Collard Greens with Oyster Sauce

Collard Greens with Oyster Sauce Recipe - Chinese Cuisine

Region / culture: China | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 10 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Collard Greens with Oyster Sauce is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of collard greens with the umami richness of oyster sauce. This recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful vegetable side dish that is easy to prepare.

History

Collard greens have been a staple in Southern cuisine for centuries, with recipes dating back to the early days of American history. Oyster sauce, on the other hand, is a popular ingredient in Asian cooking, known for its savory and slightly sweet flavor. By combining these two ingredients, this recipe creates a unique fusion of flavors that is sure to delight your taste buds.

Ingredients

2 tbsp of peanut oil
3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
1.5 lb (680 g) of collard greens, cut into bite size pieces
0.25 cup of water
0.25 cup of oyster sauce
1 tbsp of sesame seeds

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large skillet over high heat and sauté garlic for 10 seconds.
Add water and collard greens, then cook, stirring and tossing constantly for 5 minutes.
Stir in oyster sauce immediately before serving and garnish with sesame seeds.

Variations

Add sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for added flavor and texture.
Substitute soy sauce for oyster sauce for a different flavor profile.
Mix in cooked shrimp or tofu for a protein boost.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cut the collard greens into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Stir and toss the collard greens constantly while cooking to prevent them from sticking to the skillet.

- Garnish the dish with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Collard Greens with Oyster Sauce can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or fish. It pairs well with steamed rice or quinoa for a complete and balanced meal.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing

- Stir-frying

Ingredient Substitutions

Canola oil or vegetable oil can be used in place of peanut oil.

- Bok choy or kale can be substituted for collard greens.

Make Ahead Tips

The collard greens can be washed and cut ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to cook.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dish in a decorative bowl and garnish with additional sesame seeds for a visually appealing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Collard Greens with Oyster Sauce with a light and refreshing white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

120

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 10g

- Dietary Fiber: 5g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 7g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 4g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 120% DV

- Vitamin C: 80% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains shellfish (oyster sauce)

Summary

Collard Greens with Oyster Sauce is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense dish that is rich in vitamins A and C. It is a good source of fiber and protein, making it a healthy addition to any meal.

Summary

Collard Greens with Oyster Sauce is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. With a balance of savory and earthy flavors, this dish is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with a sense of excitement. It was a cold winter's day, and I was visiting my dear friend Martha in her cozy kitchen. Martha had always been an excellent cook, and she had a knack for combining unexpected ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes.

As I watched Martha prepare the collard greens with oyster sauce, I was amazed at how simple yet delicious the recipe seemed. She started by washing and chopping the collard greens into bite-sized pieces, then sautéing them in a hot pan with garlic and ginger. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final result.

As Martha added the oyster sauce to the greens, she explained to me that she had learned this recipe from her great-grandmother, who had immigrated from China many years ago. Collard greens were a staple in Chinese cooking, and the addition of oyster sauce gave them a unique and savory flavor.

I eagerly helped Martha stir the greens as they cooked, and soon enough, they were ready to be served. The vibrant green color of the collards was a beautiful contrast to the dark, glossy sauce that coated each leaf. I took a bite, and my taste buds exploded with the rich umami flavor of the oyster sauce. It was unlike anything I had ever tasted before, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish myself.

After thanking Martha for sharing her family recipe with me, I returned home and immediately set out to recreate the collard greens with oyster sauce. I gathered all the ingredients I needed and carefully followed the steps that Martha had taught me. As the greens cooked in the pan, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and accomplishment. The dish smelled just as wonderful as it had in Martha's kitchen, and I knew that I had done justice to her family recipe.

When I finally sat down to enjoy the collard greens with oyster sauce, I was transported back to that day in Martha's kitchen. The flavors were just as delicious as I remembered, and I savored each bite as if it were a precious memory.

Over the years, I have made the collard greens with oyster sauce many times, and it has become a favorite among my family and friends. Each time I prepare the dish, I think of Martha and her great-grandmother, and I am grateful for the opportunity to carry on their culinary legacy.

I have since shared the recipe with my own grandchildren, passing down not only a delicious dish but also a piece of our family history. Cooking is more than just following a set of instructions – it is a way to connect with our past and create lasting memories with the ones we love.

As I sit here, stirring a pot of collard greens with oyster sauce on a cold winter's day, I am filled with a sense of warmth and contentment. This recipe has brought me closer to my friends and family, and for that, I am truly grateful.