| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 150 | 12g | 1g | 10g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 5g | 1g | 3g | 1.5g |
There’s a special place in my heart for dishes that blend the simple with the flavorful, and Stir-fried Gnetum with Garlic and Soy Sauce fits the bill perfectly. It’s a recipe that marries a more obscure vegetable, Gnetum (or Melindjo as some know it), with the punchy flavors of garlic, the comfort of soy sauce, and the edgy heat of black pepper. It is not only tasty but also full of health benefits.
Bountiful Benefits
Gazing at a plateful of green Gnetum, you might wonder: “What kind of nutritional value am I signing up for here?” Let me put your mind at ease. Gnetum leaves are packed full of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and iron. They provide a good source of dietary fiber which helps with digestive health. This recipe also cuts down on unhealthy fats by utilizing vegetable oil. And yes, you might be surprised at how much flavor potential this underutilized green holds when married with the deep savoriness of soy sauce and the aromatic nature of garlic.
The Beauty of Simplicity
The beauty of this Stir-fried Gnetum with Garlic and Soy Sauce recipe is its simplicity. Modest ingredients. Uncomplicated steps. No fancy kitchen techniques – yet it remarkably delivers a satisfying, flavor-packed experience. It’s a one-pan wonder that doesn’t compromise on taste or health benefits.
Dishes like these are soul food for me, as they remind me of the humble yet delicious stir fry dinners from both my Seattle upbringing and the time I’ve spent in Japan. Dishes like this Japanese-style Fried Rice or this Ginger Pork Shogayaki share a similar spirit – honest ingredients and simple execution leading to substantial enjoyment.
Perhaps you’re cooking for a potluck, forming a part of your weekly meal prep, or just opting for a healthier dinner choice. Regardless of the occasion, this Stir-fried Gnetum with Garlic and Soy Sauce recipe is worth making. Its inherent simplicity lends it a versatility, making it pair well with several other dishes. My personal favorite combination? This stir fry alongside a hearty bowl of miso soup and some freshly steamed rice. Trust me, it’s unbeatable.
I hope you enjoy making and eating this recipe as much as I do. Happy cooking!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of Gnetum (Melindjo) leaves
- 6 cloves of Garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of Soy Sauce
- 1/4 cup of Vegetable Oil
- 1 teaspoon of Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of Black Pepper
- 1 tablespoon of Sugar
Method
Step One
Begin by washing the Gnetum leaves thoroughly. Then, set them aside to drain.
Step Two
In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Once the oil is heated, add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until aromatic and lightly browned.
Step Three
Add the Gnetum leaves to the pan. Stir continuously to prevent the leaves from sticking to the pan. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the leaves become wilted and tender.
Step Four
Now, add the soy sauce, salt, black pepper, and sugar. Stir well to ensure the leaves are evenly coated with the spices. Continue to cook for a couple more minutes until the sauce is absorbed.
Step Five
Once the stir-fry is done, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. You can add more soy sauce or salt if desired. The dish should be savory with a hint of sweetness from the sugar.
Step Six
Remove pan from heat. The Stir-fried Gnetum with Garlic and Soy Sauce is now ready to serve. Enjoy this flavourful dish as a side with steamed rice or eat it on its own!
