Garlic and Soy Glazed Pan-Seared Bok Choy

There’s something truly magical about a simple, well-seasoned vegetable dish, and this Garlic and Soy Glazed Pan-Seared Bok Choy is no exception! It’s quick, packed with umami, and the perfect balance of savory, slightly sweet, and garlicky goodness. Whether you need a fast side dish for your weeknight dinner or something to elevate your meal with Asian-inspired flavors, this bok choy recipe has you covered!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 12 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy nights.
• Healthy & Nutritious: Bok choy is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus it’s low in calories.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of soy sauce, garlic, and honey creates a deliciously bold, savory-sweet glaze.
• Perfect Side Dish: This pairs beautifully with rice, noodles, grilled meats, or tofu.

What Does Garlic and Soy Glazed Bok Choy Taste Like?

Imagine tender, slightly crisp bok choy infused with the deep umami of soy sauce, the subtle sweetness of honey, and the aromatic kick of garlic. The slight char from pan-searing adds a smoky, caramelized depth, while the sesame oil and vinegar bring just the right touch of nuttiness and tang. Every bite is rich, flavorful, and undeniably satisfying!

Health Benefits of Bok Choy

This leafy green isn’t just delicious—it’s also a nutritional powerhouse! Here’s why you’ll love adding more bok choy to your meals:

• Low in calories but packed with fiber to support digestion.
• Rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation.
• A great source of calcium and vitamin K for strong bones.
• Supports immune health thanks to its high vitamin C content.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy, flavor-packed dish:

• 4 baby bok choy, halved lengthwise
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• ½ tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
• 1 green onion, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• A large skillet or wok
• A sharp knife for cutting the bok choy
• A small mixing bowl for the sauce
• A whisk or spoon for mixing

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Want to customize your bok choy? Try these simple swaps and add-ins!

• Make it spicy: Add ½ tsp of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha.
• Swap the honey: Use maple syrup or brown sugar for a vegan-friendly alternative.
• Add protein: Toss in tofu, shrimp, or chicken strips for a heartier meal.
• Try another green: Swap bok choy for broccolini, baby spinach, or kale—just adjust cooking times!

How to Make Garlic and Soy Glazed Pan-Seared Bok Choy

Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a delicious side dish ready in no time!

Step 1: Sear the Bok Choy

Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Place the bok choy halves cut side down in the pan. Let them cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until they develop a light golden-brown sear and start to soften.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Flip the bok choy and add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pan. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and let it cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Make the Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk together:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• ½ tsp sesame oil

Step 4: Glaze the Bok Choy

Pour the sauce mixture into the skillet. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to absorb and the glaze to thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with 1 tsp sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve immediately and enjoy!

What to Serve with Garlic and Soy Glazed Bok Choy

This dish pairs well with a variety of main courses! Here are some ideas:

• Steamed jasmine rice – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
• Garlic butter shrimp – A protein-packed, flavorful pairing.
• Grilled salmon or teriyaki chicken – The umami flavors complement beautifully.
• Stir-fried tofu or tempeh – For a delicious vegetarian meal.

Tips for the Best Pan-Seared Bok Choy

Use high heat – This helps achieve that slightly crispy, caramelized texture.
Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches if needed to allow even searing.
Adjust seasoning to taste – Add extra soy sauce for more saltiness or more honey for sweetness.
Keep the stem side slightly firm – The contrast in texture makes each bite even better!

How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s THAT good!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storage:

• Store cooled bok choy in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, adding a splash of water or soy sauce if needed.
• Microwave for 30-40 seconds, but be careful not to overheat, as bok choy can become too soft.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use regular bok choy instead of baby bok choy?

Absolutely! Just cut it into quarters and increase the cooking time by 1-2 minutes to ensure the thicker stems soften properly.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the ingredients (chop the bok choy, mix the sauce) in advance and cook it just before serving.

3. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap the soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos.

4. What’s the best way to clean bok choy?

Bok choy tends to trap dirt between its leaves, so rinse it under cold water and soak it for a few minutes to remove any grit.

More Delicious Bok Choy Recipes

Looking for more ways to enjoy bok choy? Try these recipes next!

🥢 Bok Choy and Mushrooms in Oyster Sauce – A rich, umami-packed stir-fry.
🔥 Bok Choy with Garlic Sauce – A bold and garlicky side dish.
🧀 Crispy Spinach Artichoke Dip Bites – A crunchy, cheesy appetizer!

If you try this recipe, I’d love to see your creations! Share your photos on Pinterest: @EMMARECIPES18 🍽️✨

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