Description
A quick and flavorful stir-fried bok choy recipe infused with garlic and ginger, perfect as a healthy side dish. This simple skillet preparation sears the bok choy to retain its crunch while gently steaming it to tenderness with soy sauce and optional sesame oil for extra aroma.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 baby bok choy, sliced in half lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Oils and Sauces
- 1 1/2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Seasonings
- Salt and black pepper or red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of canola oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced ginger and garlic to the hot oil and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Sear the bok choy: Place the bok choy halves cut side down in the skillet and sear for 2 minutes to get a slight char and soften the stems.
- Season and add soy sauce: Turn each piece over, sprinkle lightly with salt and black pepper (or red pepper flakes), then pour in 2 tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce, tossing to coat the bok choy evenly. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Steam covered: Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until the bok choy is tender but still crisp. Add a splash of water or broth if the pan becomes dry before cooking is complete.
- Finish and serve: Remove the lid, drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the bok choy if desired, and serve immediately while hot and flavorful.
Notes
- For milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic or ginger.
- Using low sodium soy sauce helps control salt content.
- Add a splash of vegetable broth instead of water to enhance flavor.
- This recipe works well with other baby greens like napa cabbage or chard.
- For a spicy kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes instead of black pepper.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
