Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce

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Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce: A Flavorful and Healthy Side Dish

Bok choy with garlic sauce is a quick and easy recipe that showcases the natural crunch and mild flavor of bok choy, perfectly complemented by a savory garlic sauce. This dish is a great side for an Asian-inspired meal or can be served over rice or noodles as a light main course. It’s vegan, gluten-free (with simple substitutions), and loaded with nutrients.

Ingredients

For the Bok Choy:

  • 1 lb bok choy (baby or regular), washed and halved lengthwise
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
  • 1 tbsp water (optional, for steaming)

For the Garlic Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or vegetarian mushroom sauce for vegan)
  • 2 tsp rice vinegar
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (slurry for thickening)
  • 1 tbsp sugar or honey
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp grated ginger (optional, for added depth)
  • ¼ cup water

For Garnish:

  • Toasted sesame seeds
  • Sliced green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Garlic Sauce

  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and ¼ cup water.
  2. Add the cornstarch slurry to the mixture and stir until well combined. Set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Bok Choy

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the bok choy, cut side down, and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned.
  3. Flip the bok choy and cook for another 2 minutes. If the bok choy is large, add 1 tablespoon of water, cover the skillet, and let it steam for 1-2 minutes to soften the thicker stems.

Step 3: Add the Garlic Sauce

  1. Push the bok choy to one side of the skillet and add the minced garlic (and ginger, if using) to the center. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic.
  3. Gently toss the bok choy in the sauce, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and clings to the bok choy.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

  1. Transfer the bok choy to a serving platter and drizzle any remaining sauce over the top.
  2. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for added flavor and texture.

Tips for Perfect Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce

  1. Choose Fresh Bok Choy: Look for bok choy with crisp leaves and firm stalks. Baby bok choy is tender and ideal for this recipe, but regular bok choy works well when cut into smaller pieces.
  2. Don’t Overcook: To retain its crunch and bright green color, cook the bok choy just until tender.
  3. Adjust the Sauce: For a spicier version, add a dash of chili flakes or Sriracha. For extra sweetness, increase the sugar slightly.
  4. Add Protein: Turn this into a main dish by adding tofu, shrimp, or chicken cooked separately and tossed in the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a side dish alongside dishes like stir-fried beef, teriyaki chicken, or fried rice.
  • Pair with steamed jasmine rice or soba noodles for a simple, light meal.
  • Add this to a Buddha bowl for a healthy and balanced dinner.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Based on 4 servings:

  • Calories: 80 kcal
  • Protein: 2g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sugar: 3g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion sizes.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

Bok choy with garlic sauce is a versatile, healthy, and flavorful addition to your meal rotation. Its simple preparation highlights the natural flavors of the vegetable, while the garlicky, umami-packed sauce takes it to the next level. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight side or a showstopping component for a dinner party, this recipe delivers every time!

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