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Stir-Fried Pak Choi Recipe with Garlic and Chilli

pak choi recipe

Today, we're sharing a delightful Pak Choi recipe with garlic and chilli. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a light, refreshing side. The vibrant greens of the pak choi paired with the aromatic garlic and spicy chilli create a flavourful combination that's sure to please your taste buds.

History

Pak choi, often referred to as bok choy, has a rich history as a staple in Chinese cuisine. This leafy green vegetable has been cultivated for thousands of years, dating back to ancient China. It's cherished not only for its mild, slightly sweet flavour but also for its impressive nutritional profile. Packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as calcium and iron, pak choi is both a delicious and healthful addition to any meal.

Serving Suggestions

This stir-fried pak choi is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas on how to serve it:

  • As a Side Dish: Serve alongside a main course such as grilled chicken, beef stir-fry, or a piece of steamed fish.
  • Over Rice or Noodles: Place it over a bed of jasmine rice, brown rice, or rice noodles for a complete meal.
  • With a Protein: Add tofu, shrimp, or slices of beef to the stir-fry to make it more substantial.
  • Topped with a Poached Egg: For an extra layer of richness, top the pak choi with a poached egg and let the yolk mingle with the sauce.

Storing Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This dish will keep well for up to three days. If you plan to keep it longer, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Be sure to cool the pak choi completely before sealing it for storage.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, place the pak choi in a pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water to help revive the sauce and prevent the vegetables from drying out. Heat for 3-4 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy this simple yet flavourful stir-fried pak choi with garlic and chilli. It's a wonderful way to incorporate more greens into your diet while enjoying a burst of fresh flavours. Let us know how you liked this recipe in the comments below, and feel free to share any variations you tried. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more delicious recipes and cooking tips!

How to Make Pak Choi Recipe

Cooking Method
Cuisine
Courses
Difficulty Beginner
Time
Prep Time: 5 mins Cook Time: 5 mins Total Time: 10 mins
Cooking Temp 150  °C
Servings 2
Calories 132 kcal per serving
Best Season Spring
Dietary dairy-free, Gluten-Free, Vegan, vegetarian
Description

This stir-fried pak choi recipe with garlic and chilli is a quick and flavourful dish perfect as a side or light main course. The fresh, crisp texture of pak choi is beautifully complemented by the aromatic flavours of garlic and chilli. Ready in just 10 minutes, it's a nutritious and delicious addition to any meal.

Ingredients
  • 300 g pak choi (approximately 3-4 medium heads)
  • 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
  • 1 red chilli (finely chopped, adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional for extra umami)
  • 1 tsp fish sauce (optional)
  • 2 tbsp water
  • Sesame seeds (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
    Prepare the Pak Choi:
  1. Separate and Clean the Pak Choi

    Cut a thick slice from the pak choi root to separate the leaves.
    Rinse thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt, then drain and set aside.

  2. Cook the Aromatics:
  3. Heat the Oil

    Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or deep pan over medium heat.

  4. Add Garlic and Chilli

    Add the chopped garlic and chilli, stirring quickly for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

  5. Stir-Fry the Pak Choi:
  6. Add Pak Choi

    Add the pak choi to the wok, tossing to coat with the garlic and chilli.

  7. Add Sauces and Water

    Pour in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and water. Stir to combine.

  8. Cook the Pak Choi

    Cover the wok with a lid and cook for 3-4 minutes until the pak choi leaves are wilted but the stems remain crisp-tender.

  9. Finish and Serve:
  10. Add Optional Sauces

    If using, add the oyster sauce and fish sauce, stirring to combine.

  11. Thicken Sauce

    Cook for an additional 30 seconds to 1 minute until the pak choi is evenly coated and the sauce is slightly thickened.

  12. Garnish and Serve

    Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with sesame seeds if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 2


Amount Per Serving
Calories 132kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 9g14%
Saturated Fat 1g5%
Sodium 580mg25%
Potassium 500mg15%
Total Carbohydrate 10g4%
Dietary Fiber 3g12%
Sugars 2g
Protein 4g8%

Vitamin A 2200 IU
Vitamin C 45 mg
Calcium 150 mg
Iron 1.5 mg
Vitamin E 0.5 IU
Vitamin K 45 mcg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note
  • Adjust the amount of chilli to your taste preference for a milder or spicier dish.
  • For a vegetarian version, omit the fish sauce and oyster sauce or substitute with more soy sauce or a dash of hoisin sauce.
  • Ensure the pak choi leaves are thoroughly rinsed to remove any dirt or grit.
  • This dish is best served immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the pak choi.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) during the final cooking step.
Keywords: pak choi recipe, stir-fried pak choi, garlic pak choi, chilli pak choi, quick side dish, healthy vegetable dish, Asian vegetable stir-fry, easy pak choi recipe, vegan stir-fry, spicy pak choi
Fiona O'Sullivan

Fiona O'Sullivan is the passionate editor of Great Food Ireland, a popular blog dedicated to celebrating traditional Irish cuisine and culinary heritage. With a rich background in food writing and a deep love for Ireland's gastronomic culture, Fiona brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm to her role. She curates authentic recipes, shares culinary stories, and explores the vibrant food scene across Ireland. Fiona's dedication to promoting Irish food traditions has made Great Food Ireland a beloved resource for food enthusiasts around the world.