Description
A quick and flavorful Garlic Ginger Bok Choy Stir-Fry recipe featuring tender baby bok choy sautéed with aromatic garlic and ginger, enhanced with a savory soy-based sauce and a hint of sweetness. Perfect as a healthy vegetable side dish or light main course.
Ingredients
Scale
Stir-Fry
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (or neutral oil like canola or avocado)
- 4–5 cups baby bok choy (about 4–5 heads), halved or quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced or minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced or grated
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or lime juice)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for balance)
Garnish and Optional Seasoning
- 1–2 teaspoons sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes or chili oil for heat
Instructions
- Prep the bok choy: Rinse the baby bok choy thoroughly, separating the leaves as needed to remove any dirt. Depending on their size, cut each head in half or quarters. Pat dry using paper towels to ensure no excess water interferes with the stir-fry process.
- Heat the oil: 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, sautéing for 30 to 60 seconds while stirring constantly to release their fragrance and prevent burning.
- Stir-fry the bok choy: Add the prepared bok choy to the pan. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes, tossing frequently until the green leaves are wilted and the stalks become tender but retain a slight crispness.
- Add seasoning: 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. Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to meld the flavors, then remove the pan from the heat.
- Finish and serve: Transfer the stir-fried bok choy to a serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil for optional heat and extra flavor. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use neutral oil alternatives if sesame oil is not available to keep the flavor mild.
- Adjust honey or maple syrup quantity depending on your desired level of sweetness.
- For added heat, red pepper flakes or chili oil can be included during or after cooking.
- Ensure bok choy is dried well to prevent splattering during stir-frying.
- This dish cooks quickly, so prepare ingredients ahead of time for best results.
