Stir-fried water spinach gains popularity among world leaders and K-pop stars

Stir-fried water spinach (rau muống xào tỏi) has become a notable culinary highlight for both international diplomats and South Korean celebrities during visits to Vietnam.

During a visit to Hanoi on October 25, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk and his high-level delegation enjoyed the dish at a restaurant on Phan Boi Chau Street. The simple vegetable dish has previously appeared on menus for visiting dignitaries, including French President Emmanuel Macron and his spouse.

In addition to political figures, several K-pop stars have expressed fondness for the dish. Members of BIGBANG, Rosé of Blackpink, and Super Junior have sought it out, while Red Velvet’s Seulgi reportedly enjoyed it so much in Phu Quoc that she purchased the ingredients to recreate it in South Korea. The dish is noted for its crunchy texture and the aromatic combination of garlic and natural sweetness.