Easy 10-Min Spicy Garlic Bok Choy – Flavor-Packed & Healthy!
Bok choy is one of the most underrated greens when it comes to quick and healthy meals. With its crisp texture, mild flavor, and ability to soak up bold seasonings, it deserves a spot in your kitchen. This 10-minute Spicy Garlic Bok Choy is packed with flavor, featuring a fragrant garlic-infused sauce with a hint of heat. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish or pairing it with rice for a light meal, this recipe is a must-try.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & Easy: Ready in just 10 minutes with simple ingredients.
- Healthy & Nutritious: Bok choy is loaded with vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber and antioxidants.
- Bold & Flavorful: The combination of garlic, soy sauce, and chili flakes creates an irresistible taste.
- Perfect Side Dish: Goes well with rice, noodles, or your favorite protein.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb baby bok choy, halved lengthwise
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for a nutty flavor)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but adds depth)
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tsp honey or brown sugar
- 1/2 tsp sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup water
- Salt & pepper to taste
How to Make Spicy Garlic Bok Choy
Step 1: Prepare the Bok Choy
Rinse the bok choy thoroughly, as dirt often gets trapped between the leaves. Slice them in half lengthwise and pat dry with a paper towel.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, stirring constantly until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add Bok Choy
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the bok choy, cut side down. Let it sear for about 1-2 minutes until slightly charred.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and water. Pour this mixture over the bok choy, tossing gently to coat.
Step 5: Steam & Finish
Cover the skillet with a lid and let the bok choy steam for 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp. Remove the lid and stir to ensure even coating.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
Transfer the bok choy to a serving plate, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and enjoy immediately.
Pro Tips for the Best Bok Choy
- Use high heat: This helps to achieve that perfect char while keeping the leaves crisp.
- Don’t overcook: Bok choy should be tender yet still slightly crunchy.
- Adjust spice level: Add more red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for extra heat.
- Make it a meal: Serve over jasmine rice or pair with grilled chicken or tofu.
Variations
- Ginger Twist: Add freshly grated ginger for an extra layer of warmth and spice.
- Mushroom Addition: Sauté shiitake mushrooms along with the bok choy for a hearty, umami-rich dish.
- Soy-Free Version: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative.
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave for 30 seconds.
Final Thoughts
This Spicy Garlic Bok Choy is proof that simple ingredients can create incredible flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick side dish or a light meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Try it today and elevate your veggie game!
