Tumis Kangkung (Indonesian Stir-Fried Water Spinach) – Quick, Flavorful & Healthy
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indonesian
Course: Side Dish, Main Course
Difficulty: Easy
What Is Tumis Kangkung?
Tumis Kangkung is a popular Indonesian stir-fried vegetable dish made with fresh water spinach (kangkung), garlic, shallots, chilies, and savory seasonings. This quick and healthy recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight side dish. The tender greens are coated in a flavorful garlic sauce with a hint of spice and pair wonderfully with steamed rice, grilled meats, seafood, or tofu.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
1 pound (450g) water spinach (kangkung), washed and cut into 2-inch pieces
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
3 shallots, thinly sliced
2 red chilies, sliced (adjust to taste)
1 red bird's eye chili, finely sliced (optional)
Seasonings
1 tablespoon oyster sauce
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon sweet soy sauce (kecap manis)
½ teaspoon sugar
¼ teaspoon ground white pepper
2 tablespoons water
Salt to taste
Optional Garnish
Fried shallots
Lime wedges
Sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Wash the water spinach thoroughly and trim any tough stems.
Cut into 2-inch pieces and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the garlic and shallots.
Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in the sliced chilies and cook for another 30 seconds.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Water Spinach
Add the water spinach to the wok.
Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until it begins to wilt.
Step 4: Add the Seasonings
Mix in:
Oyster sauce
Soy sauce
Sweet soy sauce
Sugar
White pepper
Water
Toss everything together until the vegetables are evenly coated.
Cook for another 1–2 minutes until the greens are just tender but still vibrant.
Taste and adjust with salt if needed.
Step 5: Serve
Transfer to a serving plate.
Top with fried shallots if desired and serve immediately with lime wedges.
Serving Suggestions
Tumis Kangkung is delicious alongside:
Steamed jasmine rice
Grilled chicken
Fried fish
Beef rendang
Tempe Goreng
Fried tofu
Sambal
Nasi Goreng
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as the greens lose their texture.
Reheating: Warm quickly in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.
Tips for the Best Tumis Kangkung
Cook over high heat for the best flavor and texture.
Avoid overcooking to keep the greens bright and crisp-tender.
Add the leaves after the thicker stems if your kangkung has large stems.
Fresh garlic and shallots create the most authentic taste.
Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 110
Protein: 3g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 420mg
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use spinach instead of water spinach?
Yes. Regular spinach is a good substitute if water spinach isn't available, though it cooks more quickly and has a softer texture.
Is Tumis Kangkung spicy?
It has a mild to moderate heat. Reduce or omit the bird's eye chili for a milder version, or add more for extra spice.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the oyster sauce with vegetarian mushroom oyster sauce and use a vegetarian-friendly soy sauce.
What protein pairs well with this dish?
Tumis Kangkung pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, beef, tofu, tempeh, or fried eggs.
SEO Title
Tumis Kangkung (Indonesian Stir-Fried Water Spinach) Recipe – Quick & Easy
Meta Description
Make authentic Tumis Kangkung in just 20 minutes with fresh water spinach, garlic, shallots, and savory seasonings. This easy Indonesian stir-fry is healthy, flavorful, and perfect with steamed rice.