Kangkong, also known as water spinach, is a popular vegetable in Vietnamese cuisine. Its vibrant green leaves and tender stems make it a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. In this article, we will explore a traditional Vietnamese recipe that highlights the unique flavors and textures of kangkong.
Main Ingredients: Kangkong, Oil, Onion, Garlic, Pork Belly, Vinegar, Soy
Adobong Kangkong is a popular Filipino dish made with water spinach or kangkong. This simple yet flavorful dish is a staple in many Filipino homes and is often served as a side dish or appetizer. The dish is made by stir-frying kangkong with garlic, onions, soy sauce, and vinegar. Some versions also include pork or tofu for added protein. The result is a savory and tangy dish that is perfect for pairing with steamed rice.
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Kangkong in Oyster Sauce
Main Ingredients: Kangkong, Oyster Sauce, Garlic, Beef Broth, Cornstarch
Kangkong in Oyster Sauce is another delicious way to enjoy this nutritious vegetable. This dish is made by stir-frying kangkong with garlic, oyster sauce, and a few drops of sesame oil. The result is a savory and slightly sweet dish that is perfect for serving as a side dish or adding to a stir-fry. To make this dish even more flavorful, you can add some sliced mushrooms or diced chicken or pork.
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Stir-fried Belachan Kangkong
Main Ingredients: Kangkong, Shrimp Paste, Chili Paste, Garlic, Oil, Salt
Belachan is a popular Southeast Asian condiment made from fermented shrimp paste. When combined with stir-fried kangkong, it adds a unique and delicious flavor to the dish. To make this dish, simply stir-fry kangkong with garlic, belachan, and a touch of sugar. The result is a flavorful and slightly spicy dish that is perfect for pairing with steamed rice.
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Crispy Kangkong
Main Ingredients: Kangkong, Eggs, Cold Water, Black Pepper, Salt
Crispy Kangkong is a popular appetizer in the Philippines. This dish is made by coating kangkong leaves in a batter made from flour, cornstarch, and spices, then deep-frying until crispy. The result is a delicious and crunchy dish that is perfect for snacking on or serving as an appetizer. To make it even more flavorful, you can serve it with a sweet and spicy dipping sauce.
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Delicious Crispy Kangkong
Main Ingredients: Kangkong, Eggs, Cold Water, Black Pepper, Salt
Another way to enjoy crispy kangkong is by adding a delicious twist to the batter. Instead of a plain batter, try adding some grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of cayenne pepper to the mix. The result is a flavorful and crispy dish that is sure to be a hit at any party or gathering. Serve it with a creamy dip for a tasty and indulgent treat.
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Lemongrass Tofu with Kangkong
Main Ingredients: Tofu, Kangkong, Fried Shallots, Lemongrass, Oyster
This dish combines two delicious and nutritious ingredients – tofu and kangkong. The dish is made by stir-frying tofu with garlic, lemongrass, and a touch of soy sauce. Then, kangkong is added and stir-fried until wilted. The result is a flavorful and healthy dish that is perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a light and tasty meal.
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Kangkong and Tofu with Oyster Sauce
Main Ingredients: Kangkong, Firm Tofu, Oil, Oyster Sauce, Water, Chili
For a heartier and more filling meal, try this dish of kangkong and tofu with oyster sauce. The dish is made by stir-frying tofu and kangkong with garlic, oyster sauce, and a touch of sugar. The result is a savory and slightly sweet dish that is perfect for pairing with steamed rice. You can also add some sliced bell peppers or sliced mushrooms for added texture and flavor.
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Spicy Salmon Belly and Kangkong Soup
Main Ingredients: Salmon, Kangkong, Water, Red Onion, Sriracha Sauce
If you're looking for a comforting and warming dish, this spicy salmon belly and kangkong soup is a must-try. The dish is made by simmering salmon belly and kangkong in a flavorful broth made with ginger, garlic, and chili. The result is a hearty and spicy soup that is perfect for cold and rainy days. Serve it with some steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Thai Stir-fried Morning Glory (Pad Pak Boong)
Main Ingredients: Kangkong, Chilli, Garlic, Soybean Paste, Oyster Sauce
This Thai dish is made with a similar vegetable to kangkong, known as morning glory. The dish is made by stir-frying morning glory with garlic, chili, and oyster sauce. The result is a simple yet flavorful dish that is popular in Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries. You can also add some diced chicken or shrimp for added protein.
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Sambal Kangkung With Shrimp Paste
Main Ingredients: Kangkong, Shallots, Garlic, Lemongrass, Vegetable Oil
Sambal is a popular chili paste in Southeast Asian cuisine. In this dish, sambal is combined with shrimp paste and stir-fried with kangkong and other vegetables such as sliced bell peppers and onions. The result is a spicy and flavorful dish that is perfect for serving with steamed rice. You can also add some tofu or sliced chicken for added protein.
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Sinigang sa Ube
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Okra, Kangkong, Ube, Daikon Radish, Red
Sinigang is a popular Filipino sour soup made with tamarind. In this version, a unique twist is added by using ube or purple yam as the souring agent. The result is a vibrant and flavorful soup that is perfect for showcasing the flavors of Filipino cuisine. You can add any vegetables of your choice to the soup, including kangkong for added nutrition.
