10-Minute Garlic Pak Choi
This 10-Minute Garlic Pak Choi recipe is the simplest, most classic way to prepare this versatile green, delivering a quick and flavorful side dish. It's perfect alongside fish, chicken, or tofu and rice, offering a delightful crunch and savory aroma.
For 2 servings
Wash the baby pak choi heads thoroughly under cold running water. Trim off the very bottom of the core and then halve each head lengthwise.
Thinly slice the garlic cloves. Prepare the soy sauce and water in a small bowl, ready to add.
Heat the neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the sliced garlic and sauté for about 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Place the halved pak choi cut-side down in a single layer in the hot pan. If necessary, work in two batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until the cut sides are lightly browned and slightly charred.
Flip the pak choi over. Pour the prepared soy sauce and water mixture over the pak choi. Immediately cover the pan with a lid and steam for 1-2 minutes, or until the pak choi is crisp-tender and vibrant green.
Remove the lid and transfer the pak choi to a serving platter. Drizzle evenly with the toasted sesame oil. Serve immediately as a delicious 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 the pan: For best results and proper browning, ensure the pak choi is in a single layer. Cook in batches if your pan isn't large enough.
- 2Garlic care: Keep a close eye on the garlic as it can burn quickly. Sauté just until fragrant and lightly golden to avoid bitterness.
- 3Adjust doneness: The steaming time can be adjusted based on your preference for pak choi's texture – less time for crunchier, more for softer.
- 4Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version, substitute regular soy sauce with tamari.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Kick
Add 1/2 teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a touch of heat.
Ginger InfusionGinger Infusion
Sauté 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger with the garlic for an added aromatic and zesty flavor.
Mushroom MedleyMushroom Medley
Add sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms to the pan after the garlic, cooking until tender before adding the pak choi.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Pak choi is an excellent source of Vitamins A, C, and K, crucial for vision, immune function, and bone health, respectively.
Antioxidant Powerhouse
Contains powerful antioxidants like glucosinolates and flavonoids, which help protect cells from oxidative damage and may reduce inflammation.
Heart Health Support
Garlic is known for its cardiovascular benefits, including helping to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to overall heart health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, you can. If using mature pak choi, you may need to separate the white stems from the green leaves. Cook the stems first for 1-2 minutes before adding the leaves, and increase the steaming time slightly until both are tender.
