Quick Bok Choy with Garlic and Ginger Recipe
Quick Bok Choy with Garlic and Ginger is a simple, flavorful side dish featuring tender bok choy stir-seared with aromatic garlic and fresh ginger, then gently steamed and seasoned with soy sauce and optional sesame oil for a delicious, healthy accompaniment.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 4 baby bok choy, sliced in half lengthwise
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Oils and Sauces
- 1 1/2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Seasonings
- Salt and black pepper, or red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it becomes shimmering, indicating it’s hot enough for cooking.
- Sauté ginger and garlic: Add the minced fresh ginger and garlic to the hot oil and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant and aromatic, taking care not to let them brown.
- Sear bok choy: Place the baby bok choy cut side down in the skillet and let it sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes to develop some color and slight caramelization.
- Flip and season: Turn each piece of bok choy over, sprinkle lightly with salt and black pepper or red pepper flakes to your preference. Pour in 2 tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce and gently toss or turn the bok choy to coat evenly. Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Steam until tender: Cover the pan tightly with a lid and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing the bok choy to steam and soften. If the pan dries out before bok choy is tender, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to maintain moisture.
- Finish with sesame oil and serve: Remove the lid and drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (if using) over the bok choy for added nutty flavor. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish.
Notes
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.
- Adding a splash of water or vegetable broth while steaming prevents the bok choy from drying out.
- Sesame oil is optional but adds a wonderful nutty aroma and flavor.
- Adjust red pepper flakes or black pepper to taste for desired heat level.
- Baby bok choy works best as it cooks quickly and has a tender texture.
Keywords: bok choy, garlic, ginger, quick side dish, stir-fry, Asian vegetables
