18 Delicious Choy Sum Recipes for Every Occasion

Welcome to your next culinary adventure with choy sum, the leafy green that’s about to become your kitchen’s best friend! Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, celebrating seasonal flavors, or craving some comfort food with a twist, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our roundup of 18 delicious choy sum recipes that promise to delight your taste buds and inspire your cooking. Let’s get started!

Stir-Fried Choy Sum with Garlic

Stir-Fried Choy Sum with Garlic is a vibrant, quick dish that brings a punch of flavor to your table in just minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Toss in the choy sum and stir-fry for 2 minutes, until the leaves start to wilt.
4. Add the soy sauce, sugar, and salt, continuing to stir-fry for another minute until the choy sum is tender-crisp and evenly coated with the seasonings.

The magic of this dish lies in the quick cooking that preserves the choy sum’s crisp texture, while the garlic infuses it with a deep, aromatic flavor.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle a little sesame oil over the dish just before serving.

Choy Sum with Oyster Sauce

Choy Sum with Oyster Sauce is a vibrant, quick stir-fry that brings a delightful crunch and savory depth to your table in minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon soy sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the choy sum to the wok and stir-fry for 2 minutes, until the leaves begin to wilt.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and water. Pour the sauce over the choy sum and continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes, ensuring the vegetables are evenly coated and the stems are tender-crisp.
4. Remove from heat and serve immediately. The magic of this dish lies in the balance between the crisp greens and the rich, umami-packed sauce, making it a standout side that complements any Asian-inspired meal.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.

Steamed Choy Sum with Ginger

Steamed Choy Sum with Ginger is a light, vibrant side dish that brings a touch of Asian flair to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and washed
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, julienned
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Fill a large pot with 2 inches of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Place a steamer basket inside.
2. Arrange the choy sum in the steamer basket, cover, and steam for 3 minutes until bright green and just tender.
3. While the choy sum steams, heat the vegetable oil in a small pan over medium heat. Add the ginger and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Transfer the steamed choy sum to a serving plate. Drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, and sprinkle with sugar and salt. Top with the sautéed ginger.
5. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

The julienned ginger not only adds a spicy kick but also creates a beautiful contrast against the tender greens, making this dish as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds over the top before serving.

Choy Sum and Mushroom Stir-Fry

Whip up this vibrant Choy Sum and Mushroom Stir-Fry for a quick, nutritious side that steals the spotlight with its crisp texture and savory depth.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add mushrooms to the wok and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and brown.
3. Toss in the choy sum, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until the choy sum is bright green and slightly wilted but still crisp.
4. Remove from heat and serve immediately. The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the tender mushrooms and the crisp, fresh choy sum, all brought together with a simple yet flavorful sauce.

Tip: For an extra umami kick, drizzle a little sesame oil over the finished dish before serving.

Braised Choy Sum with Tofu

Braised Choy Sum with Tofu is a light yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of Asian-inspired cuisine to your table, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, drained and cubed
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove tofu and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add choy sum to the skillet and stir-fry for 2 minutes until slightly wilted.
4. Return tofu to the skillet. Add soy sauce, sugar, vegetable broth, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
5. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes, until choy sum is tender and the flavors are well blended.

The sesame oil and soy sauce create a rich, umami-packed sauce that clings beautifully to the tender greens and crispy tofu.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Choy Sum in Garlic Sauce

Bring a touch of Asian flair to your dinner table with this vibrant Choy Sum in Garlic Sauce, a dish that’s as simple to make as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
2. Add the choy sum to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the garlic oil. Cook for 2 minutes until the leaves start to wilt.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sugar, salt, and water. Pour this mixture over the choy sum in the skillet.
4. Continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the choy sum is tender but still crisp and the sauce has slightly thickened.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance of flavors—the slight bitterness of the choy sum perfectly complements the sweet and savory garlic sauce.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic oil before adding the choy sum.

