Sweet potato leaves, often overlooked, are a nutritional powerhouse brimming with vitamins and a surprisingly delicate flavor. After the celebratory feasts of Tet, many find themselves with leftover sweet potatoes – don't discard the greens! These vibrant leaves, often discarded, offer a delicious and economical way to use up every part of this versatile root vegetable. This simple stir-fry recipe transforms humble sweet potato greens into a fragrant and satisfying side dish, perfect for a light lunch or a healthy addition to any meal. The unique earthy sweetness of the leaves complements the sharp bite of garlic perfectly.
This recipe highlights the ease and speed of preparing this nutritious dish, making it an ideal weeknight meal. Forget complicated techniques and long cooking times; this stir-fry is ready in minutes! Ready to learn how to elevate your culinary game with this easy and delicious recipe? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pan
Ingredients
- Sweet potato leaves and tops
- Garlic
- Cooking oil
- Salt
- MSG
- Oyster sauce
- Chili (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Sweet Potato Leaves
- Pick sweet potato leaves and tops from the garden; wash and drain thoroughly. Remove old or tough stems and leaves if desired.
Step 2. Sauté Garlic and Stir-fry Leaves
- Heat cooking oil in a pan. Sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add the prepared sweet potato leaves and tops to the pan. Stir-fry until cooked.
- Stir-fry over high heat until the vegetables are cooked and the sauce clings to the leaves.
Step 3. Season and Finish
- Season with salt, MSG, oyster sauce (optional), and chili (optional) to taste.
- Add MSG at the end, just before removing from heat.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot with rice.
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Tips
- To keep the vegetables vibrant green, add spices carefully and don't overcook them.
- For a crispier texture, only use the tender tops; discard the leaves.
- Avoid using old or tough stems, as they will be dry and unappetizing.
- Stir-frying over high heat helps the vegetables cook quickly and retain their green color.
- Adjust the amount of seasoning based on personal preference.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 150-200
- Fat: 8-12g
- Carbs: 15-20g
- Protein: 2-3g
FAQs
1. Can I use other greens instead of sweet potato leaves?
While sweet potato leaves have a unique flavor, you can substitute with similar greens like spinach or kale. Adjust cooking time as needed, since other greens may cook faster or slower.
2. What if I don't have fresh garlic?
Garlic powder can be used as a substitute, but fresh garlic provides a much more vibrant flavor. Use about 1 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic called for in the recipe.
This simple yet flavorful stir-fry is a testament to the delicious possibilities hidden in often-overlooked ingredients. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and vibrant taste of this healthy and easy-to-make dish. From now on, remember to cherish those sweet potato greens and transform them into a delicious Post-Tet delight!