How to Stir-Fry Water Spinach for a Crisp and Vibrant Dish
Method 1: Blanch the Water Spinach Before Stir-Frying
Blanching ensures the water spinach is just cooked, so you don’t have to stir-fry it for too long, which can turn it yellow. Add a pinch of salt to the blanching water or a few drops of cooking oil to help retain the vibrant green color.
When blanching, do not cover the pot and ensure the water level is just enough to submerge the vegetables. Remove the spinach immediately after it turns tender, and rinse it briefly in cold water to halt the cooking process, preventing overcooking.
Method 2: Stir-Fry with High Heat and Quick Movements
Since the spinach is partially cooked from blanching, stir-frying it quickly will allow it to absorb the flavors while retaining its green color.
Turn up the heat, ensure your wok is nice and hot, and then add the spinach, stirring rapidly. Remember to add the tougher parts of the water spinach, like the stems, a little earlier than the leaves or tender tips.
Method 3: Stir-Fry in Manageable Batches
Only stir-fry a batch of water spinach that comfortably fits in your wok. Overcrowding the wok will make it difficult to stir evenly, and you risk crushing the delicate vegetable.
If you’re stir-frying with meat, shrimp, or squid, cook the protein first and set it aside. Then, stir-fry the water spinach until just cooked, add the protein back into the wok, season to taste, and you’re done!
Ingredients for Stir-Frying Water Spinach
– 1 bunch of fresh water spinach
– 1/2 clove of garlic
– Seasonings: Cooking oil, seasoning powder, MSG (if desired), fish sauce, salt, etc.
Step-by-Step Guide to Stir-Frying Water Spinach
Step 1: Prepare the Water Spinach and Other Ingredients
Start by thoroughly cleaning the water spinach and then rinsing it. Peel and finely chop the garlic clove. You’ll want just enough garlic to enhance the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
Step 2: Stir-Frying the Water Spinach
Heat some cooking oil in a wok over high heat. Add the chopped garlic and stir-fry until fragrant. Then, add the water spinach and continue stir-frying. Remember to use high heat and only add a manageable amount of spinach at a time.
Step 3: Seasoning to Taste
Once the spinach is cooked to your desired level of doneness, season it with the ingredients mentioned above, or according to your family’s preference. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy