Description
Discover the ultimate guide to roasting baby bok choy for a delightfully crispy and tender side dish. This simple recipe features halved bok choy tossed in olive oil, garlic, and seasonings, then roasted to perfection in the oven until edges become crispy and stalks remain juicy. Perfectly seasoned with optional sesame oil, soy sauce, and garnished with toasted sesame seeds and red pepper flakes, this Asian-inspired vegan and gluten-free dish is a quick and healthy addition to any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 1 ½ pounds baby bok choy (about 6–8 heads), halved lengthwise
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional)
- ½ teaspoon sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce or tamari (optional)
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
- Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ease cleanup.
- Prepare the bok choy: Rinse the baby bok choy thoroughly under cold water, ensuring all grit is removed from between the leaves; then pat dry completely. Slice each bok choy head in half lengthwise for uniform roasting.
- Toss with seasoning: In a large bowl, combine the bok choy halves with olive oil, optional sesame oil, sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and minced garlic. Toss until each piece is evenly coated, ensuring a flavorful roast.
- Arrange on baking sheet: Place the bok choy cut-side down on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding to promote even cooking and crispness.
- Roast the bok choy: Roast in the preheated oven for 15 to 18 minutes, flipping the bok choy halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness on both sides. The edges should become crispy while the stalks stay tender.
- Season and garnish: Once roasted, remove from the oven and lightly drizzle with soy sauce or tamari if desired. Finish by sprinkling toasted sesame seeds and a pinch of red pepper flakes for texture and subtle heat.
Notes
- For extra crispiness, space the bok choy pieces evenly on the baking pan without overcrowding.
- Add a splash of rice vinegar before roasting for a slight tangy flavor.
- To increase spiciness, use more red pepper flakes or drizzle chili oil before serving.
- This recipe works well with tamari for a gluten-free option.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
