Baby Bok Choy with Soy Sauce and Garlic: The Quickest Savory Side Dish

If you’re looking for a simple, healthy, and flavor-packed vegetable side that’s done in minutes, this Baby Bok Choy with Soy Sauce and Garlic recipe is your answer. It brings together Asian pantry staples to create a rich umami taste, making it an excellent companion to grilled tofu, fried rice, or even hearty protein dishes. Plus, it’s plant-based, fast, and ultra-nutritious.

Looking for more Asian-inspired veggies? Check out our Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry.

Ingredients You’ll Need

IngredientQuantity
Baby bok choy½ lb
Garlic (minced)2 cloves
Canola/vegetable oil2 tsp
Soy sauce½ tbsp
Chinese mushroom sauce½ tbsp
Salt and pepperTo taste
Sesame seedsFor garnish
Crushed red pepper (optional)To taste

Instructions: Step-by-Step

1. Blanch and Chill the Bok Choy

  • Boil salted water in a large pot.
  • Toss in the baby bok choy and blanch for 1 minute.
  • Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water.
  • Drain and pat dry with clean paper towels.

2. Sauté the Garlic

  • Heat oil in a skillet or wok over high heat.
  • Add minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Stir-Fry and Season

  • Add the dried bok choy and toss for 2-3 minutes.
  • Pour in the soy sauce and mushroom sauce, stirring well to coat.
  • Season with salt and pepper.
  • Garnish with sesame seeds and red pepper flakes if using.

Discover great ideas like this in our Roasted Asparagus and Carrots recipe.

Baby Bok Choy with Soy Sauce and Garlic

Tips for Best Results

Use Baby Bok Choy

Regular bok choy works too but slice it in half to better absorb flavor.

Don’t Skip the Ice Bath

This step locks in the vibrant green and tender texture.

Pre-Measure Everything

Since this stir-fry cooks quickly, you won’t have time to pause and prep.

Nutritional Highlights (per serving)

  • Calories: 56 kcal
  • Carbs: 4g
  • Protein: 2g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Vitamin C: 52mg
  • Calcium: 131mg

Don’t miss our healthy creations like the Summer Corn Salad with Avocado.

How to Store Leftovers

Store cooled bok choy in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–5 days. To reheat:

  • Use a skillet with a touch of oil.
  • Stir for 2–3 minutes until warmed through.

You can also freeze leftovers for up to 10 months.

For another versatile Asian salad, try our Asian Cucumber Salad.

Serving Ideas

Pair this savory bok choy with:

  • Steamed jasmine or brown rice
  • Crispy tofu
  • Stir-fried noodles
  • Dumplings or wontons

Looking for inspiration? Try Cilantro Lime Noodles to go alongside this dish!

Conclusion

This Baby Bok Choy with Soy Sauce and Garlic recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or nutritious lunches. Packed with flavor, vitamins, and minimal prep, it’s a must-try side dish that transforms your plate with Asian flair.

Looking for more easy plant-based dishes? Don’t miss our collection of vegetable stir fry ideas.

Leave a Comment