Garlic Bok Choy
Tender-crisp bok choy tossed in a savory garlic sauce. This classic Chinese-American side dish comes together in under 10 minutes, making it a perfect healthy addition to any weeknight meal.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 5 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the Bok Choy: Trim about 1/4 inch from the base of the bok choy
- a.If using baby bok choy, slice them in half lengthwise. For larger heads, separate the leaves from the stalks and cut the stalks into 1-inch pieces. Wash thoroughly to remove any grit and pat completely dry with a kitchen towel. This is crucial to prevent oil splattering and to achieve a good sear.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, sugar, vegetable broth, and white pepper. Set aside.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke. Add the minced garlic and ginger and stir-fry for 15-30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to let them burn.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Stir-fry the Bok Choy: Add the bok choy stalks (if separated) to the wok and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they start to become tender. Then, add the leafy parts and continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the leaves have wilted but the stalks remain crisp.
- 5
Add Sauce and Serve: Give the sauce a quick stir and pour it into the wok
- a.Toss everything together quickly for about 30-60 seconds until the bok choy is evenly coated and the sauce has slightly thickened. Remove from heat immediately and serve hot.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a perfect tender-crisp texture, use high heat and cook quickly. Overcooking will make the bok choy soft and watery.
- 2Ensure your wok or skillet is very hot before adding the ingredients. This helps to sear the bok choy quickly without steaming it.
- 3If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water to make a slurry. Add it to the wok along with the sauce and stir until it thickens.
- 4This dish is best enjoyed immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor.
Adapt it for your goals.
Spicy Garlic Bok Choy
Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a sliced red chili along with the garlic and ginger for a spicy kick.
Mushroom and Bok ChoyMushroom and Bok Choy
Sauté 1 cup of sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms before adding the garlic and ginger for an earthy, umami flavor.
Add ProteinAdd Protein
Make it a complete meal by adding cooked shrimp, diced chicken, or firm tofu. Stir-fry the protein first, set it aside, and add it back in with the sauce.
Nutty GarnishNutty Garnish
Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds or chopped cashews over the finished dish for added texture and flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins
Bok choy is an excellent source of vitamins C, A, and K, which are essential for immune function, vision health, and proper blood clotting.
Supports Bone Health
The combination of vitamin K and calcium found in bok choy contributes to building and maintaining strong, healthy bones.
Packed with Antioxidants
Both bok choy and garlic contain powerful antioxidants that help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Low-Calorie & High-Fiber
This dish is low in calories and provides dietary fiber, making it a great choice for weight management and digestive health.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Garlic Bok Choy recipe contains approximately 100-110 calories, making it a very light and healthy side dish.