| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 10 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 296 | 18g | 5g | 9g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 2g | 27g | 0.7g |
When it comes to combining the best of land and sea in a single dish, the Water Spinach and Beef Stir Fry stands out as a delightful catch. A native Mainer, I’ve always been drawn to the flavors that seamlessly meld simplicity with richness, and this dish does just that. Though my culinary roots are deeply entrenched in the Atlantic coast, the appeal of this recipe is universal.
A Symphony of Flavors
What I adore about this Water Spinach and Beef Stir Fry is its ability to harmonize diverse flavors. The tender, thinly sliced beef pairs beautifully with the crisp, slightly bitter water spinach. Each bite offers a complex and satisfying taste experience. The soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce meld together, coating every ingredient in a savory, umami-rich glaze. For those who love a touch of heat, adding red chili peppers is a must.
Nutritional Benefits
Another reason I’m so fond of this recipe is its nutritional profile. Water spinach, also known as kangkong, is not only delicious but also packed with essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a great source of vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium, making it a powerhouse of nutrients. Combined with lean beef sirloin, which provides high-quality protein, this dish is not just tasty but also balanced and wholesome.
In my household, dinnertime is a bit of an event. My daughters, Erin and Samantha, are adventurous eaters and love trying new dishes. The Water Spinach and Beef Stir Fry has become one of their favorites. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights, and versatile enough that it can be adjusted to suit different taste preferences and dietary needs. Whether served over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or alongside other dishes like Garlic Noodle Stir Fry or Spicy Tofu Vegetable Stir Fry, it never fails to impress.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re cooking for a family meal, a casual dinner with friends, or meal prepping for the week ahead, this stir fry fits the bill. It’s an all-in-one dish that covers your protein and veggie needs in one flavorful swoop. Plus, the beef can be substituted with tofu or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist that’s equally delicious.
To sum it up, the Water Spinach and Beef Stir Fry is a celebration of flavors and textures, offering both culinary pleasure and nutritional benefits. It reminds me that great food doesn’t have to be complicated—it just needs to be made with love and quality ingredients. So, go ahead and give this dish a try; I promise it will become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
What You’ll Need
- 1.5 lbs beef sirloin, thinly sliced
- 1.2 lbs water spinach (also known as kangkong), trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (such as vegetable or canola oil)
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water or beef broth
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar (optional)
- 1-2 red chili peppers, sliced (optional)
- Cooked rice, for serving
Method
Step One
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce or tamari, oyster sauce, fish sauce, cornstarch, water or beef broth, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Set aside.
Step Two
Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and onion, and stir-fry until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent, about 2 minutes.
Step Three
Add the thinly sliced beef sirloin to the skillet. Stir-fry until the beef is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step Four
Pour the sauce mixture over the beef. Stir well to coat the meat evenly. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step Five
Add the water spinach to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook until the water spinach is just wilted but still crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
Step Six
Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir fry. Add the sliced red chili peppers if using, and give everything one last quick stir.
Step Seven
Remove from heat and serve the Water Spinach and Beef Stir Fry hot over cooked rice. Enjoy!
