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If you’re looking for a quick and easy dish that bursts with umami flavor, Bok Choy and Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce is the recipe for you! This Asian-inspired side dish brings together tender baby bok choy and savory mushrooms, all coated in a rich and glossy oyster sauce. Perfect as a side or even a light meal over rice, it’s an absolute must-try for those who appreciate simple yet delicious veggie-forward recipes.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is so versatile and easy to whip up, you’ll wonder why you haven’t made it sooner. It’s:
- Healthy: Bok choy is packed with vitamins and fiber, while mushrooms add heartiness without many calories.
- Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking, it’s ready in under 20 minutes!
- Flavorful: The oyster sauce combined with soy sauce creates a savory, umami-rich sauce that coats every bite perfectly.
- Perfect for all skill levels: Whether you’re a kitchen newbie or a seasoned cook, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
What Does Bok Choy and Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce Taste Like?
The combination of bok choy and mushrooms brings out both freshness and depth. Bok choy has a mild, slightly sweet taste and retains a satisfying crunch when stir-fried. Mushrooms, on the other hand, contribute an earthy and meaty flavor, making the dish robust and hearty. Together, these veggies soak up the savory oyster and soy sauce mix, creating a rich, umami-packed dish with a nutty hint from the sesame oil. Each bite is a perfect balance of flavors and textures!
Benefits of This Recipe
- Nutrient-rich: Bok choy is a great source of vitamins A, C, and K, and mushrooms are high in antioxidants.
- Low calorie: A perfect option for those watching their caloric intake but still craving something satisfying.
- Vegetarian adaptable: Swap the oyster sauce for a vegetarian alternative (like mushroom sauce) for a fully plant-based version.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s take a look at the simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together to make this delicious dish:
- 1 lb baby bok choy, rinsed and halved
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, button, or your favorite type)
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (optional but recommended)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Necessary Tools
- A large skillet or wok for stir-frying.
- A sharp knife for halving the bok choy and slicing the mushrooms.
- Tongs or a spatula for turning the vegetables in the skillet.
Ingredient Additions and Substitutions
Want to make this dish your own? Here are a few fun ideas:
- Vegetarian option: Swap the oyster sauce with mushroom sauce for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Add protein: Stir-fried shrimp, tofu, or thinly sliced chicken would make this dish more substantial.
- Boost the veggies: Add other veggies like bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for extra crunch and color.
- Spice it up: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil will add a kick for spice lovers.
How to Make Bok Choy and Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by rinsing the baby bok choy thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit. Halve the bok choy lengthwise so the stems hold together. Slice your mushrooms (shiitake or button mushrooms work well), and mince the garlic and ginger.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. You want the oil hot enough to sauté the vegetables but not so hot that it smokes.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the oil is hot, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them for about 30 seconds, or until they’re fragrant and start to turn golden. This step really infuses the oil with their wonderful flavor.
Step 4: Cook the Mushrooms
Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Stir-fry them for 3-4 minutes, allowing them to soften and release their moisture. The mushrooms will shrink a bit as they cook, absorbing the garlic and ginger flavors.
Step 5: Add the Bok Choy
Next, add the bok choy halves to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes. The bok choy should become tender, but you’ll want to retain a little crunch in the stems.
Step 6: Add the Sauces
Now for the flavor bombs! Pour in the oyster sauce and soy sauce. Stir everything together to coat the veggies in the sauce, and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 7: Finish with Sesame Oil
Finally, drizzle 1 tablespoon of sesame oil over the stir-fried vegetables. This adds a lovely nutty aroma and finishes the dish beautifully. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 8: Serve
Transfer everything to a serving platter and garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve hot and enjoy!
What to Serve with Bok Choy and Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it alongside noodles for a more substantial meal. If you’re preparing a full Asian-inspired meal, this dish complements chicken teriyaki, grilled fish, or even crispy tofu.
Tips for Making the Best Bok Choy and Mushrooms
- Don’t overcook the bok choy: You want it tender with a slight crunch, so watch the cooking time carefully.
- High heat is key: Stir-frying requires a hot pan to keep the vegetables crisp and prevent them from steaming.
- Use fresh garlic and ginger: While powdered versions are convenient, fresh garlic and ginger really elevate the flavors in this dish.
Storage Instructions
If you have leftovers (though it’s so good, you might not!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through. Keep in mind, the bok choy may lose some of its crispness upon reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use regular bok choy instead of baby bok choy?
Absolutely! Regular bok choy works great, but cut it into smaller pieces to make it easier to stir-fry.
What can I use instead of oyster sauce?
If you’re vegetarian or just want to avoid oyster sauce, mushroom sauce or hoisin sauce make great alternatives.
Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes! For some heat, try adding a dash of chili oil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
Conclusion
With its delightful blend of textures and flavors, Bok Choy and Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce is the ultimate quick and easy side dish that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re new to stir-frying or a seasoned pro, this recipe brings the perfect balance of savory, umami-rich goodness to your table. I hope you give it a try!
If you enjoyed this dish, be sure to check out more of my favorite recipes:
Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo on Pinterest—I can’t wait to see your creations! You can find me at Pinterest.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Protein: 6g
- Carbs: 10g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
Bok Choy and Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy Asian-inspired side dish featuring tender baby bok choy and savory mushrooms stir-fried in a rich, umami-packed oyster sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights, this flavorful veggie dish comes together in under 20 minutes and pairs beautifully with rice or noodles. Garnished with sesame seeds and green onions for extra flavor and texture!
Ingredients
- 1 lb baby bok choy, rinsed and halved
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced (shiitake, button, or your favorite type)
- 3 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the bok choy thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or sand. Halve them lengthwise. Slice the mushrooms and mince the garlic and ginger.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
- Cook the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and release their moisture.
- Add the Bok Choy: Add the bok choy halves to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes until the bok choy is tender but still crisp.
- Add Sauces: Pour in the oyster sauce and soy sauce. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauces are heated through.
- Finish with Sesame Oil: Drizzle sesame oil over the vegetables and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Transfer the dish to a serving platter. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- To make this dish vegetarian, substitute the oyster sauce with mushroom sauce or hoisin sauce.
- Feel free to add a dash of chili oil or red pepper flakes if you prefer some heat.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, but you can also serve it alongside your favorite protein like tofu, shrimp, or grilled chicken for a more substantial meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 0mg