Lean beef strips, crisp-tender bok choy, and a savory ginger-garlic soy sauce come together in a flash for this satisfying Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry. It’s fresh, fast, and full of flavor. The mild bitterness of bok choy balances beautifully with the umami of the sauce, and the beef adds satisfying protein that makes this dish feel complete. Served over rice or noodles, it’s a takeout-style dinner made healthier and faster at home.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Only one skillet and 25 minutes from start to finish.
Balanced, nutrient-dense, and packed with flavor.
Perfect for busy nights or quick lunches.
Bok choy adds texture and nutrition without overpowering.
High in protein, low in effort, and totally satisfying.
Ingredients for Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
Minimal ingredients, maximum impact—here’s the rundown.
Flank steak: This cut is tender and flavorful, perfect for quick cooking. Slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
Soy sauce: A staple in Asian cuisine, it adds depth and umami to the dish. Opt for low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
Cornstarch: This helps to tenderize the beef and create a nice glaze when stir-frying.
Vegetable oil: A neutral oil is best for high-heat cooking. You’ll need it to sauté the beef and vegetables.
Bok choy: This leafy green is not only nutritious but also adds a lovely crunch. Look for fresh, vibrant stalks.
Bell pepper: Any color works! It adds sweetness and a pop of color to your stir-fry.
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
Fresh ginger: A little goes a long way in adding warmth and spice. Mince it finely for the best flavor.
Oyster sauce: This thick sauce adds a rich, savory flavor. It’s a must for authentic taste.
Sesame oil: A drizzle at the end gives a nutty aroma that ties everything together.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste, enhancing all the flavors in your stir-fry.
Cooked rice or noodles: Serve your stir-fry over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
For those looking to mix things up, consider adding sliced water chestnuts or snap peas for extra crunch. If you prefer a different protein, chicken or tofu can be great substitutes. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry is straightforward and quick, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Step 1: Marinate the Beef
Start by taking your thinly sliced flank steak and placing it in a bowl. Add the soy sauce and cornstarch, mixing everything together until the beef is well-coated. This marinade not only adds flavor but also helps tenderize the meat. Let it sit for about 15 minutes. This little wait is worth it!
Step 2: Cook the Beef
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the marinated beef. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the beef is browned and cooked through. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want that nice sear! Once done, remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. This keeps it juicy and tender.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist! This step is crucial as it builds the flavor base for your stir-fry.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Now, it’s time to add the chopped bok choy and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry these vibrant veggies for about 3-4 minutes. You want them tender but still crisp. The bok choy will wilt slightly, while the bell pepper adds a sweet crunch. It’s a colorful sight!
Step 5: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked beef to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the oyster sauce and sesame oil, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through. This final step melds all the flavors beautifully, creating a dish that’s both savory and satisfying.
Tips for Success
Prep all your ingredients before starting to cook. It makes the process smoother.
Use a high smoke point oil for stir-frying to prevent burning.
Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary for that perfect sear.
Adjust the seasoning to your taste; feel free to add more soy sauce or spice.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Equipment Needed
Large skillet or wok: Essential for stir-frying. A non-stick skillet works well too.
Cutting board: A sturdy surface for slicing your ingredients.
Sharp knife: For easy and precise cutting of the beef and vegetables.
Mixing bowl: To marinate the beef and combine ingredients.
Spatula or wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and flipping during cooking.
Variations
Protein Swap: Substitute flank steak with chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
Vegetable Medley: Add other vegetables like snap peas, carrots, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate sliced jalapeños or a dash of chili sauce for a spicy version of this stir-fry.
Gluten-Free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice or noodles for a low-carb meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry over fluffy white rice or noodles for a hearty meal.
Pair with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.
A chilled Asian beer or green tea complements the flavors beautifully.
Garnish with sesame seeds or sliced green onions for an appealing presentation.
FAQs about Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry
Can I use a different cut of beef for this stir-fry?
Absolutely! While flank steak is my go-to for its tenderness, you can use sirloin or ribeye. Just remember to slice it thinly against the grain for the best texture.
How can I make this Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry spicier?
If you’re craving some heat, add sliced jalapeños or a splash of sriracha during the cooking process. It’ll give your dish a delightful kick!
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can marinate the beef a few hours in advance. Just keep it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. The flavors will deepen, making it even tastier!
What can I serve with Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry?
This stir-fry pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles. For a lighter option, try serving it over cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh salad.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Just reheat it in a skillet or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy in your kitchen. The vibrant colors and enticing aromas fill your home, making it feel warm and inviting. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet dinner alone, this dish is sure to brighten your day. Plus, the quick prep and cook time mean you can savor the experience without the stress. Dive in and enjoy the deliciousness!
A quick and tasty Beef and Bok Choy Stir-Fry recipe that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
1 pound flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
4 cups bok choy, chopped
1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions
In a bowl, combine the sliced flank steak, soy sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the garlic and ginger, stir-frying for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add the chopped bok choy and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Add the oyster sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2 minutes until heated through.
Serve the stir-fry over cooked rice or noodles.
Notes
For added crunch, toss in some sliced water chestnuts or snap peas during the vegetable stir-fry step.
Substitute the flank steak with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
