Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that can brighten up any busy weeknight, then this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is just what you need! I absolutely love this recipe because it’s not only simple to whip together, but it also packs a flavorful punch that satisfies my cravings. The tender mushrooms and crisp bok choy come together in a delightful gingery, garlicky brown sauce that feels both comforting and satisfying. Whether you serve it as a main course over steamed rice or as a vibrant side dish, it’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

This dish is also super adaptable, making it a favorite in my kitchen. You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand, which means you can enjoy this stir fry time and time again without getting bored!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This stir fry comes together in just 23 minutes—perfect for those hectic evenings!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the flavors and textures of bok choy and mushrooms.
• Versatile: Serve it as a side or make it the star of your dinner table; either way, it’s delightful!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with vegetables, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
• Vegan and Gluten-Free Options: With simple swaps, everyone can enjoy it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these ingredients is a breeze! You’ll find everything is wholesome and easy to source. Let’s get cooking!

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

Variations

One of the best things about this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up depending on your preferences or what ingredients you have available.

• Swap the protein: Add tofu or tempeh for an extra boost of protein that pairs beautifully with the veggies.
• Change up the greens: If bok choy isn’t your thing, try using kale or spinach for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Throw in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for additional color and crunch.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, toss in some fresh chili peppers along with the dried ones for an extra kick!

How to Make Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Start by mixing all the sauce ingredients together in a small bowl. This step is important because allowing the flavors to meld makes your stir fry even more delicious. Set this aside while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.

Step 2: Create the Slurry

In another bowl, combine the cornstarch with water to create a slurry. This will help thicken your sauce later on. Give it a good stir until well mixed; this ensures that there are no lumps when you add it to your pan.

Step 3: Steam the Bok Choy

Heat 1/4 cup of water in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it starts bubbling. Add the baby bok choy with a pinch of salt, cover, and let it steam for about 30 seconds. This quick steaming helps preserve its bright green color while keeping it tender-crisp. Once softened, transfer the bok choy to a large platter.

Step 4: Sear the Mushrooms

Wipe down your skillet to remove any excess water from steaming. Add 2 tablespoons of peanut oil over high heat, then throw in your mushrooms. Let them sear without fussing with them for about one minute—this gives them that lovely browned flavor! After flipping them over, cook for another 2-3 minutes until they’re nicely browned.

Step 5: Aromatics Time

Move those beautiful mushrooms to one side of the skillet. Pour in another half tablespoon of oil on the other side and toss in chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and green onions. Stir them around until fragrant—this only takes a minute! Then mix everything together so those lovely flavors combine.

Step 6: Bring It All Together

Pour your prepared sauce into the pan and give everything a good stir. Cook for about 30 seconds before stirring in your cornstarch slurry. This thickens everything beautifully! Just keep stirring until you see that sauce come together nicely; then serve hot over rice or as an enticing side dish.

Enjoy every bite of this wonderful Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry—it’s sure to become one of your favorites too!

Pro Tips for Making Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Cooking can be a breeze with the right tips in your back pocket! Here are some tried-and-true strategies to ensure your Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry turns out perfectly every time.

• Prep Ahead: Chop your vegetables and measure out your sauces before you start cooking. This not only saves time but ensures that everything is ready to go when you need it, making the cooking process seamless.

• Use High Heat: Stir frying works best at high temperatures. This helps achieve that beautiful sear on the mushrooms while keeping the bok choy crisp. Just be sure to keep everything moving in the pan to prevent burning!

• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Choose fresh, vibrant bok choy and mushrooms. Fresh produce will enhance the flavor and texture of your stir fry, making it more enjoyable to eat.

• Customize Your Spice Level: If you’re a spice lover, feel free to add more dried chili peppers or even a splash of chili oil to amp up the heat. Just remember, you can always add more spice, but it’s tough to take it out once it’s in!

• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on your cooking time. Overcooked vegetables lose their crunch and vibrant color, which can make your dish less visually appealing and flavorful.

How to Serve Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Serving your stir fry beautifully can elevate the entire dining experience! Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the sauce.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings brightness and a hint of herbal flavor that complements the savory elements of the stir fry.
• Lime Wedges: Offering lime wedges on the side allows guests to add a zesty kick that enhances all the flavors in the dish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and subtle fragrance of jasmine rice is a classic accompaniment that soaks up all those delicious juices from your stir fry.
• Vegetable Spring Rolls: These crispy rolls filled with colorful veggies make for a delightful starter or side that adds another layer of texture to your meal.
• Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup provides a comforting contrast to the stir fry’s bold flavors, making it a perfect complement.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with fresh herbs and citrus dressing offers a nutritious side that balances well with the savory stir fry.

With these pro tips and serving suggestions, you’re well on your way to creating an unforgettable dining experience! Enjoy every bite of your homemade Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can prepare the ingredients in advance and store them, making it a quick option for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the stir fry to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For optimal flavor, consume within the first two days.

Freezing

• Let the stir fry cool before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and contents.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making this delightful stir fry!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment by adding bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is tender.

How can I make this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry gluten-free?

To make this stir fry gluten-free, simply substitute soy sauce with tamari and use gluten-free vegetarian oyster sauce. This way, you can enjoy the same great taste without gluten.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or quinoa. You could also serve it alongside some crispy tofu or your favorite protein for a heartier meal.

How long does it take to prepare Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry?

This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and 8 minutes of cooking time, making it a quick meal option that’s perfect for busy weekdays!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry! It’s a vibrant dish that brings together fresh flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re serving it as a side or making it the star of your meal over rice, I’m sure you’ll find it to be a comforting addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy making this delicious stir fry, and don’t forget to share your experience!