Stir-fried morning glory, or rau muống xào tỏi as it’s known in Vietnamese, is a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s become a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. This simple yet satisfying stir-fry features tender morning glory leaves coated in a savory garlic sauce, making it a true testament to the fact that deliciousness doesn’t require complexity.
If you’re looking to add some quick and healthy Vietnamese flair to your meals, look no further than this delightful and easy-to-make stir-fry. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a hot wok, you’ll be on your way to experiencing the incredible flavors of Vietnam in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb morning glory (rau muống), washed and drained
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon fish sauce
- ½ teaspoon sugar
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Ingredient Substitutions:
- Morning glory: While it’s best to use fresh morning glory for this recipe, you can substitute it with water spinach for a similar taste and texture. Check out our recipe for stir-fried water spinach for inspiration! (https://familycuisine.net/how-to-make-stir-fried-water-spinach/: https://familycuisine.net/how-to-make-stir-fried-water-spinach/)
- Fish sauce: If you don’t have fish sauce, you can substitute it with 1 teaspoon of soy sauce and a pinch of salt.
Equipment:
- Wok or large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Stirring spoon
Instructions:
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Prepare the ingredients: Begin by washing and thoroughly draining the morning glory. If the stems are thick, you can peel them for a more tender texture. Chop the morning glory into bite-sized pieces, about 2-3 inches long. Mince the garlic cloves.
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Heat the wok: Place your wok or large skillet on high heat. Once hot, add the vegetable oil.
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Sauté the garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
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Stir-fry the morning glory: Add the chopped morning glory to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, tossing constantly to ensure even cooking.
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Season and serve: Add the oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the wok. Stir-fry for another minute, until the morning glory is wilted and coated in the sauce.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Stir-Fried Morning Glory:
- High heat is key: Using high heat ensures the morning glory cooks quickly and evenly, retaining its vibrant green color and crisp texture.
- Don’t overcook: Overcooked morning glory will become mushy. It should be tender-crisp and still have a slight bite.
- Taste and adjust: Always taste the stir-fry before serving and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You can add more fish sauce for saltiness or sugar for sweetness.
“When I visited Vietnam a few years ago, I had the pleasure of learning how to make this dish from a local family. The key, they told me, is to use the freshest ingredients and to cook with high heat. It makes all the difference!” – Chef Minh, Vietnamese Cuisine Expert
Plating and Serving:
Serve your delicious stir-fried morning glory immediately as a side dish with steamed rice and your favorite Vietnamese main courses. For an extra touch, garnish with chopped cilantro, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a squeeze of lime juice.
Stir-fried morning glory with garlic
FAQs:
Q: Can I use frozen morning glory?
A: While fresh morning glory is always best, you can use frozen morning glory in a pinch. Just be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before stir-frying.
Q: What can I serve with stir-fried morning glory?
A: This dish pairs wonderfully with other Vietnamese classics like caramelized pork belly, lemongrass chicken, or tofu in tomato sauce. It also makes a great side dish for any Asian-inspired meal.
Morning glory with other Vietnamese dishes
Conclusion:
Stir-fried morning glory is a testament to the vibrant and fresh flavors of Vietnamese cuisine. With this simple recipe and our helpful tips, you can recreate this delightful dish in your own kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your wok, and prepare to be amazed by the simple yet satisfying flavors of Vietnam. Don’t forget to share your culinary creations with us in the comments below!
