Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry

Name: Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 pound beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced; 1 package baby bok choy, about 1 lb; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; Optional: 1 tablespoon oyster sauce

Published: September 30, 2025

by Amelia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavorful Sauce: The ginger-garlic sauce adds a punch of flavor that enhances the natural taste of the beef and bok choy.
Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein and vegetables, this stir fry is both satisfying and healthy.
Versatile Dish: Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or swapping out the protein.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this savory dish, making it a great choice for family meals.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools and prepare your ingredients for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Wok or large skillet
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring spoons
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Wok or large skillet: Provides ample space for even cooking and allows you to stir-fry efficiently.
Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts for the beef and bok choy, which helps them cook evenly.

Ingredients

For the Beef

1 pound (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced across the grain

For the Vegetables

1 package (about 1 lb) baby bok choy, ends trimmed, leaves separated and rinsed

For Flavoring

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated

For Cooking

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)

How to Make Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice the beef thinly against the grain to ensure tenderness. Rinse the bok choy thoroughly after separating its leaves.

Step 2: Heat the Wok

Place your wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

Add the sliced beef to the hot wok:
1. Spread it out in a single layer for even cooking.
2. Sear for about 2-3 minutes until browned on one side.
3. Flip the beef slices using a spatula and cook for another minute until just cooked through. Remove from wok and set aside.

Step 4: Stir-Fry Bok Choy

In the same wok, add:
1. The minced garlic and grated ginger.
2. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the bok choy leaves. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until wilted but still bright green.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked beef to the wok:
1. Pour in soy sauce (and oyster sauce if using).
2. Toss everything together over high heat for an additional minute to combine flavors thoroughly.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and serve immediately over rice or noodles if desired. Enjoy your delicious Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry!

How to Serve Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry

Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you prefer it on its own or paired with other dishes, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

As a Standalone Dish

Enjoy the stir fry plain for a quick and satisfying meal rich in flavor and nutrients.

Over Rice

Serve over steamed rice, allowing the grains to soak up the delicious ginger-garlic sauce.

With Noodles

Pair with cooked noodles, such as rice noodles or egg noodles, for a hearty twist.

In Lettuce Wraps

Spoon the stir fry into fresh lettuce leaves for a refreshing and low-carb option.

Topped with Sesame Seeds

Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch and nutty flavor.

How to Perfect Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry

Perfecting your Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry is all about technique and timing. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Slice Meat Thinly: Cut beef against the grain into thin slices for tender pieces that cook quickly.
Preheat Your Pan: Make sure your pan is hot before adding oil; this helps sear the meat properly.
Use High Heat: Cooking on high heat ensures the beef stays juicy while achieving that perfect stir-fry texture.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of frying.
Add Ingredients in Stages: Start with beef, then add garlic and ginger, followed by bok choy for even cooking.
Finish with Sauce: Add sauces towards the end of cooking to prevent burning and maximize flavor absorption.

Best Side Dishes for Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry

Pairing your Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry with complementary sides can elevate your dining experience. Here’s a list of great side dishes to consider.

Steamed Jasmine Rice
A fragrant choice that pairs perfectly with stir fry. Cook until fluffy for best results.
Fried Rice
Use leftover rice mixed with vegetables or eggs for a quick side bursting with flavor.
Stir-Fried Vegetables
Create a colorful medley of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas seasoned lightly.
Cucumber Salad
A refreshing side made with sliced cucumbers, vinegar, and sesame oil for crunch.
Egg Drop Soup
A light soup that complements the richness of the stir fry while being easy to prepare.
Spring Rolls
Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables make an excellent appetizer or side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using Thick Cuts of Meat: Thinly slicing the beef across the grain ensures tenderness. Avoid using thick cuts, as they will not cook evenly and may become tough.
Overcooking Bok Choy: Cooking bok choy too long can make it mushy. Stir-fry just until tender-crisp to maintain its flavor and texture.
Neglecting to Marinate the Beef: Skipping marination can lead to less flavorful meat. Spend a little time marinating your beef in soy sauce for a deeper taste.
Not Prepping Ingredients Ahead: Failing to prepare all ingredients before cooking can disrupt the stir-frying process. Have everything ready to go so you can cook quickly and efficiently.
Using High Sodium Soy Sauce: Regular soy sauce can overpower the dish. Opt for low sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still enhancing flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15 minutes or until warm.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until heated through.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry?
Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry is a quick, flavorful dish featuring tender beef slices stir-fried with crisp bok choy in a savory ginger-garlic sauce.

How can I customize my Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry?
You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas, or use different sauces such as teriyaki or sweet chili for variety.

Can I use another protein instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute chicken, turkey, or lamb based on your preference.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge and reheats easily, making it a great option for meal prep.

Can I make this stir fry gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular soy sauce to keep it gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Beef and Bok Choy Stir Fry is not only delicious but also versatile. It allows for customization with various vegetables and proteins. Try it today for a quick weeknight dinner that’s packed with flavor!

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