As the first warm days of spring began to emerge, I found myself craving fresh, vibrant vegetables to brighten up my meals. That’s when I discovered Chinese Choy Sum, a leafy green that quickly captured my heart. Its tender leaves, with a mild sweetness that’s less bitter than gai lan, made it the perfect canvas for a quick and flavorful dish. With just a few simple ingredients and under 10 minutes of cooking time, I could whip up a delicious side that complemented everything from grilled chicken to steaming bowls of rice.
Imagine the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil, mingling with the bright, crisp greens, transforming your kitchen into a delightful haven. This Quick and Savory Garlic Chinese Choy Sum not only adds a pop of color to your plate but also delivers a nutritious boost packed with vitamins A and C. Join me as I share how to create this delightful dish that’s bound to impress family and friends, all while elevating your home-cooked meals to a new level of deliciousness. Ready to bring some vibrant greens to your table? Let’s dive in!
Why will you love Chinese Choy Sum?
Quick cooking: This dish can be ready in under 10 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor-packed: Rich garlic and savory sauce perfectly complement the fresh greens.
Nutrient-rich: Full of vitamins A and C, it’s a healthy addition to any meal.
Versatile side: Pairs well with many main dishes, from grilled meats to rice bowls.
Easy to customize: Feel free to add spices or swap greens as desired.
Serve it alongside your favorite protein for an irresistible meal that everyone will rave about!
Chinese Choy Sum Ingredients
For the Choy Sum
• Choy Sum – A crisp, leafy green that adds vibrant color and nutrition; feel free to substitute with bok choy if needed.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Enhances flavor and aids in sautéing garlic; vegetable or sesame oil can be used as a substitute.
• Garlic – Freshly minced for the best aromatic depth; never skip this key ingredient in your Chinese Choy Sum!
• Oyster Sauce – Adds sweetness and umami; you can opt for hoisin sauce for a vegetarian version.
• Soy Sauce – Brings depth and saltiness; try low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier twist.
• Water – Essential for creating steam to blanch the Choy Sum; no substitutes necessary.
• Sugar – Balances out the savory flavors; feel free to reduce or omit for less sweetness.
• Cornstarch (optional) – Thickens the sauce for a richer texture; can be left out if a thinner sauce is preferred.
How to Make Chinese Choy Sum
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Prepare Choy Sum: In a medium pot, bring 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 cup of water to a boil. Blanch the Choy Sum for about 1-2 minutes until the leaves soften while keeping the stems crisp. Drain and plate the greens.
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Mix Sauce: In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of water, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and optionally 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Whisk until smooth and uniform.
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Cook Sauce: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Add the sauce mixture to the pan, cooking briefly until it thickens slightly.
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Serve: Drizzle the aromatic sauce generously over the plated Choy Sum, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Serve immediately for the best taste.
Optional: Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added flavor and texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Quick and Savory Garlic Chinese Choy Sum?
Looking to complete your meal with harmonious flavors and textures? Dive into these delightful pairings that elevate your dining experience.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: A fluffy bed of rice perfectly absorbs the savory garlic sauce, making every bite a treat. It’s a classic accompaniment that balances the flavors beautifully.
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Grilled Chicken: Juicy, marinated chicken adds a satisfying protein element, enhancing the overall meal with its smoky flavors. The tender meat is a wonderful contrast to the crisp Choy Sum.
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Crispy Egg Rolls: These crunchy delights introduce a fun texture and savory filling. Pair them with dipping sauces for an extra layer of flavor alongside the fresh greens.
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Soy-Glazed Tofu: Rich in flavor and plant-based goodness, tofu complements Choy Sum perfectly, adding depth and a satisfying protein choice for vegetarians.
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Sesame Noodles: These noodles drizzled with sesame oil offer a nutty richness that pairs wonderfully with the freshness of Choy Sum, creating a well-rounded dish.
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Chilled Sake: A glass of chilled sake enhances the meal experience, highlighting the umami flavors in the garlic sauce while adding an elegant touch.
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Lemon Sorbet: This light and refreshing dessert cleanses the palate after the savory meal while providing a sweet finish that leaves you feeling satisfied and happy.
Elevate your dining table with these perfect companions to your Quick and Savory Garlic Chinese Choy Sum!
Chinese Choy Sum Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to make this dish uniquely yours!
- Spicy Kick: Add sliced red chili peppers to the garlic for a burst of heat. This will elevate your dish to a whole new level of flavor.
- Substituting Greens: Swap Choy Sum with bok choy or gai lan for a change in texture and taste. Each green offers its own charm, while retaining that delightful crunch.
- Sesame Crunch: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds for a wonderful nutty flavor and extra texture. It adds a satisfying crunch that kids love!
- Soy-Free Option: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free and lower-sodium alternative. This gives a subtly sweet and unique twist to the sauce.
