Imagine a side dish so incredibly delicious and easy to prepare that it transforms your ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Bok Choy with Garlic Oyster Sauce is not just a vegetable side—it's a flavor explosion that combines the crisp, fresh texture of bok choy with the umami-rich depth of oyster sauce and the aromatic punch of garlic. In just 13 minutes, you'll create a restaurant-worthy dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 8 mins
Total Time: 13 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb bok choy, halved
- 2 tbsp garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Wash the bok choy thoroughly under cold running water, ensuring all dirt is removed from between the leaves. Pat dry completely with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Trim the tough bottom end of the bok choy, then cut each half lengthwise into similar-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves using a sharp knife, creating uniform small pieces to distribute flavor evenly.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or wide skillet over medium-high heat until the oil shimmers and appears slightly rippling.
- Add minced garlic to the hot oil and quickly stir-fry for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add prepared bok choy to the wok, tossing rapidly to coat with oil and garlic, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Stir-fry the bok choy for 3-4 minutes, allowing leaves to become bright green and stems to soften slightly.
- Pour oyster sauce over the bok choy, continuing to toss and mix thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until bok choy is tender-crisp but still vibrant green.
- Taste and add a pinch of salt if needed, adjusting seasoning to personal preference.
- Remove from heat and transfer immediately to a serving platter, ensuring the bok choy remains hot and glossy.
Tips
- Always choose fresh, vibrant green bok choy with crisp, firm leaves and no yellowing.
- Dry the bok choy completely after washing to ensure perfect stir-frying and prevent steaming.
- Use a high-heat cooking method like stir-frying to maintain the vegetable's crisp texture and bright color.
- Work quickly and keep ingredients moving in the wok to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Use high-quality oyster sauce for the best flavor—look for brands with minimal additives.
- Don't overcook! Aim for tender-crisp bok choy that retains its beautiful green color and nutritional value.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of sesame oil or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
