Chilli Garlic Greens
A vibrant and fiery stir-fry of mixed greens tossed in a zesty sauce of garlic, soy, and chili flakes. This super quick and healthy side dish comes together in under 15 minutes and pairs perfectly with any Asian-inspired meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Greens and Sauce
- b.Wash the mixed greens thoroughly. If using greens with thick stems like bok choy or chard, separate the stems from the leaves. Chop the stems into small pieces and roughly chop the leaves. Keep them separate.
- c.In a small bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, rice vinegar, sugar, and white pepper powder. Set this sauce mixture aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.Place a wok or a large, heavy-bottomed pan over high heat. Add the vegetable oil. Once the oil is shimmering hot, add the minced garlic, grated ginger, green chillies, and red chili flakes.
- c.Stir-fry for 30-45 seconds until the raw smell disappears and the aromatics are fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Stir-fry the Greens
- b.If you are using greens with stems, add the chopped stems to the wok first. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they are slightly tender.
- c.Add the leafy parts of the greens to the wok. Toss continuously using tongs or a spatula for 2-3 minutes until the leaves have just wilted but are still vibrant green and have a slight crunch.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Finish and Serve
- b.Pour the prepared sauce mixture over the greens. Add the salt and toasted sesame oil.
- c.Toss everything together quickly for about 30-60 seconds, ensuring the greens are evenly coated with the sauce.
- d.Turn off the heat. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
- e.Serve immediately as a side dish.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best texture, use a wok and cook on high heat. This sears the greens quickly, keeping them crisp-tender.
- 2Stir-frying is a very fast cooking process. Have all your ingredients chopped and the sauce mixed before you start.
- 3Do not overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the greens in two batches to ensure they stir-fry rather than steam.
- 4Avoid overcooking the greens. They should be just wilted and bright green, not mushy or dull in color.
- 5Taste and adjust the sauce before adding it to the wok. You might prefer it sweeter, spicier, or more tangy.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Toss in some pan-fried tofu cubes, cooked chickpeas, or shredded chicken along with the greens to make it a more substantial dish.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Include other quick-cooking vegetables like sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or snow peas. Add them along with the green stems.
Nutty FlavorNutty Flavor
Sprinkle some roasted and crushed peanuts or cashews on top before serving for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
Different SauceDifferent Sauce
For a different flavor profile, add a teaspoon of oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir-fry sauce) to the sauce mixture.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Leafy greens are a powerhouse of essential nutrients like Vitamin K for bone health, Vitamin A for vision, Vitamin C for skin health, and minerals like iron and potassium.
Boosts Immunity
The combination of garlic, ginger, and chillies provides potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help strengthen the body's immune response against infections.
Supports Digestive Health
The high fiber content from the greens aids in smooth digestion, prevents constipation, and promotes a healthy gut microbiome.
Heart Healthy
This dish is low in saturated fat and cholesterol. The greens and garlic can help in managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of Chilli Garlic Greens contains approximately 95-115 calories, making it a very light and healthy side dish. The exact count can vary based on the specific greens and amount of oil used.