- Nutty Flavor: Drizzle with a touch of sesame oil instead of olive oil for a fragrant finish. Just a small amount will add depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Citrus Zing: Squeeze fresh lemon or lime juice over the finished dish for a bright, refreshing bite. The acidity beautifully cuts through the richness of the sauce.
- Creamy Element: Add a dollop of peanut sauce or tahini to the dish for a creamy texture and rich flavor contrast. It transforms the dish into something extraordinary!
- No Sugar: Omit or replace sugar with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. You’ll still keep that delicious balance without the refined sugar.
Enjoy experimenting with these variations to make your Chinese Choy Sum even more delightful!
Make Ahead Options
These Chinese Choy Sum are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can blanch the Choy Sum and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply follow the blanching step and allow it to cool before sealing. Additionally, you can mix the sauce ingredients (oyster sauce, soy sauce, water, sugar, and cornstarch) ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the garlic, add the chilled sauce, and heat until thickened. This way, you’ll have a vibrant, flavorful side dish that’s just as delicious, saving you precious time on busy weeknights!
Expert Tips for Chinese Choy Sum
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Preserve Color: Adding oil to the boiling water helps maintain the vibrant green color of Choy Sum and enhances its visual appeal.
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Garlic Timing: Keep a close eye on the garlic as you sauté it. Aim for fragrant and golden, but avoid burning it, which can lead to a bitter taste.
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Sauce Thickness: Adjust the amount of cornstarch according to your preference for sauce thickness. Omit it for a lighter drizzle or add more for a richer texture.
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Adjust Sweetness: Taste the sauce and tweak the sugar content based on your palate. You can always reduce or completely omit it for a less sweet finish.
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Experiment with Greens: While Choy Sum is delicious, feel free to swap it with bok choy or gai lan if you prefer, giving your Chinese Choy Sum new character!
How to Store and Freeze Chinese Choy Sum
Fridge: Store leftover Chinese Choy Sum in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This helps retain freshness and flavor while preventing moisture loss.
Freezer: If you need to freeze the dish, place it in a freezer-safe container with a tight lid. It’ll retain its best quality for up to 2 months, but may lose some texture.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently in the microwave, covering with a wet paper towel to maintain moisture.
Room Temperature: It’s best to avoid leaving cooked Chinese Choy Sum at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Chinese Choy Sum Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting Choy Sum?
Absolutely! When choosing Choy Sum, look for vibrant green leaves that are crisp to the touch. Avoid any bunches with yellowing or wilting leaves, as they may not be as fresh. Additionally, if you notice dark spots all over the stems, it’s best to skip those and opt for those that have firm, smooth stalks.
How should I store leftover Choy Sum?
Very! For storing leftover Chinese Choy Sum, keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 5 days. This way, you’ll ensure that it retains its luscious flavor and crunch!
Can I freeze Chinese Choy Sum?
Absolutely! To freeze your Chinese Choy Sum, start by allowing it to cool completely after cooking. Next, transfer it to a freezer-safe container with a tight-fitting lid. It’s best enjoyed within 2 months for prime quality, although it can last up to 3 months. When ready to serve, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What if my sauce doesn’t thicken?
If you’re facing issues with the sauce not thickening, here’s what you can do! First, ensure your heat is set to medium and that you’re stirring frequently. If the cornstarch didn’t dissolve properly, it may not thicken as expected. You can make a slurry by mixing one teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of cold water; then, add this mixture into the sauce while cooking. Keep stirring until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Are there any dietary considerations for Chinese Choy Sum?
Very! When making this recipe, be mindful of any allergies. The oyster sauce contains shellfish, which may be harmful to those with shellfish allergies. If that’s a concern, you can easily replace it with hoisin sauce for a delicious vegetarian alternative. Always check labels for gluten-free soy sauce options if you’re gluten-sensitive!
How can I enhance the flavor of my Chinese Choy Sum?
Definitely! For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of chili oil or some sliced red chili peppers while sautéing the garlic. You could also sprinkle sesame seeds on top for added crunch and a nutty taste. The more the merrier when it comes to customizing this delightful dish to suit your tastes!
Savory Chinese Choy Sum in Under 10 Minutes for Busy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a medium pot, bring 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 cup of water to a boil. Blanch the Choy Sum for about 1-2 minutes until the leaves soften while keeping the stems crisp. Drain and plate the greens.
- In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of water, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and optionally 1 teaspoon of cornstarch. Whisk until smooth and uniform.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté 2 cloves of minced garlic until fragrant, approximately 1 minute. Add the sauce mixture to the pan, cooking briefly until it thickens slightly.
- Drizzle the aromatic sauce generously over the plated Choy Sum, ensuring every bite is flavorful. Serve immediately for the best taste.
