18 Delicious Choy Sum Recipes for Every Occasion

Looking for fresh ways to enjoy choy sum? This vibrant, tender green is a star in quick stir-fries, comforting soups, and even crispy snacks! Whether you’re craving a speedy weeknight dinner or a seasonal side, we’ve rounded up 18 mouthwatering recipes that make choy sum shine. Get ready to fall in love with this versatile veggie—let’s dive in!

Garlic Butter Stir-Fried Choy Sum

This quick and flavorful stir-fry lets choy sum shine with a rich garlic butter sauce—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fresh but indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch choy sum (about 12 oz), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Melt 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
2. Toss in choy sum stems (save leaves for later) and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Add leaves, soy sauce, sugar, red pepper flakes, and salt. Cook for another 2 minutes until leaves wilt but stay vibrant green.
3. Remove from heat and swirl in the remaining 1 tbsp butter until glossy. Serve immediately.

The magic here? The double-hit of butter—first to sauté the garlic, then stirred in at the end for a luxuriously silky finish.

Tip: For extra crunch, leave the stems whole and slice them lengthwise before cooking.

Steamed Choy Sum with Oyster Sauce

This simple, vibrant dish lets tender choy sum shine with a glossy, savory oyster sauce drizzle—ready in under 15 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb choy sum, ends trimmed
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp light soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp water
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp neutral oil (like vegetable or avocado)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger

Instructions:

1. Fill a large pot with 1 inch of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Place choy sum in a steamer basket, cover, and steam for 3–4 minutes until bright green and just tender. Transfer to a serving plate.
2. While choy sum steams, whisk together 2 tbsp oyster sauce, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp water, and 1 tsp sugar in a small bowl.
3. Heat 1 tbsp neutral oil in a small saucepan over medium-low. Add 2 cloves minced garlic and 1 tsp grated ginger; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the sauce mixture and simmer for 1 minute until slightly thickened.
4. Drizzle the warm sauce over the steamed choy sum and serve immediately.

The magic here? The sauce clings to every crevice of the greens, balancing sweetness and umami without overpowering their delicate crunch.

Tip: For extra flair, top with toasted sesame seeds or a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Choy Sum and Shrimp Stir-Fry

This quick stir-fry brings together tender shrimp and crisp choy sum in a garlicky, savory sauce—perfect for busy weeknights when you want something fresh and flavorful.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bunch choy sum (about 8 oz), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and curled. Transfer to a plate.
2. Add the remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the pan. Stir in garlic and ginger, cooking for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toss in the choy sum and stir-fry for 2 minutes until just wilted but still bright green.
4. Return the shrimp to the pan. Add oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Toss everything together for 1 minute until evenly coated and heated through.

The magic here? The choy sum stays crisp-tender while soaking up the umami-rich sauce—no soggy greens in sight!

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

Sesame Soy Glazed Choy Sum

This quick stir-fry turns humble choy sum into a glossy, savory side dish with just a handful of pantry staples.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb choy sum, ends trimmed
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable)
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Heat neutral oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high. Add choy sum and stir-fry for 2 minutes until bright green and slightly wilted.
2. Push greens to one side. Add garlic and ginger to the empty space and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in soy sauce, sesame oil, and honey, tossing everything together until the choy sum is evenly coated (about 1 minute).
4. Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds.

The magic here is the glaze—sticky-sweet soy clings to every crevice of the greens, while toasted sesame seeds add crunch.

Tip: For extra depth, swap honey for maple syrup and add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.

Spicy Szechuan Choy Sum

This vibrant stir-fry packs a punch with garlicky heat and a glossy, umami-rich sauce—perfect for spicing up your weeknight veggie game.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb choy sum, trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 tbsp Szechuan chili paste
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat until shimmering. Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add choy sum stems (save leaves for later) and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Toss in leaves, Szechuan chili paste, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sugar; cook for another 2 minutes until leaves wilt but stay bright green.
3. Drizzle with sesame oil, toss to coat, and transfer to a serving plate. Sprinkle with sesame seeds.

