Garlic Ginger Bok Choy
Crisp, tender bok choy stir-fried with fragrant garlic and ginger in a savory soy-based sauce. A super quick and healthy side dish that comes together in under 15 minutes, perfect for any weeknight meal.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 8 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare Bok Choy and Sauce
- b.Wash the bok choy thoroughly under cold water, paying attention to the base where dirt can collect. Pat dry completely.
- c.Trim about 1/2 inch from the base of each head. Separate the white stems from the green leaves.
- d.Chop the white stems into 1-inch pieces. Roughly chop the green leaves and keep them in a separate bowl.
- e.In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, water, cornstarch, and sugar until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Set this sauce mixture aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Stir-fry Aromatics
- b.Place a wok or large skillet over high heat. Allow it to get very hot, until you see faint wisps of smoke.
- c.Add the avocado oil and swirl to coat the pan. Immediately add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and optional red pepper flakes.
- d.Stir-fry constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Do not let the garlic burn, as it will become bitter.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Cook the Bok Choy
- b.Add the chopped white bok choy stems to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, tossing frequently, until they become tender-crisp and slightly browned in spots.
- c.Add the chopped green leaves to the wok. Continue to stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the leaves are just wilted but still vibrant green.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Add Sauce and Finish
- b.Give the sauce mixture a quick stir to recombine the cornstarch, then pour it into the wok over the bok choy.
- c.Continue to stir and toss for 30-60 seconds as the sauce bubbles and thickens, coating the vegetables evenly.
- d.Remove the wok from the heat. Drizzle with toasted sesame oil and toss one last time.
- e.Taste and season with salt and black pepper if needed. Serve immediately for the best texture.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For best results, use high heat. This ensures the bok choy stir-fries quickly and stays crisp rather than steaming and becoming soggy.
- 2Separating the tougher white stems from the delicate green leaves and cooking them first is key to achieving perfectly cooked, tender-crisp bok choy.
- 3Have all your ingredients chopped and the sauce mixed before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a fast process!
- 4Don't overcrowd the pan. If needed, cook the bok choy in two batches to ensure it sears properly.
- 5Ensure the bok choy is completely dry after washing. Excess water will steam the vegetable instead of stir-frying it.
- 6Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat briefly in a pan or microwave.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Boost
Add 8 oz of cubed firm tofu, peeled shrimp, or thinly sliced chicken breast. Stir-fry the protein before the bok choy stems, remove from the pan, and add it back in with the sauce.
Mushroom MedleyMushroom Medley
Add 1 cup of sliced shiitake or cremini mushrooms to the wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes before adding the bok choy stems.
Nutty CrunchNutty Crunch
Garnish the finished dish with 2 tablespoons of toasted sesame seeds or chopped cashews for added texture.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1 teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or Sriracha to the sauce mixture for an extra layer of heat.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Bok choy is a powerhouse of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate, calcium, and vitamin B6, which are essential for everything from bone health to immune function.
Supports Heart Health
The combination of fiber, potassium, and folate in bok choy, along with the anti-inflammatory properties of garlic and ginger, helps support cardiovascular health by managing blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Boosts Immunity
Garlic and ginger are renowned for their immune-boosting properties. They contain compounds that help the body fight off pathogens and reduce inflammation.
Aids Digestion
Ginger is a well-known digestive aid that can soothe the stomach, while the fiber in bok choy promotes regular bowel movements and a healthy gut microbiome.
Frequently asked questions
A single serving of this Garlic Ginger Bok Choy contains approximately 90-110 calories, making it a very light and healthy side dish. The exact count depends on the amount of oil used.