This dish, “Garlicky Water Spinach” (蒜香空心菜), is a quintessential stir-fry packed with bold garlic aroma and the natural freshness of water spinach. It’s a staple in Southern China, cherished for its simplicity, vibrant green color, and irresistible flavor. Using just a handful of ingredients, this recipe brings out the natural essence of the vegetables while adding richness with rendered pork lard—a time-honored cooking tradition that elevates this humble dish.

Ingredients

• Water spinach (also known as morning glory): A crunchy and flavorful green vegetable commonly used in Chinese cooking, known for its hollow stems and tender leaves.

• Garlic: Finely chopped to infuse the dish with its bold, fresh aroma.

• Pork lard: A traditional cooking fat that enhances the dish’s richness and imparts a glossy finish.

How It’s Made

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

• Wash and trim the water spinach, separating the stems from the leafy tops. This ensures even cooking since the stems take slightly longer to cook.

• Finely chop a generous amount of garlic, as its flavor is the star of the dish.

2. Heat the Wok:

• In a hot wok, add a spoonful of pork lard and allow it to melt and heat up until fragrant. The lard not only adds flavor but also lends a silky texture to the vegetables.

3. Stir-Fry the Garlic:

• Toss the chopped garlic into the hot lard and stir-fry for a few seconds until aromatic. Be careful not to overcook—garlic should be golden and fragrant, but not burnt.

4. Add the Water Spinach:

• First, add the stems of the water spinach and stir-fry quickly to give them a head start. After 30 seconds, add the leafy tops.

• Stir-fry over high heat, ensuring the garlic and lard evenly coat the vegetables.

5. Season and Finish:

• Add a pinch of salt for seasoning and continue stir-frying for another minute, or until the water spinach is tender yet still slightly crisp.

• Serve immediately while it’s hot, as the vibrant greens and garlic aroma are at their peak.

Key Features

• Flavorful Simplicity: The bold garlic aroma pairs beautifully with the nutty richness of pork lard, enhancing the natural savoriness of the water spinach.

• Perfect Texture: The balance between tender leaves and crisp stems creates a satisfying bite in every mouthful.

• Quick and Easy: With just three ingredients and minimal preparation, this dish is fast to make and incredibly satisfying.

Tips for Success:

1. Cook Over High Heat: Stir-frying at high heat ensures the stems stay crunchy while preserving the vibrant green color of the leaves.

2. Use Fresh Water Spinach: For the best results, choose fresh, young water spinach with thin stems and bright green leaves.

3. Don’t Skimp on Garlic: The garlic is the highlight of the dish, so use plenty for maximum flavor.

“Garlicky Water Spinach” is more than just a quick stir-fry—it’s a classic example of Southern Chinese home cooking that celebrates the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients. Whether it’s served as a standalone dish or alongside a full meal, this savory, aromatic vegetable stir-fry is sure to leave a lasting impression. Give it a try and bring a taste of Southern China to your table!

Let me know if there’s anything else you’d like help with! 😊