Spicy Choy Sum with Chili Oil

Spice up your greens with this vibrant Spicy Choy Sum with Chili Oil, a dish that brings heat and freshness to your table in under 15 minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons chili oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the choy sum for 1 minute until bright green. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, mix together 2 tablespoons chili oil, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sugar, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
3. Heat 1 teaspoon sesame oil in a pan over medium heat. Add 1 clove minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Add the blanched choy sum to the pan and pour the chili oil mixture over it. Toss well to coat and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Transfer to a serving dish and drizzle with any remaining sauce from the pan.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance between the crisp, fresh choy sum and the fiery, aromatic chili oil, creating a simple yet unforgettable side.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Choy Sum and Beef Stir-Fry

This Choy Sum and Beef Stir-Fry is a quick, flavorful dish that brings a delightful crunch and savory depth to your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients

• 1 lb flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 1 bunch choy sum, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the flank steak and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until just browned. Remove from the wok and set aside.
2. In the same wok, heat the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the choy sum to the wok and stir-fry for 2 minutes until the leaves start to wilt.
4. Return the beef to the wok. Add 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tsp sugar, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Stir-fry everything together for another 2 minutes until well combined and heated through.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the tender beef and the crisp, fresh choy sum, all brought together with a glossy, savory sauce.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Choy Sum with Shrimp Paste

Bring a vibrant and savory dish to your table with this quick and flavorful Choy Sum with Shrimp Paste, a perfect blend of crisp greens and umami-packed seasoning.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp shrimp paste
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in 1 tbsp shrimp paste and cook for another 30 seconds, breaking it apart with your spoon.
3. Add the choy sum to the wok, tossing to coat evenly with the shrimp paste mixture. Pour in 1/4 cup water, then cover and let steam for 2 minutes.
4. Uncover, sprinkle with 1 tsp sugar and 1/4 tsp salt, and stir-fry for another minute until the choy sum is just tender but still crisp.

The magic of this dish lies in the bold contrast between the fresh, slightly bitter choy sum and the deep, salty-sweet shrimp paste, creating a harmony of flavors that’s irresistibly moreish.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a thinly sliced red chili with the garlic at the start.

Choy Sum and Chicken Stir-Fry

Whip up this vibrant Choy Sum and Chicken Stir-Fry for a quick, flavorful weeknight dinner that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced
• 1 bunch choy sum, chopped into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and stir-fry for 5-6 minutes until no longer pink. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same wok, heat the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Add garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add choy sum, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until the greens start to wilt.
4. Return the chicken to the wok, add chicken broth, and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and the choy sum is tender but still crisp.

The magic of this dish lies in the crisp-tender choy sum and the savory-sweet sauce that clings to every bite of chicken.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Choy Sum Soup with Pork Ribs

Warm up with this comforting Choy Sum Soup with Pork Ribs, a simple yet flavorful dish that brings a touch of Asian-inspired comfort to your table.

Ingredients

• 1 pound pork ribs, cut into individual ribs
• 8 cups water
• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, sliced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the pork ribs and sear until lightly browned, about 3 minutes per side.
2. Add the garlic and ginger to the pot, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the water, soy sauce, salt, sugar, and white pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 hour, or until the pork ribs are tender.
4. Add the choy sum to the pot, stirring gently to submerge in the broth. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, just until the greens are wilted but still vibrant.
5. Remove from heat and serve hot, ensuring each bowl gets a generous amount of ribs and greens.

The magic of this soup lies in the tender pork ribs and the crisp-tender choy sum, creating a delightful contrast in every spoonful.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, you can char the ginger slices lightly before adding them to the soup.

Choy Sum with Cashew Nuts

Brighten up your dinner table with this vibrant Choy Sum with Cashew Nuts, a dish that combines the crisp freshness of greens with the rich crunch of cashews.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup raw cashew nuts
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cashew nuts and toast for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the choy sum to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the leaves are wilted but the stems remain crisp.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Continue to stir-fry for another minute until everything is well combined.
5. Return the toasted cashew nuts to the skillet and toss with the choy sum for about 30 seconds to warm through.
6. Serve immediately, enjoying the contrast between the tender greens and the crunchy cashews.

The magic of this dish lies in the quick cooking that preserves the choy sum’s bright color and slight bitterness, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the cashews.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of sesame oil just before serving.

Choy Sum and Egg Drop Soup

Warm up with this comforting Choy Sum and Egg Drop Soup, a light yet flavorful dish that comes together in just minutes.

