Quick Bok Choy with Garlic and Ginger Recipe
Introduction
This quick bok choy recipe with garlic and ginger is a perfect side dish for any meal. It’s fast, flavorful, and brings a fresh, vibrant crunch with a touch of warmth from ginger and garlic. Ideal for busy weeknights or a simple addition to your dinner plate.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 baby bok choy, sliced in half lengthwise
- Salt and black pepper (or red pepper flakes), to taste
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat the canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Add the minced ginger and garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 3: Place the bok choy cut side down in the skillet and sear for 2 minutes.
- Step 4: Turn each piece over, sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper, add soy sauce to the pan, and turn the bok choy to coat. Reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Step 5: Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, until the bok choy is tender. If the pan dries out before the bok choy is done, add a splash of water or broth.
- Step 6: Drizzle with sesame oil if using, then serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes instead of black pepper.
- Substitute canola oil with vegetable or peanut oil for a different flavor profile.
- Add a splash of rice vinegar for a tangy twist.
- Include sliced mushrooms or bell peppers for added texture and color.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a small splash of water to maintain moisture. For best texture, enjoy the dish fresh.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use mature bok choy instead of baby bok choy?
Yes, but mature bok choy may take a little longer to cook and can be a bit tougher. Slice the stalks thinner to ensure even cooking.
Is sesame oil necessary for this recipe?
Sesame oil is optional but adds a lovely nutty aroma and depth of flavor. If you don’t have it, the dish will still taste great without it.
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Quick Bok Choy with Garlic and Ginger Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Quick Bok Choy with Garlic and Ginger is a simple and flavorful stir-fried vegetable dish made with fresh baby bok choy, garlic, and ginger. This easy recipe features a perfect balance of savory soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil, making it an ideal side for any Asian-inspired meal or a healthy addition to your weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 baby bok choy, sliced in half lengthwise
- Salt and black pepper, or red pepper flakes, to taste
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat 1 1/2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 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 but not browned.
- 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 taste. Pour in 2 tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce, and gently toss or turn the bok choy to coat evenly. Reduce the 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 starts to dry out before the 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
- For a spicier kick, substitute black pepper with red pepper flakes.
- Use low sodium soy sauce to control the salt content.
- Adding a splash of water or vegetable broth during steaming helps prevent burning and ensures tender bok choy.
- Sesame oil is optional but adds a rich, nutty aroma that complements the dish.
- Bok choy can be substituted with baby Shanghai bok choy or other similar Asian greens.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: bok choy, garlic, ginger, stir-fry, quick side dish, Asian vegetables, healthy recipe, low sodium, sesame oil
