Stir‑fried Bok Choy with Ground Meat
Introduction
This Stir‑fried Bok Choy with Ground Meat is a quick and flavorful dish that brings together tender greens and savory protein in a rich, umami sauce. It’s a staple in many Asian kitchens, offering a perfect balance of freshness and comfort. With just 25 minutes from prep to table, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a wholesome, satisfying meal without fuss.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fast & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
Healthy balance: Crisp bok choy paired with protein‑rich ground meat.
Versatile: Works with pork, beef, or even chicken.
Flavorful: Soy, oyster sauce, and ginger create a savory depth.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
1 lb ground pork or beef
1 tbsp vegetable oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 inch fresh ginger, minced
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp Shaoxing rice wine (optional)
1 tbsp brown sugar
½ tsp black pepper
1 head bok choy, chopped
2 tbsp sesame oil (optional, for finishing)
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Meat
Heat vegetable oil in a wok or skillet over medium‑high heat. Add ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine (if using), brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir well and let sauce thicken slightly.
Step 4: Add Bok Choy
Toss in chopped bok choy. Stir‑fry 2–3 minutes until wilted but still crisp.
Step 5: Finish & Serve
Drizzle with sesame oil if desired. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Tips
Separate bok choy stems and leaves—add stems first for even cooking.
Use a hot wok for authentic stir‑fry flavor.
Swap Shaoxing wine with dry sherry if unavailable.
Double the sauce if serving over rice to soak up extra flavor.
Variations
Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a spoonful of sambal.
Chicken Version: Substitute ground chicken for a lighter option.
Vegetarian Twist: Use crumbled tofu or plant‑based ground meat.
Noodle Bowl: Toss with rice noodles for a complete meal.
Serving Ideas
Serve over steamed jasmine rice.
Pair with miso soup or egg drop soup.
Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.
Add a fried egg on top for extra richness.
FAQs
Q: Can I use baby bok choy?
Yes, baby bok choy cooks faster and adds tenderness.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Best served fresh, but leftovers keep 2–3 days in the fridge.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Not recommended—bok choy loses texture when frozen.
Q: How do I make it gluten‑free?
Use tamari instead of soy sauce and gluten‑free oyster sauce.
Nutrition (Approx. per serving)
Calories: 280
Protein: 20g
Fat: 16g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Final Thoughts
This Stir‑fried Bok Choy with Ground Meat is a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With its savory sauce and crisp greens, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep in your weeknight rotation.