Quick Vietnamese Razor Clam Stir-fry (Ốc Móng Tay Xào Rau Muống)

Discover the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with this recipe for Ốc Móng Tay Xào Rau Muống, or Razor Clam Stir-fry with Water Spinach. This quick and easy dish showcases the unique taste of razor clams, perfectly complemented by the slightly bitter yet refreshing water spinach. The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, chili, and a savory sauce creates a symphony of textures and tastes that's both authentic and incredibly satisfying. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual gathering, offering a delightful glimpse into Vietnamese cuisine's simplicity and deliciousness.

Prepare to be amazed by how quickly and easily you can create this culinary masterpiece! From prepping the ingredients to enjoying the final dish, this recipe is designed for efficiency without compromising flavor. Ready to embark on a culinary adventure? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to make your own delicious Ốc Móng Tay Xào Rau Muống.

Tools Needed

  • Pan

Ingredients

  • Razor clams (or other clams, oysters, mussels, or shrimp)
  • Morning glory (rau muống)
  • Garlic: 1 whole
  • Chili pepper
  • Chicken flavor soup base: 1 teaspoon
  • Fish sauce: 3 teaspoons
  • Sugar: 2 teaspoons
  • Fish stock
  • Butter
  • Cooking oil
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Lime

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Sauté Aromatics and Clams

  • Heat up a pan with a little bit of oil and butter.
  • Add garlic and chili pepper, let it brown to release flavor.
  • Add clams (or chosen meat).
  • Add sugar, fish sauce, and chicken flavor soup base.
Heat up a pan with a little bit of oil and butter.Add garlic and chili pepper, let it brown to release flavor.Add clams (or chosen meat).Add sugar, fish sauce, and chicken flavor soup base.
Sauté Aromatics and Clams

Step 2. Stir-fry Morning Glory

  • Add the stems of morning glory first (they are thicker and need more time to cook).
  • Add the leaves of morning glory.
  • Stir-fry until the morning glory is wilted (about 4-5 minutes).
Add the stems of morning glory first (they are thicker and need more time to cook).Add the leaves of morning glory.Stir-fry until the morning glory is wilted (about 4-5 minutes).
Stir-fry Morning Glory

Step 3. Season and Finish

  • Season with salt, black pepper, and lime.

Step 4. Serve

  • Serve immediately.
Serve immediately.
Serve

Read more: Crispy Tofu with Onions: A Delicious Vietnamese Beer Snack

Tips

  • If using fresh clams, soak them overnight to release sand, then steam and de-shell before stir-frying. You can also stir-fry with the shells on.
  • Don't overcook the clams, or they will become tough.

Nutrition

  • Calories: approximately 250-350
  • Fat: 15-25g
  • Carbs: 10-15g
  • Protein: 20-30g

FAQs

1. Where can I buy razor clams (ốc móng tay)?

Razor clams are often found at Asian grocery stores or seafood markets. If unavailable fresh, frozen options work well too.

2. Can I substitute the water spinach (rau muống)?

Yes, you can substitute with other leafy greens like spinach, kangkong (water spinach's close relative), or even gai lan (Chinese broccoli), though the flavor will be slightly different.

3. How do I ensure the razor clams are cooked properly?

Cook the clams until their shells open completely. Discard any that remain closed after cooking, as they may not be safe to eat.


This quick Vietnamese Razor Clam Stir-fry is a testament to the simplicity and deliciousness of Vietnamese cuisine. With minimal ingredients and a short cooking time, you can enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal. So gather your ingredients and experience the vibrant tastes of Ốc Móng Tay Xào Rau Muống for yourself!