Garlic Bok Choy is one of those effortless yet stunning side dishes that belong in every home cook’s rotation. Within ten minutes, you can transform fresh baby bok choy with plenty of aromatic garlic into a tender, brilliantly green stir-fry that pairs with nearly any meal. Best of all, this classic dish delivers on all three “S’s”: Simplicity, Speed, and Satisfying flavor — making it perfect for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties alike. Once you try Garlic Bok Choy, it’s hard not to crave those garlicky, juicy greens again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is refreshingly simple and celebrates fresh ingredients. Each component brings something special, from the vibrant crunch of bok choy to the rich, savory punch of garlic. Here’s what you’ll need and why every ingredient matters:
- Oil: Choose a neutral oil like vegetable or canola for high-heat stir-frying and a silky finish.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): The undeniable star! Use freshly minced garlic for the boldest aroma and flavor.
- Baby Bok Choy (8 oz/230g, rinsed and drained): Opt for the crispest bunch you can find — baby bok choy is tender and sweet, perfect for quick stir-frying.
- Salt (1/4 teaspoon or to taste): A little goes a long way to brighten flavors and make those greens pop.
How to Make Garlic Bok Choy
Step 1: Prepare the Bok Choy
Before you get cooking, give the bok choy a quick trim by slicing about one inch off the bottom of the stems. This helps separate the leaves and ensures even cooking. If your greens are large, simply chop them into halves or bite-sized pieces for the perfect stir-fry texture.
Step 2: Heat the Pan
Grab your favorite wok, skillet, or frying pan and put it over high heat. Once it’s piping hot, add the oil. This high-heat open pan technique creates that signature char and keeps the bok choy fresh and vibrant.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Once your oil begins to shimmer, toss in the minced garlic and stir-fry for 15 to 30 seconds. You’ll know it’s perfect when the kitchen fills with that irresistible garlicky aroma. Be careful not to brown or burn the garlic — a fragrant sauté is all you need.
Step 4: Stir Fry the Bok Choy
Add the prepared bok choy directly into the garlicky oil. Stir and toss quickly, allowing every leaf and stem to get coated. After a couple of quick tosses, sprinkle in the salt, stir again, and then turn off the heat. The greens should be just wilted but still bright and crisp-tender.
Step 5: Serve Immediately
Transfer the finished Garlic Bok Choy to a serving plate right away to prevent overcooking. The result? Perfectly seasoned greens that are juicy, mild, and infused with that lovely garlic glow.
How to Serve Garlic Bok Choy
Garnishes
While Garlic Bok Choy shines on its own, a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil can take the flavor to the next level. If you want an extra kick, try a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or sliced scallions for a pop of color and freshness.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully versatile. Pair Garlic Bok Choy with steamed jasmine rice, soy-glazed salmon, grilled steak, or a bowl of noodles for a comforting and nourishing meal. It works beautifully alongside any Asian-inspired entrée or even as a green vegetable boost to Western-style mains.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve Garlic Bok Choy family-style on a large platter for a dramatic, leafy green centerpiece, or scoop individual portions into small bowls for meal-prep lunches. You can also add cooked bok choy to salads, stir-fried rice bowls, or wrap in rice paper rolls for an innovative appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Garlic Bok Choy is best stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its flavor and texture for up to 2 days, although it’s very tempting to finish it all in one meal!
Freezing
While it’s possible to freeze Garlic Bok Choy, the leafy greens may become soft upon reheating. For best quality, enjoy this dish fresh, but in a pinch, freeze cooled portions in an airtight freezer bag for up to one month.
Reheating
To reheat, simply sauté in a hot pan for a minute or two, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. This helps the bok choy retain as much of its crispness and color as possible.
FAQs
Can I use regular bok choy instead of baby bok choy?
Absolutely! Regular bok choy works just as well — just chop the thicker stems and larger leaves into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
What type of oil is best for Garlic Bok Choy?
Any neutral, high-heat oil like vegetable, canola, or grapeseed works perfectly. If you love extra flavor, try a splash of toasted sesame oil at the end.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Make sure to stir-fry the garlic just until it’s fragrant and golden, not brown. Quick stirring and high heat keep the flavor mellow and prevent bitterness.
Is Garlic Bok Choy gluten free?
Yes, the basic recipe is completely gluten free and vegan, making it an easy side for a wide range of diets.
Can I add other vegetables or proteins?
You sure can! Garlic Bok Choy is delicious with sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or tofu tossed in at the same time for a heartier dish.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend Garlic Bok Choy enough — it’s that one dreamy recipe that always hits the spot and never lets you down. Give it a try, and you’ll see just how easy and flavorful home-cooked greens can be. Happy cooking!
Print
Garlic Bok Choy Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy recipe for flavorful Garlic Bok Choy stir-fry, a delicious and healthy side dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 8 oz (230g) baby bok choy (rinsed and drained)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
Instructions
- How To Stir Fry Bok Choy
Cut 1-inch off the bottom part of the stems. You can pull off the leaves. If the leaves are bigger, you can cut into halves or chop into pieces. If you have regular bok choy that is big, you can chop the stems and leafy part into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat up a wok, pan or skillet on high heat. Add the oil and when the oil is heated, add the garlic and stir-fry until aromatic.
- Add the bok choy and quickly stir-fry for a few times before adding the salt.
- Quickly stir-fry a few times, turn off the heat, dish out and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
