Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels both comforting and satisfying, look no further than this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry! This dish has become a staple in my kitchen because it effortlessly combines tender mushrooms with crisp bok choy, all enveloped in a flavorful, gingery brown sauce. Whether you’re busy on a weeknight or preparing for a family gathering, this recipe fits right in. Plus, it’s vegan and adaptable to gluten-free diets, making it suitable for everyone at your table!

This stir fry is not just a dinner option; it can also shine as a side dish. Just imagine serving it alongside some fragrant jasmine rice or crispy tofu—delicious! Let me share with you why this recipe is a keeper.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: Whip it up in just 23 minutes, perfect for those hectic evenings when time is short.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of garlic, ginger, and savory sauces creates an irresistible taste that will leave you wanting more.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the fresh veggies and delicious sauce—it’s hard to go wrong with this one!
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side; either way, it’s sure to please.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, nutritious ingredients that you can feel good about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry. Let’s gather what we need:

For the Sauce

• 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 baby bok choy (cut into large bite-size pieces)
• Pinch of salt
• 2 1/2 tablespoons peanut oil
• 1 lb brown mushrooms (halved or quartered if too large)
• 4 dried Chinese chili peppers
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 thumb ginger (minced)
• 2 green onions (sliced)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Add More Vegetables: Feel free to toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to give your stir fry extra color and crunch.
• Swap the Protein: For those who want more substance, add tofu or tempeh for added protein without compromising the vegan aspect.
• Change the Heat Level: If you prefer less spice, reduce the number of chili peppers or omit them altogether.
• Try Different Sauces: Experiment with different sauces like hoisin or teriyaki to give the dish an exciting twist.

How to Make Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Mix together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set them aside. This step is crucial as it brings all those wonderful flavors together before they hit the pan. It ensures that every bite of your stir fry is full of deliciousness!

Step 2: Make the Slurry

In another small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to form your slurry. This will help thicken your stir fry sauce later on. Make sure to mix well so there are no lumps—nobody wants a clumpy stir fry!

Step 3: Steam the Bok Choy

Heat 1/4 cup of water in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot. When it begins to boil, add the bok choy along with a pinch of salt. Cover it up and let it steam for about 30 seconds. Uncover, give it a stir, cover again for another 30 seconds until softened. Transfer your bok choy onto a big platter; this little steaming process keeps its vibrant color and crunch!

Step 4: Sear the Mushrooms

Wipe out your pan and add 2 tablespoons of peanut oil over high heat. Once hot, toss in your mushrooms without stirring for about a minute; this helps them brown nicely. After flipping them over, cook for another couple of minutes until they’re browned and juicy!

Step 5: Combine Aromatics

Move those beautiful mushrooms to one side of your skillet. Add another half tablespoon of oil on the other side along with chili peppers, minced garlic, ginger, and sliced green onion. Stir everything around until fragrant—this part really brings out those lovely flavors!

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Pour in your prepared sauce while stirring everything around so it’s evenly coated. Let it cook for about 30 seconds before adding in your slurry mixture from earlier. Continue cooking while stirring until everything thickens up beautifully! Then transfer everything onto that big plate with bok choy you set aside earlier.

Now you’re ready to serve this delightful Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry hot—as either a main dish over steamed rice or as an irresistible side! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Stir-frying is a quick and rewarding cooking method, so let’s make sure you get the most out of your bok choy and mushroom dish!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Having all your ingredients chopped and ready to go will streamline the cooking process. Stir-frying is fast, and being prepared can prevent overcooking.
• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat allows the vegetables to sear beautifully while keeping them crisp. This adds a lovely texture to your dish and enhances the flavors.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider using two pans instead of crowding one. This helps maintain high heat for better cooking results.
• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder taste, feel free to reduce the number of chili peppers or remove the seeds. Adjusting spices allows everyone at your table to enjoy this dish!
• Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add other veggies such as bell peppers or snap peas for additional color and nutrients. Mixing it up keeps things interesting!

How to Serve Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

This flavorful stir fry can be served in numerous delightful ways, allowing you to customize it based on your meal preferences.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds not only adds a nice crunch but also enhances the nutty flavor of the dish.
• Fresh Cilantro: Chopped fresh cilantro can brighten up the dish with its fresh aroma and taste, making each bite even more enjoyable.
• Sliced Red Chili: For those who love heat, topping your stir fry with thinly sliced red chili peppers can add a pop of color and extra spice.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice pairs perfectly with the savory sauce, absorbing all those delicious flavors. It’s a classic side that complements any stir fry beautifully.
• Cucumber Salad: A light cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar and sesame oil offers a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the stir fry, enhancing your meal.
• Quinoa: For a nutritious twist, serve this dish over quinoa. It’s packed with protein and will help keep you feeling full longer.
• Spring Rolls: Crispy vegetable spring rolls provide a crunchy texture that balances out the tenderness of the stir fry, making for an exciting dining experience.

Now that you have these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’re all set to create a delicious Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry that will impress both family and friends!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its delicious flavors throughout the week. It’s quick to make, and the leftovers taste just as good, making it a fantastic addition to your lunch or dinner rotation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stir fry to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the stir fry cool fully before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or bag, ensuring as much air is removed as possible.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if needed to keep it moist.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful dish? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I use other vegetables in my Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry?

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas for extra flavor and texture. Just ensure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

How can I make my Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry spicier?

To add more heat, try increasing the number of dried Chinese chili peppers or include some red pepper flakes when cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

Is this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is ideal for meal prep as it stores well and maintains its flavor. Perfect for lunches throughout the week!

What can I serve with Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry?

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa. You can also serve it alongside noodles for a hearty meal.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free oyster sauce as needed. Enjoy without compromising on taste!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this comforting Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry! It’s not only quick and easy but also filled with vibrant flavors that bring warmth to any table. Whether served as a side dish or a main course over rice, it’s sure to be a hit. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience with friends and family!