Flavorful Filipino Adobong Kangkong Recipe
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A tender Filipino water spinach dish rooted in simplicity
This dish always reminds me that the most nourishing meals are often the simplest. Adobong kangkong is a humble Filipino classic — greens gently wilted in garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar until they soak up every bit of savory, tangy goodness. It’s the kind of food that doesn’t try to impress, yet always satisfies. When greens are growing fast and full in the garden, this recipe feels like a quiet gift: quick, grounding, and deeply comforting. 🌱
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold, balanced flavor without complicated steps
- Garden-forward and perfect for fresh greens
- Fast and flexible — ready in under 30 minutes
- Naturally plant-forward and budget-friendly
📋 Quick Reference Snapshot
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
🥬 Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large bunch kangkong (water spinach), washed
(or substitute spinach) - 3 tbsp (45 mL) soy sauce
- 2 tbsp (30 mL) white vinegar
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp (15 mL) cooking oil
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp sugar (optional, for balance)
- Salt, to taste
For serving: steamed rice
🌱 Seasonal Swaps & Variations
- Spring & Summer: Fresh kangkong or baby spinach
- Fall: Swiss chard (separate stems and cook first)
- Winter: Frozen spinach, thawed and well-drained
- Add-ins: Tofu cubes, shredded chicken, or mushrooms
- Flavor boost: Add a bay leaf while simmering
🍅 From My Garden
Kangkong thrives during warm, wet months, growing fast and abundantly. I love harvesting it just before cooking — tender stems, bright leaves, and a reminder that some of the best meals start with what’s growing right outside the door. 💚
👩🍳 Instructions
Prepare
Wash kangkong thoroughly. Trim tougher stems and separate stems from leaves.
Cook
Heat oil in a skillet or wok over medium heat. Add garlic and onion and sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2–3 minutes.
Pour in soy sauce, vinegar, black pepper, and sugar (if using). Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add kangkong stems first and cook 1–2 minutes. Add leaves and cook until just wilted, about 2–3 minutes more.
Finish
Taste and adjust salt if needed. Remove from heat and serve immediately with rice.
🍽 Serving & Pairing Suggestions
Serve alongside:
- Fried or grilled fish
- Crispy tofu or tempeh
- Coconut rice or garlic rice
This dish also balances richer mains beautifully and works well as part of a simple, shared table.
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days
- Make-Ahead: Prep and wash greens in advance; cook just before serving for best texture
🙏 Final Thoughts
This dish is a gentle reminder that faith and food often meet in the ordinary. May this simple plate of greens nourish your body, slow your pace, and remind you that abundance doesn’t always look fancy — sometimes it looks like a skillet of garlic, greens, and grace.
🤍 Community & Connection
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💛 Favorites from My Kitchen to Yours
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- A well-seasoned wok or deep skillet
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Rice cooker for easy weeknight meals
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