These Stuffed Baby Bok Choy Cups are a delicate and sophisticated appetizer, perfect for fine dining or elegant gatherings. The tender bok choy leaves serve as natural cups, filled with a savory mixture of minced chicken, soy sauce, and sesame oil, then finished with fresh cilantro for a refined touch. Light, flavorful, and beautifully plated, this dish is ideal for anyone looking to elevate their appetizer game.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Elegant & Unique – A visually striking dish with a gourmet presentation.
- Healthy & Light – A nutritious appetizer packed with protein and greens.
- Simple Yet Flavorful – The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil adds depth to the filling.
- No Heavy Ingredients – Perfect for a refined menu or wedding appetizer.
- Quick & Easy – Minimal ingredients with a fast prep time.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Baby bok choy, trimmed
- Cooked minced chicken
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Directions
- Steam the Bok Choy: Steam the baby bok choy until slightly tender, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, mix the cooked minced chicken with soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Assemble the Cups: Gently separate the bok choy leaves and spoon the chicken mixture into each one.
- Garnish & Serve: Arrange on a serving platter and top with fresh cilantro before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 (about 8-12 stuffed bok choy cups)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Vegetarian Version – Replace chicken with minced tofu or finely chopped mushrooms.
- Spicy Kick – Add a drizzle of sriracha or sprinkle with red pepper flakes.
- Crunchy Texture – Top with crushed peanuts or sesame seeds.
- Citrus Twist – Add a squeeze of fresh lime for a bright flavor boost.
- Sweet & Savory – Mix in a dash of honey or hoisin sauce for extra depth.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: Gently reheat in a pan over low heat or steam briefly to maintain texture.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as bok choy becomes too soft when frozen.
FAQs
What is bok choy?
Bok choy is a type of Chinese cabbage with crisp white stems and tender green leaves, often used in Asian cuisine.
Can I use regular bok choy instead of baby bok choy?
Yes, but baby bok choy is more tender and perfect for bite-sized appetizers.
Do I need to cook the filling beforehand?
Yes, the minced chicken should be fully cooked before mixing with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can steam the bok choy and prepare the filling ahead, then assemble just before serving.
What other proteins can I use?
Ground turkey, shrimp, or finely diced tofu all work well in place of chicken.
Can I serve these warm or cold?
Both work! These cups are delicious when served slightly warm or chilled.
How do I prevent the bok choy from becoming soggy?
Steam the bok choy just until tender and avoid overcooking. Cool them before filling to retain texture.
Can I add extra seasoning to the filling?
Absolutely! Try ginger, garlic, or a dash of fish sauce for extra umami.
What can I serve these with?
These stuffed bok choy cups pair well with dumplings, spring rolls, or a light soup for a complete appetizer course.
Are these gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make this dish completely gluten-free.
Conclusion
Stuffed Baby Bok Choy Cups are an elegant, healthy, and visually stunning appetizer that brings together delicate flavors and artistic presentation. Whether for a gourmet wedding reception, fine dining event, or an upscale dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Try this light yet flavorful recipe and bring a touch of sophistication to your next gathering!
