Pac Choi, also known as Bok Choy, is a versatile and nutrient-packed vegetable that has been a staple in Asian cuisine for centuries. With its crisp white stems and tender green leaves, Pac Choi offers both flavor and health benefits, making it a must-have ingredient in any kitchen. Whether you’re stir-frying, grilling, or incorporating it into soups, Pac Choi is an ingredient worth exploring.

What is Pac Choi?

Pac Choi is a type of Chinese cabbage with a mild, slightly mustard-like flavor. Its leaves resemble Swiss chard, while its crunchy stems can be used similarly to celery. This vegetable thrives in cool, moist environments, making it a perfect addition to fall and spring dishes.

Nutritional Benefits of Pac Choi

Packed with vitamins and minerals, Pac Choi is a powerhouse of nutrition:

Rich in Vitamins A and C: Supports healthy skin and a robust immune system.
Calcium and Potassium: Essential for bone health and muscle function.
Low in Calories: A perfect choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.

How to Cook Pac Choi

Pac Choi’s versatility shines in the kitchen. Here are some tips and recipes to inspire you:

Basic Stir-Fry

Combine Pac Choi with broccoli, carrots, or kohlrabi.
Stir-fry in a wok with vegetable or peanut oil.
Add cooked rice for a hearty fried-rice dish.

Grilled Pac Choi

Slice Pac Choi in half, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
Grill until the stems are tender and slightly charred for a smoky flavor.

Wilted Pac Choi

Sauté with garlic and olive oil.
Add a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for a savory twist.

Featured Recipe: Pac Choi & Broccoli with Roasted Garlic and Mushrooms

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

3 tbsp canola or peanut oil
1 bulb roasted garlic
1 head Pac Choi leaves and stems separated
½ lb broccoli chopped
1½ cups chopped onion
10 shiitake mushrooms stemmed and quartered
¼ tsp salt
1 tsp fresh minced garlic
Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Roast garlic until golden and fragrant.
Heat oil in a large skillet or wok. Add onions and mushrooms, cooking for 2 minutes.
Stir in Pac Choi stems, broccoli, and salt. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Add Pac Choi leaves and 1½ tbsp water. Cover and simmer until tender.
Toss with fresh and roasted garlic, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Gardening Tips for Pac Choi

Pac Choi is not just a kitchen favorite—it’s also a rewarding crop to grow.

Zones 2–8: Plant in summer for a fall harvest. Use row covers to protect against frost.
Zones 9–10: Grow in the cooler months of fall and spring to avoid heat stress.
Container Gardening: Use a pot at least 20″ deep and mulch to retain moisture.

More Recipe Ideas

Stir-Fried Pac Choi with Garlic and Ginger
- Heat olive oil, add minced garlic and ginger, then toss in Pac Choi. Stir-fry until tender and serve with soy sauce.
Chinese Chicken Noodle Soup
- Add Pac Choi to chicken broth with noodles and garlic chives for a comforting meal.
Three-Pea Stir-Fry
- Swap peas for greens like Pac Choi, kale, or spinach, and stir-fry with garlic, ginger, and chilies.

Why Choose Pac Choi for Your Kitchen?

Pac Choi is more than just a vegetable—it’s a gateway to healthier meals and vibrant flavors. Its adaptability to various cooking methods and its nutritional profile make it an essential ingredient for modern kitchens.

Next time you’re looking to elevate your dishes, turn to Pac Choi. From stir-fries to soups, this Asian cabbage is ready to transform your meals into something extraordinary.