This tasty stir-fried beef with bok choy is a quick and colorful dish. The crispy bok choy adds a nice crunch while the beef brings all the flavor.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef: I love using flank steak as it’s tender and flavorful when sliced against the grain. If you want a leaner option, consider using chicken or tofu for a vegetarian twist!
Bok Choy: Baby bok choy is perfect for this dish, but you can also use regular bok choy or even spinach if needed. Just remember to adjust cooking times since spinach wilts fast!
Onion: Yellow onions work best for sweetness. However, you can swap them for green onions or shallots if you’re after a milder flavor.
Oyster Sauce: If you’re vegetarian or allergic, try mushroom sauce instead. It offers a similar umami flavor without the seafood.
Red Chili: This adds a nice kick, but if you prefer a milder dish, feel free to leave it out or use bell pepper for sweetness instead.
How Do I Get My Beef Tender and Flavorful?
Marinating the beef is key to its tenderness! Coat it in cornstarch and soy sauce and let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes. This helps break down the fibers and adds flavor. Also, avoid overcooking it; just a few minutes in the hot pan will keep it juicy!
When you stir-fry, do it quickly over high heat, and don’t overcrowd the pan. If you do, the beef will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed for that delicious sear and flavor!
What’s the Best Way to Cook Bok Choy?
To keep bok choy nice and crunchy, stir-fry it for just a few minutes until the greens are wilted and the stems are tender but still crisp. This way, you’ll enjoy that lovely texture contrast in your dish.
- Start with oil and aromatics like garlic and onion. This builds flavor from the beginning.
- Add bok choy and stir-fry quickly over high heat. Aim for 3-4 minutes only!
Don’t forget to add the beef back in when the bok choy is just done. This keeps everything fresh and vibrant in your stir-fry!

The Best Bok Choy Stir-Fried Beef Dish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) beef sirloin or flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 lb (450g) baby bok choy, washed and halved lengthwise
- 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red chili, sliced (optional, for heat)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 cup beef or chicken broth (or water)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked white rice, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10-15 minutes prepping the ingredients and marinating the beef, and then about 15 minutes cooking. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Marinate the Beef:
In a bowl, mix the sliced beef with cornstarch and 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Allow it to marinate for about 10-15 minutes. This step helps tenderize the meat and boosts the flavor!
2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, mix together the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, broth, and sugar. Set this sauce aside; it will add a delicious flavor to your stir-fry.
3. Cook the Beef:
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot. Add the marinated beef and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, just until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the pan and set it aside.
4. Stir-Fry the Aromatics:
In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic, sliced onion, and the optional red chili. Stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes until everything is fragrant and the onions have begun to soften.
5. Cook the Bok Choy:
Add the bok choy to the pan and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. You want the greens to wilt but the crunchy stems to remain firm and delicious!
6. Combine Everything:
Return the beef to the pan, and pour in the sauce mixture. Stir everything together, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until the beef is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly, coating all the ingredients nicely.
7. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This is your dish, so make it just the way you like it!
8. Serve It Up:
Serve your vibrant stir-fried beef with bok choy hot over a bed of steamed white rice. Enjoy every bite of this delicious meal!
Now you have a hearty and flavorful dish to share with family or friends. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat for This Stir-Fry?
Absolutely! You can substitute flank steak with chicken breast, pork tenderloin, or even shrimp. Just adjust the cooking time according to the protein you choose, ensuring it’s cooked through but still tender!
Can I Make This Recipe Without Soy Sauce?
Yes! If you need a soy-free option, consider using coconut aminos or tamari (if you’re gluten-free). They provide a similar salty and savory flavor that complements the dish well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
What Can I Serve This With Besides Rice?
You can serve this stir-fry over quinoa, cauliflower rice, or even noodles for a different twist! Pairing with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also works wonderfully!