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Chao Fan with Fried Siomai
Main Ingredients: Cooking Oil, Garlic, Onion, Cooked Rice, Kangkong
Chao Fan is a popular Chinese fried rice dish. In this version, fried siomai or steamed dumplings are added to the fried rice for added flavor and protein. You can also add some diced kangkong to the dish for added texture and nutrition. Serve it as a main dish or as a side dish to your favorite Chinese meal.
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Kinalabasang Hipon / Shrimp Squash Soup
Main Ingredients: Shrimp, Squash, White Onion, Canola Oil, Kangkong
This Filipino soup is made with shrimp and squash, and is a popular comfort food in many Filipino households. To make it even more nutritious and flavorful, try adding some kangkong leaves to the soup. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for cold days or when you're feeling under the weather.
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Beef Sinigang- Tamarind Stew with Vegetables
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Broth, Tamarind Concentrate, Onion, Tomatoes
Sinigang is a versatile dish that can be made with different types of protein, including beef. In this version, beef is simmered in a tangy tamarind broth along with a variety of vegetables, including kangkong. The result is a hearty and flavorful stew that is perfect for serving with steamed rice.
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Instant Pot Corned Beef Sinigang - Brisket in Tamarind...
Main Ingredients: Beef Brisket, Black Peppercorns, Mustard Seeds
For a quicker and easier version of beef sinigang, try making it in the Instant Pot. This recipe uses corned beef brisket as the protein and cooks it in a flavorful tamarind broth along with vegetables such as kangkong and bok choy. The result is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for busy weeknights.
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Adoncia Vegas
Main Ingredients: Kangkong, Fresh Tomatoes, Red Onion, Ginger, Eggs
Adoncia Vegas is a delicious and nutritious dish made with kangkong and other vegetables such as okra and eggplant. The dish is made by stir-frying the vegetables with garlic, onions, and tomatoes, then simmering them in coconut milk. The result is a creamy and flavorful dish that is perfect for pairing with steamed rice.
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Sinigang na Baka sa Bayabas
Main Ingredients: Beef Shanks, Water, Fish Sauce, Guavas, Kangkong
Sinigang na Baka sa Bayabas is another version of the popular Filipino sour soup, sinigang. In this version, guava is used as the souring agent, giving the soup a unique and delicious flavor. Along with beef and a variety of vegetables, kangkong is added to the soup for added nutrition and texture.
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Pinakbet {Filipino Vegetable Stew}
Main Ingredients: Pork Belly, Cooking Oil, Onion, Garlic, Tomato
Pinakbet is a popular Filipino vegetable stew made with a variety of vegetables, including kangkong. The dish is made by stir-frying the vegetables with shrimp paste, then simmering them in a flavorful broth. The result is a hearty and flavorful stew that is perfect for serving with steamed rice.
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Kankun(Kang Kong), Soy, Garlic Beef Stir-fry.
Main Ingredients: Beef, Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce, Onion, Garlic, Red
This simple and delicious stir-fry is made with kangkong and thinly sliced beef. The dish is flavored with soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sugar. The result is a savory and slightly sweet dish that is perfect for pairing with steamed rice. You can also add some sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
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Flat Egg Noodles with Fishballs “Mee Pok Tah” 鱼圆面薄干
Main Ingredients: Dried Chile, Garlic, Ginger, Shallots, Dried Shrimp
This Singaporean dish is made with flat egg noodles and fishballs, along with a variety of vegetables, including kangkong. The noodles are seasoned with a flavorful sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. The result is a delicious and filling dish that is perfect for any meal of the day.
The Versatility of Kangkong in Vietnamese Cuisine
Kangkong, or rau muống in Vietnamese, is a staple vegetable in Vietnamese cooking. It is commonly used in soups, stir-fries, and salads, and is often paired with other ingredients like shrimp, pork, and garlic. The tender leaves and stems have a slightly crispy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor that adds depth to any dish.
Health Benefits of Kangkong
Not only is kangkong a delicious addition to any meal, but it also boasts numerous health benefits. It is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as essential minerals like iron, calcium, and potassium. Kangkong is also low in calories and fat, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.
The Recipe: Stir-Fried Kangkong with Garlic and Shrimp
One of the most popular ways to enjoy kangkong in Vietnamese cuisine is in a stir-fry. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the fresh taste of kangkong with the bold flavors of garlic and shrimp. Here's how to make it:
Ingredients:
1 pound kangkong, washed and trimmed
1/4 pound medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
In a wok or large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Add the shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes.
Add the kangkong and stir-fry until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Remove from heat and serve hot as a side dish or over rice as a main dish.
Customize Your Stir-Fry
This stir-fried kangkong recipe is easy to customize to your liking. You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for a colorful and nutritious dish. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the shrimp and add tofu or mushrooms instead. The possibilities are endless!
In conclusion, kangkong is a versatile and nutritious vegetable that is widely used in Vietnamese cuisine. Its mild flavor and tender texture make it the perfect ingredient for a variety of dishes, including this simple and delicious stir-fried kangkong with garlic and shrimp. So next time you're looking for a new way to enjoy this leafy green, give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your Vietnamese cooking skills!
