Garlic Bok Choy

Instructions

1. Prepare the bok choy
   Wash the bok choy thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit between the leaves. Trim the bottoms and cut each head in half lengthwise. Pat dry with paper towels to prevent splattering during cooking.
2. Create the sauce
   In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, white pepper, and sesame oil. If using cornstarch, mix it with the water or chicken broth in a separate small bowl until dissolved, then combine with the sauce mixture.
3. Heat the wok
   Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until very hot. Add the vegetable oil and swirl to coat the surface. When the oil is shimmering but not smoking, add the minced garlic and optional red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 15-20 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
4. Cook the bok choy
   Add the bok choy to the wok, cut side down first for about 1 minute until slightly charred. Then stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the leaves begin to wilt but the stalks remain crisp-tender.
5. Add the sauce
   Pour the sauce mixture around the sides of the wok and quickly toss to coat all the bok choy evenly. Allow the sauce to bubble and thicken slightly, about 1 minute.
6. Serve
   Transfer the garlic bok choy to a serving plate, making sure to drizzle any remaining sauce over the top. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds and serve immediately while hot.