Savory Ukrainian Stir-Fried Water Spinach

Ingredients

In this Ukrainian adaptation of Sambal kangkong, we incorporate traditional Ukrainian spices such as garlic, paprika, and dill to infuse the dish with a distinct flavor profile. Additionally, we modify the cooking technique to stir-frying, which is commonly used in Ukrainian cuisine. These adaptations create a unique fusion dish that combines the best of both Singaporean and Ukrainian culinary traditions. We alse have the original recipe for Sambal kangkong, so you can check it out.

• 500 grams (1.1 lbs) water spinach 500 grams (1.1 lbs) water spinach
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried dill 1 teaspoon dried dill
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vinegar 1 tablespoon vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sugar 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 7g, 1g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 12g, 3g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the water spinach thoroughly and trim off any tough stems. Cut the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium heat.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the water spinach to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until wilted.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, dried dill, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and salt.
6. 6.
   Pour the sauce over the water spinach and stir-fry for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring the leaves are evenly coated.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
8. 8.
   Serve hot as a side dish or as a main course with steamed rice or bread.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Water spinach — Make sure to wash the water spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt or sand. Trim off any tough stems before cooking.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add a small amount of chili flakes or fresh chili peppers to the sauce.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, vinegar for tanginess, or sugar for sweetness.
• Serve the dish immediately after cooking to retain the crispness of the water spinach.

Serving advice

Serve the Savory Ukrainian Stir-Fried Water Spinach as a side dish alongside traditional Ukrainian mains such as borscht or varenyky (Ukrainian dumplings). It can also be enjoyed as a main course with steamed rice or crusty bread.

Presentation advice

Garnish the dish with a sprinkle of fresh dill or chopped green onions to add a pop of color. Serve it in a vibrant serving dish to showcase the beautiful green color of the water spinach.