Looking for a delicious and healthy dish that won’t take up your whole evening? Look no further than this Garlic Mushroom Bok Choy Stir-Fry! Combining savory mushrooms, crisp-tender bok choy, and the aromatic flavor of garlic, this dish is a perfect blend of taste and nutrition. Best of all, it comes together in just 25 minutes, making it an excellent option for busy weeknights or quick lunches. It can be served as a delightful side or enjoyed as a light main course over a bed of rice or noodles. This recipe not only highlights the wholesome properties of bok choy but also incorporates the rich umami of mushrooms for a meal that’s satisfying without being heavy.
The beauty of this stir-fry lies in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Garlic Mushroom Bok Choy Stir-Fry is easy to whip up and requires minimal prep time. The stars of this dish—the garlic and shallots—infuse a fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen and tantalizes your taste buds. Every bite is packed with flavor yet balanced with healthy ingredients. If you’re looking to add more greens to your diet, this recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy them with vibrant freshness. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Mushroom Bok Choy Stir-Fry
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 25 minutes from start to finish.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber and nutrients from bok choy and mushrooms.
- Flavorful: The combination of garlic, shallots, and soy sauce creates a savory delight.
- Versatile: Serve it as a side, or make it a main dish over rice or noodles.
- Adaptable: Customize with proteins or other veggies as you like.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start cooking this Garlic Mushroom Bok Choy Stir-Fry, make sure your kitchen is ready and stocked with the necessary tools. Firstly, you’ll need a large wok or a non-stick skillet to ensure even cooking and allow for easy tossing of ingredients. Having a sharp knife for chopping your vegetables will save time and improve your efficiency in the kitchen. Minced garlic will be your primary flavor venture, so having a garlic press or just finely chopping it with a knife will work wonders.
Additionally, setting out all your ingredients before you start cooking is essential. This mise en place method will keep you organized and prevent any last-minute scrambling for ingredients. Preparing bok choy by rinsing it well under cold water to remove any dirt between the leaves ensures that you will have the best flavor and cleanliness in your dish. When everything is within reach, it’s easy to flow from one step to another and achieve a delightful stir-fry.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large shallots, finely minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, cremini, or button)
- 2 lbs baby bok choy, halved or quartered lengthwise
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Heat the Pan
Begin by warming the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to swirl around, ensuring that it evenly coats the surface. This step is crucial as it prevents sticking and prepares the pan for optimal cooking temperatures.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Next, introduce the minced garlic and shallots into the hot oil. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and lightly golden. This process infuses the oil with their delightful aroma and sets the foundation for your flavorful stir-fry.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Once the garlic and shallots are fragrant, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir frequently for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing them to cook down and brown slightly while their moisture evaporates. This step enhances the mushrooms’ flavor, making them a hearty addition to the dish.
Step 4: Add Bok Choy
Now it’s time to incorporate the bok choy. Toss the halved or quartered bok choy into the pan along with the soy sauce and sesame oil. Mix everything well to ensure that the bok choy is evenly coated with the sauce and flavored by the earlier sautéed ingredients.
Step 5: Steam & Finish
To finish cooking the bok choy, cover the pan and let it steam for about 2 minutes. Afterward, stir once more before re-covering and cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes. You want the bok choy stems to be tender while the leaves remain vibrant and wilted, adding to the dish’s color and nutrition.
Step 6: Season & Serve
As a final touch, season your stir-fry with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Give it one last stir and then serve it hot either as a side dish or over a bed of rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.
Variations
- Protein: Add tofu, chicken, or shrimp for additional protein.
- Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for more color and flavors.
- Spices: Enhance the heat with extra crushed red pepper or introduce ginger for an added zing.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure you don’t overcook the bok choy; aim for just tender and bright-colored leaves.
- Feel free to mix different types of mushrooms for varied textures and flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Consider serving this dish over a mound of jasmine rice for a fragrant base.
- Pair it with a light soy sauce or sesame dressing for enhanced flavor.
Tips
- Prep all ingredients before cooking to streamline your cooking process.
- Experiment with the seasoning; a splash of rice vinegar can brighten the dish.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 500mg
FAQs
What type of bok choy is best for stir-frying?
Baby bok choy is ideal due to its tender leaves and crisp stalks. However, you can use adult bok choy as well; just cut it into smaller pieces.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! To make this stir-fry gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari, which offers a similar flavor without gluten.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat to warm through.
Can I freeze stir-fry?
While stir-fry is best fresh, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Conclusion
This Garlic Mushroom Bok Choy Stir-Fry is not only quick and easy but also a powerhouse of flavors and health benefits. With its delightful range of textures and colors, it’s a dish that your family will love. Whether served as a side or a light main course, this dish has the versatility to fit any meal plan. Give it a try today, and don’t forget to share your thoughts with us in the comments! Your feedback inspires our recipe adventures, and we’d love to hear how you’ve tailored this delicious dish to fit your tastes.
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Garlic Mushroom Bok Choy Stir-Fry
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Garlic Mushroom Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a quick and healthy meal that combines savory mushrooms and crisp bok choy.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 5 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 large shallots, finely minced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, cremini, or button)
- 2 lbs baby bok choy, halved or quartered lengthwise
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Begin by warming the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to swirl around, ensuring that it evenly coats the surface.
- Next, introduce the minced garlic and shallots into the hot oil. Sauté these aromatic ingredients for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring frequently until they become fragrant and lightly golden.
- Once the garlic and shallots are fragrant, add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir frequently for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing them to cook down and brown slightly.
- Now it’s time to incorporate the bok choy. Toss the halved or quartered bok choy into the pan along with the soy sauce and sesame oil.
- To finish cooking the bok choy, cover the pan and let it steam for about 2 minutes. Stir once more before re-covering and cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes.
- As a final touch, season your stir-fry with crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Serve it hot either as a side dish or over a bed of rice or noodles.
Notes
Ensure you don’t overcook the bok choy; aim for just tender and bright-colored leaves.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
Nutrition
- Calories: 150 kcal
- Sodium: 500 mg
- Protein: 5 g