cooking lettuce

How to Make Spicy Stir-Fried Lettuce Stem: A Simple Guide

Spicy stir-fried lettuce stem (炝拌莴笋) is a crisp, refreshing Chinese dish that highlights the vegetable’s natural flavor with a zesty kick. Here’s a step-by-step guide to mastering this classic.

Ingredients: 1 fresh lettuce stem, 2-3 dried red chilies, 2 cloves garlic (sliced), 1 tbsp cooking oil, 1 tsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp black vinegar, ½ tsp sugar, a pinch of salt, and sesame oil (optional).

Steps:

1. Prep the Lettuce: Peel the outer layer of the lettuce stem, then slice it into thin, uniform rounds (about 2-3mm thick). Soak in cold water for 10 minutes to keep it crisp. Drain and set aside.

2. Make the Seasoning: In a small bowl, mix light soy sauce, black vinegar, sugar, and salt until the sugar dissolves.

3. Stir-Fry: Heat oil in a wok over medium-low heat. Add dried chilies and garlic, stir-frying gently until fragrant (about 30 seconds) to avoid burning.

4. Combine: Pour the hot oil mixture over the lettuce slices, then add the seasoning. Toss quickly to coat evenly.

5. Finish: Drizzle with a drop of sesame oil for extra aroma. Serve immediately while crisp.

Tips: For a milder flavor, remove chili seeds. For a richer taste, add a dash of sesame paste. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or as a cold appetizer. Enjoy the perfect balance of crunch, spice, and umami!