Description
This Garlic Ginger Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful side dish featuring tender baby bok choy sautéed with aromatic garlic and fresh ginger. Enhanced with a splash of low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of honey, it’s perfectly garnished with toasted sesame seeds and optional chili for a subtle spicy kick. Ideal for a delicious, healthy addition to any meal, this stir-fry comes together in just under 10 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4–5 cups baby bok choy (about 4–5 heads), halved or quartered
For Stir-Fry
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or neutral oil like canola or avocado)
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced or grated
Sauce & Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or lime juice)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
- 1–2 teaspoons sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat
Instructions
- Prepare Bok Choy: Rinse baby bok choy thoroughly and separate the leaves to remove any dirt. Depending on the size, cut the bok choy in half or quarters. Pat dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture to ensure a crisp stir-fry.
- Heat Oil & Aromatics: In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the sliced or minced garlic and minced ginger. Sauté for 30 to 60 seconds while stirring constantly to release fragrant flavors without burning.
- Cook Bok Choy: Add the prepared bok choy to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes, tossing frequently. Cook until the green leaves are wilted and stalks are tender but still slightly crisp.
- Add Sauce: Stir in the low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar (or lime juice), and honey or maple syrup if using. Toss well to evenly coat the bok choy. Continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes to meld all the flavors together, then remove from heat.
- Serve: Transfer the stir-fried bok choy to a serving plate. Garnish with sesame seeds and, if desired, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil for extra heat. Serve immediately for best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase red pepper flakes or use chili oil generously.
- Use neutral oils like canola or avocado if sesame oil is not available, but sesame oil adds authentic flavor.
- Ensure bok choy is patted dry before cooking to prevent sogginess in the stir-fry.
- You can add protein like tofu or chicken to make it a more substantial meal.
- Adjust honey or maple syrup according to your preference for sweetness balance.
