Bok Choy Bowl Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 7, 2025

If you’re looking for a vibrant, healthy, and satisfying vegetarian meal, this bok choy bowl recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with fresh vegetables, hearty grains, and a deliciously savory sauce, this bowl is a great way to enjoy plant-based eating without compromising on flavor or texture.

Bok choy, with its crisp stalks and tender leaves, is a nutrient powerhouse that adds a wonderful crunch and mild, slightly peppery flavor to the dish. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply wanting to add more greens to your diet, this recipe is incredibly versatile and easy to prepare.

This bowl is perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner, offering a balanced combination of fiber, protein, and vitamins. Plus, it’s a fantastic base to customize with your favorite toppings and sides.

Ready to dive into a bowl full of freshness and flavor? Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bok choy bowl recipe is a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more. Here’s why it’s a must-try:

  • Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy days.
  • Nutritious: Loaded with vitamins A, C, and K from bok choy and other fresh veggies.
  • Vegetarian and versatile: Easily adaptable for vegans or to include your favorite plant-based proteins.
  • Flavor-packed: A savory, umami-rich sauce that brings all the ingredients together.
  • Perfect for meal prep: Keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making lunches or dinners effortless.

Ingredients

  • 2 heads of bok choy, washed and chopped
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice
  • 1 cup shredded carrots
  • 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • 2 green onions, sliced thin
  • Optional: chili flakes or sriracha for heat

Equipment

  • Large skillet or wok
  • Medium saucepan (for quinoa or rice)
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Mixing bowls
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Measuring spoons and cups
  • Press or heavy object for tofu (optional but recommended)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the quinoa or rice: Rinse ½ cup quinoa under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine quinoa with 1 cup water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork. Alternatively, use brown rice following package instructions.
  2. Press and cube the tofu: Wrap tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a heavy object on top for 15 minutes to remove excess moisture. Cut into 1-inch cubes.
  3. Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, rice vinegar, and maple syrup. Set aside.
  4. Cook the tofu: Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown on all sides, about 6-8 minutes. Remove tofu from skillet and set aside.
  5. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the snap peas, shredded carrots, and sliced bell pepper. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are crisp-tender. Add chopped bok choy and cook for another 2 minutes until wilted but still vibrant.
  6. Combine and finish: Return the tofu to the skillet with vegetables. Pour the sauce over everything and toss gently to coat. Cook for another 2 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
  7. Assemble the bowl: Divide cooked quinoa or rice between bowls. Top with the tofu and vegetable mixture. Garnish with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds. Add chili flakes or sriracha if desired for a spicy kick.
  8. Serve immediately: Enjoy your vibrant, nutritious bok choy bowl hot for the best flavor and texture.

Tips & Variations

“Pressing tofu makes a huge difference in texture and flavor absorption—don’t skip this step!”

  • For extra protein, add a handful of edamame or cooked chickpeas.
  • Swap quinoa for farro or couscous for a different grain experience.
  • Try adding roasted mushrooms or grilled tempeh for more umami depth.
  • Use kale or Swiss chard if bok choy is unavailable, though the texture will be slightly different.
  • Top with crushed peanuts or cashews for added crunch.
  • Add a drizzle of tahini or peanut sauce for a creamier finish.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount Per Serving
Calories 350 kcal
Protein 18 g
Carbohydrates 40 g
Dietary Fiber 6 g
Fat 12 g
Saturated Fat 2 g
Sodium 600 mg
Vitamin A 65% DV
Vitamin C 70% DV
Calcium 20% DV

Serving Suggestions

This bok choy bowl shines as a complete meal on its own, but pairing it with a few other dishes can elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it alongside a light miso soup or a refreshing cucumber salad for a balanced Asian-inspired meal.

If you’re interested in exploring more recipes that complement this bowl, try these favorites:

Conclusion

This vegetarian bok choy bowl recipe is a wonderful way to embrace fresh, wholesome ingredients in a simple yet flavorful dish. With its balance of crunchy vegetables, hearty grains, and protein-packed tofu, it makes for a nourishing meal that satisfies both your taste buds and your body.

The flexibility of the recipe lets you adjust it to your dietary needs or whatever you have on hand, making it a staple for your weekly meal rotation.

Whether you’re new to cooking with bok choy or a longtime fan, this bowl offers a fresh perspective on how to incorporate this leafy green into your diet. For more creative and delicious vegetarian recipes, be sure to explore other dishes on our site.

Happy cooking and enjoy your vibrant, healthful meal!

📖 Recipe Card: Bok Choy Bowl Recipe Vegetarian

Description: A quick and nutritious vegetarian bowl featuring sautéed bok choy with tofu and brown rice. Perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.

Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT15M
Total Time: PT25M

Servings: 2 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 2 cups bok choy, chopped
  • 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and cubed
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated ginger
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute.
  3. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add bok choy and carrots, cook until tender, about 4 minutes.
  5. Stir in soy sauce and sesame oil, cook for 1 more minute.
  6. Serve tofu and vegetables over brown rice.
  7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

Nutrition: Calories: 420 kcal | Protein: 22 g | Fat: 18 g | Carbs: 45 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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