Spongy fried gluten puffs and tender bok choy are braised in a savory sauce. This vegetarian, protein-rich family dish has wonderful textural contrast and deep, satisfying flavor.
Soak the fried gluten puffs in warm water for 10 minutes to soften, then gently squeeze out excess water.
Trim and separate bok choy leaves, rinse thoroughly, and cut the stalks into 2-inch pieces for even cooking.
In a large skillet or wok, heat 1/2 tbsp oil over medium-high heat; sauté sliced shiitake mushrooms and half the scallion until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Add the gluten puffs and bok choy to the pan, then pour in vegetable broth, soy sauce, vegetarian oyster sauce, sugar, and white pepper. Stir gently to distribute the seasoning.
Cover and simmer on low heat for 8–10 minutes until bok choy is just tender and gluten puffs are infused with flavor.
Mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to make a slurry; pour into the sauce and stir gently over medium heat for 1–2 minutes until the liquid thickens and coats the ingredients.
Drizzle sesame oil and toss to finish. Garnish with the remaining scallion before serving.