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Garlic Sesame Bok Choy (Easy 15-Minute Side Dish)

Tender, juicy bok choy sautéed with garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and topped with sesame seeds and green onions. This quick and healthy dish is perfect as a side for rice, noodles, chicken, or beef!


🥬 Ingredients

  • 4–6 baby bok choy (halved lengthwise)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger (minced, optional)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (or olive oil)
  • 1½ tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional but recommended)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tsp sugar (optional, balances flavor)
  • 2 tbsp water or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions (chopped)

🔪 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Bok Choy

  • Wash thoroughly (dirt hides inside).
  • Slice in half lengthwise.
  • Pat dry.

2️⃣ Sear the Bok Choy

  • Heat oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
  • Place bok choy cut-side down.
  • Cook 2–3 minutes until lightly golden and slightly charred.

3️⃣ Add Garlic & Sauce

  • Flip the bok choy.
  • Add garlic and ginger to the pan.
  • Cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, sugar, chili flakes, and water.

4️⃣ Steam & Finish

  • Cover and cook 2–3 minutes until tender but still bright green.
  • Remove lid and let sauce slightly reduce.

5️⃣ Garnish & Serve

  • Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions.
  • Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

🍽 Serving Ideas

  • Serve with steamed jasmine rice
  • Pair with grilled chicken or beef stir fry
  • Add tofu for a vegetarian bowl
  • Drizzle extra chili oil for spice lovers

💡 Tips for Perfect Bok Choy

✔ Don’t overcook — it should stay bright green and slightly crisp.
✔ High heat gives a nice char.
✔ Dry bok choy well before cooking to avoid sogginess.
✔ Add a squeeze of lemon for freshness.


🧊 Storage

  • Store in fridge up to 3 days.
  • Reheat quickly in a pan (don’t microwave too long or it becomes mushy).

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