Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

If you’re looking for a dish that’s not only delicious but also quick and easy to make, you’ve come to the right place! This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights. It’s amazing how tender mushrooms and crisp bok choy come together in a gingery, garlicky brown sauce that wraps everything in warmth and comfort. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve as a main dish over steamed rice or as a delightful side to complement your favorite protein.

What makes this recipe special is its simplicity. You can whip it up in just 23 minutes, making it perfect for family gatherings or those nights when you need something hearty yet wholesome. Trust me, once you try this stir fry, it will become a staple in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: In just 15 minutes of prep and 8 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
• Family-Friendly: The flavors are mild yet satisfying, making it appealing for both kids and adults alike.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can chop the veggies ahead of time to make dinner even faster on busy evenings.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and flavorful sauces, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Making this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is easy because the ingredients are simple and wholesome. You might already have many of these items 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 lb baby bok choy (cut into large bite-sized 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)

For the Slurry

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 2 tablespoons water

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it according to your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Add tofu or tempeh for extra protein. Simply cube them and sauté along with the mushrooms!
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce to kick things up a notch.
• Change the sauce: Experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or sweet chili for a unique flavor twist.

How to Make Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Mix all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set them aside. This allows the flavors to meld while you prepare the rest of your dish. Having everything ready makes cooking smoother!

Step 2: Make the Slurry

In another small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to create a slurry. This will help thicken your sauce later on, ensuring that every bite is coated with that delicious flavor.

Step 3: Steam the Bok Choy

Heat 1/4 cup of water in a large skillet over medium-high heat until boiling. Add in the baby bok choy with a pinch of salt. Cover it up so it can steam for about 30 seconds. Uncover, stir gently, then cover again for another 30 seconds until softened. This step keeps the bok choy crisp while infusing flavor!

Step 4: Sear the Mushrooms

Wipe your pan clean and add 2 tablespoons of peanut oil over high heat. Once hot, add your mushrooms without stirring initially. Let them sear for about a minute to develop flavor before flipping them over. Cook until they’re browned with no juices left—this is key for deep mushroom flavor!

Step 5: Add Aromatics

Push the mushrooms to one side of the pan and pour in another half tablespoon of oil on the other side. Toss in your chili peppers, minced garlic, ginger, and sliced green onions. Stir briefly until fragrant—this step adds layers of aromatic goodness!

Step 6: Combine Everything

Pour your prepared sauce into the pan and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously. Then give your slurry another stir before swirling it into the pan until thickened. Once everything looks beautifully combined, transfer it to a big plate! Serve hot either as a side dish or over steamed rice as a main course.

Enjoy this comforting Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry! It’s sure to bring smiles around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry to new heights!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh bok choy and mushrooms not only taste better but also provide a vibrant color and nutrition. Fresh vegetables will enhance the overall flavor of your dish.

• Prep Ahead: Chop all your ingredients before starting to cook. This makes the cooking process smoother and faster, ensuring everything cooks evenly without any downtime.

• Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the number of dried chili peppers. Conversely, add more if you love a spicy kick; this dish is versatile to suit your taste!

• Experiment with Oils: While peanut oil works wonderfully for this recipe, you can also try sesame oil for a deeper flavor. Each oil brings its unique aroma that can transform the dish.

• Don’t Overcook the Vegetables: To keep your bok choy crisp and your mushrooms tender, avoid overcooking. The right texture is key to a delicious stir fry!

How to Serve Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Presenting your dish beautifully can make it even more enjoyable! Here are some ideas on how to serve this stir fry.

Garnishes

• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a lovely crunch and nutty flavor that complements the stir fry perfectly.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brings a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish and enhances its visual appeal.
• Lime Wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows everyone to squeeze fresh juice over their portions, adding a zesty finish.

Side Dishes

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fluffy rice is an excellent base that absorbs the delicious sauce from the stir fry, making every bite satisfying.
• Stir-Fried Tofu: Add some protein with crispy tofu cubes seasoned with soy sauce. It’s a great complement for those craving extra heartiness.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with vinegar dressing balances out the warmth of the stir fry, offering a crunchy contrast.
• Vegetable Spring Rolls: These light bites are perfect as an appetizer or side dish, providing additional texture and flavors that pair well with the main course.

Enjoy creating your Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry! Each serving is not just a meal; it’s an experience full of warmth and satisfaction.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the stir fry cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or vegetable broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! Feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for variety. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

This dish is fantastic as a side but shines as a main course when served over steamed rice or quinoa. Pairing it with your favorite protein source like tofu or tempeh can also enhance it!

Is this Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry gluten-free?

Yes, you can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting soy sauce with tamari and using gluten-free vegetarian oyster sauce.

Final Thoughts

This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is truly special because it combines vibrant flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it both satisfying and nourishing. I hope you enjoy making this delightful dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to get creative with your veggies or share your own variations. Happy cooking!