Bok choy, a type of Chinese cabbage, is a nutrient-dense and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. One of the most popular ways to prepare bok choy is by steaming it, which helps retain its delicate flavor and texture. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering steaming bok choy recipes that incorporate different seasonings, sauces, and garnishes to add depth and excitement to your meals.
From classic combinations like garlic ginger and soy sauce glazed, to more adventurous options like miso glazed and honey soy, there’s a steamed bok choy recipe on this list for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy side dish or a flavorful main course, we’ve got you covered. So let’s dive in and discover the wonderful world of steaming bok choy!
Garlic Ginger Steamed Bok Choy
This recipe elevates humble bok choy to a flavorful and nutritious side dish, perfect for accompanying your favorite Asian-inspired meals. With the pungency of garlic and the spiciness of ginger, this steamed delight is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy (about 1 pound)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy under cold water, then trim the ends and separate the leaves.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and grated ginger.
3. Place the bok choy in a steamer basket over boiling water.
4. Drizzle the garlic-ginger mixture evenly over the bok choy.
5. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until the leaves are tender.
6. Remove from heat, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Soy Sauce Glazed Steamed Bok Choy
Elevate your vegetable side dish with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the savory taste of soy sauce with the tender sweetness of steamed bok choy.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy, cleaned and drained
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy and remove any damaged leaves.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and honey until well combined.
3. In a large skillet or steamer basket, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add the bok choy to the skillet or steamer, in a single layer if possible.
5. Pour the soy sauce glaze over the bok choy.
6. Steam the bok choy for 3-5 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sesame Oil Steamed Bok Choy
This simple recipe brings out the natural sweetness of bok choy, enhanced by the nutty flavor of sesame oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy, cleaned and drained
– 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2-3 inches of water and bring to a boil.
2. Rinse the bok choy under cold running water, then place it in the boiling water, cover with a lid, and steam for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil and soy sauce (if using).
4. Remove the bok choy from the pot and brush the sesame oil mixture evenly over the leaves.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chili Garlic Steamed Bok Choy
A flavorful twist on traditional steamed bok choy, this recipe adds a spicy kick and savory depth with chili garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and chili flakes.
3. Add the butter to the garlic-chili mixture and stir until smooth.
4. Place the bok choy in the steamer basket, leaving some space between each stem.
5. Drizzle the chili-garlic butter evenly over the bok choy.
6. Steam the bok choy for 8-10 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Lemon Garlic Steamed Bok Choy
This refreshing side dish combines the tender sweetness of bok choy with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy addition to your favorite meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy under cold water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the bok choy to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly tender.
4. Pour the lemon juice over the bok choy, tossing gently to combine.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the bok choy is tender but still crisp.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Honey Soy Steamed Bok Choy
This Asian-inspired recipe brings out the natural sweetness of bok choy, perfectly balanced with the savory flavors of honey and soy sauce. Perfect as a side dish or added to stir-fries and noodle dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy (about 1 pound), cleaned and drained
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– 1 tablespoon of water
– 1/4 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and water until well combined.
3. Place the bok choy in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
4. Steam the bok choy over boiling water for 4-6 minutes, or until tender.
5. Drizzle the soy-honey mixture evenly over the steamed bok choy.
6. Sprinkle sesame oil and salt to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Miso Glazed Steamed Bok Choy
Elevate the humble bok choy with a sweet and savory miso glaze, perfectly balanced to bring out its natural sweetness. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of baby bok choy (about 6-8 stalks)
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together miso paste, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and grated ginger until smooth.
3. Place the bok choy in a steamer basket over boiling water.
4. Steam for 5-7 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
5. Brush the miso glaze all over the bok choy during the last minute of steaming.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Oyster Sauce
This simple recipe elevates the humble bok choy to new heights by pairing it with the savory flavor of oyster sauce. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and drained
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to medium-low and place a steamer basket over the boiling water.
3. Add bok choy to the steamer basket, leaving some space between each bunch.
4. Drizzle vegetable oil over the bok choy.
5. Pour oyster sauce evenly over the bok choy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Steam for 8-10 minutes or until bok choy is tender.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Toasted Almonds
This simple yet flavorful side dish highlights the delicate sweetness of bok choy, paired with the nutty crunch of toasted almonds. Perfect for accompanying a variety of Asian-inspired dishes or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and drained
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup sliced almonds
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, sesame oil, or soy sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, place the bok choy.
2. Add the water to the steamer pot and bring to a boil.
3. Place the lid on the steamer and steam the bok choy for 4-6 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. Meanwhile, heat the vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the sliced almonds and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
6. Season the steamed bok choy with salt to taste. If desired, add garlic powder, sesame oil, or soy sauce for extra flavor.
7. Serve the bok choy hot, topped with toasted almonds.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Crispy Shallots
This simple yet elegant recipe highlights the subtle flavor of bok choy, paired with the satisfying crunch of crispy shallots. Perfect as a side dish or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of baby bok choy
– 2 large shallots
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder or sesame seeds for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Fill a steamer basket with water and bring to a boil.
2. Rinse the bok choy and place it in the steamer basket. Cover and steam for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
3. Meanwhile, thinly slice the shallots and separate them into individual rings.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shallot rings and cook, stirring occasionally, until crispy and golden brown (about 5-6 minutes).
5. Season the bok choy with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with the crispy shallots on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Garlic Butter
This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of bok choy by steaming it to perfection and pairing it with a rich garlic butter sauce. Perfect as a side dish for your next meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual leaves
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium-sized pot with 2 inches of water. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and place bok choy leaves in a steamer basket. Cover the pot with a lid.
