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
Scale
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
