1. Selecting and Preparing Water Spinach
-
Choose fresh spinach: Tasty water spinach is usually bright green, with thin leaves and moderately sized stems that are not too large and show no signs of wilting. It is best to buy young water spinach as it will be softer and crispier when boiled.
-
Sort and clean the spinach: Remove any wilted leaves and snap off the tough roots. You can also snap the spinach into sections about 4-5 cm long to make it easier to eat.
-
Wash thoroughly: Soak the water spinach in a dilute salt water solution for about 5-10 minutes to remove dirt and pesticides (if any), then rinse several times with clean water.
Tip for Boiling Water Spinach to Keep it Green and Crisp, Even if You’re Clumsy, and It Won’t Turn Black Even if You Leave it for a While
2. Preparing the Boiling Water
To ensure the water spinach retains its attractive green color and crisp texture after boiling, it is important to prepare the boiling water properly.
-
Bring the water to a rolling boil: When you start boiling the spinach, make sure the water is at a full boil before adding the vegetable. This helps the spinach cook quickly and retain its color and crispness.
-
Add a pinch of salt or a few drops of lemon juice: Adding a small amount of salt (or a few drops of lemon juice or vinegar) to the boiling water will help keep the spinach greener and prevent it from turning black. Be careful not to add too much, as it may affect the natural sweetness of the spinach.
3. Boiling the Water Spinach
-
Boil quickly and briefly: Once the water is boiling, add the spinach and gently stir to ensure all the spinach is submerged. Boil for about 2-3 minutes or until the spinach turns a vibrant green color. Overboiling will make the spinach soft and soggy, and it may also turn dark.
-
Immediately plunge into ice water: As soon as the boiling process is complete, remove the spinach and place it in a bowl of ice water or cold water for 1-2 minutes. This “shock” treatment helps the spinach retain its crispness and bright green color.
How to Boil Water Spinach to Keep it Green and Crisp
4. Keeping the Spinach from Turning Black When Stored
-
Drain the spinach thoroughly before cooling: After soaking in ice water, remove the spinach and let it drain completely. Excess water on the spinach can cause it to turn black when stored for a long time.
-
Store in an airtight container: If you are not using the spinach immediately, place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This way, the spinach will stay green and crisp for a few hours.
A Plate of Boiled Water Spinach, Green and Crisp
5. Making the Most of the Boiling Water
The water used to boil water spinach can be utilized to make a delicious and refreshing soup. Simply add some seasoning or a few drops of lemon juice to create a detoxifying and cooling water spinach soup.
The Secret to Perfect Water Spinach Stir-Fry: The One Ingredient That Makes All the Difference
With this stir-fry water spinach recipe, you’ll be able to create a mouth-watering dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing with its vibrant green color.
“The Ultimate Crab Soup: Unlocking Nature’s Delicious Block”
The key to achieving a perfect crab soup with a firm, solid texture lies in temperature control. Start with a high flame to heat up the pot, and once you notice the edges beginning to warm, reduce the heat to low and refrain from stirring. Additionally, to create a sweet and savory broth with tender crab meat that forms cohesive chunks without any fishy odor, there’s a secret ingredient you’ll need.
4 Wild Weeds That Are Nature’s Secret Superfoods: Unlocking the Power of These Unassuming Plants
The following vegetables are nutritional powerhouses, packed with essential vitamins and minerals that are essential for optimal health. These veggie superstars deserve a permanent spot on your plate and in your diet – they are truly nature’s medicine!
The Vegetables You Shouldn’t Add to Your Hot Pot
Not all vegetables are created equal when it comes to hot pot. In fact, some vegetables are better left out of this beloved communal feast. To ensure a healthy and enjoyable hot pot experience, steer clear of the following vegetables that are best avoided.
The More You Cook This Vegetable, The More Nutritious It Becomes, Making Children Grow Taller.
One of the standout vegetables that, when cooked to perfection, becomes a “superfood” for exceptional growth in children is none other than *Rau Ngót*.
