Stir-Fried Choy Sum with Savory Oyster Sauce
Discover the vibrant flavors of Stir-Fried Choy Sum with Savory Oyster Sauce. This quick and easy vegetable dish showcases the delicate texture and mild taste of choy sum, perfectly complemented by the umami richness of oyster sauce. Ideal as a side dish to accompany your favorite protein or served over rice, this recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, it's a versatile addition to any meal. Enjoy the fresh and crisp goodness of this beautiful green vegetable!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
4
Ingredients
Ingredients
Choy Sum
300 (Trimmed and washed)
Vegetable Oil
1 (For cooking)
Garlic
1 (Finely chopped)
Oyster Sauce
1 (For flavoring)
Instructions
1
Begin by bringing a large pot of water to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the choy sum and blanch for 30 seconds until bright green. Immediately drain and set aside to retain its vibrant color and freshness.
2
In a preheated wok or deep pan, add the vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for approximately 30 seconds, or until golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3
Gently add the blanched choy sum to the wok, tossing it with the garlic for about 1 minute until it is heated through and slightly wilted.
4
Pour in the oyster sauce, tossing the vegetables to evenly coat them. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve immediately as a delightful side dish.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Choy Sum?
Choy sum is a leafy green vegetable frequently used in Chinese cooking, known for its tender stems and small yellow flowers.
Is this dish healthy?
Yes, Choy Sum is rich in vitamins and minerals, and this stir-fry uses minimal oil to maintain a nutritious profile.
What does oyster sauce taste like?
It has a savory, salty, and slightly sweet flavor with a deep umami profile that complements green vegetables perfectly.
Can I substitute Choy Sum?
Yes, Bok Choy or Gai Lan make excellent substitutes for Choy Sum in this recipe if it is unavailable.
How should I clean Choy Sum?
Rinse the stalks thoroughly under cold water to remove any grit and trim the very base of the stems.
Why is blanching necessary?
Blanching preserves the bright green color and ensures the stems are tender and cooked through before the final stir-fry.
How long do I blanch the vegetables?
Blanch the Choy Sum for approximately 30 seconds in boiling water until it is bright green.
What oil should I use?
Any neutral vegetable oil like canola, peanut, or sunflower oil works well for high-heat cooking.
Can I use minced garlic from a jar?
While you can, freshly chopped garlic provides a much more potent aroma and flavor for this specific dish.
How do I avoid burning the garlic?
Sauté the garlic for only 30 seconds over medium-high heat until it becomes fragrant and slightly golden.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
Simply replace the traditional oyster sauce with a vegetarian mushroom-based oyster sauce.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Many oyster sauces contain wheat, so ensure you use a certified gluten-free brand to make this dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Can I add ginger to this?
Yes, adding a teaspoon of finely minced ginger along with the garlic adds a wonderful zing and depth of flavor.
What goes well with this dish?
It is perfect as a side for steamed jasmine rice, grilled chicken, pan-seared fish, or marinated tofu.
Do I need a wok to make this?
While a wok is ideal for high-heat stir-frying, a large deep skillet or heavy-bottomed pan will also work well.
How long does the stir-frying take?
Once the vegetables are blanched, the final stir-frying and coating in sauce takes only 2 to 3 minutes.
Can I add sesame oil?
A few drops of toasted sesame oil added at the very end provides a delicious, nutty aroma to the finished dish.
Is this dish spicy?
The standard recipe is mild, but you can easily add chili flakes or sliced bird's eye chilies if you prefer some heat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for the best quality.
What is the best way to reheat?
Reheat quickly in a hot pan over high heat to avoid overcooking the greens and making them mushy.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Fresh Choy Sum is strongly recommended to maintain the crisp-tender texture that characterizes a good stir-fry.
Which parts of the plant are edible?
The leafy greens, the crunchy stems, and the small flower buds are all edible and provide different textures.
Can I use olive oil?
You can, but a neutral vegetable oil is preferred to keep the flavor profile authentic to Chinese cuisine.
What if the sauce is too thick?
If the oyster sauce is too thick to coat the vegetables, thin it with a tablespoon of water or vegetable broth in the pan.
Does Choy Sum have a strong taste?
No, it has a very mild and slightly sweet flavor, making it an accessible green for those who dislike bitter vegetables.
Should I add salt?
Oyster sauce is naturally salty, so it is best to taste the dish before adding any additional salt.
Is this dish low in calories?
Yes, as a vegetable-heavy dish with light seasoning, it is generally considered low in calories and fat.
Can I prepare this in bulk?
Yes, but cook in batches to ensure the vegetables stir-fry properly rather than steaming in an overcrowded pan.
How do I trim Choy Sum?
Simply cut off the bottom half-inch of the stems and remove any leaves that look yellowed or wilted.
Is this a fast recipe?
Including prep and blanching, the entire dish can be prepared and served in under 10 minutes.