Stir-Fried Water Spinach
A classic Vietnamese side dish featuring crisp, tender water spinach stir-fried with heaps of fragrant garlic. Ready in minutes, this simple and savory green vegetable is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preparation
- b.Wash the water spinach thoroughly. Trim and discard about 2 inches from the tough bottom ends. Cut the remaining stalks and leaves into 3-inch lengths.
- c.Mince the garlic and thinly slice the chili, if using.
- d.In a small bowl, whisk together the fish sauce, sugar, and 2 tbsp of water to create the sauce. Set aside.
- e.Prepare a large bowl with ice water (water and ice cubes).
- 2
Step 2
- a.Blanch and Shock the Spinach
- b.Bring a large pot with 2 litres of water and 1 tsp of salt to a rolling boil.
- c.Add the prepared water spinach and blanch for only 30-45 seconds, just until it turns vibrant green and slightly wilts.
- d.Using tongs or a spider strainer, immediately remove the spinach from the boiling water and plunge it into the prepared ice bath. This stops the cooking process and preserves its crispness and color.
- e.Once completely cool (about 1 minute), drain the spinach thoroughly. Gently squeeze out any excess water.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Stir-fry the Aromatics
- b.Place a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the vegetable oil and heat until it shimmers.
- c.Add the minced garlic and sliced chili. Stir-fry for about 15-20 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish the Dish
- b.Add the drained water spinach to the hot wok.
- c.Quickly pour the prepared sauce mixture over the spinach.
- d.Toss everything together continuously for 1-2 minutes until the spinach is well-coated and heated through.
- e.Do not overcook.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve Immediately
- b.Transfer the stir-fried water spinach to a serving platter.
- c.Serve hot as a side dish with steamed rice and other main courses.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, do not skip the blanching and ice bath step. It's the secret to keeping the spinach crisp and bright green.
- 2High heat is essential for a successful stir-fry. Ensure your wok is smoking hot before adding the ingredients to get a quick sear rather than steaming the vegetables.
- 3Prepare all your ingredients (mise en place) before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a very fast process, and you won't have time to chop or measure once you begin.
- 4Avoid overcrowding the pan. If you have a large amount of spinach, it's better to cook it in two separate batches to maintain the high heat needed for stir-frying.
- 5This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking to retain its crisp texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor Variation
For a pungent, savory twist, add 1/2 teaspoon of shrimp paste (mắm tôm or belacan) and sauté it with the garlic until fragrant.
Flavor VariationFlavor Variation
Create a creamy and savory version by mashing 1-2 cubes of fermented bean curd (chao) with a little of its brine and adding it to the sauce mixture.
Dietary VariationDietary Variation
To make this dish vegan, replace the fish sauce with 1.5 tablespoons of light soy sauce or a vegan fish sauce alternative. A pinch of mushroom seasoning can also enhance the umami flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Water spinach is an excellent source of Vitamin A, crucial for vision and immune function, and Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant. It also provides a good amount of iron, which is essential for preventing anemia.
Supports Digestive Health
The high fiber content in water spinach aids in digestion, promotes regular bowel movements, and helps maintain a healthy gut microbiome.
Low in Calories and Fat
This dish is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a perfect addition to a weight-conscious diet. It's a filling side dish that won't derail your health goals.
Boosts Immunity
Loaded with Vitamin C and other antioxidants, this dish can help strengthen your immune system and protect your body against cellular damage from free radicals.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. Water spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green that is low in calories and high in fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and iron. The dish is lightly cooked, which helps retain many of its nutrients.