If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful vegetable side dish, this Garlic Ginger Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a fantastic choice. Packed with fresh ingredients, this stir-fry combines the natural crunch and mild flavor of bok choy with the zesty kick of garlic and ginger, making it a perfect accompaniment to a variety of meals. It’s light, aromatic, and comes together in just a few minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s simple, full of flavor, and takes no time to prepare. The bok choy gets perfectly tender yet retains a satisfying crunch, while the garlic and ginger bring a wonderful savory and spicy depth. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight dinner or as part of a larger meal, it’s always a hit. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens without a lot of fuss.
Ingredients
- 1 lb bok choy, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Salt and pepper, to taste
(Heres a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Start by washing and chopping the bok choy. I like to separate the stems from the leafy greens because the stems take a bit longer to cook.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the garlic and ginger, and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the bok choy stems first, and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, until they begin to soften.
- Next, add the leafy greens and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the greens have wilted.
- Drizzle the soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar over the vegetables, and toss everything together until evenly coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook for another minute, then remove from heat. Serve immediately!
Servings and timing
This recipe serves about 4 people and takes around 15 minutes to prepare from start to finish. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a side dish to accompany other dishes.
Variations
- If I want to make this dish a bit heartier, I sometimes add some sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or tofu for added texture.
- For a spicy kick, I throw in a sliced chili pepper or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- If I don’t have sesame oil on hand, I use a bit more olive oil or even a dash of peanut oil to add a different depth of flavor.
Storage/Reheating
This stir-fry can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend doing so on the stove over medium heat for a few minutes to maintain the vegetables’ texture. You can also microwave it, but be mindful not to overcook the bok choy.
FAQs
How do I make sure the bok choy doesn’t get soggy?
To avoid sogginess, I make sure not to overcook the bok choy. I keep it crisp by adding the stems first, allowing them to soften slightly before adding the leaves, which cook quickly.
Can I use baby bok choy instead of regular bok choy?
Yes, baby bok choy works just as well! It will cook a little faster, so be sure to keep an eye on it.
What can I serve this stir-fry with?
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with rice, noodles, or even grilled meats. I like it alongside a bowl of steamed jasmine rice or as a side to grilled chicken or fish.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free soy sauce, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but I sometimes prep the vegetables and keep them in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. It makes the stir-fry process even quicker!
Conclusion
This Garlic Ginger Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a must-try if you’re looking for a delicious, healthy dish that’s both quick and easy. The balance of garlic and ginger really elevates the mild flavor of the bok choy, making it a standout side dish for any meal. I always find myself coming back to this recipe because it’s so versatile and flavorful!
Print
Garlic Ginger Bok Choy Stir-Fry
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish, Vegetables
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Garlic Ginger Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful side dish that combines tender bok choy with aromatic garlic and ginger. With a light soy sauce and sesame oil finish, it’s the perfect addition to any meal. Healthy, easy to prepare, and packed with vibrant flavors, this stir-fry is an excellent way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet.
Ingredients
- 1 lb bok choy, washed and chopped
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, for sweetness)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bok Choy: Wash and chop the bok choy into bite-sized pieces, separating the stems from the leaves.
- Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or wok, heat sesame oil over medium heat.
- Sauté Garlic and Ginger: Add minced garlic and ginger to the pan and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Bok Choy: Add the chopped bok choy stems to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, then add the leaves and cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted and tender.
- Season the Stir-Fry: Stir in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey (if using), and red pepper flakes. Continue to cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the sauce to coat the bok choy.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot as a side dish or over rice.
Notes
- Customization: Add tofu, chicken, or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
- Serving Tip: This stir-fry pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Vegan Option: Ensure to use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce for a vegan version.
