Water spinach is stir-fried with pungent fermented tofu for a creamy, savory Southern Chinese dish. This vegetarian, low calorie family side has a unique funky flavor that's addictively good.
Rinse the water spinach thoroughly, then cut into 3-inch pieces, separating the stems from the leaves for even cooking.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok over medium-high heat. When hot but not smoking, add sliced garlic and stir-fry for about 20 seconds, just until fragrant.
Add the water spinach stems first and stir-fry rapidly for 1 minute to begin softening, then add the leaves on top.
Crumble the fermented tofu cubes in a bowl, mix with the soy sauce, sugar, and white pepper to form a creamy paste, then pour this mixture evenly over the vegetables.
Toss and stir-fry everything on high heat for another 2-3 minutes, until the greens are just wilted and coated with the creamy sauce but still bright green. Serve immediately.