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Vietnamese Quick & easy

Rau Muống Xào Tỏi (Stir-fried Water Spinach with Garlic)

A simple, ubiquitous side dish of water spinach stir-fried with plenty of garlic.

15 minutes
Serves 4
Side

Instructions

  1. 1

    Prepare Greens: Wash the water spinach thoroughly. Pluck off the tender leaves and snap the hollow stems into 3-inch segments. Discard the tough, woody bottom stems.

  2. 2

    Blanch (Optional but recommended): Plunge the vegetables into boiling water with a pinch of salt for 30 seconds. Drain immediately. This keeps them bright green and reduces stir-fry time.

  3. 3

    Sizzle Garlic: Heat a large wok over high heat. Add the oil and the smashed garlic. Stir-fry for just a few seconds until highly fragrant but not browned.

  4. 4

    Stir-fry: Immediately add the water spinach to the hot wok. Toss rapidly to coat the greens in the garlic oil.

  5. 5

    Season: Add the fish sauce, bouillon powder, and sugar. Toss continuously for 1-2 minutes. The hollow stems should remain crunchy, and the leaves should be fully wilted.

  6. 6

    Serve: Turn off the heat. Add a quick squeeze of lime juice for brightness if desired. Plate immediately to retain the vibrant green color.

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