Quick Bok Choy with Garlic and Ginger Recipe
Introduction
This quick bok choy recipe brings together the fresh crunch of baby bok choy with the warm flavors of garlic and ginger. It’s a simple, healthy side dish that comes together in just minutes, perfect for weeknights or whenever you need a fast, flavorful green vegetable.
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)
- 2 tablespoons low sodium soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Add the minced ginger and garlic, cooking 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: Flip each piece of bok choy over, sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper, then add soy sauce to the pan. Turn bok choy to coat evenly and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Step 5: Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until bok choy is tender. Add a splash of water or broth if the pan dries out before pieces are cooked through.
- Step 6: Drizzle with sesame oil if using, and serve immediately while hot.
Tips & Variations
- Substitute baby bok choy with regular bok choy, but adjust cooking time slightly as larger leaves take longer to soften.
- For extra heat, add red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil along with the garlic and ginger.
- Try finishing with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added brightness and crunch.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking and losing the crisp texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use dried ginger instead of fresh?
Fresh ginger provides the best flavor and aroma for this dish, but if needed, use about 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger as a substitute. The taste will be less vibrant.
What can I serve with this bok choy recipe?
This makes a great side dish alongside steamed rice, grilled meats, or tofu. It also works well tossed into noodle dishes or mixed vegetable stir-fries.
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Quick Bok Choy with Garlic and Ginger Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2-3 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Quick Bok Choy with Garlic and Ginger recipe offers a flavorful, healthy side dish that comes together in minutes. Fresh bok choy is sautéed with aromatic garlic and ginger, then lightly seasoned with soy sauce and optionally finished with sesame oil for an extra layer of taste. Perfect for a quick vegetable dish to complement any meal.
Ingredients
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, to taste (or red pepper flakes)
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Warm 1 1/2 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat to prepare the pan for sautéing and to bring out the flavors of the aromatics.
- Sauté garlic and ginger: Add the minced fresh ginger and garlic to the hot oil. Cook for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, ensuring not to burn the garlic for a perfect flavor base.
- Cook bok choy cut side down: Place the bok choy halves cut side down in the skillet. Sear them for 2 minutes to develop a slight caramelization and to soften the leaves.
- Flip and season bok choy: Turn each bok choy piece over, sprinkle lightly with salt and black or red pepper flakes, then pour 2 tablespoons of low sodium soy sauce over them. Gently toss or turn the bok choy to coat thoroughly and reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Cover and cook until tender: Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid and cook for 3-4 minutes. This steaming method ensures the bok choy becomes tender while retaining its crispness. If the pan dries out before cooking is complete, add a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture.
- Finish with sesame oil and serve: Drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the cooked bok choy for added aroma and flavor if desired. Serve immediately while hot to enjoy the best texture and taste.
Notes
- Use baby bok choy for quicker cooking and a tender texture.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity to suit salt preference or dietary needs.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, substitute black pepper with red pepper flakes.
- Adding a splash of water or broth during cooking prevents burning and helps steam the bok choy evenly.
- For a nuttier flavor, toasting sesame oil lightly before drizzling can enhance aroma.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Keywords: bok choy recipe, quick vegetable side dish, garlic ginger bok choy, healthy Asian side, stir-fried bok choy
