why make this recipe
Stir-fried Beef and Water Spinach is a delicious and healthy dish that is quick to prepare. It combines tender beef with the fresh, vibrant flavors of water spinach. This meal is not just tasty, but also packed with nutrients. With only a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or when you’re looking to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
how to make Stir-fried Beef and Water Spinach
Ingredients :
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced and marinated
- 1 lb water spinach (kangkong), trimmed and roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Marinade:
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Directions :
- Marinate the beef: In a bowl, combine the beef slices with the marinade ingredients. Mix well and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
- Stir-fry the garlic and ginger: Heat the cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Stir-fry the beef: Add the marinated beef to the wok and stir-fry until browned. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
- Stir-fry the water spinach: Add the water spinach to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until it wilts slightly.
- Combine and season: Return the beef to the wok. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil (if using). Stir-fry until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and water spinach.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice.
how to serve Stir-fried Beef and Water Spinach
Stir-fried Beef and Water Spinach is best served hot right from the stovetop. You can pair it with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Place a generous portion on a plate and sprinkle some sesame seeds on top for added crunch and flavor. It makes a great dish for lunch or dinner and can be enjoyed with family and friends.
how to store Stir-fried Beef and Water Spinach
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Make sure to eat them within 2-3 days for the best taste. To reheat, simply warm in a pan over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid reheating multiple times to keep the beef and vegetables fresh.
tips to make Stir-fried Beef and Water Spinach
- Slice the beef thinly against the grain for more tenderness.
- Make sure the wok or skillet is hot enough before adding the ingredients to achieve that nice stir-fry flavor.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for more color and nutrition.
- Adjust seasonings to your personal taste, especially the soy sauce and oyster sauce for saltiness.
variation
You can easily vary this dish by using other greens like bok choy or spinach. For a spicier kick, add some sliced chilies during the stir-frying process. You can also switch the beef for chicken or tofu if you prefer a different protein.
FAQs
-
Can I use frozen water spinach?
Yes, you can use frozen water spinach, but make sure to thaw and drain it before cooking to avoid excess water in the dish. -
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, you can use hoisin sauce or a mix of soy sauce and sugar as an alternative. -
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free as well.

Stir-fried Beef and Water Spinach
Ingredients
For the beef marinade
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Main ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin, thinly sliced and marinated
- 1 lb water spinach (kangkong), trimmed and roughly chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 inch ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
Preparation
- In a bowl, combine the beef slices with the marinade ingredients. Mix well and let it sit for at least 15 minutes.
Cooking
- Heat the cooking oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add the marinated beef to the wok and stir-fry until browned. Remove the beef from the wok and set aside.
- Add the water spinach to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until it wilts slightly.
- Return the beef to the wok. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil (if using). Stir-fry until the sauce thickens and coats the beef and water spinach.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice.