Bok choy, with its tender leaves and subtly sweet flavor, is a versatile vegetable that lends itself beautifully to simple yet satisfying dishes. This recipe elevates the humble bok choy to a whole new level with the addition of fragrant fish paste, creating a savory and umami-rich experience that's perfect for a weeknight meal. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times – this dish is surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for even the busiest cooks. The balance of salty fish paste, slightly sweet bok choy, and a hint of garlic creates a flavour profile that's both comforting and exciting.
This incredibly simple recipe requires minimal ingredients and even less effort. You'll be surprised at how quickly you can whip up this delicious side or light meal. Ready to experience the magic of perfectly cooked bok choy infused with the savory depth of fish paste? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Tools Needed
- Steamer
Ingredients
- Shanghai Bok Choy
- Cuttlefish Paste (or Shrimp Paste/Fish Paste)
- Goji Berries
- Fish Soy Sauce
- Oil
- Salt
- White Pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Bok Choy and Fish Paste
- Remove the bok choy leaves, trim the edges, and flatten the base. If short on time, buy pre-cut bok choy.
- Prepare the fish paste (or use store-bought). If making your own shrimp paste, blend shrimp with salt and white pepper, then shape into a small ball.
Step 2. Assemble and Garnish
- Place the fish paste ball on top of the prepared bok choy. Add a few Goji berries for garnish.
Step 3. Steam the Bok Choy
- Steam over medium-high heat for 8 minutes (or longer for a larger fish ball).
Step 4. Finish and Serve
- Drizzle steamed fish soy sauce and hot smoking oil over the finished dish.
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Larger fish balls require an additional 2 minutes of steaming time.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the fish paste?
Yes! Shrimp paste or even a good quality soy sauce can work as substitutes, though the flavor will be slightly different. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.
2. What if I don't have garlic?
While garlic adds a nice depth of flavor, you can omit it entirely. The fish paste and bok choy will still shine!
This simple recipe proves that delicious food doesn't have to be complicated. Enjoy this easy and flavorful bok choy dish as a side or light meal, perfect for any occasion. We hope you enjoyed this recipe and encourage you to experiment with different variations to find your perfect balance of flavors!