The magic here? Crisp-tender stems soak up the spicy sauce while the leaves stay silky—a textural dream with just 10 minutes of work.

Tip: For extra depth, add a pinch of ground Szechuan peppercorns with the chili paste.

Choy Sum and Tofu Soup

This light yet satisfying soup brings together tender greens and silky tofu in a delicate broth—perfect for a quick, wholesome meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch knob ginger, thinly sliced
• 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 bunch choy sum (about 8 oz), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 7 oz firm tofu, cubed
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• Green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp neutral oil in a pot over medium. Add garlic and ginger; sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in 4 cups vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp sesame oil.
3. Add choy sum stems (reserve leaves) and tofu; simmer 3 minutes. Toss in leaves and cook 1–2 minutes until just wilted.
4. Season with 1/4 tsp white pepper. Ladle into bowls and garnish with green onions.

The magic here? The broth infuses with ginger’s warmth while the choy sum stays crisp-tender—no mushy greens!

Tip: Swap tofu for poached chicken if you’re craving extra protein.

Honey Glazed Choy Sum with Cashews

This quick stir-fry balances crisp greens, buttery cashews, and a sweet-savory glaze—perfect for brightening up weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb choy sum, ends trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 1/3 cup raw cashews
• 2 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or grapeseed)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Toast the cashews: Heat a dry skillet over medium-low. Add cashews and toast for 3–4 minutes, stirring often, until golden. Transfer to a plate.
2. Make the glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 1 tbsp rice vinegar.
3. Stir-fry: Heat 1 tbsp oil in the same skillet over medium-high. Add minced garlic and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using); cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add choy sum and stir-fry for 2 minutes until stems are crisp-tender.
4. Glaze & finish: Pour the honey mixture over the greens, tossing to coat. Cook 1 more minute until glossy. Off heat, stir in toasted cashews.

The magic here? The honey caramelizes just enough to cling to every nook of the choy sum, while the cashews add a luxurious crunch.

Tip: For extra depth, swap half the honey with oyster sauce—it amps up the umami!

Choy Sum and Mushroom Stir-Fry

This vibrant stir-fry brings together tender choy sum and earthy mushrooms in a savory garlic sauce—ready in under 15 minutes for a weeknight win.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb choy sum, ends trimmed, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add garlic and stir 15 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add mushrooms and stir-fry 3–4 minutes until lightly browned.
3. Toss in choy sum and stir-fry 2 minutes until stems soften but leaves stay bright green.
4. Add oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry 1 more minute to coat evenly.

The magic here? Crisp-tender choy sum soaks up the umami sauce while keeping its fresh bite—no soggy greens allowed!

Tip: For extra depth, swap oyster sauce with hoisin and add a splash of toasted sesame oil at the end.

Choy Sum with Ginger and Garlic

This quick stir-fry lets the delicate, slightly sweet flavor of choy sum shine, with a punch of fresh ginger and garlic to keep things exciting.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb choy sum, trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable)
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp sugar
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 tbsp neutral oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add 3 cloves garlic and 1 tbsp ginger, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
2. Add choy sum stems (reserve leaves) and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Toss in leaves and cook 1 more minute until just wilted.
3. Reduce heat to low. Add 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1/4 tsp sugar, and pinch of red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat evenly, about 30 seconds. Serve immediately.

The magic here is in the timing—crisp-tender stems and silky leaves soak up the aromatic sauce without turning mushy.

Tip: For extra depth, splash in 1 tbsp Shaoxing wine with the soy sauce.

Choy Sum and Beef Noodle Bowl

This vibrant noodle bowl balances tender beef, crisp greens, and a savory-sweet sauce—ready in under 30 minutes for a weeknight win.

Ingredients

• 8 oz flank steak, thinly sliced against the grain
• 4 oz rice noodles (thin or medium width)
• 2 cups chopped choy sum (stems and leaves separated)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

1. Prep noodles: Cook rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sear beef: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add beef and cook 2 minutes per side until browned but still pink inside. Transfer to a plate.
3. Sauté aromatics: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic, red pepper flakes (if using), and choy sum stems. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Simmer sauce: Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, and water. Add choy sum leaves and cook 1 minute until wilted.
5. Combine: Return beef and noodles to the skillet; toss to coat in sauce. Cook 1 minute to heat through.

