Savory Bok Choy Stir-Fry
Welcome to a quick and flavorful dish that will elevate your weeknight dinner: Savory Bok Choy Stir-Fry. This recipe showcases the tender crunch and subtle sweetness of bok choy, enhanced by a savory garlic-soy sauce. Perfect for when you want a nutritious, tasty meal without the fuss.
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Ingredients for Savory Bok Choy Stir-Fry
Bok choy is the star of this dish; its crisp stalks and tender leaves provide a delightful texture contrast. Olive oil is used to sauté the garlic, adding a rich base flavor. Garlic, when minced and lightly cooked, releases a mouthwatering aroma that sets the stage for the rest of the dish. Soy sauce brings a salty, umami depth, while a touch of sesame oil adds a nutty finish. Black pepper provides a subtle kick, and salt can be adjusted to taste for balance.
Savory Bok Choy Stir-Fry Tips & Tricks
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.
- Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version.
- If you prefer a bit more protein, toss in some cooked chicken or tofu.
- To keep the bok choy crisp, avoid overcooking the stalks.
Serving Ideas for Savory Bok Choy Stir-Fry
This stir-fry pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa for a complete meal. It's also fantastic alongside grilled fish or chicken, adding a fresh and crunchy element to your plate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use baby bok choy instead?
- Yes, baby bok choy works excellently in this recipe. It’s milder and cooks even faster.
- What can I substitute for sesame oil?
- If you’re out of sesame oil, you can use a light drizzle of toasted sesame seeds for a similar flavor.
- How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet before serving.
Savory Bok Choy Stir-Fry Recipe Walkthrough
First, give your bok choy a good rinse under cold water. This leafy green can carry a bit of grit, so make sure it's clean. Pat it dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture. Next, on a cutting board, chop the bok choy into bite-sized pieces, keeping the leaves and stalks separate. The stalks are thicker and will need a bit more cooking time.
Heat up your skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic. Stir it around for about 30 seconds — you want it fragrant, not burnt. Now, add the bok choy stalks. Stir-fry them for about 3 to 4 minutes. They should be tender but still have a nice crunch.
Now it's time to add the bok choy leaves along with the soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and a sprinkle of salt. Stir everything together for another 2 minutes. You'll know it's done when the leaves are wilted and a vibrant green. Serve it up right away for the best flavor and texture.
Why This Savory Bok Choy Stir-Fry Works
- Quick and easy, ready in under 15 minutes.
- Uses simple, everyday ingredients.
- Healthy and packed with nutrients.
- Perfect as a side dish or a light main course.
Ingredients
- 1 lb bok choy
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
- 1. Rinse the bok choy thoroughly under cold water and pat dry.
- 2. Cut the bok choy into bite-sized pieces, separating the leaves from the stalks.
- 3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- 4. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- 5. Add the bok choy stalks to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender.
- 6. Add the bok choy leaves, soy sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and salt.
- 7. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the leaves are wilted and bright green.
- 8. Serve immediately and enjoy!