Spinach and Red Shen Choy in Garlicky Broth Recipe

Tender baby spinach and red shen choy are briefly simmered just until wilted, then served very simply with a broth flavored with lightly browned garlic. I can't think of an easier way to put a delicious side dish on the table.

Note: Shen Choy is also known as red amaranth and can be found in most Asian markets. If unavailable, you can use more spinach or any semi-tender green like watercress, iceberg lettuce, or snow pea shoots.

Chinese Greens 101: Spinach and Red Shen Choy in Garlicky Broth

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Active: 10 mins

Total: 15 mins

Serves: 3 to 4 servings

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Kosher salt
6 ounces (about 1 1/2 quarts tightly packed leaves) baby spinach, trimmed and washed
6 ounces (about 1 1/2 quarts tightly packed leaves) red shen choy, trimmed and washed (see note)
1 tablespoon vegetable, canola, or peanut oil
6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
1 1/2 cups homemade or store-bought low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the shen choy and boil for 1 minute. Add spinach and continue boiling 1 minute longer. Drain well and place in a large shallow serving bowl.
Heat the oil in a small saucepan over medium heat until shimmering. Add the garlic and cook, stirring, until it’s a little soft and starting to turn golden brown, about 5 minutes. Add the broth, bring it to a boil, and season it with salt if needed. Pour the hot broth with the garlic on top of the greens. Serve immediately.