Looking for a quick, nutritious, and absolutely delicious vegan stir fry recipe? This bok choy stir fry recipe vegan is your go-to dish for a vibrant, flavorful meal that comes together in under 20 minutes.
Packed with crisp bok choy, savory garlic, and a perfectly balanced sauce, this stir fry is both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just exploring plant-based meals, this recipe is easy to customize and bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Not only is bok choy a powerhouse of vitamins and antioxidants, but it also provides a satisfying crunch and mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with umami-rich sauces. Plus, stir frying is a fantastic way to keep vegetables crisp and colorful, making your meals both beautiful and nutritious.
So grab your wok or skillet, and let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful vegan stir fry that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bok choy stir fry is a perfect blend of taste, nutrition, and simplicity. Here’s why it deserves a spot on your weekly menu:
- Fast and easy: Ready in about 15-20 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Vegan and wholesome: Completely plant-based, with fresh veggies and no processed ingredients.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or tofu for extra protein.
- Low calorie and nutrient-dense: Bok choy is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, plus fiber and antioxidants.
- Delicious umami flavor: Thanks to garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, this stir fry bursts with savory goodness.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) bok choy (baby bok choy or regular, washed and chopped)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (such as canola or sunflower oil)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced (optional for color and sweetness)
- 1 small bell pepper, thinly sliced (red or yellow preferred)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)
- Sesame seeds for garnish
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Equipment
- Wok or large non-stick skillet
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl for sauce
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the bok choy: Rinse thoroughly and chop the bok choy into bite-sized pieces. Separate the thicker white stems from the leafy green parts, as they will be cooked in stages.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and toasted sesame oil. Set aside.
- Heat the wok: Place your wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the wok. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Add vegetables: Toss in the chopped carrot and bell pepper slices first, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Cook bok choy stems: Add the thicker white parts of the bok choy to the wok. Stir fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften but still have a crunch.
- Add bok choy leaves: Now add the leafy green parts and pour the sauce over all the vegetables. Stir well to combine.
- Optional thickening: If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the vegetables.
- Finish and garnish: Remove from heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve immediately: Enjoy your bok choy stir fry hot, ideally over steamed rice or noodles.
Tips & Variations
“To keep your bok choy crisp and vibrant, avoid overcooking the leaves. Adding the leaves last ensures they stay tender but not mushy.”
- Protein add-ins: Include tofu cubes, tempeh, or edamame to boost protein content and make it more filling.
- Vegetable variations: Swap in snap peas, broccoli florets, mushrooms, or baby corn to customize your stir fry.
- Spice it up: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for some heat.
- Nutty crunch: Toasted cashews or peanuts make a great topping to add texture.
- Gluten-free option: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 120 kcal |
Protein | 3 g |
Carbohydrates | 10 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Saturated Fat | 1 g |
Sodium | 650 mg |
Vitamin A | 40% DV |
Vitamin C | 60% DV |
Calcium | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This bok choy stir fry pairs beautifully with many sides and complements a variety of cuisines. Here are some serving ideas to inspire you:
- Steamed jasmine or brown rice: A classic base that soaks up the flavorful sauce perfectly.
- Quinoa or millet: For a protein-packed, gluten-free alternative.
- Rice noodles or soba noodles: Toss the stir fry with noodles for a satisfying one-pan meal.
- Serve alongside dumplings or spring rolls: For a full vegan Asian-inspired feast.
- Try with a side of Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet finish to your meal.
Conclusion
This vegan bok choy stir fry is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy, quick, and tasty meal that fits perfectly into any lifestyle. Its vibrant colors, fresh ingredients, and simple preparation make it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this dish delivers big on flavor without compromising on nutrition or ease.
With endless customization possibilities—from adding your favorite veggies to experimenting with sauces—this stir fry can be reinvented time and time again. Be sure to check out other delicious vegan recipes like our Asian Vegan Recipes for Delicious and Healthy Meals and Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to expand your plant-based cooking repertoire.
Embrace the simplicity and joy of cooking with fresh ingredients and enjoy every bite of this delightful bok choy stir fry!
📖 Recipe Card: Bok Choy Stir Fry Recipe Vegan
Description: A quick and flavorful vegan stir fry featuring crisp bok choy and savory garlic sauce. Perfect for a healthy weeknight meal.
Prep Time: PT10M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT20M
Servings: 3 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb bok choy, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- Heat sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add bell pepper and mushrooms; cook for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in bok choy and cook until wilted, about 3 minutes.
- Mix soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and red pepper flakes; pour over vegetables.
- Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring to coat evenly.
- Remove from heat and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
- Serve hot with rice or noodles.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 18 g
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