The tender mushrooms and crispy bok choy combine in a gingery, garlicky sauce to create a delightful stir fry that’s both simple and satisfying. Perfect as a main dish over steamed rice or as a flavorful side, this dish is easy to whip up for a quick weeknight dinner.
Whether you’re a fan of Asian flavors or looking for a healthy, low-calorie option, this recipe checks all the boxes. The savory sauce and aromatic spices make it a hit, and it’s adaptable for vegan and gluten-free diets. Enjoy a restaurant-quality meal right from your kitchen!
Full Recipe:
-
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian oyster sauce (or regular oyster sauce)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- For the Slurry:
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb (454 g) baby bok choy, cut into large bite-sized pieces
- Pinch of salt
- 2 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil
- 1 lb (454 g) brown mushrooms, halved or quartered
- 4 dried Chinese chili peppers
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 thumb-sized piece of ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced
Directions:
- Mix the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
- In another small bowl, stir the slurry ingredients until well combined.
- Heat 1/4 cup water in a large skillet over medium-high heat. When boiling, add the baby bok choy with a pinch of salt. Cover and steam for 30 seconds. Stir and repeat until softened. Transfer to a platter.
- Wipe the skillet dry and add 2 tablespoons oil over high heat. Add mushrooms and sear for 1 minute without stirring. Flip and cook for 2-3 minutes until browned and dry.
- Move the mushrooms to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon oil and the chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and green onions to the other side. Stir until fragrant.
- Combine all ingredients in the skillet and pour in the sauce. Cook for 30 seconds, then stir the slurry again and add to the pan. Cook until the sauce thickens. Serve hot as a main or side dish over steamed rice.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 23 minutes
Kcal: 151 kcal | Servings: 4
Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry: A Versatile and Nutritious Dish
Bok choy and mushroom stir fry is a classic example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a delicious and satisfying meal. This dish, known for its crisp bok choy and tender mushrooms, is a staple in many Asian kitchens, particularly in Chinese cuisine. With its gingery, garlicky sauce and quick preparation time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as part of a weekend feast.
A Culinary Staple with Rich History
Bok choy, also known as Chinese cabbage, has been a part of Asian cooking for centuries. It is valued not only for its mild flavor but also for its high nutritional content, including vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron. Mushrooms, on the other hand, bring an earthy richness to the dish, providing a perfect contrast to the fresh crunch of the bok choy. When combined in a stir fry, these two ingredients create a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.
This stir fry is a modern take on the Cantonese classic “香菇菜心” (xiāng gū cài xīn), which traditionally features blanched bok choy topped with shiitake mushrooms in a rich brown sauce. By stir-frying the ingredients together, this version not only simplifies the preparation but also enhances the dish’s flavors by integrating the sauce more evenly.
Perfect for All Dietary Preferences
One of the best features of this bok choy and mushroom stir fry is its versatility. It is naturally vegetarian and can easily be adapted to suit vegan or gluten-free diets. By swapping out traditional soy sauce for tamari and using a gluten-free version of oyster sauce, the recipe becomes accessible to those avoiding gluten. Additionally, its plant-based ingredients make it a wholesome option for vegans and vegetarians.
For those who enjoy adding a protein boost, the dish pairs well with tofu, tempeh, or even chicken or shrimp. The basic recipe serves as a foundation, inviting creativity and customization to match dietary needs and preferences.
Quick and Easy Preparation
This dish is designed for convenience without compromising flavor. The preparation process focuses on keeping the vegetables fresh and vibrant. Baby bok choy is used for its tender texture and mild flavor, and the mushrooms are browned to perfection to deepen their natural umami taste. The addition of dried chili peppers, ginger, garlic, and green onions enhances the dish with aromatic layers.
The key to achieving the best results lies in the stir-fry technique. A hot pan ensures that the vegetables retain their crispness while the sauce thickens to coat them evenly. The result is a glossy, flavorful dish that looks as good as it tastes.
Health Benefits of Bok Choy and Mushrooms
This stir fry is not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Bok choy is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s low in calories and rich in antioxidants, making it an excellent choice for weight management and overall health. Its high vitamin C content supports immune health, while vitamin K and calcium promote strong bones.
Mushrooms add another layer of nutrition. They are a great source of B vitamins, selenium, and potassium, which contribute to heart health and improved energy levels. Mushrooms are also known for their immune-boosting properties, thanks to their beta-glucan content.
Together, bok choy and mushrooms create a dish that is as nourishing as it is flavorful, offering a guilt-free indulgence that supports a balanced diet.
Pairing Suggestions and Serving Ideas
While this bok choy and mushroom stir fry can be enjoyed on its own, it shines even brighter when paired with complementary dishes. Serve it over a bed of steamed jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal. For a lower-carb option, pair it with cauliflower rice or quinoa.
If you’re preparing a larger spread, consider pairing this dish with other Asian-inspired recipes. Options like Sichuan shrimp stir fry, salt-baked chicken, or air-fried garlic ribs make excellent companions. The light and fresh flavors of the bok choy and mushroom stir fry balance out richer, meat-based dishes beautifully.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
This dish appeals to a wide range of palates due to its simplicity and adaptability. The subtle sweetness of the bok choy, the umami of the mushrooms, and the savory notes of the sauce come together in a dish that feels both light and hearty. It’s a fantastic way to introduce people to the vibrant flavors of Asian cuisine without overwhelming them with strong spices or unusual ingredients.
Moreover, the dish’s quick cooking time makes it ideal for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to gatherings where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tips for Success
- Choose the Right Bok Choy: Baby bok choy is recommended for this recipe because of its tender texture and mild flavor. If you can only find larger heads, slice them into manageable pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Aromatics: Ginger, garlic, and green onions are the trifecta of flavor in this dish. Even if you’re short on one ingredient, make sure to use the others generously to maintain the dish’s characteristic flavor.
- Adjust the Spice Level: The dried chili peppers add a subtle heat. If you prefer a spicier dish, use more peppers or add a dash of chili oil at the end. For a milder version, omit the chili peppers entirely.
- Cook Quickly: Stir frying is a fast process. Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking to ensure that nothing overcooks or burns.
Conclusion
Bok choy and mushroom stir fry is a recipe that deserves a spot in every home cook’s repertoire. Its simplicity, versatility, and health benefits make it an all-around winner. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a nutritious side, or a dish to impress your guests, this stir fry checks all the boxes.
By incorporating this recipe into your cooking routine, you’ll not only enjoy a delicious meal but also celebrate the timeless appeal of fresh, wholesome ingredients. So grab your wok, and let this gingery, garlicky delight become your go-to dish for flavor-packed comfort.