If you are searching for a vibrant, quick, and wholesome dish that packs a punch of flavor, this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe is just the ticket. Combining tender, leafy bok choy with earthy mushrooms and a zingy, savory sauce, this recipe brings together simplicity and elegance on your dinner plate. It’s the kind of meal that feels light but satisfying, perfect for weeknights or whenever you need a fresh boost of vegetables with big personality.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples but each plays an essential role in making this stir fry truly shine. From the nutty sesame oil to the fresh ginger’s aromatic spark, every addition enhances the texture, color, and unforgettable flavor of this dish.
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil): Provides a fragrant base essential for stir-frying and adds a subtle nutty depth.
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced: Brings bright, peppery warmth that awakens the palate.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with a classic savory punch and aroma.
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, button, or cremini): Adds earthy umami flavor and meaty texture to complement the bok choy.
- 4 cups baby bok choy, chopped (about 4-5 heads): Offers fresh, crisp green leaves and tender stalks for delightful contrast.
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free): Delivers salty, rich savoriness that ties everything together.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Adds brightness and a slight tang for balance.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness): Contributes a touch of sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish): Adds a subtle crunch and visual interest.
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish): Lends fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning to your preference.
How to Make Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by cleaning your mushrooms carefully, then slicing them thinly to ensure they cook evenly and soak up the sauce beautifully. At the same time, rinse your baby bok choy to remove any grit and chop the leaves and tender stems into bite-sized pieces, keeping the tougher stalks aside or discarding for a more delicate texture.
Step 2: Heat the Oil and Aromatics
Warm the sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and fresh ginger, stirring continuously for about 1 to 2 minutes. This step is where the base flavor develops, releasing enticing aromas that make your kitchen smell incredible right from the start.
Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms
Introduce the sliced mushrooms into the pan. Stir-fry them for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn tender and start to acquire a lovely golden-brown color. This caramelization is key for unlocking deeper umami flavors that complement the crisp bok choy perfectly.
Step 4: Add the Bok Choy
Now it’s time to toss in the chopped bok choy. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, stirring frequently so the vibrant greens wilt gently but retain their slight crunch. This keeps the dish both texturally exciting and visually appealing.
Step 5: Make and Add the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce if you’re using it. Pour this flavorful mixture over your vegetables, then stir well to coat everything evenly. The harmony of salty, sweet, and tangy in this sauce elevates the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Step 6: Final Seasoning and Garnish
Season your stir fry with salt and pepper to taste. Finish by sprinkling sesame seeds and sliced green onions on top for that extra burst of crunch and freshness. Serve your Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe warm, either on its own or paired with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
How to Serve Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like toasted sesame seeds and chopped green onions bring out the best in this dish by adding layers of texture and bright color. You can also add a drizzle of chili oil or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for an exciting twist.
Side Dishes
This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, fragrant brown rice, or even a bed of noodles. For a more substantial meal, serve it alongside grilled tofu or your favorite protein, balancing out the earthy vegetables with extra heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the stir fry in a large shallow bowl, garnished with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil. Another fun idea is to use the stir fry as a filling inside lettuce wraps for a refreshing and interactive dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool slightly before storing to maintain texture and freshness.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this stir fry as bok choy tends to become watery and mushy upon thawing. Instead, enjoy this dish fresh or refrigerated within a few days for optimal flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the original tenderness and prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of mushrooms in this recipe?
Absolutely! Shiitake, crimini, or button mushrooms each bring unique flavors and textures, so feel free to choose whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Is it possible to make this stir fry vegan?
Yes, this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe is naturally vegan, especially when you use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free options and skip any non-vegan garnishes.
How do I make this recipe spicier?
To add some heat, incorporate sliced fresh chili peppers during the garlic and ginger step or drizzle chili oil over the finished dish for a spicy kick.
Can I use regular bok choy instead of baby bok choy?
Regular bok choy works too, but since it has tougher stalks, you might want to slice it thinner and cook it a bit longer to achieve a similar tenderness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
This stir fry makes for great meal prep as it stores well in the fridge and reheats easily, making quick and healthy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly satisfying about whipping up a fresh, flavorful Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe that comes together in under 20 minutes. It’s a vibrant, nourishing dish that’s as delightful for the eyes as it is for your taste buds. I can’t wait for you to try it and enjoy this simple yet incredibly tasty recipe as much as I do!
Print
Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and flavorful Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry that combines tender bok choy and savory mushrooms sautéed in a fragrant ginger-garlic sesame oil sauce. This vibrant and healthy dish is perfect as a side or a light main course served with rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, button, or cremini)
- 4 cups baby bok choy, chopped (about 4–5 heads)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Sauce and Seasoning
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce (optional for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Oil
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil (or vegetable oil)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Clean the mushrooms thoroughly and slice them thinly to ensure even cooking and a tender texture.
- Rinse and Chop Bok Choy: Rinse the baby bok choy well, remove any tough stems, and chop the leaves and tender stalks into bite-sized pieces for easy stir-frying.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 1-2 minutes until the aroma is fragrant and the ingredients start to soften.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they become tender and develop a light brown color, enhancing their flavor.
- Add the Bok Choy: Toss in the chopped bok choy and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, allowing it to wilt slightly while retaining its vibrant green color and crunch.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and hoisin sauce (if using). Pour this sauce over the vegetables and toss well to coat everything evenly.
- Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve warm as a healthy side dish or along with rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
- Hoisin sauce is optional but adds a hint of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
- You can add protein such as tofu, chicken, or shrimp to make this a more substantial dish.
- Adjust the cooking time for bok choy depending on how tender or crisp you prefer it.
- Use a wok or large skillet to ensure even heat distribution during stir-frying.
