12 Delicious Bok Choy Recipes + How to Cut and Store for Maximum Freshness

What is Bok Choy

Bok choy is such a cool vegetable! It’s part of the cabbage family, but it looks way different. The leaves are dark green and kinda smooth, and the stalks are thick and crunchy, almost like celery. It’s got this nice mild flavor with a little bit of a peppery kick, but nothing too strong. What I love most is how versatile it is. You can toss it in stir-fries, throw it in soups, or even eat it raw in salads!

There are two main types you’ll find: baby bok choy and regular bok choy. Baby bok choy is smaller with super tender leaves and a bit sweeter, while regular bok choy has bigger stalks and a stronger crunch. Either way, they both taste great!

Bok choy is also super healthy. It’s packed with vitamins like C and K, plus fiber, which makes it good for your digestion. I like to add it to my meals because it adds a pop of green and makes everything taste fresher. You might’ve seen it called pak choi in some recipes, especially if you’re looking at ones from the UK. So if you’re trying to eat more veggies, bok choy is a yummy, easy option to add to your meals!

12 Bok Choy Recipes

As a mom of three, I’m always on the hunt for recipes that are quick, flavorful, and packed with veggies my family will actually eat. Lately, I’ve been diving into Asian cooking, especially dishes that use fresh Asian vegetables like pak choi, bok choy, and Chinese cabbage. They’re not just healthy but super versatile too! Whether you’re whipping up an Asian dinner or looking for easy Asian sides, there are so many ways to use these ingredients. From a bok choy side dish grilled to a flavorful shrimp and bok choy stir fry, there’s something for everyone.

For those busy nights, I rely on easy Asian vegetable side dishes or simple Chinese cooking recipes that come together in no time. Plus, I love experimenting with bok choy ideas and even creating twists on Thai mad flavors. Whether it’s easy Chinese vegetable recipes or hearty veggie side dishes, I promise these recipes will make you fall in love with bok choy all over again!

1. Garlic Stir-Fried Bok Choy

This is one of those recipes that’s so simple, but it tastes like something you’d get at a fancy restaurant. The garlic adds so much flavor, and the bok choy gets all tender and yummy. Perfect as a side dish or even on top of rice for a light meal. Plus, it’s quick, which is always a win in my kitchen.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bok choy
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Wash the bok choy and slice it lengthwise into halves or quarters. Pat dry.
2. Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
4. Toss in the bok choy and stir-fry for 3–5 minutes until the greens wilt and stems are tender.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring to coat.
6. Season with salt and serve warm.

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2. Bok Choy and Mushroom Noodle Soup

This is comfort food in a bowl, no doubt. The mushrooms give it a nice, earthy flavor, and the bok choy adds that perfect crunch. My kids love slurping up the noodles, and it’s a great way to sneak in veggies.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 oz rice noodles
• 1 lb bok choy, chopped
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp grated ginger
• Green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Bring the broth to a boil in a large pot.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and mushrooms. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Toss in the noodles and cook as per package instructions.
4. Add bok choy in the last 2–3 minutes so it stays crisp.
5. Stir in soy sauce, adjust seasoning, and serve hot with green onions on top.

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3. Ginger Soy Bok Choy with Sesame Seeds

If you’re short on time but still want something tasty, this is your recipe. The ginger and soy sauce combo is super flavorful, and the sesame seeds make it feel a little fancy. It’s great on its own or as a side dish.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bok choy, halved
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 2 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add ginger and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Toss in bok choy and stir-fry until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil, and sprinkle sesame seeds on top.
5. Serve warm as a side or light main dish.

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4. Bok Choy and Tofu Stir-Fry

Tofu and bok choy make such a good pair, don’t they? This stir-fry is light but super satisfying. Even my son, who’s not a huge fan of tofu, likes it when it’s crispy like this.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bok choy, chopped
• 1 block firm tofu, cubed
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper (optional)

Instructions:

1. Toss tofu cubes in cornstarch and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a pan, and fry the tofu until golden on all sides. Set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining oil and stir-fry bok choy for 5–7 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce and red pepper if you like some heat.
5. Toss the tofu back in and mix well. Serve hot.

