Water spinach is a nutrient-rich vegetable, boasting a good source of vitamins and minerals. Notably, it contains cellulose, which promotes intestinal peristalsis and aids in digestion, helping to prevent constipation and reduce the risk of colorectal cancer.
In addition to its health benefits, water spinach is a versatile ingredient used in various delicious dishes. Beyond boiling and salads, stir-fried water spinach is a popular choice.
Tips for Stir-Frying Water Spinach to Perfection
To achieve the perfect stir-fried water spinach dish, follow these essential tips. Overcooking the vegetable can lead to discoloration and a bitter taste. By avoiding common mistakes and applying these techniques, you’ll ensure your water spinach remains vibrant, crisp, and tasty.
1. Avoid Blanching Water Spinach
Blanching water spinach before stir-frying is a common mistake that should be avoided. This step not only affects the flavor but also results in a loss of valuable nutrients.
2. Wash Water Spinach with Salt Water
After removing any yellow leaves and old stems, thoroughly wash the water spinach and soak it in a dilute salt water solution. This step ensures the vegetable is clean and enhances its crispness and color during stir-frying.
Be sure to rinse the water spinach multiple times to eliminate any remaining dirt or impurities.
3. Add Salt
Sprinkling a few grains of salt over the water spinach before stir-frying is a crucial step. This helps prevent the release of water and maintains the vibrant green color, preventing discoloration.
Restaurant-Style Stir-Fried Water Spinach Recipe
Ingredients:
– Water spinach: 1 bunch
– Pork: 150g
– Garlic
– Fresh chili
– Salt
Detailed Instructions for Stir-Frying Water Spinach:
1. Remove any old stems and yellow leaves from the water spinach. Wash the vegetable thoroughly and place it in a bowl. Add salt and cover with clean water.
Soak the water spinach for about 5 minutes. This step ensures the removal of any remaining impurities and helps achieve a crispier texture after stir-frying.
2. Rinse the water spinach again with water and drain it in a colander.
3. Peel and finely chop the garlic. Slice the chili. Garlic is an essential ingredient in stir-fried water spinach, adding a delightful aroma and flavor to the dish.
4. Wash the pork and cut it into small pieces.
5. In a bowl, combine salt, sugar, MSG, and pepper. Add a small amount of water and mix well to dissolve the seasonings.
6. Sprinkle a few grains of salt over the cleaned water spinach. This step is crucial in preventing water release and discoloration during stir-frying.
7. Heat oil in a wok and add the pork. Stir-fry until the pork is cooked and fragrant. Then, add the garlic and chili. Continue stir-frying for a short while before adding the water spinach. Turn up the heat and quickly stir-fry the water spinach to infuse it with the flavors. Finally, pour in the bowl of seasonings and stir-fry for another minute before turning off the heat.
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“The key to a perfect stir-fry is in the technique. With a few simple tips, you can transform ordinary cabbage into a vibrant, crisp, and mouth-watering dish. Our method ensures your cabbage maintains its color, texture, and flavor, resulting in a delicious and appealing side that’s never dull or tough.”