Garlic Soy Bok Choy Recipe

Description

This sautéed bok choy with garlic and soy sauce is a classic Asian side dish served in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese kitchens. It’s fast, healthy, packed with flavor, and pairs perfectly with rice, noodles, tofu, chicken, or fish. The key is high heat, fresh garlic, and a balanced savory sauce.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

1 lb baby bok choy (or Shanghai bok choy)
2 tablespoons neutral oil (vegetable, avocado, or peanut oil)
4–5 cloves garlic, finely minced
1 tablespoon soy sauce (light soy preferred)
1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional but recommended)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1–2 tablespoons water or vegetable broth
½ teaspoon sugar (optional, balances bitterness)
Chili oil or red pepper flakes (optional)
Toasted sesame seeds (optional garnish)
Sliced green onions (optional garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Bok Choy

Slice bok choy in half lengthwise.
Wash thoroughly to remove grit (especially near the base).
Pat dry well — excess water prevents proper sautéing.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add garlic and sauté for 10–15 seconds, just until fragrant (do not brown).

Step 3: Cook the Bok Choy

Place bok choy cut-side down in the pan.
Sear for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Flip and cook another 1–2 minutes until tender but still vibrant green.

Step 4: Add the Sauce

Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, water/broth, sugar, and sesame oil.
Toss quickly to coat.
Cook 30–60 seconds until glossy and slightly saucy.

Step 5: Finish & Serve

Drizzle with chili oil if using.
Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
Serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Best Flavor

High heat is key: Keeps bok choy crisp, not soggy
Dry the greens well before cooking
Add garlic early, sauce late to avoid bitterness
Baby bok choy cooks faster and tastes sweeter than mature bok choy

Variations

Spicy Garlic Bok Choy

Add:

1 teaspoon chili crisp
½ teaspoon gochugaru or crushed red pepper

Ginger Garlic Bok Choy

Add:

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger with garlic

Vegan Umami Version

Replace oyster sauce with:

Mushroom stir-fry sauce or hoisin sauce

Sesame Bok Choy

Finish with:

Extra sesame oil + crushed sesame seeds

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs perfectly with:

Steamed jasmine rice
Fried rice or lo mein
Teriyaki chicken
Grilled salmon
Crispy tofu

Storage & Reheating

Best eaten fresh
Refrigerate leftovers up to 2 days
Reheat quickly in a hot pan (avoid microwaving)

Nutrition Highlights

Low calorie
High in fiber
Rich in vitamins A, C, and K
Naturally gluten-free (use tamari if needed)