Bok choy, with its crunchy texture and mild flavor, is a delightful addition to any meal. Tossed in a savory garlic sauce, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant side that complements a variety of main courses. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu, this Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce Recipe is sure to impress. With just a few steps, you’ll create a dish that is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Let’s dive into why this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen.
Why It’s My Go-To

This Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce recipe is my go-to for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The combination of garlic and ginger creates a fragrant sauce that elevates the humble bok choy to new heights. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate greens into your diet without feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor. The balance of salty, sweet, and umami flavors in this dish is simply irresistible!
What’s in the Bowl
To whip up this flavorful bok choy dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 finely minced garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon peeled and finely minced fresh ginger
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- ½ cup chicken stock or water
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 pounds baby bok choy, sliced in half lengthwise
These ingredients come together to create a dish bursting with flavor, making it a favorite among family and friends.
Before You Start: Equipment
Before you begin cooking, gather the following equipment to make your cooking process smooth:
- Large skillet or wok – for sautéing
- Chef’s knife – for chopping and mincing
- Cutting board – to safely prepare your ingredients
- Measuring spoons – to accurately measure your sauces and seasonings
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring the bok choy
Having the right tools on hand will make the cooking process enjoyable and efficient.
Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce Recipe Made Stepwise

Now let’s get to the fun part—cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce.
Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat 3 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer, indicating it’s ready for cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the finely minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Add the Bok Choy
Place the sliced bok choy in the skillet, cut side down. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften and develop a bit of color.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, light brown sugar, and chicken stock (or water). Pour this mixture over the bok choy.
Step 5: Stir and Cook
Using a spatula, gently stir the bok choy to coat it evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bok choy is tender yet still crisp.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once the bok choy is cooked to your liking, remove it from heat. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
Warm & Cool Weather Spins

This recipe is versatile enough to adapt to different seasons:
- Warm Weather: Serve it cold as part of a refreshing salad, drizzled with additional soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Cool Weather: Pair it with hearty soups or stews for a comforting meal.
- For added protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a complete meal.
- Experiment with other greens like spinach or kale if bok choy is unavailable.
These variations will keep your meals exciting no matter the season.
Method to the Madness
Creating this Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce is all about balance. The key steps involve sautéing the garlic and ginger to release their aromatic flavors, then adding the bok choy to let it absorb the delicious sauce. The combination of soy sauce and oyster sauce provides a deep umami flavor, while the brown sugar adds a hint of sweetness that rounds out the dish. The use of avocado oil is not only healthier but also offers a high smoke point, perfect for stir-frying.
How to Store & Reheat
If you have leftovers (which is rare, but possible!), here’s how to store and reheat them:
- Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
- You may want to add a splash of water or chicken stock while reheating to keep the bok choy moist.
These tips will help you enjoy your bok choy even after the first serving!
Common Qs About Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce Recipe
Can I use regular bok choy instead of baby bok choy?
Yes, you can use regular bok choy. Just be sure to chop it into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to oyster sauce?
Absolutely! You can substitute oyster sauce with mushroom sauce for a similar depth of flavor.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to enhance the dish with more colors and textures.
How do I know when bok choy is cooked properly?
Bok choy should be tender yet still have a slight crunch. It should not be mushy when done.
Explore More
If you’re eager to try more exciting recipes, check out these delicious options:
- Sally’s Baking Addiction – for sweet treats and baking tips.
- Pinch of Yum – for wholesome and creative meal ideas.
- Minimalist Baker – for simple and delicious plant-based recipes.
Each of these links will lead you to a treasure trove of culinary inspiration.
See You at the Table
This Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce Recipe is not just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings joy to your dining experience. It’s quick, simple, and absolutely delicious—perfect for all occasions. So, gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and enjoy the process of creating a dish that will surely become a favorite in your home. Happy cooking!

Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- 6 cloves garlic finely minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger peeled and finely minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- ½ cup chicken stock or water
- 3 tablespoons avocado oil
- 2 pounds baby bok choy sliced in half lengthwise
Instructions
- In a large skillet or wok, heat 3 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer, indicating it's ready for cooking.
- Add the finely minced garlic and ginger to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Place the sliced bok choy in the skillet, cut side down. Allow it to cook for 2-3 minutes until it starts to soften and develop a bit of color.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, light brown sugar, and chicken stock (or water). Pour this mixture over the bok choy.
- Using a spatula, gently stir the bok choy to coat it evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the bok choy is tender yet still crisp.
- Once the bok choy is cooked to your liking, remove it from heat. Serve immediately, garnished with sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired.
Equipment
- Large skillet or wok
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
Notes
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To reheat, warm in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
- Add a splash of water or chicken stock while reheating to keep the bok choy moist.
