Spinach with Garlic and Soy Sauce

Ingredients

In this Shanghai-style adaptation, the original Italian dish is modified to suit the flavors and cooking techniques of Shanghai cuisine. The dish incorporates the use of garlic and soy sauce, which are staple ingredients in Shanghai cooking. The spinach is stir-fried instead of being braised, resulting in a slightly different texture and flavor profile. This adaptation aims to bring together the best of both cuisines, creating a dish that is both familiar and exciting. We alse have the original recipe for Spinaci alla Romana, so you can check it out.

• 500g (1.1 lb) fresh spinach leaves 500g (1.1 lb) fresh spinach leaves
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• Optional: chili flakes for added heat Optional: chili flakes for added heat

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 80 kcal / 335 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 6g, 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Wash the spinach leaves thoroughly and remove any tough stems.
2. 2.
   Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. 3.
   Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. 4.
   Add the spinach leaves to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until wilted.
5. 5.
   In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and white pepper.
6. 6.
   Pour the sauce over the spinach and continue stir-frying for another minute.
7. 7.
   Optional: Sprinkle chili flakes over the dish for added heat.
8. 8.
   Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
9. 9.
   Serve hot as a side dish or as part of a larger meal.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Spinach — Make sure to thoroughly wash the spinach leaves to remove any dirt or grit. Trim off any tough stems before cooking.
• Garlic — Mince the garlic finely to ensure it distributes evenly throughout the dish and releases its flavor during stir-frying.
• Soy sauce — Use a good quality soy sauce for the best flavor. Adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
• Vegetable oil — Choose a neutral-flavored oil with a high smoke point, such as canola or peanut oil.
• Sesame oil — Use toasted sesame oil for a rich and nutty flavor. Add it towards the end of cooking to preserve its aroma.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier version, add more chili flakes or fresh chili peppers.
• Adjust the amount of garlic according to your preference for a stronger or milder garlic flavor.
• Serve the dish immediately after cooking to retain the vibrant green color of the spinach.
• Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers for added variety.
• Serve the Spinach with Garlic and Soy Sauce alongside steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Spinach with Garlic and Soy Sauce as a side dish alongside your favorite main course. It pairs well with grilled meats, stir-fried tofu, or as part of a vegetarian meal. Garnish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal.

Presentation advice

Arrange the stir-fried spinach neatly on a serving plate, ensuring the vibrant green color is visible. Drizzle a little extra soy sauce on top for a glossy finish. Serve the dish with a garnish of fresh cilantro or sliced green onions for added freshness and visual appeal.