Name: Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry: A Flavor-Packed Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Water; 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (for classic umami flavor); 1 tablespoon Vegetarian Oyster Sauce (substitute with regular if desired); 1 teaspoon Sugar (to balance flavors); 1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper (adds kick); 1/2 teaspoon Sesame Oil (for nutty aroma); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (thickens the sauce); 2 tablespoons Water; 1 lb Baby Bok Choy (cut into large bite-size pieces); a pinch Salt (to enhance flavors); 2 1/2 tablespoons Peanut Oil (high smoke point for stir frying); 1 lb Brown Mushrooms (halved or quartered); 4 Dried Chinese Chili Peppers (for heat); 2 cloves Garlic (minced); 1 thumb Ginger (minced); 2 Green Onions (sliced)

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The vibrant green of bok choy and the earthy richness of mushrooms create a delightful canvas for a quick, satisfying meal that transcends the mundane fast-food options. Picture this: after a long day, I opened my refrigerator exasperated, searching for a spark to ignite my dinner plans. It was then I found a bundle of fresh bok choy sitting alongside the last of my brown mushrooms. A light bulb moment! With just a few additional pantry staples, I could conjure up a Flavor-Packed Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry.

In less than 30 minutes, this dish transformed from a simple craving to a colorful feast, bringing an explosion of flavors with every bite. Crisp-tender bok choy, a hint of heat from dried chili peppers, and the umami goodness of soy sauce—what’s not to love? Perfect for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for hosting friends, this stir fry fits seamlessly into any occasion. So let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into cooking this deliciously simple recipe that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why Love Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry?

Deliciously Versatile: This Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry can be enjoyed as a stand-alone dish, served over rice, or paired with any protein of your choice.

Quick and Easy: With just 15 minutes of prep and 8 minutes of cook time, you can have a flavorful meal ready in under 30 minutes.

Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with nutrients, bok choy offers a low-calorie boost while mushrooms add earthy richness, making this dish wholesome and satisfying.

Flavor Explosion: The blend of garlic, ginger, and savory sauces creates a delightful umami experience that tantalizes your taste buds.

Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or impressing friends, this dish is a guaranteed hit, even for those new to cooking! ✨ For more quick weeknight meals, check out our easy stir fry recipes.

Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Ingredients

For the Sauce

Water – 2 tablespoons to help dissolve the sauce ingredients.
Soy Sauce – 2 tablespoons for that classic umami flavor in the Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry.
Vegetarian Oyster Sauce – 1 tablespoon brings depth; you can substitute with regular oyster sauce if desired.
Sugar – 1 teaspoon to balance the savory notes.
Ground Black Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon adds a gentle kick.
Sesame Oil – 1/2 teaspoon for a nutty aroma.

For the Slurry

Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon thickens the sauce beautifully.
Water – 2 tablespoons used to create the slurry for sauce consistency.

For the Stir Fry

Baby Bok Choy – 1 lb, cut into large bite-size pieces for crisp-tender texture.
Salt – A pinch to enhance the flavors while steaming the bok choy.
Peanut Oil – 2 1/2 tablespoons, a high smoke point oil perfect for stir frying.
Brown Mushrooms – 1 lb, halved or quartered to soak up all the savory goodness.
Dried Chinese Chili Peppers – 4 for a touch of heat.
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced to infuse the dish with flavor.
Ginger – 1 thumb, minced for a zingy freshness.
Green Onions – 2, sliced to add a pop of color and crunch.

How to Make Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of water, soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sugar, black pepper, and sesame oil. Set this delightful mixture aside.
Prepare the Slurry: In another small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water until well blended. This slurry will thicken your sauce beautifully.
Steam the Bok Choy: Heat 1/4 cup of water in a large skillet over medium-high heat until bubbling. Add the bok choy and sprinkle with a pinch of salt. Cover and steam for 30 seconds.
Stir and Cook: Uncover the skillet, gently stir the bok choy, then cover again. Cook for another 30 seconds until the bok choy is just tender. Transfer to a large platter.
Sear the Mushrooms: Wipe the skillet clean, then add 2 tablespoons of peanut oil and increase the heat to high. Add the brown mushrooms. Let them sear for 1 minute without stirring, then flip and cook, stirring occasionally, for another 2 to 3 minutes until they are browned and juicy.
Add Aromatics: Push the mushrooms to one side of the pan. Pour the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of oil on the other side, then add the dried chili peppers, minced garlic, ginger, and sliced green onions. Stir until the chili peppers turn a deep red, then mix everything together.
Combine and Cook: Return the bok choy to the pan and pour the prepared sauce over everything. Stir and cook for about 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Thickening Time: Give the slurry a quick stir to ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved, then swirl it into the pan. Cook and stir until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency, then transfer everything to a large plate. Serve it hot as a delicious side or over steamed rice for a complete meal!

