Mushroom and Bok Choy Stir-Fry

Mushroom and Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a flavorful and nutritious meal that comes together quickly. With tender mushrooms, crisp bok choy, and a savory sauce, this stir-fry is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. It’s also vegan-friendly and can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
• 1 lb mushrooms (cremini, shiitake, or button, sliced)
• 1 lb baby bok choy (chopped, separate stems and leaves)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger (minced)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for depth of flavor, or use a vegetarian alternative)
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for finishing)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional for sweetness)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water (for steaming)
• Sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Slice the mushrooms and separate the stems from the leaves of the bok choy. Cut the bok choy stems into bite-sized pieces and keep the leaves whole or roughly chopped.
2. Mince the garlic and ginger.

Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms

1. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their moisture and start to brown.

Step 3: Add the Aromatics and Bok Choy Stems

1. Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the bok choy stems (which take longer to cook than the leaves) and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Add the Sauce and Bok Choy Leaves

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and red pepper flakes.
2. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir to combine.
3. Add the bok choy leaves and the vegetable broth or water. Stir to combine, then cover the skillet and let the bok choy steam for about 2-3 minutes until the leaves are wilted and tender.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Once the bok choy is cooked, remove the lid and stir everything together to ensure it’s well coated with the sauce.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce or a sprinkle of salt if needed.
3. Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with sesame seeds and sliced green onions.

Cook Notes

• Mushroom Variety: Shiitake mushrooms provide an earthy, umami flavor, but cremini or button mushrooms work well too.
• Bok Choy: Baby bok choy is more tender than regular bok choy, but either works for this recipe. Just be sure to chop the larger leaves and stems into smaller pieces.
• Serving Ideas: Serve this stir-fry over steamed rice, noodles, or as a side dish to grilled tofu or chicken.

Variations

• Add Protein: Add tofu, tempeh, shrimp, or chicken for a more substantial meal.
• Spicy Stir-Fry: Add more red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha for a spicier dish.
• Low-Carb Version: Serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal.
• Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and ensure any sauces used are gluten-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen bok choy or mushrooms?

While fresh bok choy and mushrooms are best for this recipe, you can use frozen vegetables in a pinch. Just be sure to drain excess moisture after cooking to avoid a watery stir-fry.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, or zucchini. Just adjust the cooking time based on the vegetables you add.

Is this stir-fry vegan?

Yes, this recipe is vegan as long as you use a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative or omit it altogether. You can also use tamari instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

This Mushroom and Bok Choy Stir-Fry is a quick, healthy, and delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal. With earthy mushrooms, crisp bok choy, and a flavorful sauce, it’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite vegetables and proteins. Serve it over rice or noodles, and enjoy a satisfying, veggie-packed meal