| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 15 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 110 | 9g | 1g | 7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 2g | 2g | 5g | 1.16g |
Every time I cook my Grilled Bok Choy with Soy Sauce and Sesame Seeds, memories of growing up in Texas and exploring my culinary prowess take center stage. I’ve always been fascinated by the rich intermingling of flavors in Tex-Mex cuisine, a sentiment that finds its way into each dish I prepare. This particular recipe, however, draws its inspiration from Asian culinary traditions, marrying it beautifully with a little Southern kick.
Stepping into Tex-Mex Culinary Territory
There is a universal thing about food; it is a portal that can transport you anywhere in the world. This Grilled Bok Choy with Soy Sauce and Sesame Seeds is a dish that somehow, despite its Asian roots, reminds me of home. Perhaps it’s the grilling, which is an ever-present cooking method in Tex-Mex dishes, or maybe it’s the alchemy of flavors that so closely mimic the bold and savory notes we adore in the South.
The Nutritional Perks of Bok Choy
Beyond its delectable taste, this dish offers plenty of health benefits. As a teacher, I am always conscious of creating nutritious meals. Bok Choy, a type of Chinese cabbage, is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It’s rich in Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Vitamin A, calcium and fiber, making it an excellent nutrient-dense option. The sesame seeds bring additional calcium, fiber, and healthy fats.
Garlic and ginger, besides adding an extra burst of flavor, are beneficial too. Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, while ginger offers a host of benefits including anti-inflammatory effects and digestive health.
Complementing the Grilled Bok Choy
This recipe is quite versatile, fitting comfortably as a side dish with a variety of main courses. Its flavors beautifully complement teriyaki preparations, grilled fish dishes, or even a robust Gochujang roast chicken. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your perfect pairing!
In its simplicity, the Grilled Bok Choy with Soy Sauce and Sesame Seeds encapsulates the joy I find in revamping age-old recipes to suits contemporary tastes. It harmonizes East Asian and Southern flavors, uniting them in a nutritional and culinary triumph. It’s a continual reminder of why I am so deeply in love with the art of cooking.
What You’ll Need
- 6 heads of baby bok choy, halved lengthwise
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons of sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger
- 1/4 cup of sesame seeds
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Method
Step One
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Be sure to clean the grates well to avoid any sticking.
Step Two
Rinse the bok choy under cold running water to remove any dirt or grit. Pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel. Then, slice each head in half lengthwise.
Step Three
In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, minced garlic, grated ginger, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix all the ingredients together.
Step Four
Brush the bok choy halves with this mixture and place them on the preheated grill. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the leaves are slightly charred and the stems are tender.
Step Five
While the bok choy is grilling, toast the sesame seeds in a dry skillet over medium heat, shaking the pan occasionally for evenly toasting. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn them; they should be lightly golden.
Step Six
Once the bok choy is done, remove them from the grill and place on a serving platter. Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds on top. Serve warm and enjoy this healthy and delicious side dish!
