This Mushroom and Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together the earthy richness of mushrooms with the crisp freshness of bok choy. With simple seasonings and optional oyster sauce for added depth, this stir-fry is perfect as a side dish or light main course. It’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients for Mushroom and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced (for bold flavor)
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (for warmth and spice)
- 1 pound mixed mushrooms, sliced (such as shiitake, cremini, and button mushrooms)
- 4 cups bok choy, chopped (both stems and leaves)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (for umami)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for richer flavor)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for a nutty finish)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sliced green onions and sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions for Mushroom and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
1. Heat the Oil
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Ginger
- Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil and sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
3. Cook the Mushrooms
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the pan. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until they release their moisture and begin to turn golden brown.
4. Add the Bok Choy
- Stir in the chopped bok choy, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the stems become tender but still slightly crisp, and the leaves wilt.
5. Season the Stir-Fry
- Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil. Stir to combine and cook for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Optional Thickening
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch and water mixture, and cook for an additional 1 minute until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Adjust Seasoning
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind that the soy and oyster sauces are already salty.
8. Garnish and Serve
- Transfer the stir-fry to a serving dish and garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve hot as a side dish or over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Mushroom Selection: Feel free to use any combination of mushrooms you prefer. Shiitake mushrooms add a meatier texture, while cremini and button mushrooms provide a milder flavor.
- Bok Choy: You can use either baby bok choy or regular bok choy for this recipe. If using regular bok choy, separate the stems from the leaves and cook the stems first to ensure even cooking.
- Cornstarch Slurry: The cornstarch slurry is optional but helps to create a slightly thicker sauce. If you prefer a lighter stir-fry, you can omit it.
Variations for Mushroom and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
1. Vegan Version
- This recipe is already vegan if you skip the oyster sauce. You can add more soy sauce or a splash of tamari to deepen the flavor.
2. Spicy Stir-Fry
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha or chili oil to the stir-fry for a spicy kick.
3. Add Protein
- For a more substantial meal, add tofu, tempeh, or chicken to the stir-fry. Sauté the protein first until cooked through, then set aside and return it to the pan before adding the sauces.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use other vegetables in this stir-fry?
Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or bell peppers to the stir-fry. Just adjust the cooking time so they remain crisp and tender.
2. What can I serve with this stir-fry?
This stir-fry pairs well with steamed white or brown rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it as a side to other Asian-inspired dishes like dumplings or spring rolls.
3. How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
A Quick and Flavorful Stir-Fry
This Mushroom and Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the earthy, savory taste of mushrooms with the crisp freshness of bok choy. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal, it’s easy to customize with your favorite vegetables and proteins. Enjoy it on its own or serve it over rice or noodles for a complete, nutritious meal!
