Craving a vibrant and flavorful salad that's both refreshing and surprisingly satisfying? Look no further than this Sweet & Sour Water Spinach Salad, a delightful dish that perfectly balances contrasting textures and tastes. The tender-crisp water spinach, also known as kangkong, provides a delightful base, its slightly earthy flavor a perfect canvas for the explosion of sweet, sour, and spicy notes in the homemade garlic chili sauce. This recipe is a celebration of fresh ingredients, offering a healthy and exciting alternative to heavier salads. The unique combination of sweet and sour flavors, enhanced by the subtle heat of the chili, will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more.
Imagine the juicy crunch of perfectly blanched water spinach tossed in a glossy, vibrant sauce. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks. Ready to experience the deliciousness for yourself? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create this unforgettable Sweet & Sour Water Spinach Salad together!
Tools Needed
- Knife
- Bowl
- Pot
- Colander
- Ice water bowl
Ingredients
- Water spinach: 500 grams
- Chili peppers: 4
- Garlic cloves: 6
- Lemon: 1
- Fish sauce
- Sugar
- Salt
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare and Blanch the Water Spinach
- Prepare the water spinach. Remove all leaves and use only the stems. Cut the stems into 5cm lengths.
- Wash the water spinach thoroughly.
- Soak the water spinach in a bowl of water with a spoonful of salt for 15 minutes.
- Wash the soaked water spinach again and drain.
- Boil a pot of water with 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Add the water spinach and boil over high heat for 1 minute to maintain its green color.
- Immediately transfer the boiled water spinach to a bowl of ice water to maintain its crispness and green color for about 2 minutes.
- Drain the water spinach thoroughly.
Step 2. Make the Sweet & Sour Garlic Chili Sauce
- Chop the garlic and chili peppers.
- Juice the lemon, removing seeds.
- Add 3 spoons of sugar, 3 spoons of fish sauce, and 2 spoons of lemon juice in a bowl. Adjust to taste. Add more lemon juice for more sourness or sugar for more sweetness.
Step 3. Combine and Marinate (Optional)
- Mix the drained water spinach with the prepared fish sauce mixture.
- For a more intense flavor, let the mixed water spinach marinate for 15-20 minutes before serving.
Step 4. Serve and Garnish
- Serve and garnish with garlic and chilies for presentation.
Read more: Vietnamese Banana Blossom Salad: A Refreshing Recipe
Tips
- Use water spinach with large stems for best results.
- Remove all leaves to prevent the dish from becoming mushy.
- Adjust the sweetness and sourness of the fish sauce to your preference.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other vegetables in this salad besides water spinach?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other crunchy vegetables like bean sprouts, shredded carrots, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
2. How long can I store the leftover salad?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The water spinach may soften slightly over time.
This Crispy Water Spinach Salad with Sweet & Sour Garlic Chili Sauce is a simple yet incredibly rewarding recipe, perfect for a light lunch or a vibrant side dish. The combination of textures and flavors is sure to become a new favorite, offering a refreshing twist on traditional salads. Enjoy the delightful crunch and tangy sweetness of this easy-to-make culinary delight!