Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that feels like a warm hug, then this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is just what you need! This recipe has been a staple in my kitchen for years, and I love how it brings together tender mushrooms and crisp bok choy in a wonderfully gingery, garlicky sauce. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet healthy without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether you’re cooking for your family or whipping up something special for friends, this dish shines as both a delightful side or a satisfying main course over steamed rice. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s one of my all-time favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 23 minutes, this stir fry is perfect for busy evenings.
• Flavor-Packed: The ginger and garlic give this dish an irresistible aroma and taste that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Healthy Option: Packed with veggies, this stir fry is not only delicious but also nutritious!
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or serve it as a side; it fits perfectly into any meal plan.
• Customizable: With a few easy swaps, you can make this dish suit various dietary needs.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry uses simple, wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delightful dish!

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
• 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 big)
• 4 dried Chinese chili peppers
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 thumb ginger (minced)
• 2 green onions (sliced)

Variations

One of the best parts about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Add tofu or tempeh for a plant-based protein boost.
• Change up the greens: If bok choy isn’t available, try using kale or spinach instead!
• Add more veggies: Bell peppers, carrots, or snap peas can be great additions for extra crunch and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add more chili peppers or a splash of sriracha!

How to Make Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

First things first—let’s mix up our sauce! Combine all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. This step is essential because it allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together before hitting the heat. Once mixed, set it aside while we prepare our vegetables.

Step 2: Make the Slurry

In another small bowl, combine the cornstarch with two tablespoons of water to create a slurry. This will help thicken our sauce later on. Mixing it now ensures that it’s ready when we need it!

Step 3: Steam the Bok Choy

Heat 1/4 cup of water in a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. When it starts to boil, add your bok choy with a pinch of salt. Cover the pan and let it steam for about 30 seconds—this helps soften the greens while keeping them vibrant. After stirring them gently, cover again for another 30 seconds until they’re just tender. Transfer them to a platter—you want them ready to shine!

Step 4: Sear the Mushrooms

Wipe down your skillet and add two tablespoons of peanut oil over high heat. Once hot, toss in your mushrooms without stirring for one minute—this gives them that lovely golden-brown sear! Then flip them over and continue cooking while stirring occasionally until they’ve released their juices and are beautifully browned.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

Move those mushrooms to one side of the pan. On the other side, pour in another half tablespoon of peanut oil and add your chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Stir them together until fragrant; this step adds depth and flavor to our stir fry.

Step 6: Finish It Off

Now pour in your prepared sauce along with your slurry mixture. Stir continuously as it cooks for about 30 seconds until everything is well combined and thickened. Finally, return the bok choy back into the pan and give everything one last stir before transferring to your serving plate.

Serve hot as a delightful side dish or over steaming rice as an enticing main course that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Cooking can be a joy, especially when you have a few handy tips to elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to ensure your Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry turns out perfectly every time!

• Prep your ingredients ahead of time: Having everything ready before you start cooking will streamline the process and allow you to focus on the flavors instead of scrambling around.

• Control the heat: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the mushrooms. This helps achieve that lovely sear and enhances their flavor while preventing them from becoming soggy.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider cooking in batches to avoid steaming the vegetables. This ensures they stay crisp and vibrant.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s palate is different, so feel free to tweak the soy sauce, chili, or sugar amounts according to your preference for saltiness or sweetness.

• Experiment with veggies: While bok choy and mushrooms are fantastic, feel free to add other colorful vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas for added nutrition and visual appeal.

How to Serve Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Presentation can transform a simple meal into something truly special. Here are some ideas on how to serve your delicious stir fry!

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• Chopped cilantro or parsley: Fresh herbs offer a burst of freshness that complements the savory elements beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice is a classic pairing that balances out the bold flavors of the stir fry.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast that’s perfect alongside this warm dish.
• Quinoa: For a protein-packed option, consider serving with fluffy quinoa; it absorbs flavors wonderfully.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting starter that rounds out your meal elegantly.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’ll impress your family or guests with not just taste but also presentation! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it to maintain its delicious flavors.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best taste and freshness.
• If you’re planning to eat it later in the week, let it cool completely before sealing the container.

Freezing

• Allow the stir fry to cool down before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Make sure to remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing them.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Just label the bags with the date!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• You can add a splash of water or vegetable broth if it seems dry while reheating.
• Alternatively, you can microwave in short increments (1-2 minutes), stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delicious dish, you’re in the right place! Here are some common inquiries.

Can I make Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry without soy sauce?

Absolutely! You can use tamari as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce, or try coconut aminos for a lighter flavor profile.

How do I customize Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, or even toss in some tofu for added protein.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa. You could also enjoy it on its own as a light meal!

How long does Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry last in the fridge?

When stored properly, this stir fry will last about 3-4 days in the fridge.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry! It’s not just quick and easy; it’s packed with flavors that are sure to satisfy. Whether you serve it as a main dish over rice or as a vibrant side, it’s bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!