How to Make Bok Choy and Shrimp Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide

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Introduction

Looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal? This Bok Choy and Shrimp Recipe is the perfect combination of tender shrimp, crisp-tender bok choy, and savory garlic-ginger sauce, all stir-fried to perfection in just 20 minutes!

This dish is Asian-inspired, packed with protein and vitamins, and naturally low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for a nutritious and satisfying meal. The bold flavors of soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes give it a delicious umami depth, while the crunchy bok choy and juicy shrimp provide the perfect texture contrast.

In this step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through:
✔️ How to prepare bok choy and shrimp properly
✔️ The best stir-frying techniques for maximum flavor
✔️ Tips to customize the dish based on your preferences

Let’s dive in and create a restaurant-quality stir-fry right at home! 🍤🥬🔥

Why You’ll Love This Bok Choy and Shrimp Recipe

This Bok Choy and Shrimp Recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, healthy meal without compromising on flavor. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Quick & Easy

No time to cook? No problem! This dish comes together in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. A simple stir-fry technique ensures you get a delicious meal with minimal effort.

🥗 Healthy & Nutritious

Packed with lean protein from shrimp and essential vitamins from bok choy, this recipe is not only tasty but also low in carbs and high in fiber. It’s a great option for anyone following a keto, gluten-free, or low-calorie diet.

🍜 Flavorful & Versatile

This dish is bursting with savory, garlicky, and slightly spicy flavors thanks to the combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh aromatics. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or enjoy it as a standalone stir-fry—it’s incredibly flexible to suit your cravings.

🛒 Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Taste

You only need a handful of pantry staples like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger to create an authentic Asian-inspired dish. Plus, shrimp and bok choy are widely available and affordable, making this a budget-friendly meal.

This recipe proves that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated! Ready to start cooking? Let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need. ⬇️🔥

Ingredients You’ll Need

Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s go over the key ingredients for this Bok Choy and Shrimp Recipe. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a flavorful, restaurant-quality stir-fry at home!

🥬 Main Ingredients

These essential ingredients form the foundation of this dish:

  • Bok Choy – A nutrient-packed leafy green that adds a crisp, fresh texture.
  • Shrimp – Tender and juicy, shrimp provides lean protein and absorbs flavors beautifully.
  • Garlic & Ginger – Classic aromatics that enhance the dish with bold, fragrant flavors.
  • Soy Sauce – Adds savory umami depth while seasoning the dish.
  • Sesame Oil – Infuses the stir-fry with a rich, nutty aroma.

🔥 Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

Want to level up your stir-fry? Try adding:

  • Red Pepper Flakes – For a touch of heat and spice.
  • Mushrooms – Shiitake or cremini mushrooms add an earthy umami flavor.
  • Oyster Sauce – Enhances the dish with a slightly sweet and rich umami boost.
  • Hoisin Sauce – Adds a hint of sweetness and depth.

🍤 Best Shrimp to Use

  • Fresh vs. Frozen: Fresh shrimp is ideal, but if using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.
  • Peeled & Deveined: Saves time and effort in preparation.
  • Size Matters: Medium to large shrimp work best for this stir-fry, providing a meaty bite.

🥦 Choosing the Right Bok Choy

  • Baby Bok Choy: More tender with a mild, sweet flavor—perfect for stir-fries.
  • Regular Bok Choy: Larger with thicker stalks; slice into smaller pieces for even cooking.

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking process! 🔥🍤🥬


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 3 cups bok choy, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1-inch piece ginger, grated
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)

Optional Additions

  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for spice)
  • ½ cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 tbsp oyster sauce (for extra umami)
  • 1 tsp hoisin sauce (for a touch of sweetness)

📌 Recipe Details

Prep TimeCook TimeTotal TimeServingsYield
10 minutes10 minutes20 minutes44 servings

📊 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

CaloriesProteinCarbohydratesFatFiberSodium
~210 kcal24g7g9g2g450mg

Key Features

✔️ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 20 minutes!
✔️ Healthy & Low-Carb – Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber.
✔️ Flavorful & Versatile – Serve over rice, noodles, or enjoy on its own.
✔️ Minimal Ingredients – Uses pantry staples for a simple yet delicious meal.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Bok Choy and Shrimp

Follow this easy step-by-step guide to make a flavorful and healthy Bok Choy and Shrimp Recipe in just 20 minutes!

