10-Minute Garlic Ginger Bok Choy
A vibrant and healthy side dish, this 10-minute garlic ginger bok choy recipe delivers crisp-tender greens infused with aromatic flavors, perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
For 3 servings
Thoroughly wash baby bok choy heads. Trim off the very end of the root, then separate the leaves. If heads are large, cut them in half lengthwise. For smaller heads, you can leave them whole or halve them. Separate the white stems from the green leaves. Mince garlic and grate ginger.
Heat a large wok or a 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add avocado oil and let it shimmer.
Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil. Stir-fry for 30-60 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the white bok choy stems to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, tossing frequently, until they start to become tender-crisp.
Add the green bok choy leaves, soy sauce, and water/broth to the wok. Toss well to combine.
Cover the wok and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the leaves are just wilted and bright green. Do not overcook.
Remove from heat. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve immediately as a vibrant side dish.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Don't Overcrowd: Cook bok choy in batches if your pan isn't large enough to ensure even cooking and prevent steaming instead of stir-frying.
- 2High Heat, Quick Cook: Stir-frying requires high heat and constant movement to achieve that perfect crisp-tender texture without becoming soggy.
- 3Ginger & Garlic Prep: For maximum flavor, use freshly minced garlic and grated ginger. A microplane grater works wonders for ginger.
- 4Customizing Flavor: For a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic and ginger. A tiny pinch of sugar can also balance the savory notes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Flavor
Add 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or a few slices of fresh chili with the garlic and ginger for a spicy version.
IngredientIngredient
Stir-fry sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms with the bok choy stems for added umami and texture.
FlavorFlavor
Finish with a squeeze of fresh lime or lemon juice for a bright, zesty note.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Packed with Vitamins
Bok choy is an excellent source of Vitamins A, C, and K, contributing to vision health, immune function, and blood clotting.
Antioxidant Rich
Ginger and garlic are potent antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body.
Supports Digestion
The fiber in bok choy aids in healthy digestion, while ginger is known for its digestive soothing properties.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, but you'll need to chop it into smaller, bite-sized pieces and it might require slightly longer cooking time for the thicker stems.
