Side Dish: China – Guangdong – 蒜蓉炒小白菜 ➤ Suàn róng chǎo xiǎo báicài

Serving Size: 4

Approximate Time

Prep 10 min

Cook 10 min

Total 20 min

Ingredients

- 1 lb (450 g) baby bok choy, trimmed and halved lengthwise if large
- 3 cloves garlic (about 9 g), minced
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) vegetable oil
- 1 tsp (5 ml) light soy sauce
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) sugar
- 1/4 tsp (1.25 g) salt
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) water
- 1/2 tsp (2.5 ml) sesame oil
- 2 scallions, sliced (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Rinse bok choy in cold water, separate leaves if bunched, and trim bases. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
2. Blanch bok choy 20–40 seconds (larger stems longer) until bright green and just tender. Immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop cooking, then drain and pat dry.
3. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add vegetable oil and swirl to coat. Add minced garlic and stir-fry 15–20 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
4. Add the drained bok choy to the wok, tossing to coat with oil and garlic. Pour in the light soy sauce, sugar, and 2 tbsp water; toss and cover for 20–30 seconds to steam and finish wilting the stems.
5. Uncover and stir-fry 10–15 seconds more so excess water evaporates and flavors concentrate. Taste and adjust with the 1/4 tsp salt if needed.
6. Remove from heat, drizzle with sesame oil, toss once, transfer to a serving plate, and garnish with sliced scallions. Serve immediately.