Optional: Garnish with additional sliced green onions for extra flair!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Prep Ingredients First: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready before starting to cook. This ensures a smooth and efficient stir fry process, avoiding overcooked vegetables.
High Heat is Key: Use high heat when frying to achieve that perfect sear on the mushrooms. If the heat is too low, they will become soggy rather than crispy and flavorful.
Don’t Overcook Bok Choy: Steam the bok choy just until tender; you want it to retain a bit of crunch. Overcooking can lead to mushy greens and loss of vibrant color in your Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry.
Taste as You Go: Always taste the sauce before adding it to the stir fry. This allows you to adjust the flavor, making it perfect to your liking!
Custom Heat Level: If you prefer more spice, feel free to add more dried chili peppers or a splash of hot sauce at the end for an extra kick!
Save Leftovers Wisely: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve the texture and flavor of the dish.

How to Store and Freeze Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry

Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will keep your Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry fresh and delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

Serving: Enjoy the stir fry hot, either on its own or over freshly steamed rice to bring back its delightful flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the bok choy and mushrooms and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Additionally, mix the sauce and slurry in advance and keep them in sealed containers; they’ll stay fresh overnight or even for 24 hours. When you’re ready to cook, simply follow the final steps: steam the bok choy, sauté the mushrooms, add the aromatics, pour in the sauces, and thicken with your pre-made slurry. This approach not only saves time but also ensures your meal tastes just as delicious as if you made everything fresh!

What to Serve with Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry?

Elevate your dinner table with delightful pairings, making every bite a celebration of flavors and textures.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: This fragrant rice offers a fluffy base that absorbs the savory sauce beautifully, complementing the stir fry perfectly.
Sesame Noodles: These nutty noodles add a delicious contrast and can soak up any extra sauce, creating a delightful harmony of tastes.
Stir-Fried Tofu: Crispy tofu adds protein and a wonderful texture, balancing the crispness of the bok choy with heartiness.

Pairing the stir fry with a light salad, such as a Cucumber and Carrot Slaw can enhance the meal. Its refreshing crunch provides a perfect contrast to the warm, savory stir fry.

Chili Garlic Shrimp: A touch of seafood brings a different flavor profile. The heat from the shrimp elevates the spices beautifully!

For a sweet finish, consider serving Mango Sorbet. Its fruity and cooling taste counters the umami richness, leaving your palate refreshed.

Enjoying these combinations will transform a delightful stir fry into a memorable feast!

Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Variations

Feel free to elevate this delightful dish by getting creative with your own personal touch and flavors!

Gluten-Free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free alternative without losing that umami flavor.
Protein-Packed: Add cubed tofu or thinly sliced chicken or beef for an extra protein boost, making it a heartier meal.
Spicy Kick: Toss in fresh sliced chili or a dash of sriracha to amp up the heat for those who love a bit more spice on their plates.
Crispy Texture: Include toasted sesame seeds or crushed peanuts on top just before serving; they add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
Veggie Medley: Experiment by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for colorful variation and extra nutrition.
Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can bring a burst of freshness; sprinkle them over at the end for an aromatic finish.
Coconut Flavor: Swap peanut oil for coconut oil, infusing a delightful flavor that perfectly complements the mushrooms and bok choy.
Nutty and Sweet: Drizzle some honey or maple syrup along with the sauce for a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements beautifully.

Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry Recipe FAQs

How do I select fresh bok choy?
Absolutely! When selecting bok choy, look for vibrant green leaves without dark spots, which can indicate spoilage. The stalks should be firm and crisp; a little bend is fine, but soft or wilted leaves are a no-go. Fresh bok choy can be stored in the refrigerator’s vegetable crisper, where it will last up to 5 days.

How can I store leftover stir fry?
Very simple! Store any leftover Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool it completely to retain its texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if necessary to moisten it.

Can I freeze bok choy?
Yes, you can! To freeze your stir fry, first let it cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Your stir fry can stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove for best results.

What should I do if my mushrooms are soggy during cooking?
Don’t worry! If your mushrooms turn out soggy, it likely means they were added too soon or the heat was too low. Make sure to sear them over high heat without stirring for at least a minute to develop a golden crust before mixing. For next time, be sure to wipe the skillet clean; this helps prevent moisture accumulation.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Absolutely! While the Bok Choy and Mushroom Stir Fry is packed with veggies and naturally vegetarian, for those with allergies, ensure you’re using gluten-free soy sauce and oyster sauce if necessary. Always check the labels for allergens like soy if cooking for someone with sensitivities. Feel free to add tofu or chicken for protein-rich options, making it versatile for various dietary needs!