The magic here? Choy sum’s stems stay crunchy while the leaves soak up the glossy sauce—no soggy greens in sight.

Tip: Freeze the beef for 15 minutes before slicing for paper-thin cuts.

Choy Sum and Scallion Pancakes

These savory pancakes are a fun twist on the classic, packed with fresh greens and a satisfying crunch.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 cup finely chopped choy sum (stems and leaves)
• 1/2 cup thinly sliced scallions
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together 1 cup all-purpose flour and 1/4 tsp salt. Gradually stir in 1/2 cup warm water until a shaggy dough forms. Knead for 2 minutes until smooth, then cover and rest for 15 minutes.
2. Toss choy sum and scallions with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1/2 tsp sesame oil.
3. Divide dough into 4 balls. Roll each into a thin circle (about 8″ wide). Sprinkle a quarter of the greens mixture over one side, then fold dough over to seal like a half-moon. Press gently to flatten.
4. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium. Cook 2 pancakes at a time for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp. Repeat with remaining 1 tbsp oil and pancakes.

The layers of tender choy sum and sharp scallions peek through the crispy crust, making these pancakes as pretty as they are tasty.

Tip: For extra flakiness, brush the rolled-out dough with a thin layer of oil before adding greens.

Choy Sum with Black Bean Sauce

This quick-cooking stir-fry brings together tender choy sum and savory black bean sauce for a dish that’s packed with umami—ready in just 15 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 lb choy sum, ends trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or vegetable)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fermented black beans, rinsed and roughly chopped
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 tsp toasted sesame oil

Instructions

1. Heat 2 tbsp neutral oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 3 cloves minced garlic and 1 tbsp chopped black beans, stirring for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add choy sum stems (save leaves for later) and stir-fry for 2 minutes. Pour in 1/4 cup water, cover, and let steam for 1 minute.
3. Uncover, add leaves, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, and 1 tsp sugar. Toss for 1–2 minutes until leaves wilt but stay bright green.
4. Drizzle with 1/2 tsp sesame oil, toss once more, and serve immediately.

The magic here? Salty-sweet black beans cling to every crisp-tender bite of choy sum—no soggy greens in sight!

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of Shaoxing wine with the garlic.

Choy Sum and Chicken Stir-Fry

This vibrant stir-fry balances tender chicken with crisp choy sum in a savory-sweet garlic sauce—ready in under 20 minutes for a weeknight win.

Ingredients

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, thinly sliced
• 1 bunch choy sum (about 8 oz), trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add chicken and stir-fry for 4–5 minutes until no longer pink. Transfer to a plate.
2. Add remaining 1 tbsp vegetable oil to the pan. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Toss in choy sum stems and stir-fry for 1 minute, then add leaves and cook 1 more minute until just wilted.
4. Return chicken to the pan. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar, tossing everything to coat evenly. Cook for 1–2 minutes until glossy.

The magic here? Choy sum’s stems stay snappy while the leaves soak up the sauce, giving every bite contrasting texture.

Tip: For extra depth, swap half the soy sauce with dark soy sauce—it adds a caramelized richness without extra salt.

Choy Sum and Sweet Corn Salad

This bright, crunchy salad is a celebration of textures—tender choy sum, juicy corn, and a tangy dressing that ties it all together.

Ingredients:

• 1 bunch choy sum, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels (thawed if frozen)
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp neutral oil (like avocado or grapeseed)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

Instructions:

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch choy sum for 30 seconds, then immediately transfer to an ice bath. Drain and pat dry.
2. In a dry skillet over medium-high heat, char corn for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned. Let cool slightly.
3. Whisk together 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp honey, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp sesame oil, 1 tbsp neutral oil, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes.
4. Toss choy sum, corn, and 1/4 cup cilantro with the dressing. Sprinkle with 2 tbsp sesame seeds.

The contrast of the smoky corn against the crisp greens and zippy dressing makes this salad a standout side for grilled meats or tofu.

