Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal, this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen. The combination of tender mushrooms and crisp bok choy, all enveloped in a flavorful gingery sauce, is truly comforting. Plus, you can serve it as a vibrant side dish or as a hearty main course over steamed rice.

This stir fry is a family favorite at my house, and I’m sure it will be at yours too! Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish delivers both flavor and satisfaction with every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This stir fry takes only 23 minutes from start to finish—perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Flavor-packed: The ginger-garlic sauce brings warmth and depth to the dish, making it a comforting choice.
• Versatile: Enjoy it as a side or toss it over rice for a complete meal. It fits any occasion!
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with veggies, this recipe is not just delicious but also nutritious.
• Vegan-friendly: It’s made without any animal products, so everyone can enjoy it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients is half the fun! This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry uses simple, wholesome staples that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll 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 Stir Fry

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water
• 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 and mix things up based on what you have at home.

• Add another veggie: Toss in some bell peppers or snap peas for added color and crunch.
• Swap the protein: Add tofu or chickpeas for an extra boost of protein; they pair perfectly with the bok choy.
• Change up the spice level: If you like it spicy, add more dried chili peppers or even a splash of hot sauce.
• Try different sauces: Experiment with hoisin sauce or teriyaki for a different flavor twist.

How to Make Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. This step is crucial because it allows all those flavors to meld together beautifully before they hit the pan. Set this aside so it’s ready when we need it!

Step 2: Make the Slurry

In another small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to make a slurry. This will help thicken our sauce later on. Mixing these now ensures that everything will come together smoothly without any lumps.

Step 3: Steam the Bok Choy

Heat 1/4 cup of water in a large skillet over medium-high heat until boiling. Add your baby bok choy along with a pinch of salt, cover, and let steam for about 30 seconds. After uncovering, give it a stir, then cover again for another 30 seconds until it’s just softened. Transferring it to a platter keeps it warm while we finish up!

Step 4: Sear the Mushrooms

Wipe out your pan and add 2 tablespoons of peanut oil over high heat. Once hot, add your mushrooms in a single layer. Let them sear without stirring for about one minute until they develop a beautiful golden color. Flip them over and continue cooking until browned—this step enhances their flavor by drawing out their natural juices.

Step 5: Add Aromatics

Once mushrooms are nicely browned, push them to one side of the pan. Pour in another half tablespoon of oil on the other side and toss in your chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Stir until fragrant; this will infuse your dish with amazing aromas!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour your prepared sauce into the pan along with everything else. Cook for about 30 seconds while stirring gently to combine all those yummy flavors. Now stir your slurry again before swirling it into the pan; cooking until thickened will give you that glossy look we love!

Finally, transfer everything onto that big plate you set aside earlier! Serve hot either as an exciting side or atop some fluffy steamed rice as a satisfying main dish.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry!

Pro Tips for Making Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Stir frying can be a quick and enjoyable cooking method, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to new heights!

• Prep Your Ingredients First: Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process smooth and quick. Stir frying is fast-paced, so this will help you avoid overcooking your veggies.

• Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures that the vegetables get that delightful char while remaining crisp. This enhances the flavor and texture of both the bok choy and mushrooms.

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If you’re making a larger batch, cook in batches to prevent steaming instead of frying. Overcrowding can lead to soggy vegetables rather than that beautiful stir-fry texture.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of dried chili peppers or remove them altogether. Conversely, add more if you love heat! Personalizing spice levels makes the dish more enjoyable.

• Experiment with Sauces: Feel free to swap out the vegetarian oyster sauce for other sauces like hoisin or teriyaki to create a unique flavor profile each time you make it. It’s a fun way to keep things fresh!

How to Serve Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

This vibrant stir fry isn’t just delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and nuttiness that complements the flavors.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of color and brightness, enhancing the overall taste.
• Lime Wedges: Serving with lime wedges allows guests to squeeze fresh juice over their stir fry for an added zing.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce from your stir fry, making it satisfying as a main dish.

• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad drizzled with rice vinegar offers a crisp contrast to the warm stir fry. The acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.

• Garlic Noodles: These savory noodles complement your bok choy and mushrooms perfectly, creating a comforting meal that feels hearty without being heavy.

• Roasted Edamame: Lightly salted roasted edamame provides protein and crunch, making it an excellent side option that’s simple yet delicious.

Enjoy serving this delightful Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry! Whether as a side or main course, it’s sure to impress family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is an excellent choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious and nutritious dish throughout the week. Whether you’re making it ahead for lunches or dinners, here are some tips on how to store and reheat your leftovers.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover stir fry in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the stir fry has cooled to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the stir fry to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months; label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen stir fry in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• For reheating, use a microwave or a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Add a splash of water or soy sauce while reheating to keep it moist.

FAQs

If you have questions about this tasty recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that may help.

Can I make Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this stir fry ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and enjoy it within three days.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside other vegetable dishes for a wholesome meal.

Is Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry vegan-friendly?

Absolutely! This recipe is vegan as it uses plant-based ingredients, making it perfect for anyone following a vegan diet.

How spicy is Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry?

The level of spiciness depends on how many dried chili peppers you use. Feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry as I was when I first whipped it up! Its comforting flavors and vibrant colors make it truly special, whether served as a main dish or a side. Enjoy making this delightful recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your experience. Happy cooking!