• Calories: 30 kilocalories
• Fat: 2.5 grams
• Saturated Fat: 0.4 grams
• Carbohydrate: 1.5 grams
• Sugar: 0.4 grams
• Fibre: 0.6 grams
• Sodium: 150 milligrams
• Protein: 0.8 grams
• Calcium: 23 milligrams
• Potassium: 94 milligrams
• Iron: 0.50 milligrams

PREPARATION

These steps are followed for the preparation of Vietnamese Garlic Stir-Fried Water Spinach:

• Wash The Greens: Thoroughly rinse morning glory (or spinach) to remove dirt and grit. Drain and set aside.
• Heat The Pan: In a small non-stick skillet or wok, heat the oil over medium flame.
• Sauté The Garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for 20 to 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
• Add Greens: Toss in the morning glory or spinach and stir-fry quickly to coat with oil and garlic.
• Season And Cook: Drizzle in the soy sauce and stir-fry for another 1 to 2 minutes until wilted but still vibrant.
• Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and serve hot as a side or with rice.

PREPARATION TIME

3 minutes

COOKING TIME

3 minutes

TIPS

Here are some helpful tips for Vietnamese Garlic Stir-Fried Water Spinach:

• Dry Greens Thoroughly: Pat dry or spin greens to prevent oil splatter during stir-frying.
• Don’t Overcook: Aim for a quick stir-fry to maintain a bright colour and slight crunch.
• Use High Heat: Stir-frying works best with a hot pan for quick and even cooking.
• Adjust Flavour: Add a splash of vegetarian oyster sauce or a pinch of chilli flakes if desired.
• Preparation Before Cooking: This dish cooks fast, so have all ingredients ready beforehand.

VARIATIONS

• With Tofu: Add small cubes of tofu for protein and a heartier dish.
• Garlic Lovers’ Version: Double the garlic for a bolder flavour.
• Coconut Oil Twist: Use coconut oil instead of neutral oil for a subtle tropical note.
• Soy-Free Option: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten- and soy-free alternative.
• Lemon Zest Finish: Add a pinch of lemon zest after cooking for a refreshing touch.

PREPPING AND STORAGE

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
• Freezing Not Recommended: Freezing affects texture, so it is not recommended.
• Meal Preparation Friendly: Prepare garlic and wash greens ahead of time to save time on busy days.
• Reheat Carefully: Reheat in a pan over low heat for best results and avoid microwaving for long.