Ingredients

• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bunch choy sum, chopped into 2-inch pieces
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon white pepper
• 1 green onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. In a medium pot, bring the broth to a boil over high heat.
2. Add the choy sum and cook for 2 minutes until just tender.
3. Reduce the heat to low. Slowly pour in the beaten eggs in a steady stream, stirring gently with a fork to create ribbons.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, and white pepper. Cook for another minute.
5. Garnish with green onion before serving.

The magic of this soup lies in the silky egg ribbons contrasting with the crisp-tender choy sum, offering a delightful texture in every spoonful.

Tip: For a richer flavor, toast the sesame oil lightly before adding it to the soup.

Choy Sum with Black Bean Sauce

Bring a touch of Asian flair to your dinner table with this vibrant Choy Sum with Black Bean Sauce, a dish that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fermented black beans, rinsed and mashed
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Stir in the mashed black beans and sugar, cooking for another 30 seconds to release the flavors.
3. Add the choy sum to the wok, tossing to coat with the black bean mixture. Pour in the water, cover, and let it steam for 2 minutes.
4. Uncover, give the vegetables a quick stir, then add the cornstarch mixture. Cook for another minute until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the choy sum.

The magic of this dish lies in the umami-packed black bean sauce that clings to every crisp-tender bite of choy sum, offering a perfect balance of savory and sweet.

Tip: For an extra kick, add a thinly sliced red chili with the garlic for a spicy version of this classic dish.

Choy Sum and Scallop Stir-Fry

This Choy Sum and Scallop Stir-Fry is a quick, vibrant dish that brings a touch of elegance to your weeknight dinner table, combining the sweetness of scallops with the crisp freshness of choy sum.

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh scallops, patted dry
• 1 bunch choy sum, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add scallops and sear for 2 minutes on each side until golden. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add choy sum to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until just wilted.
4. Return scallops to the skillet. Add soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything together and cook for another minute until well combined.

The magic of this dish lies in the contrast between the tender, buttery scallops and the crunchy, slightly bitter choy sum, all brought together with a glossy, savory sauce.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, garnish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Choy Sum with Sesame Oil

Brighten up your dinner table with this simple yet flavorful Choy Sum with Sesame Oil, a dish that brings a touch of elegance to any meal with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and washed
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the choy sum and blanch for 1 minute until bright green and slightly tender. Drain well.
2. Heat the 2 tablespoons sesame oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the 2 cloves minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the blanched choy sum to the pan. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon soy sauce, sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sugar and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Toss gently to coat and cook for another 2 minutes until the choy sum is fully tender.
4. Remove from heat and serve immediately. The sesame oil not only adds a rich, nutty flavor but also gives the choy sum a beautiful glossy finish that’s sure to impress.

Tip: For an extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top before serving.

Choy Sum and Tofu Soup

Warm up your evening with this light yet comforting Choy Sum and Tofu Soup, a perfect blend of crisp greens and silky tofu in a savory broth.

Ingredients

• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 14 oz firm tofu, cubed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring the vegetable broth to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, simmering for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Gently add the tofu cubes and choy sum to the pot, cooking for 5 minutes until the greens are bright green and slightly tender.
4. Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and white pepper, adjusting the seasoning to taste.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

This soup stands out with its harmony of textures—the crunch of choy sum against the softness of tofu, all swimming in a ginger-infused broth that’s both simple and profound.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the sesame oil with the garlic and ginger before adding the broth.

Choy Sum with Fish Sauce

Choy Sum with Fish Sauce is a vibrant, quick stir-fry that brings a punch of umami and a crisp texture to your dinner table in just minutes.

Ingredients

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tablespoons water

Instructions

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
3. Toss in the choy sum and stir-fry for 2 minutes until the leaves start to wilt.
4. Pour in the fish sauce, sprinkle the sugar and red pepper flakes (if using), and add the water. Continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes until the stems are tender-crisp.
5. Remove from heat and serve immediately, drizzling any remaining sauce from the pan over the top.

The magic of this dish lies in the balance between the salty depth of fish sauce and the fresh, slightly bitter crunch of choy sum, creating a simple yet unforgettable side.

Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a splash of lime juice just before serving.

Conclusion

We hope this roundup of 18 delicious Choy Sum recipes inspires your next meal! Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just spicing up your weeknight dinners, there’s something here for everyone. Don’t forget to try these recipes, share your favorites in the comments, and pin this article to your Pinterest board for easy access. Happy cooking!