Garlic Sesame Stir-Fried Bok Choy

Preparation & Cooking Time

• Preparation time: 10 minutes

• Cooking time: 10–12 minutes

• Total time: 20–22 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

For the bok choy:

• 1½ lbs (about 700 g) baby bok choy

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

• 2 tablespoons sesame seeds

• 2 green onions, chopped (optional)

For the savory sauce:

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

• 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons water

Optional for extra flavor:

• ½ teaspoon red chili flakes

• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water, for a thicker sauce

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the bok choy

Wash the bok choy thoroughly under cold running water. Dirt can collect between the leaves and stems, so separate the leaves if necessary.

Cut larger bok choy in half lengthwise. Keep smaller baby bok choy whole or cut them in half.

Pat dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Step 2: Prepare the sauce

In a small bowl, combine:

• Soy sauce

• Oyster sauce

• Sesame oil

• Honey or brown sugar

• Rice vinegar

• Black pepper

• Water

Mix everything until the sugar dissolves. Set aside.

Step 3: Heat the pan

Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add vegetable oil and allow it to heat for a few seconds.

Step 4: Cook the bok choy

Place the bok choy cut-side down in the hot pan.

Cook for approximately 2–3 minutes until the cut surfaces become golden brown and slightly caramelized.

Turn the bok choy and cook the other side for another 1–2 minutes.

Step 5: Add garlic and ginger

Add minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan.

Stir gently for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 6: Add the sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the bok choy.

Toss gently so every piece is coated with the delicious sauce.

Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the stems are tender-crisp and the leaves are wilted.

Step 7: Add sesame seeds

Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the bok choy.

Add chopped green onions and red chili flakes if desired.

Toss gently one final time.

Step 8: Serve

Transfer the glazed bok choy to a serving plate. Spoon any remaining garlic sauce over the vegetables.

Serve immediately while warm and glossy.

Nutritional Information

Estimated per serving, based on 4 servings and including the suggested sauce.

Quick Nutrition Info (Q/S)

• Low in calories: A light vegetable dish.

• Rich in vitamins: Bok choy provides vitamins A, C and K.

• Good source of fiber: Supports healthy digestion.

• Contains antioxidants: Garlic and bok choy provide beneficial plant compounds.

• Healthy fats: Sesame oil and sesame seeds provide unsaturated fats.

• Plant-based nutrients: Provides potassium, calcium and folate.

Helpful Cooking Tips

1. Always wash bok choy thoroughly to remove hidden dirt.

2. Dry the vegetables before frying to achieve better caramelization.

3. Cook over medium-high heat for beautiful golden edges.

4. Avoid overcooking so the stems remain slightly crunchy.

5. Add garlic after browning the bok choy to prevent burning.

6. Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium.

7. Toast sesame seeds lightly for a richer nutty flavor.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2–3 minutes.

• Freezing: Not recommended because bok choy can become watery and lose its texture.

Allergen Information

• Contains soy from soy sauce.

• Contains sesame from sesame oil and sesame seeds.

• Oyster sauce contains shellfish.

• May contain wheat depending on the soy sauce brand.

Nut information: This recipe contains sesame seeds, which are seeds rather than tree nuts. It does not require peanuts or tree nuts. Check packaged sauces for cross-contamination warnings.

Enjoy your homemade Garlic Sesame Bok Choy!