Cah Kangkung (Indonesian Stir-Fried Water Spinach)
Authentic Indonesian Recipe | Serves 4 | Ready in 15 Minutes
Cah Kangkung is one of Indonesia's most popular vegetable dishes. Tender water spinach (also called morning glory) is quickly stir-fried over high heat with garlic, chilies, oyster sauce, and savory seasonings. The result is a vibrant, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with steamed jasmine rice and grilled meats.
Prep Time
- Prep: 10 minutes
- Cook: 5 minutes
- Total: 15 minutes
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) water spinach (morning glory), washed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 5 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
- 2 shallots, thinly sliced
- 2 red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
- 1 Thai bird's eye chili (optional)
Sauce
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tsp sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
- ½ tsp sugar
- ¼ tsp white pepper
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
- 3 tbsp water
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together:
- Oyster sauce
- Light soy sauce
- Sweet soy sauce
- Sugar
- White pepper
- Salt
- Water
Set aside.
Step 2: Heat the Wok
Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until very hot.
Add vegetable oil.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add:
- Garlic
- Shallots
- Chilies
Stir-fry for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Water Spinach
Add all of the water spinach.
Stir continuously over high heat for about 1 minute.
Step 5: Add Sauce
Pour in the prepared sauce.
Continue stir-frying for another 1–2 minutes until the leaves wilt but remain bright green.
Do not overcook.
Step 6: Serve
Transfer immediately to a serving plate.
Serve hot with steamed jasmine rice.
Chef's Tips
- Cook over high heat for the best restaurant-style flavor.
- Do not cook longer than 3 minutes after adding the greens.
- Wash and dry the water spinach thoroughly before cooking.
- Use a wok if possible for authentic "wok hei" (smoky flavor).
- Taste before serving and adjust salt if needed.
Optional Add-ins
- Shrimp
- Sliced chicken
- Beef strips
- Fried tofu
- Mushrooms
- Squid
What to Serve With
- Steamed Jasmine Rice
- Indonesian Fried Chicken
- Grilled Satay
- Fried Fish
- Crispy Tofu
- Fried Egg
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 110
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
Nutrition values are approximate.
Storage
Refrigerator: Up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Reheating: Stir-fry for 1–2 minutes over medium-high heat until heated through.