3. Steam for 4-5 minutes, or until leaves are tender but still crisp.
4. While bok choy is steaming, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Remove bok choy from the pot and toss with garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Sesame Seeds
A simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of Asian-inspired main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual leaves
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup sesame seeds
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large steamer basket, place the bok choy leaves in a single layer.
2. Add the water to the bottom of the steamer and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to medium-high and steam the bok choy for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil and soy sauce (if using).
5. Remove the bok choy from the steamer and toss with the sesame oil mixture.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top of the bok choy and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Red Chili Flakes
This simple recipe adds a burst of flavor to the mild-tasting bok choy, perfect for a quick and easy side dish. The heat from the red chili flakes will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual leaves
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy leaves under cold running water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine the bok choy and water.
3. Sprinkle salt, black pepper, and red chili flakes evenly over the bok choy.
4. Steam for 4-5 minutes or until the leaves are tender but still crisp.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional red chili flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your side dish game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of bok choy with the tanginess of balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy (about 4-6 leaves)
– 2 tablespoons of water
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of balsamic glaze
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy under cold running water, then pat it dry with a paper towel.
2. In a large steamer basket, place the bok choy leaves in a single layer.
3. Steam the bok choy over boiling water for 4-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
4. While the bok choy is steaming, heat the olive oil and balsamic glaze in a small saucepan over medium-low heat.
5. Once the glaze is warm and slightly thickened (about 2-3 minutes), remove from heat.
6. Serve the steamed bok choy drizzled with the balsamic glaze, sprinkled with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes for steaming, plus an additional 2-3 minutes for heating the glaze.
Steamed Bok Choy with Coconut Aminos
This Asian-inspired side dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite stir-fries or as a healthy snack on its own. The subtle flavor of coconut aminos adds a savory depth to the tender, steamed bok choy.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy, cleaned and separated into individual leaves
– 2 tablespoons of coconut aminos
– 1 tablespoon of water
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: 1 clove of garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium-sized pot with 2 inches of water.
2. Add the bok choy leaves and bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes or until leaves are tender.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut aminos and water.
5. Remove pot from heat and pour the coconut aminos mixture over the bok choy.
6. Sprinkle with salt and garlic (if using).
7. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Lime Zest
This simple yet flavorful recipe elevates the humble bok choy to new heights, adding a burst of citrusy freshness from lime zest. Perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 lime, zested and juiced
– Optional: garlic powder or minced garlic for added depth
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy under cold water, then pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large steamer basket, combine the bok choy and 2 tablespoons of water.
3. Steam over boiling water for 4-6 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and slightly wilted.
4. While the bok choy is steaming, heat the vegetable oil in a small skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the salt, black pepper, and lime zest to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
6. Remove the bok choy from the steamer and toss with the lime-infused oil mixture.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional lime zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Roasted Garlic
This recipe combines the tender sweetness of steamed bok choy with the rich, savory flavor of roasted garlic. Perfect as a side dish for your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy (about 1 pound)
– 2-3 cloves garlic
– 2 tablespoons water
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame oil or soy sauce for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each clove of garlic, leaving the flesh intact. Place on a piece of aluminum foil, drizzle with water, and fold into a packet.
3. Steam the bok choy in a steamer basket over boiling water for 4-5 minutes, or until tender.
4. Roast the garlic packets in the oven for 20-25 minutes, or until soft and fragrant.
5. Remove the bok choy from the heat and toss with roasted garlic, salt, and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Tamari Sauce
This simple and flavorful recipe is a great way to prepare the Asian green, bok choy, with a savory tamari sauce. Perfect as a side dish or added to noodles or stir-fries.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy (about 4-6 leaves)
– 2 tablespoons of tamari sauce
– 2 tablespoons of water
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy under cold running water, then pat dry with a paper towel.
2. Cut off the base of the stems and separate the leaves from the stalks.
3. Place the leaves in a steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
4. In a small saucepan, combine tamari sauce, water, and sesame oil. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Steam the bok choy for 3-5 minutes or until tender.
6. Serve the bok choy with the warm tamari sauce spooned over the top. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Toasted Pine Nuts
This recipe brings together the sweetness of bok choy and the crunch of toasted pine nuts, perfect for a quick and easy side dish. The steaming process preserves the delicate flavor and texture of the greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch of bok choy (about 4-5 stalks)
– 2 tablespoons of water
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup of pine nuts, toasted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the bok choy and trim the ends.
2. Place the bok choy in a steamer basket over boiling water.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and steam for 4-5 minutes, or until the stalks are tender.
4. Meanwhile, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat.
5. Add the toasted pine nuts and cook, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
6. Season the bok choy with salt to taste.
7. Serve the steamed bok choy topped with the toasted pine nut mixture.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Steamed Bok Choy with Fresh Herbs
This recipe showcases the natural sweetness of bok choy, enhanced by the bright flavors of fresh herbs. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 bunch bok choy, cleaned and separated into leaves and stems
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Fill a medium saucepan with the water and bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer, add the bok choy leaves and stems, cover, and steam for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, mint, and cilantro.
4. Remove the bok choy from the saucepan and place on a plate. Drizzle with the herb mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering ways to steam bok choy, a nutrient-rich Asian green. From savory to sweet, these recipes showcase the versatility of this healthy ingredient. Try garlic ginger steamed bok choy for an aromatic side dish or soy sauce glazed for a flavorful main course. Other options include sesame oil steamed, chili garlic steamed, and honey soy steamed, among many more. Elevate your meals with simple yet impressive dishes that highlight the tender crunch of steamed bok choy. Get inspired to create a healthier and tastier you with these delicious recipes!
