Pad Pak Bung Ruam, often referred to as “Stir-fried Water Morning Glory,” is a beloved dish in Thai cuisine, renowned for its vibrant flavors and nutritious ingredients. This incredibly popular dish features water morning glory (also known as ‘kangkong’), stir-fried with garlic, chili, and sometimes soy sauce or oyster sauce, creating a delightful combination of taste and texture. Pad Pak Bung Ruam is celebrated not just for its deliciousness but also for its health benefits, as water morning glory is rich in vitamins and minerals. As a staple in street food stalls and local restaurants across Thailand, it captures the essence of Thai culinary culture, making it a must-try for both locals and tourists alike. As noted by food enthusiasts, “Pad Pak Bung Ruam is a perfect representation of how simple ingredients can come together to create an unforgettable dish.”
Pad Pak Bung Ruam: A Delicious Thai Stir-Fry
Pad Pak Bung Ruam, also known as stir-fried morning glory, is a beloved dish in Thai cuisine that showcases the vibrant flavors of fresh vegetables. This quick and easy stir-fry typically features water spinach, also called morning glory, which is sautéed with garlic and flavored with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and chili. This dish is not only a staple in street food stalls but also a common accompaniment to various Thai meals. Its history is rooted in the agricultural practices of Southeast Asia, where water spinach is widely cultivated and enjoyed for its tender texture and nutritional benefits.
Preparation
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Water spinach (morning glory) | 300 grams |
| Garlic (minced) | 3 cloves |
| Red chili (sliced, optional) | 1-2 pieces |
| Vegetable oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Oyster sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Soy sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1 teaspoon |
| Water | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | to taste |
Steps
- Prepare the vegetables: Rinse the water spinach thoroughly to remove any dirt. Cut the stems into 2-inch pieces and keep the leaves whole.
- Heat the oil: In a large wok or frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden brown.
- Add chili: If using, add the sliced red chili to the pan and stir-fry for another 15 seconds. Be cautious not to burn the garlic.
- Add the water spinach: Introduce the chopped water spinach stems first, and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes. Once they begin to soften, add the leaves.
- Season the dish: Pour in the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and water. Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.
- Taste and adjust: Season with salt to taste if necessary. Adjust any sauces to achieve your desired flavor.
- Serve: Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish. Enjoy your Pad Pak Bung Ruam with steamed rice or as a side to your favorite Thai dishes!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Pad Pak Bung Ruam?
Pad Pak Bung Ruam is a popular Thai stir-fried dish made with water spinach, garlic, and chili, typically cooked in a flavorful sauce.
What are the main ingredients in Pad Pak Bung Ruam?
The main ingredients include water spinach, garlic, chili, soy sauce, and sometimes oyster sauce for added flavor.
Is Pad Pak Bung Ruam vegetarian?
Yes, Pad Pak Bung Ruam can be easily made vegetarian by using soy sauce instead of oyster sauce.
How is Pad Pak Bung Ruam usually served?
It is typically served hot, often as a side dish alongside rice or other main dishes in Thai cuisine.
Can I make Pad Pak Bung Ruam spicy?
Absolutely, you can adjust the amount of chili used to suit your spice preference.
How long does it take to prepare Pad Pak Bung Ruam?
Preparation and cooking usually take about 15-20 minutes, making it a quick dish to prepare.
What type of oil is used for Pad Pak Bung Ruam?
Usually, vegetable oil or peanut oil is used for stir-frying to enhance the flavor.
Can Pad Pak Bung Ruam be made with other vegetables?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, but the traditional recipe focuses on water spinach.
Where can I find Pad Pak Bung Ruam?
Pad Pak Bung Ruam can be found in many Thai restaurants and is also popular in street food stalls in Thailand.
Is Pad Pak Bung Ruam healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy option as it features greens and is low in calories, especially when prepared with minimal oil.
Can I use frozen water spinach for Pad Pak Bung Ruam?
Yes, frozen water spinach can be used, but fresh is preferred for the best texture and flavor.
What pairs well with Pad Pak Bung Ruam?
It pairs well with jasmine rice, grilled meats, or other Thai dishes like curry.
Is Pad Pak Bung Ruam gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce.
What does Pad Pak Bung Ruam taste like?
It has a savory and slightly spicy flavor with a hint of garlic and a fresh, crunchy texture from the water spinach.
