tree leaves macro photography

Garlic Bok Choy Stir Fry

This recipe offers a delicious and quick way to enjoy bok choy, a crisp and nutritious Asian green. Sautéed quickly with garlic and a light soy sauce mixture, this side dish is both savory and incredibly simple to prepare. It retains the perfect crisp-tender texture and pairs beautifully with various main courses, from grilled chicken to salmon.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings, 1 serving size

Ingredients

For the Bok Choy:

  • 1 pound baby bok choy, rinsed well and halved lengthwise

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or peanut oil)

  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ teaspoon fresh ginger, minced

For the Savory Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons chicken broth or vegetable broth

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (low sodium preferred)

  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil

  • ½ teaspoon white sugar (or substitute with honey/agave)

  • Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for heat

Directions

  1. Prepare the Bok Choy: Rinse the bok choy thoroughly, especially between the stalks where dirt can hide. Trim the ends and cut the heads in half lengthwise.

  2. Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.

  3. Sauté Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant (be careful not to burn the garlic).

  4. Stir-Fry the Bok Choy: Add the bok choy halves to the skillet. Start by placing the thicker, white stem ends down first for a minute, then toss everything together. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the leaves are wilted and the stems are crisp-tender and bright green.

  5. Add Sauce and Finish: Give the sauce mixture a quick stir and pour it over the bok choy in the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce has slightly reduced and the bok choy is heated through.

  6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately as a side dish.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (approx. 1 cup):

Nutritional values are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredient brands and exact measurements.

  • Calories: ~80-100 kcal

  • Fat: ~5-7g

  • Protein: ~2-3g

  • Carbohydrates: ~5-7g

  • Sodium: ~300-400mg