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5. Chicken and Bok Choy Fried Rice

Fried rice is like a lifesaver when you have leftovers, right? Adding bok choy gives it a fresh twist, and the chicken makes it a complete meal. My youngest loves this one for lunch.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1 lb bok choy, chopped
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp minced garlic

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pan or wok. Scramble the eggs and set aside.
2. Add garlic and stir-fry bok choy until tender.
3. Toss in rice, chicken, and eggs. Stir to combine.
4. Drizzle soy sauce and stir-fry for another 3 minutes.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!

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6. Bok Choy in Oyster Sauce

This dish is super popular in Asian cuisine, and it’s so easy to make at home. The oyster sauce (make sure it’s halal!) adds a deep, savory flavor that makes the bok choy taste incredible. A perfect side dish for any main meal.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bok choy, halved lengthwise
• 2 tbsp halal oyster sauce
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
2. Add bok choy and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, mix oyster sauce, soy sauce, and sugar. Pour over bok choy.
4. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring gently to coat.
5. Serve warm as a side dish.

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7. Bok Choy and Shrimp Stir-Fry

I love how quick and easy this dish is, and the shrimp adds such a nice protein boost. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you don’t wanna spend hours in the kitchen.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bok choy, chopped
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp fish sauce
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a wok or pan. Add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2–3 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, stir-fry bok choy for 5 minutes until tender.
4. Add soy sauce, fish sauce, and shrimp back to the pan. Stir well.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice.

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8. Bok Choy Egg Drop Soup

This is one of my go-to soups when the weather’s chilly or someone in the house feels under the weather. It’s warm, soothing, and so easy to whip up. Plus, the bok choy adds a nice freshness!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 lb bok choy, chopped
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 1 tsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Instructions:

1. Bring broth to a boil in a pot. Add ginger and soy sauce.
2. Toss in bok choy and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Slowly pour in beaten eggs while stirring to create ribbons.
4. If desired, mix cornstarch with water and add to thicken the soup.
5. Serve hot with a sprinkle of green onions.

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9. Bok Choy Salad with Sesame Dressing

Sometimes you need a fresh, crunchy salad to balance out heavier meals, and this one’s just perfect. The sesame dressing is rich but light, and the bok choy gives it a unique twist.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bok choy, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, shredded
• 2 tbsp sesame seeds
• 3 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp honey

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, vinegar, soy sauce, and honey to make the dressing.
2. Toss bok choy and carrot in a large bowl.
3. Drizzle dressing over the salad and mix well.
4. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top and serve immediately.

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10. Coconut Curry Bok Choy with Chickpeas

This dish is hearty and flavorful, thanks to the creamy coconut curry. The chickpeas make it filling, and the bok choy adds a refreshing crunch. It’s a great plant-based option too!

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 can coconut milk
• 1 lb bok choy, chopped
• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tbsp curry powder
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 tbsp oil

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a pan and sauté onion until translucent.
2. Add curry powder and stir for 1 minute.
3. Pour in coconut milk and bring to a simmer.
4. Add chickpeas and bok choy, cooking until bok choy is tender.
5. Serve with rice or flatbread.

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11. Steamed Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce

Steaming bok choy really brings out its natural sweetness. The garlic sauce is simple but so tasty—it’s a quick side dish that goes with anything.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bok choy
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sugar

Instructions:

1. Steam bok choy for 5–7 minutes until tender.
2. In a small pan, heat sesame oil and sauté garlic.
3. Add soy sauce and sugar, stirring until combined.
4. Drizzle garlic sauce over steamed bok choy and serve.

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12. Bok Choy and Vegetable Dumplings

Making dumplings at home is easier than you’d think! These are packed with veggies and perfect for steaming or frying. My kids love helping me fold these, even if some come out a little funny-looking.

Servings: 20 dumplings
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

• 1 lb bok choy, finely chopped
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup mushrooms, diced
• 1 pack dumpling wrappers
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions:

1. Mix bok choy, carrots, mushrooms, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a bowl.
2. Place a small spoonful of filling in the center of each wrapper.
3. Fold and seal the dumplings with water.
4. Steam for 8 minutes or pan-fry until golden.
5. Serve with soy sauce or chili oil.

