vegetarian stir-fried water spinach

How to Stir-Fry Water Spinach: A Simple Guide

Stir-fried water spinach, or "ong choy," is a quick, healthy, and delicious dish popular in Asian cuisine. Here’s a simple guide to making it perfectly.

Ingredients: 500g fresh water spinach, 2-3 garlic cloves (minced), 1 tbsp cooking oil, 1 tsp soy sauce, ½ tsp oyster sauce (optional), a pinch of salt, and a dash of sesame oil for finishing.

Steps:

1. Prepare the greens: Trim the bottom ends of the water spinach and wash thoroughly. Cut into 4-5 inch pieces. Drain well.

2. Heat the wok: Place a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add oil and swirl to coat.

3. Sauté aromatics: Toss in minced garlic and stir-fry for 10-15 seconds until fragrant—avoid burning it.

4. Cook the spinach: Add water spinach in batches, stirring constantly. Cook for 2-3 minutes until wilted but still vibrant green.

5. Season: Drizzle in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Sprinkle salt and toss well.

6. Finish: Turn off the heat. Drizzle with sesame oil, give a final stir, and serve hot with steamed rice.

Tips: For extra flavor, add a pinch of chili flakes or fermented beans. Cook quickly to retain the spinach’s crispness. This versatile dish pairs well with any protein, making it a staple for quick weeknight meals. Enjoy!