Bok Choy Stir Fry Beef
This Bok Choy Stir-Fried Beef is the kind of dinner that tastes like takeout but feels completely guilt-free. Tender slices of lean beef are tossed with crisp bok choy, red bell pepper, and a savory garlic-ginger sauce that’s both light and satisfying.
The entire dish comes together in under 20 minutes, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. Packed with nutrients and protein, this stir-fry is naturally low in calories and WW-friendly.
Whether served with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option or brown rice for a wholesome meal, it’s a quick, delicious way to bring Asian-inspired flavors to your table.
Quick Recipe Overview
| Prep Time: | 5 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time: | 15 minutes |
| Total Time: | 20 minutes |
| Servings: | 4 |
| Course: | Main Course |
| Cuisine: | Asian |
| Difficulty: | Easy |
| Calories: | 220 kcal |
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 20 minutes from start to finish.
- Nutritious and balanced: Packed with lean protein, vitamins, and fiber.
- Customizable: Can be made with chicken, shrimp, or tofu instead of beef.
- Low-carb friendly: Great with cauliflower rice or on its own.
- WW-approved: A healthy, flavorful meal that fits your wellness goals.
Bok Choy Stir-Fried Beef Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Bok Choy Stir-Fried Beef is a quick, healthy, and flavorful Asian-inspired dinner ready in under 20 minutes. Tender lean beef and crisp bok choy come together in a savory garlic-ginger sauce for the perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean flank steak, trimmed of fat and thinly sliced
- 4 cups baby bok choy, chopped (stems and leaves separated)
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, +1 point)
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional, for heat)
- Cooking spray
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
1. In a bowl, toss sliced beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce and cornstarch. Let marinate for 5 minutes.
2. In another bowl, whisk together remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, water, hoisin sauce (if using), and sriracha. Set aside.
3. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Spray lightly with cooking spray and add garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
5. Re-spray the skillet, add bok choy stems and bell pepper, and cook for 2 minutes. Add bok choy leaves and cook 1–2 minutes more until wilted.
6. Return beef to skillet and pour in the sauce. Stir well and cook another 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens.
7. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over cauliflower rice or brown rice.
Notes
For gluten-free: use tamari or coconut aminos.
Slice beef thinly across the grain for tenderness.
Add mushrooms, broccoli, or snow peas for extra veggies.
Double the sauce for more to drizzle over rice or noodles.
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet with a splash of water.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean flank steak (trimmed of fat, thinly sliced)
- 4 cups baby bok choy (chopped, stems and leaves separated)
- 1 medium red bell pepper (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger (grated)
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch (or arrowroot powder)
- ½ cup water
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (optional, +1 point)
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional, for heat)
- Cooking spray
- Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Ingredient Tips Table
| Ingredient | Tip Example |
|---|---|
| Flank steak | Slice thinly across the grain for maximum tenderness. |
| Bok choy | Separate stems and leaves for even cooking texture. |
| Soy sauce | Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option. |
| Ginger & garlic | Freshly minced adds authentic depth and aroma. |
| Hoisin sauce | Adds sweetness and richness if desired. |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the beef and sauce: Toss the sliced beef with 1 tbsp soy sauce and cornstarch. Let it marinate for 5 minutes. In another bowl, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, water, hoisin sauce (if using), and sriracha. Set aside.
- Stir-fry aromatics: Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat and spray lightly with cooking spray. Add garlic and ginger, stir-frying for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Cook the beef: Add marinated beef and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: Re-spray the skillet, add bok choy stems and bell pepper, and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Add bok choy leaves and cook another 1–2 minutes until slightly wilted.
- Combine everything: Return beef to the skillet, pour in the sauce, and toss to coat. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and everything is evenly coated.
- Serve and garnish: Top with green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot over cauliflower rice or brown rice.
Helpful Tips
- Slice beef thinly while it’s still slightly frozen for easier cutting.
- Use a wok or large non-stick skillet for best stir-fry results.
- Avoid overcooking the bok choy leaves to keep them bright and crisp.
- Double the sauce if you prefer extra drizzle for rice or noodles.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
- Use high heat: Stir-frying at high temperature seals in flavor and prevents sogginess.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook beef in batches for the perfect sear.
- Add crunch: Sprinkle roasted peanuts or cashews for texture.
- Meal prep tip: Store the sauce separately to keep the veggies crisp for reheating.
Recipe Variations
- Chicken Bok Choy Stir-Fry: Substitute chicken breast for beef for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Version: Use tofu or tempeh instead of meat.
- Extra Spicy: Add chili oil or more sriracha to the sauce.
- No-Soy Option: Replace soy sauce with coconut aminos and skip hoisin sauce.
Make Ahead & Freezer Tips
You can slice the beef and prep the sauce up to a day ahead. Store both in the fridge until ready to cook. For freezing, cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stove with a splash of water or broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this stir-fry over cauliflower rice for a low-carb meal, or enjoy it with brown rice, jasmine rice, or soba noodles. It also pairs beautifully with a side of steamed dumplings or egg drop soup.
Pairing Ideas
Enjoy with a cold sparkling water with lime or a light green tea. For a complete Asian-inspired dinner, serve alongside Vegetable Spring Rolls or Miso Soup.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a little water to keep the sauce glossy. Avoid microwaving for too long to maintain the beef’s tenderness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use another type of beef?
Yes, sirloin or skirt steak also works well for this stir-fry.
2. How do I keep the beef tender?
Slice it thinly against the grain and avoid overcooking.
3. What can I substitute for bok choy?
Baby spinach, napa cabbage, or kale are good alternatives.
4. Can I make it spicy?
Add extra sriracha or crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
5. Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, just use tamari instead of soy sauce and check your hoisin label.
6. What’s the best way to meal prep this?
Keep sauce, protein, and veggies separate until reheating for best results.
7. Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.
Nutrition Info
| Serving Size: | 1 bowl |
|---|---|
| Calories: | 220 kcal |
| Protein: | 25g |
| Carbohydrates: | 8g |
| Fat: | 8g |
| Fiber: | 2g |
| WW SmartPoints: | 6 (with lean beef), 7 (with hoisin) |
Nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on ingredients used. Consult a nutritionist for specific dietary advice.
Author’s Note
Hola! This Bok Choy Stir-Fried Beef is one of my favorite quick dinners when I want something healthy but bold in flavor. I love how it comes together so fast yet tastes like it took hours. The combination of garlic, ginger, and sesame oil gives it that irresistible Asian takeout vibe right from my Florida kitchen.
Final Thoughts
This Bok Choy Stir-Fried Beef is fresh, flavorful, and packed with nutrients, perfect for busy nights or light meal prep. Whether you enjoy it low-carb or over rice, it’s a meal you’ll make again and again. For more Asian-inspired dinners, try my Dragon Chicken Recipe or Sticky Garlic Chicken Noodles.
