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Chinese Lettuce With Oyster Sauce

Chinese Lettuce With Oyster Sauce
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A quick and flavorful Chinese Lettuce With Oyster Sauce recipe featuring crisp lettuce leaves tossed in a savory umami-rich oyster sauce dressing, accented by garlic and sesame oil. Ready in under 15 minutes, this nutrient-packed side dish complements a wide range of Asian-inspired meals with ease.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • Chinese lettuce, 1 head (about 200-250g), washed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • Oyster sauce, 2 tablespoons
  • Garlic, 2 cloves, freshly minced
  • Sesame oil, 1 teaspoon (toasted)
  • Cooking oil (vegetable or canola), 1 tablespoon
  • Salt, a pinch (to taste)
  • Sugar, a pinch
  • Optional chili flakes, 1/4 teaspoon (or to taste)

Optional Variations

  • Cooked shrimp or tofu cubes, 100g (for added protein)
  • Fresh sliced chili or chili oil, to taste (for spicy twist)
  • Napa cabbage or bok choy, as substitute for lettuce
  • Toasted sesame seeds, 1 teaspoon (for garnish)
  • Thinly sliced scallions or chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Lettuce: Wash the Chinese lettuce thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Shake off the excess water and cut the leaves into roughly 2-inch pieces, keeping the stems and leaves intact for a nice mix of textures.
  2. Sauté Garlic: Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant and golden but not burnt to infuse the oil with flavor.
  3. Add Oyster Sauce Mixture: Stir in 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce along with a pinch of sugar and a pinch of salt. Mix briefly to combine and allow the sauce to warm and slightly thicken without burning.
  4. Toss the Lettuce: Quickly add the Chinese lettuce to the pan. Using tongs or a spatula, toss everything together gently and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the lettuce is just wilted but still crisp and vibrant green.
  5. Finish with Sesame Oil: Remove the pan from heat and drizzle about 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil over the lettuce. Give it one final gentle toss to distribute the flavor evenly and serve immediately for the freshest taste.

Notes

  • Use fresh, crisp lettuce leaves for the best texture and flavor.
  • Cook on medium-high heat to keep the lettuce tender but not soggy.
  • Add lettuce last and cook just until wilted for perfect bite.
  • Taste as you cook to balance seasoning and avoid overpowering the dish.
  • Try different sesame oils for variations in nuttiness.
  • This dish does not freeze well; best enjoyed fresh.
  • Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Nutrition

Keywords: Chinese Lettuce, Oyster Sauce, Quick Side Dish, Asian Vegetables, Stir Fry Lettuce, Umami Sauce, Garlic Sesame Oil

Find it online: https://ninagourmet.com/chinese-lettuce-with-oyster-sauce/