Savory Bok Choy Stir-Fry

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook: 5 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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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.

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.

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 Suggestions

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 You'll Love This Recipe

  • 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!

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