Spicy Bok Choy in Garlic Sauce

Name: Spicy Bok Choy in Garlic Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 500 g bok choy (washed and halved lengthwise); 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 4 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium); 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 1 tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste); 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp sesame oil

20 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Savoury, spicy bok choy in garlic sauce—perfect for a quick, flavourful side.

Prep

10 min

Cook

10 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Bok choy, with its crisp texture and mild flavour, is the perfect canvas for a spicy garlic sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish marries the earthy tones of bok choy with the boldness of garlic and chili, creating a side that complements any main course beautifully. Our version of spicy bok choy in garlic sauce is quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights. The recipe is designed for those who crave a little heat and a lot of flavour, without spending hours in the kitchen.

Instructions

Prepare the bok choy

Wash and halve the bok choy lengthwise. Pat dry with a clean towel.

Pro tip: Ensure bok choy is completely dry to avoid splattering when cooking.

Heat the oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Cook the garlic

Add minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Pro tip: Do not let the garlic brown too much as it will turn bitter.

Add sauces and spices

Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, chili flakes, and sugar. Cook for 1 minute.

Cook the bok choy

Add bok choy to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Cook for 5 minutes until the stems are tender but still crisp.

Pro tip: Stir continuously to ensure even cooking.

Finish with sesame oil

Drizzle sesame oil over the bok choy, toss to combine, and remove from heat.

Pro tip: Sesame oil adds a final layer of flavour; do not skip this step.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh bok choy for the best texture and flavour.
Avoid overcooking to maintain the crunchiness.
Adjust spice levels to your preference by adding more or less chili flakes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make spicy bok choy in garlic sauce?

This dish is made by sautéing bok choy in a garlic, soy, and oyster sauce with chili flakes for spice.

What is the best way to cook bok choy?

The best way is to quickly sauté it in a hot pan to keep it crisp and tender.

Can I adjust the spice level?

Yes, you can increase or decrease the amount of chili flakes to suit your taste.

How long does spicy bok choy in garlic sauce last?

It can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

Is spicy bok choy in garlic sauce healthy?

Yes, it's low in calories and high in vitamins, making it a healthy side dish choice.

What can I serve with spicy bok choy in garlic sauce?

It pairs well with grilled meats, tofu, or served over steamed rice.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this spicy bok choy in garlic sauce alongside grilled chicken or tofu for a balanced meal. It's also an excellent addition to a bowl of steamed rice or noodles. This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain its vibrant flavours.