Embrace vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients with this Paleo Stir-Fried Water Spinach recipe—a quick, nutrient-packed side dish that's perfect for busy weeknights! Featuring fresh water spinach (kangkong), aromatic garlic, and a touch of fish sauce for umami depth, this dish is lightly stir-fried in coconut oil to preserve its crisp texture and earthy flavor. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the dish, while an optional hint of red chili adds a delightful kick for spice lovers. Ready in just 10 minutes, this simple yet satisfying recipe pairs beautifully with grilled proteins or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded Paleo meal. Add this easy and healthy recipe to your repertoire and enjoy the delicate balance of flavors in every bite!
Thoroughly rinse the water spinach under cold water to remove dirt or grit. Trim the tough lower stems and discard. Chop the remaining stems and leaves into 2-3 inch pieces, keeping the stems and leaves separated for even cooking.
Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves. If using red chili, slice it thinly.
Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coconut oil and swirl to coat the surface.
Once the oil is hot, add the chopped garlic (and red chili, if using). Stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the water spinach stems to the pan and stir for about 1 minute to start softening them, as they take longer to cook than the leaves.
Next, add the water spinach leaves. Toss everything together using tongs or a spatula to coat in the oil and garlic. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until the leaves wilt and the stems are tender but still crisp.
Drizzle the fish sauce over the water spinach and toss to combine. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds, allowing the fish sauce to infuse into the dish.
Remove the pan from heat. Add the fresh lime juice and give the dish a final stir to brighten the flavors.
Transfer the stir-fried water spinach to a serving plate and enjoy immediately as part of a Paleo-friendly meal.
Calories |
381 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 28.8 g | 37% | |
| Saturated Fat | 23.3 g | 116% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.5 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 2154 mg | 94% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 23.9 g | 9% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 10.5 g | 38% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.0 g | ||
| Protein | 13.6 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 364 mg | 28% | |
| Iron | 7.7 mg | 43% | |
| Potassium | 1716 mg | 37% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.