Delicious Oysters with Spinach: A Nutritional Marvel
If you're looking for a nutritious and flavorful dish, consider making Oysters with Spinach. This delightful meal combines the rich flavors of oysters and the health benefits of spinach, creating a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Ingredients You Will Need
To prepare this dish, gather the following ingredients:
- 250g Oysters
- 400g Spinach
- 10g Green Pepper
- 15g Dried Red Chili Peppers
- 15g Fermented Black Beans
- 10g Garlic
- 15g Green Onion
- 5g Ginger
- 10g Cornstarch
- 10g Salt
- 10g Cooking Wine
- 5g Sugar
- 5g Dark Soy Sauce
- 20g Sesame Oil
- 60g Vegetable Oil
- 10g Pepper Powder
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now, let's dive into the cooking process:
Preparation
1. Start by cleaning the spinach and oysters thoroughly. Chop the ginger into segments and mince the garlic.
Cooking the Oysters
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Add the oysters and cook until they open up. Remove them from the water and let them drain. Mix in sesame oil, pepper powder, and cornstarch, letting them marinate for several minutes.
Cooking the Spinach
3. Blanch the spinach in boiling water until soft. Remove and set aside.
Frying the Oysters
4. In a hot pan, pour in the vegetable oil. Once hot, add the oysters and fry them briefly before removing and letting them drain on paper towels.
Sautéing Aromatics
5. In the same pan, add a little residual vegetable oil, then toss in ginger, garlic, fermented black beans, and dried red chili peppers. Sauté until aromatic.
Combining Ingredients
6. Add the fried oysters back to the pan along with cooking wine. Mix well, then incorporate salt, sugar, a small amount of dark soy sauce, and a sufficient amount of water. Let it simmer for around 30 minutes.
Final Touches
7. Finally, stir in the spinach and green onions. Drizzle with a bit of vegetable oil and allow it to boil before serving this delightful dish hot.
Tips for Perfect Oysters
When frying the oysters, ensure that the oil temperature is sufficiently high (around 80% hot). However, do not increase the heat once the oysters are added to avoid burning them. Furthermore, spinach contains oxalic acid, which can hinder calcium absorption by the body. Therefore, do not skip the step of blanching the spinach in boiling water.
Nutritional Benefits of Oysters and Spinach
The Nutritional Value of Oysters
Oysters are a powerhouse of nutrition, being high in protein and low in fat. They are rich in glycine and are packed with several essential vitamins and minerals. The protein content in dried oyster meat can reach as high as 45% to 57%, and they also contain substantial amounts of calcium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. Notably, the zinc content in oysters is among the highest of any natural food source, providing daily requirements with just a few oysters.
The Health Benefits of Spinach
Spinach, on the other hand, is a fantastic source of vitamin B6, folate, iron, and potassium. Its antioxidant components, such as vitamin E and selenium, contribute to anti-aging properties and overall brain health. Additionally, a Harvard study suggests that older adults who consume spinach two to four times a week may lower their risk of retinal degeneration.
Conclusion
This Oysters with Spinach dish not only tantalizes the taste buds but also offers a bounty of health benefits. The combination of these two ingredients can enhance your meals while also contributing positively to your health.