Balinese Water Spinach Salad (lawar Kangkung)

Balinese Water Spinach Salad, also known as Lawar Kangkung, is a traditional dish from the beautiful island of Bali. This refreshing and flavorful salad is made with water spinach, grated coconut, and a blend of aromatic Balinese spices. It's a perfect side dish or light meal that showcases the vibrant flavors of Balinese cuisine.

Balinese Water Spinach Salad (lawar Kangkung)

Ingredients

  • 2 bunches of water spinach (kangkung), chopped
  • 1 cup grated coconut
  • 4 shallots, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 red chilies, finely chopped
  • 1 lemongrass stalk, thinly sliced
  • 1 kaffir lime leaf, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon shrimp paste
  • 1 teaspoon palm sugar
  • 1 tablespoon tamarind juice
  • Salt to taste

Instructions

  1. Blanch the chopped water spinach in boiling water for 1-2 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a pan, dry roast the grated coconut until golden brown and aromatic. Remove from the heat and let it cool.
  3. In a mortar and pestle, grind the shallots, garlic, red chilies, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaf, shrimp paste, and palm sugar into a smooth paste.
  4. Heat a little oil in a pan and sauté the spice paste until fragrant.
  5. Add the blanched water spinach and stir well to combine with the spice paste.
  6. Add the tamarind juice, salt, and the roasted grated coconut. Mix everything together and cook for a few more minutes.
  7. Remove from the heat and let the salad cool slightly before serving.

Cooking & Preparation

Preparation time:
20 minutes
Cooking time:
10 minutes
Total time:
30 minutes
Cooking method
Stovetop

Nutritional facts per 1 serving

Calories
150 per serving
Carbohydrates
10g
Protein
5g
Fat
8g

Supplies

Large pot Pan Mortar and pestle

Tools

Knife Cutting board Grater

Serving suggestions

Serve the Balinese Water Spinach Salad as a side dish with steamed rice and other Balinese specialties for a complete meal.

Tips & tricks

For a spicier kick, add more red chilies to the salad. Adjust the level of heat according to your preference.

Cost

$8