Can I use regular spinach instead of Morning Glory?

Yes, you can use regular spinach, but the texture and flavor will differ slightly. Morning glory has a unique crunch that spinach lacks.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the number of chilies or remove their seeds before slicing. You can also use milder chili varieties.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes, adding protein like tofu, shrimp, or chicken can make it a more substantial main course. Stir-fry the protein first, then add the morning glory.

What can I use if I don't have soybean paste?

You can substitute with miso paste. In addition, you can use a combination of soy sauce and a small amount of sugar to mimic the umami and sweetness.

Thai Stir Fried Morning Glory (Pad Pak Boong)

Name: Thai Stir-Fried Morning Glory (Pad Pak Boong): A Burst of Flavorful Vibrance
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Thai
Ingredients: 1 bunch morning glory (water spinach), washed and trimmed; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 red chilies, sliced; 2 tablespoons soybean paste (tao jiew); 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon fish sauce; 1 teaspoon sugar; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons water

Description

Discover the vibrant flavors of Thai Stir Fried Morning Glory (Pad Pak Boong), a quick and easy dish bursting with fresh, aromatic ingredients. This beloved Thai recipe features tender morning glory stems and leaves sautéed in a savory blend of garlic, chili, and fermented soybeans, delivering an irresistible combination of spicy, salty, and slightly sweet flavors. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, Pad Pak Boong is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

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1 bunch morning glory (water spinach), washed and trimmed
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 red chilies, sliced
2 tablespoons soybean paste (tao jiew)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon fish sauce
1 teaspoon sugar
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons water

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Morning Glory

Begin by thoroughly washing the morning glory, ensuring all dirt and grit are removed. Trim off any tough stems, keeping only the tender parts. Cut the morning glory into 3-4 inch pieces for easy stir-frying. This preparation step ensures that the morning glory cooks evenly and absorbs the flavorful sauce perfectly.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Base

In a small bowl, combine the soybean paste, oyster sauce, fish sauce, and sugar. Mix well until the sugar dissolves. This sauce mixture will form the base of your dish, providing a rich, umami flavor that complements the fresh morning glory.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Aromatics

Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced red chilies, stirring constantly until fragrant, about 30 seconds. This step releases the garlic and chilies' essential oils, infusing the oil with their spicy, aromatic flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Morning Glory

Add the prepared morning glory to the wok, tossing quickly to coat the leaves and stems with the garlic and chili-infused oil. Pour in the sauce mixture and water, continuing to stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the morning glory is wilted but still vibrant green. This brief cooking time ensures the morning glory remains tender-crisp and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the stir fried morning glory to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining sauce. Serve immediately as a side dish or light main course with steamed rice. Enjoy the fresh, bold flavors of this classic Thai dish.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Sides
Method: Stir fry
Cuisine: Thai

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 120 kcal
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 650mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 4g
Cholesterol: 0mg