Description
This Easy 10-Minute Spicy Garlic Bok Choy is a flavorful, garlicky, and slightly spicy side dish. Quick to make, vegan, and perfect for pairing with rice, noodles, or proteins.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4–5 small bok choy (or 2 large), halved or quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- ¼ tsp salt (or to taste)
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp rice vinegar (optional)
- ½ tsp honey or sugar (optional)
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the bok choy – Rinse thoroughly, removing any dirt. Slice larger bok choy into halves or quarters while keeping the leaves attached to the stems.
- Heat the oil – In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the garlic – Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the bok choy – Place cut-side down and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly charred.
- Season – Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the bok choy. Sprinkle red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat.
- Steam briefly – Cover with a lid and let steam for 2-3 minutes until tender but still crisp.
- Finish and serve – Remove from heat, drizzle with rice vinegar and honey if desired, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds.
Notes
- Mild version: Omit red pepper flakes or use mild paprika.
- Ginger twist: Add fresh grated ginger with the garlic.
- Umami boost: Stir in a splash of oyster sauce or miso paste.
- Nutty crunch: Sprinkle chopped peanuts or cashews on top.
- Citrus zing: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice before serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: asian
Keywords: spicy bok choy, garlic bok choy, easy Asian side dish, stir-fried bok choy, vegan bok choy recipe