Asian cooking is such a fun and flavorful way to bring something fresh to the table, especially when you have versatile ingredients like Asian vegetables. Whether you’re planning an Asian dinner, need quick veggie side dishes, or want to try out new bok choy ideas, there’s so much you can do. From easy Asian sides like a bok choy side dish grilled to hearty mains like shrimp and bok choy stir fry, these recipes make eating veggies exciting.

With staples like pak choi, Chinese cabbage, and other favorites, the possibilities are endless. Dive into Chinese cooking recipes, experiment with easy Chinese vegetable recipes, or mix in Thai mad flavors for a twist. Whatever you choose, these bok choy recipes will inspire you to create delicious, family-friendly dishes that celebrate the best of Asian cooking.

How To Cut Bok Choy

Cutting bok choy is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you cut bok choy effectively:

Tools Needed:

• Bok choy
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Steps:

1. Wash the Bok Choy: Start by washing the bok choy thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris. Gently pat it dry with a clean towel or paper towel.
2. Trim the Stem End: Place the bok choy on the cutting board with the stem end facing up. Use a sharp knife to trim off the very end of the stem. This part can be tough, so it’s best to remove it.
3. Separate the Stalks and Leaves: Bok choy consists of both stalks and leaves. Depending on your recipe and personal preference, you can either keep them together or separate them. To separate, hold the bok choy with one hand and use the other hand to gently pull the stalks and leaves apart.
4. Cut the Stalks: If you want to use the stalks in your recipe, slice them into the desired size. The stalks are often used in stir-fries and other cooked dishes. You can cut them diagonally into pieces for added visual appeal and even cooking.
5. Cut the Leaves: If you’re using the leaves as well, stack them together and roll them up into a loose cylinder. Hold the roll firmly with one hand and use the other hand to slice across the roll to create ribbons or smaller pieces. These sliced leaves can be used in soups, salads, or other dishes.
6. Rinse Again (Optional): If you’ve separated the stalks and leaves, you might want to give them another quick rinse to ensure there’s no residual dirt trapped between the layers.
7. Use as Needed: Once you’ve cut the bok choy, use the stalks and leaves in your recipe as needed. Bok choy can be added to stir-fries, soups, salads, and more.

Remember to exercise caution when using a sharp knife, and always follow proper knife safety techniques to prevent accidents.

How to store bok choy

Properly storing bok choy can help extend its freshness and shelf life. Here’s how to store bok Storing bok choy the right way is super important if you wanna keep it fresh longer, especially when you’ve got a busy week ahead! Here’s what I do to make sure my bok choy stays crispy and delicious:

Method 1: In the Fridge (Whole Bok Choy)

If you haven’t washed your bok choy yet, just pop it into a perforated plastic bag (you know, the kind with holes in it) or wrap it in a damp paper towel. Then, just toss it in the veggie drawer in your fridge. It should stay fresh for about a week this way.
If you’ve already washed it, be sure to dry it off really well before storing. Then, wrap it in a damp paper towel and stick it in a plastic bag. This helps keep the moisture just right without making it soggy. I always store mine in the fridge’s veggie drawer, and it usually lasts 3-5 days.

Method 2: Storing Cut Bok Choy

If you’ve already chopped up your bok choy, don’t worry! You can still keep it fresh. Wrap the pieces in a damp paper towel, and pop them into a sealed plastic bag or a small container. Store it in the veggie drawer, and it should be good for about 3-5 days. Just be careful—it tends to wilt faster when cut, so try to use it up sooner!

Method 3: Freezing Bok Choy (for Later Use)

If you’ve got more bok choy than you can use up right away, freezing is a great option. But there’s a little trick to it: you have to blanch it first! All you need to do is dunk your bok choy in boiling water for about 1-2 minutes, then quickly transfer it to ice-cold water to stop the cooking process. After it’s cooled down, drain it well and dry it as much as possible. Once dry, toss it in a freezer bag or container, and you can freeze it for up to 3-6 months. When you’re ready to use it, just grab it out and add it straight into soups, stir-fries, or any dishes!

So, whether you’re storing it in the fridge or freezing it for later, just remember: the fresher it is, the better it’ll taste. And don’t forget to check it every few days to make sure it’s still looking good!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Bok Choy