🔪 Preparing the Ingredients

Proper prep ensures a smooth cooking process:

  • Clean the Bok Choy: Rinse thoroughly under running water to remove dirt. Pat dry and chop into bite-sized pieces.
  • Devein the Shrimp: If using fresh shrimp, remove the shells and devein them by making a small slit along the back and pulling out the dark vein.
  • Chop the Aromatics: Mince garlic and grate ginger to enhance the dish’s flavor.

🔥 Cooking the Shrimp

Achieve perfectly seared, juicy shrimp with these steps:

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add shrimp in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
  3. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and slightly golden.
  4. Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.

📌 Tip: Avoid overcooking—shrimp cooks fast! Once they curl and turn opaque, they’re done.


🥬 Stir-Frying the Bok Choy

To achieve crisp-tender bok choy with bright color and great texture:

  1. In the same pan, add 1 teaspoon sesame oil and toss in the garlic and ginger. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Add chopped bok choy, stirring frequently. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the stems are tender yet still crisp.

📌 Tip: If using baby bok choy, cook the thicker stems first, then add the leafy parts last to prevent overcooking.


🍛 Combining Everything

Now, bring all the flavors together!

  1. Return the cooked shrimp to the pan.
  2. Drizzle in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and a splash of oyster sauce (optional) for extra umami.
  3. Toss everything together for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the sauce coats the shrimp and bok choy evenly.
  4. Finish with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat (optional) and a drizzle of sesame oil for a nutty aroma.

🔥 Your Bok Choy and Shrimp Stir-Fry is now ready to serve! Enjoy it over steamed rice, noodles, or on its own for a light and nutritious meal.

Tips for the Best Bok Choy and Shrimp Stir-Fry

Make your Bok Choy and Shrimp Stir-Fry taste restaurant-quality with these expert tips:

Use a Hot Wok or Skillet

  • A high heat prevents sogginess and helps sear the shrimp perfectly.
  • If using a wok, preheat it before adding oil to ensure even cooking.

Cook Shrimp and Bok Choy Separately

  • Shrimp cooks quickly, so remove it once pink and opaque to avoid a rubbery texture.
  • Bok choy requires slightly more time—cook the stems first, then add the leafy parts last.

Balance Flavors

  • Adjust the soy sauce, garlic, and spices according to your taste.
  • Add a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve over steamed jasmine rice for a classic pairing.
  • Try with stir-fried noodles or in a lettuce wrap for a low-carb option.
  • For a keto-friendly meal, pair with cauliflower rice or enjoy as-is.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this with frozen shrimp?

Yes! Just thaw frozen shrimp by running them under cold water for a few minutes or leaving them in the fridge overnight. Pat dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.

2. What’s the best substitute for soy sauce?

If you need a gluten-free or low-sodium alternative, try:

  • Tamari – A gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
  • Coconut aminos – A soy-free, slightly sweeter option.
  • Low-sodium soy sauce – For a healthier alternative without losing the umami flavor.

3. How do I store and reheat leftovers?

  • Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over medium heat to maintain texture. Avoid microwaving shrimp too long, as they can become rubbery.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Customizing the stir-fry adds variety. Great options include:

  • Mushrooms – For extra umami.
  • Bell peppers – Adds color and sweetness.
  • Snap peas or carrots – For a crisp texture.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Bok Choy and Shrimp Stir-Fry

  • Preheat the Pan: For the best sear, make sure your wok or skillet is hot before adding any ingredients.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Give shrimp and bok choy enough room to cook evenly. If needed, cook in batches.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger give the dish the most flavor. Fresh shrimp also make a difference in the texture and taste.
  • Control the Heat: Keep the heat high for quick stir-frying, but be sure not to burn the garlic or ginger.

You’ll Also Love

  • Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir-Fry: If you love the sweetness of this recipe, try a honey garlic version for a bit of extra flavor.
  • Garlic Butter Shrimp: For a rich and indulgent alternative, try this quick and easy shrimp recipe cooked in garlic butter.
  • Sesame Chicken Stir-Fry: If you’re a fan of stir-fries, check out this flavorful alternative featuring chicken instead of shrimp.

Conclusion

This Bok Choy and Shrimp recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. It’s packed with protein, low in carbs, and full of vibrant, delicious ingredients. With simple prep and cooking steps, you can enjoy a satisfying stir-fry in no time. Feel free to experiment with your own variations by adding different vegetables or adjusting the seasonings to suit your taste.

Give it a try and share your #BeesRecipes creations on Instagram! We can’t wait to see how you make this dish your own.