Rau muống xào tỏi, or Vietnamese stir-fried morning glory with garlic, is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Its vibrant green color and satisfying crunch are a testament to the freshness of the morning glory, a fast-growing vine also known as water spinach. The dish's magic lies in the perfect balance of garlic's pungent aroma and the morning glory's slightly bitter yet refreshing taste. This seemingly straightforward recipe unlocks a depth of flavor that will surprise even the most seasoned cooks. The key is mastering the quick stir-fry technique to achieve that perfect tender-crisp texture.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to master, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, you'll be able to recreate this delicious Vietnamese staple in no time. Ready to experience the magic of Rau muống xào tỏi? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- wok or frying pan
- knife
Ingredients
- Morning Glory (Rau Muống)
- Garlic
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Fish Sauce: 2 tablespoons
- Cooking Oil: 4 tablespoons
- Salt: a little bit
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauce
- Wash and prepare the morning glory. Remove leaves if desired. Chop garlic into small pieces.
- In a bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon of sugar and 2 tablespoons of fish sauce.
Step 2. Stir-fry the Garlic and Morning Glory
- Heat 4 tablespoons of cooking oil in a wok or frying pan until very hot.
- Add the garlic and stir until it turns light yellow.
- Add the morning glory and stir-fry slowly for about 1 minute.
- Add a little salt to keep the morning glory green.
Step 3. Season and Finish
- Pour the fish sauce mixture over the morning glory and stir.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Chinese Shredded Chicken Salad Recipe: Easy Sesame Chicken
Tips
- There are two ways to cook morning glory: The northern style involves boiling before stir-frying, resulting in a softer, spicier, and longer-lasting green color. The southern style stir-fries without pre-boiling, resulting in a crispier texture but requires immediate consumption to avoid wilting.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other greens instead of morning glory?
While morning glory is best, you can try using other tender greens like spinach or choy sum. Adjust cooking time as needed; these may cook faster.
2. How do I prevent the morning glory from becoming too soggy?
Use high heat and stir-fry quickly. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary. This ensures a tender-crisp texture.
3. What can I do if I don't have fish sauce?
Soy sauce can be a substitute, but it will slightly alter the flavor. You can also try adding a splash of oyster sauce for a similar umami.
This simple yet flavorful Vietnamese stir-fry is a perfect side dish or a quick and satisfying meal. The combination of crunchy morning glory and fragrant garlic is truly unforgettable, offering a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy your delicious and healthy Rau Muống Xào Tỏi!