Tip: For extra crunch, add fried shallots or crushed peanuts right before serving.

Choy Sum with Chili and Lime Dressing

Bright, zesty, and just a little spicy, this Choy Sum dish is a quick way to add bold flavor to your weeknight dinner rotation.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb choy sum, trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp neutral oil (like vegetable or grapeseed)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice (about ½ lime)
• 1 tsp honey
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• ¼ tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add choy sum and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until stems are tender-crisp and leaves wilt slightly. Transfer to a serving plate.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tbsp oil, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, red pepper flakes, and salt until smooth.
4. Drizzle dressing over the warm choy sum and toss lightly to coat.

The tangy lime and chili dressing clings perfectly to the tender greens, balancing their mild bitterness with a kick of heat. Tip: For extra crunch, sprinkle toasted sesame seeds on top just before serving.

Choy Sum and Pork Dumplings

These juicy dumplings pack a fresh crunch from tender choy sum, balanced with savory pork—perfect for a quick weeknight bite or your next potluck star.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground pork
• 2 cups finely chopped choy sum (leaves and stems)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp white pepper
• 30 round dumpling wrappers
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)
• 1/2 cup water (for steaming)

Instructions

1. In a bowl, combine ground pork, choy sum, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, garlic, sugar, and white pepper. Mix until just combined.
2. Place 1 tbsp filling in the center of a dumpling wrapper. Moisten edges with water, fold into a half-moon, and pleat to seal. Repeat.
3. Heat vegetable oil in a nonstick skillet over medium-high. Arrange dumplings in a single layer and cook 2–3 minutes until bottoms are golden.
4. Pour water into the skillet, cover immediately, and steam 5–6 minutes until wrappers are translucent and pork is cooked through.
5. Uncover and cook 1 minute to crisp bottoms again. Serve hot.

The choy sum keeps these dumplings light yet satisfying, with a peppery kick that plays off the rich pork. No dipping sauce needed—they’re flavorful straight from the pan!

Tip: Freeze extras before cooking: place on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then transfer to a bag for up to 3 months.

Choy Sum with Sesame Oil and Garlic

This quick stir-fry lets tender choy sum shine with a nutty, garlicky finish—perfect for busy weeknights when you want greens in a flash.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb choy sum, ends trimmed and cut into 3-inch pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat 2 tbsp sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high. Add garlic and stir 30 seconds until fragrant but not browned.
2. Toss in choy sum and stir-fry 2–3 minutes until stems are crisp-tender and leaves wilt slightly.
3. Add 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1/4 tsp sugar, and 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (if using). Toss to coat and cook 1 more minute.

The magic here? Toasted sesame oil adds deep flavor without overpowering the greens—just a drizzle makes each bite rich and aromatic.

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

Choy Sum and Rice Noodle Stir-Fry

This vibrant stir-fry brings together tender rice noodles and crisp choy sum in a savory-sweet sauce—ready in under 20 minutes for a fuss-free weeknight win.

Ingredients

• 8 oz dried flat rice noodles
• 1 bunch choy sum (about 12 oz), stems and leaves separated, cut into 2-inch pieces
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Soak rice noodles in hot water for 8 minutes until pliable but still slightly firm. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat 2 tbsp vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add choy sum stems and stir-fry for 2 minutes until bright green. Add leaves and cook 1 minute more. Transfer to a plate.
3. Reduce heat to medium, add remaining 1 tbsp oil, and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Add drained noodles and toss to coat in sauce, breaking up clumps with tongs. Return choy sum to pan and stir-fry 1–2 minutes until everything is glossy and heated through.

The magic here? Choy sum’s stems stay snappy while the leaves wilt into the noodles, giving every bite contrasting textures.

Tip: For extra depth, add a splash of toasted sesame oil just before serving.

Conclusion

With so many tasty ways to enjoy choy sum, there’s a recipe here for every meal and mood! Whether you’re stir-frying, steaming, or tossing it into soups, these dishes are sure to delight. Try one (or a few!) and let us know your favorites in the comments. Loved this roundup? Share the inspiration on Pinterest—happy cooking!