Name: Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Bok choy (Washed and trimmed); 2 tablespoons Vegetable oil; 3 cloves Garlic (Minced); 2 tablespoons Fresh ginger (Finely grated); 2 red chili peppers Red chili peppers (Thinly sliced); 3 tablespoons Soy sauce; 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar; 1 teaspoon Sesame oil; 1 tablespoon Honey; to taste Salt and pepper; to taste Sesame seeds (Optional for garnish)

Jump to Recipe

Are you ready for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to whip up, and guaranteed to brighten any weeknight dinner? Meet Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce – a true flavor fiesta that happens to be both healthy and budget-friendly. Picture tender green bok choy drizzled with a zingy, aromatic sauce that hits all the right spicy, sweet, and savory notes. Whenever I make this recipe, it reminds me of my travels in Asia, where simplicity and bold flavors are a way of life. The sauce comes together in minutes, and the dish is perfect for nights when you want something quick but crave a little culinary adventure. If you’ve tried my Garlic-Sesame Green Beans before, you’ll love this variation with its spicy twist. Ready to spice up your dinner routine? Let’s dive in!

What is Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce?

Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce might sound fancy, but don’t be fooled – it’s really just a zesty vegetable dish that’s as fun to eat as it is to say out loud. Why is it called Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce? Well, because that’s exactly what it is! It’s bok choy – those delightfully crisp greens – swimming in a sauce that’s bursting with ginger, chili, and a hint of sweetness. Whoever said “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” must have had this dish in mind. Want to add a punch of flavor to your next meal? Give this recipe a try and experience bok choy like never before!

Why You’ll Love This

Get ready for an unforgettable bite every time! The star of this recipe is the ginger chili sauce – bright, spicy, and deeply aromatic, it transforms humble bok choy into a showstopper. By making this dish at home, you’ll save money compared to takeout and enjoy a fresher, healthier version too. Plus, the vibrant, crunchy bok choy paired with the silky sauce and fiery chili is an absolute treat for your taste buds. Don’t forget the option to sprinkle on sesame seeds for an extra layer of flavor and crunch! This dish has a similar appeal to my Garlic-Sesame Green Beans, but with a spicier kick that will keep you coming back for more. Ready to try it? Let’s get cooking!

How to Make

Quick Overview

This Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce is all about simplicity and bold flavor with minimal fuss. The dish comes together in just 20 minutes, with only a couple of steps standing between you and a vibrant, restaurant-quality side. The fresh ginger and chili infuse the sauce with a warm heat, while honey and soy create that irresistible sweet-savory balance. Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself, you’ll appreciate how quickly you can bring a healthy, delicious dish to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

1 pound fresh bok choy, washed and trimmed
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh ginger, finely grated
2 red chili peppers, thinly sliced
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon honey
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Sesame seeds for garnish

Step-by-Step

Prepare the Bok Choy:
Cut the bok choy in half lengthwise for small heads, or into quarters for larger ones. Rinse thoroughly to ensure no dirt remains between the layers, then drain well.
Make the Ginger Chili Sauce:
In a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
Cook the Aromatics:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the ginger and garlic, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
Add the Chili:
Toss in the sliced red chili peppers and cook for another 30 seconds, just until they begin to soften.
Sauté the Bok Choy:
Add the bok choy to the pan, stirring to coat the leaves and stems with the aromatics. Let cook for 2-3 minutes until the greens wilt, but the stalks remain crisp.
Add the Sauce:
Drizzle the prepared ginger chili sauce over the bok choy, tossing everything together. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
Serve and Garnish:
Transfer to a serving platter. Sprinkle with optional sesame seeds for extra crunch and flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!

What to Serve Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce With

This dish is incredibly versatile and complements a range of meals. Pair it with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome, plant-forward meal. It’s also wonderful alongside grilled salmon, teriyaki chicken, or pan-seared tofu for a protein boost. For a colorful dinner spread, serve with spicy garlic noodles, or add it to a spread of Asian-inspired appetizers like dumplings or spring rolls. Don’t forget a crisp chilled white wine or green tea to round it all out!

Top Tips for Perfecting

Ingredient Substitutions: If you can’t find fresh red chilies, use a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or even a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Maple syrup can stand in for honey if you’re vegan.
Timing: Don’t overcook the bok choy – you want the leaves tender but the stalks still retain their crunch.
Watch the Garlic and Ginger: Cook just until fragrant to prevent bitterness; burnt aromatics will overpower the dish.
Make it Your Own: Adjust the chili quantity for your spice preference, and add a splash more soy sauce or vinegar to tailor the balance.
Garnishing: Toast the sesame seeds lightly for a richer, deeper nutty flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftover Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sauté gently in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to refresh the sauce. While bok choy is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it in a pinch; the texture may soften, but the flavors will remain delicious. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How spicy is Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce?
The recipe is moderately spicy thanks to the red chilies, but you can easily adjust the heat level by using fewer or milder chilies.

Can I use baby bok choy instead of regular?
Absolutely! Baby bok choy is tender and perfect for this recipe. Adjust the cooking time slightly as it may cook faster.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply sub in tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.

Can I add protein to make this a complete meal?
Yes! Stir in cooked shrimp, diced chicken, or pan-fried tofu for a satisfying, protein-rich meal.

How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the ginger chili sauce in advance and trim the bok choy ahead of time. Store separately in the fridge and cook when ready to serve.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a fast, flavorful, and nutritious side dish that adds a little excitement to your table, Bok Choy with Ginger Chili Sauce is a must-try. Its spicy, aromatic sauce coupled with crisp greens makes for a dish that’s sure to please family and friends alike. With easy ingredients and simple steps, you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe again and again. Don’t forget to experiment with toppings and check out more veggie-forward recipes on the blog. Happy cooking!