Mastering the Stir-Fry

A stir-fry is the ultimate weeknight meal. It's fast, flexible, and can be incredibly flavorful. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you even turn on the stove. This is called 'mise en place' and it's essential for a successful stir-fry.

The Secret to a Great Stir-Fry

Use a wok or a large skillet and get it screaming hot. Add a high-smoke-point oil like canola or peanut oil. Start by stir-frying your aromatics, like garlic, ginger, and chili. Then add your protein and cook until it's browned. Next, add your vegetables, starting with the ones that take the longest to cook, like carrots and broccoli. Finally, add your sauce and toss everything together to coat.

"The sauce is what brings everything together. A mix of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and a little sugar is a great base."

A basic stir-fry sauce can be made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, a touch of sugar or honey, and a little cornstarch to thicken. You can customize it with sesame oil, oyster sauce, or sriracha. Serve immediately over rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.