Looking for a simple yet delicious side dish that’s ready in just 10 minutes?
This Chinese Garlic Bok Choy is a game-changer!
Tender bok choy drenched in a savory garlic and sesame sauce is the perfect way to elevate any meal.
With just a few easy ingredients and minimal cooking time, this dish delivers big flavor without the fuss.
Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want something healthy and satisfying!
For Chinese Garlic Bok Choy
- Bok Choy – The main ingredient, either regular or baby bok choy, tender and crisp when blanched.
- Garlic – Adds the savory, aromatic base to the sauce.
- Oyster Sauce – Adds a rich umami flavor that pairs perfectly with the greens.
- Soy Sauce – Adds saltiness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
- Sesame Oil – Provides a toasted, nutty aroma to the dish.
- Cornstarch – Used to thicken the sauce and create a silky texture.
- Sugar – Adds a slight sweetness to balance the saltiness.
- Water – Helps to dissolve the cornstarch and adjust the consistency of the sauce.
Quick and Flavorful Chinese Garlic Bok Choy
Notes
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lb Bok Choy (or baby bok choy as a substitute)
- 6 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegetarian stir-fry sauce)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp unsweetened rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch (or potato starch)
- ¾ tsp granulated sugar
- ½ cup cold water
Instructions:
- Slice your bok choy in half if it’s 6-7 inches long. For baby bok choy, slicing is also recommended to make it easier to clean.
- Wash the bok choy thoroughly between the leaves to remove any dirt. Rinse until the water runs clear.
- In a small bowl, mix all the sauce ingredients and set aside.
- In a large pan or wok, bring enough water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the bok choy and blanch for about 30-45 seconds until the leaves turn vibrant green. Quickly strain and set aside on a serving plate.
- In the same pan, wipe it dry and bring it to medium heat. Pour in the prepared sauce and let it simmer until it thickens slightly.
- Once the sauce has thickened, pour it over the bok choy. Serve and enjoy!
Nutrition
Calories: 79 kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 4g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 861mg | Potassium: 472mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 7600 IU | Vitamin C: 78mg | Calcium: 193mg | Iron: 2mg
- Can I use other greens instead of bok choy?
You can absolutely substitute bok choy with other greens like napa cabbage, spinach, or even kale! These alternatives will work just as well, but bok choy’s unique texture adds a crisp element that other greens might not have.
- How do I prevent the garlic from burning while cooking?
To avoid burning garlic, cook it over medium heat and stir it frequently. You can also chop the garlic into larger pieces instead of mincing it finely, which helps prevent it from browning too quickly.
- Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time! Simply blanch the bok choy and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat it in the sauce for a few minutes until hot. This saves you time on busy nights!
- What if I don’t have sesame oil?
If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with another oil, like vegetable or olive oil. While it won’t have the same nutty flavor, it will still work in the sauce and deliver great taste.
- Can I freeze this dish?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the bok choy after blanching. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat with the sauce once you’re ready to serve!
