| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 60 | 6g | 0.5g | 4g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 1g | 1g | 1g | 0.35g |
There’s something incredibly satisfying about discovering a new ingredient, and that’s exactly how I felt when I first encountered the Sautéed Water Caltrop with Garlic and Chili recipe. This dish is a hidden gem that brings together the best of savory, spicy, and aromatic flavors in one simple-to-make meal. As someone who grew up in Montana, where bison burgers and venison steaks were staples, my taste buds are naturally drawn to robust flavors. Yet, I’m always eager to incorporate new tastes and ingredients into my cooking, and this recipe does just that.
A New Take on Traditional Flavors
The water caltrop, also known as water chestnut in some regions, brings a beautiful crunch that complements the pungency of garlic and the heat of red chili peppers. While the ingredient itself might be a bit unconventional for some, it adds a unique texture and a subtle sweetness that’s hard to resist. It’s akin to dishes like stir-fried snow peas or sautéed green beans, but with an intriguing twist.
Health Benefits of Water Caltrop
From a health perspective, water caltrop is a winner. It’s low in calories and packed with essential nutrients like vitamin B6, riboflavin, and potassium. Combined with garlic’s antioxidant properties and the metabolism-boosting effects of chili peppers, this dish not only delights the palate but also nourishes the body. For more on the health benefits of the ingredients, you might want to check out this comprehensive guide.
The Sautéed Water Caltrop with Garlic and Chili pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa, making for a balanced and satisfying meal. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it alongside miso soup or as a side dish to grilled fish for a truly eclectic dining experience.
This recipe has become a new favorite in my kitchen. It embodies the essence of discovering and embracing new flavors while staying true to hearty and wholesome ingredients. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll love the refreshing burst of flavor and delightful crunch it brings to your table.
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound of water caltrop, peeled and cleaned
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 red chili peppers, sliced
- 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped
Method
Step One
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Step Two
Add the minced garlic and sliced red chili peppers to the skillet, and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden.
Step Three
Add the peeled and cleaned water caltrop to the skillet, and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the water caltrop is tender.
Step Four
Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Stir well to ensure the water caltrop is evenly coated with the seasonings.
Step Five
Add the chopped green onions and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until they are slightly wilted.
Step Six
Remove from heat and transfer to a serving plate. Enjoy your Sautéed Water Caltrop with Garlic and Chili while hot.
