Photo: MarkBittman.com
From Mark Bittman’s How to Cook Everything
Mark says, “You can grill the bok choy instead of searing it if you like.”
1 1/2 to 2 pounds bok choy, parboiled and shocked
6 ounces bacon, finely chopped
3 tablespoons sherry or white wine vinegar, Artesano’s Honey Wine vinegar is also really nice here.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper
5 tablespoons neutral oil, like grapeseed or corn or lard
Cut the bok choy in half lengthwise and put the cut side down on paper towels to drain. Meanwhile, put the bacon in a small pan over medium-high heat. When it starts to sizzle, reduce the heat to medium and cook until crisp and the fat is rendered, about 10 minutes. Turn off the heat, add the vinegar, sprinkle with salt and a good amount of pepper, and then whisk in 3 tablespoons of the oil (it won’t fully emulsify). Set aside.
2. Put a large, wide skillet over high heat. When it’s very hot, add the remaining oil and put a few pieces of bok choy, cut side down, in the pan (it will spatter, so be careful). Do not overcrowd the pan; you want at least an inch on all sides between the pieces. Cook the bok choy without moving it until the cut side is dark brown and slightly charred. Continue cooking the bok choy in batches.
3. Pile the seared bok choy on a platter in a serving bowl; give the bacon vinaigrette a stir and drizzle it over the bok choy. Serve warm or at room temperature.