Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound bok choy (baby bok choy preferred, but any variety works)
- 2 large garlic cloves
- 1 Tbsp avocado or olive oil (for cooking)
- Black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 Tbsp toasted sesame oil
- 1.5 Tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
- 1/4 tsp ground ginger
Instructions
- Prep Bok Choy: Cut off the tough bottoms of the bok choy, about a 1/4 inch, leaving both the leaves and stems intact. Thoroughly wash the bok choy in a colander to remove any dirt and then dry it completely to prevent splattering during cooking.
- Mince Garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. Set them aside for sautéing.
- Make Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together toasted sesame oil, soy sauce (or tamari), and ground ginger until fully combined, creating a savory sauce to flavor the bok choy.
- Heat Oil and Sauté Garlic: Place a large pan or skillet over medium-high heat and add the avocado or olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, releasing its aromatic flavor.
- Cook Bok Choy: Add the sliced bok choy to the pan, tossing it quickly to coat with the garlic and oil. Pour the prepared sauce over the bok choy and continue to sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently. Cook until the stems are fork tender yet still crisp, and the leafy greens are wilted but vibrant.
- Season and Serve: Finish by seasoning with freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Serve the sautéed bok choy hot as a nutritious and flavorful side dish.
Notes
- Use baby bok choy for quicker cooking and more tender stems, but regular bok choy also works well.
- Adjust soy sauce quantity or use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- Ensure bok choy is thoroughly dried to prevent oil splattering during sautéing.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick, if desired.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice, grilled meats, or tofu.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Gluten Free