Vietnamese RecipesStir-Fried Water Spinach with Garlic (Rau Muống Xào Tỏi) Recipe

Looking for a quick, easy, and ridiculously delicious vegetable dish? Well, look no further, my hungry friend! This Stir-Fried Water Spinach with Garlic (a.k.a. Rau Muống Xào Tỏi) is about to rock your taste buds. It’s vibrant, garlicky, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that makes you feel like a pro chef, even if your usual specialty is instant noodles.

Picture this: tender yet crisp water spinach, glistening with garlicky goodness, sizzling in a hot wok as the aroma fills your kitchen. Suddenly, you’re transported to a bustling Vietnamese street stall, where a friendly cook is whipping up magic in a giant pan. This dish? It’s that kind of experience—all from the comfort of your own home, in under 10 minutes.

My Love Affair with Rau Muống Xào Tỏi

I have a confession: I could eat this every day and never get bored. There’s just something about that garlicky, slightly salty, umami-packed flavor that makes me weak in the knees. It’s simple, it’s fast, and it pairs beautifully with just about anything—rice, noodles, grilled meats, or even as a snack straight out of the pan (no judgment here).

The Secret to Perfect Stir-Fried Water Spinach

Here’s the thing: stir-frying is an art, not a science. The key to getting it right is heat. We’re talking high heat, sizzling oil, and lightning-fast tossing. You want the water spinach to wilt just enough to be tender, but not so much that it turns into a sad, mushy pile. The goal is vibrant green, crunchy stems, and that unmistakable garlicky fragrance that makes your stomach growl in anticipation.

Let’s Talk Ingredients

This dish keeps things refreshingly simple—just a few key ingredients, and boom! You have a masterpiece.

• Water Spinach (Rau Muống): The star of the show! Those long, hollow stems and tender leaves soak up flavor like a dream.
• Garlic: The more, the merrier! Trust me, skimping on garlic is a crime in this dish.
• Oil: A neutral oil like vegetable or canola works best. You want a high smoke point for that perfect stir-fry action.
• Salt & Soy Sauce: Just enough to enhance the flavors without overpowering the natural freshness of the greens.
• Sugar (Optional): A tiny bit helps balance out the savory goodness.
• Chili Pepper (Optional): If you like a little heat, thin slices of red chili make this dish pop in both color and spice.

Perfect Pairings

This dish plays well with others! Here are a few ideas to make it a full meal:

• Steamed Rice: Because everything tastes better with rice.
• Grilled Meats: Chicken, pork, beef—they all love being next to Rau Muống Xào Tỏi.
• Fried Tofu: A crispy, protein-packed contrast to the garlicky greens.
• Eggs: A fried egg on top? Chef’s kiss!

The Health Perks (Because Balance!)

Oh, did I mention that water spinach is basically a superfood? It’s low in calories, packed with fiber, and loaded with vitamins A and C. Plus, garlic has all sorts of magical properties, from boosting immunity to making you the most delicious-smelling person in the room. Win-win!

A Dish with Cultural Roots

If you’ve ever dined at a Vietnamese restaurant, you’ve probably seen this dish on the menu. It’s a staple in Vietnamese home cooking, enjoyed by families across generations. Whether it’s a quick weekday meal or part of a festive feast, Rau Muống Xào Tỏi brings people together in the most flavorful way.

Quick and Flavorful Stir-Fried Water Spinach

Explore mouthwatering dishes with our Vietnam food recipes hub for authentic flavor.

This Rau Muống Xào Tỏi is a quick, healthy side dish that combines fresh water spinach and aromatic garlic. The cooking method preserves the vibrant green color of the spinach while enhancing its natural crunch, resulting in a light dish that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 500g water spinach (Rau Muống), washed and cut into 4-inch lengths
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• Chili pepper for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and golden, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Add the Spinach: Toss in the water spinach and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until it wilts but maintains its bright color.
4. Season: Add salt, soy sauce, and sugar if using. Stir well to combine and cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with chili pepper if desired. Enjoy your Rau Muống Xào Tỏi hot as a side dish!

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 10 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 70kcal
• Fat: 5g
• Protein: 2g
• Carbohydrates: 6g