Marina Lakin is a professional nutritionist who ardently trusts in the benefits of wholesome, home-prepared meals. She encourages the incorporation of wok in regular cooking as it enables the creation of diverse, nutritious meals in a swift and simple manner.
Hey there! When it comes to cooking a delicious chicken stir fry in a wok, the order in which you add your ingredients is crucial. It can make all the difference between a perfectly cooked dish and a mediocre one. So, let's dive right in and talk about the correct order to add ingredients to your wok for a mouthwatering chicken stir fry!
First things first, make sure you have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go. This includes your chicken, vegetables, aromatics, and sauces. Having everything prepared in advance will ensure a smooth cooking process.
Now, let's get cooking! Start by heating your wok over high heat. Once it's nice and hot, add some oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut or vegetable oil. Swirl the oil around the wok to coat the surface evenly.
Chicken Stir-Fry Cooking Guide
Step | Action | Time Required | Tips 🍲 |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces | 5 minutes | Ensure pieces are evenly sized for uniform cooking |
2 | Spread chicken in a single layer in the wok | 1 minute | This allows for even searing and color development |
3 | Sear chicken until golden | 2-3 minutes | Don't stir too often to allow a nice sear |
4 | Stir-fry chicken until 80% cooked | 3-4 minutes | Pieces should still be slightly pink in the center |
Next, it's time to add your chicken. Make sure it's cut into bite-sized pieces for quick and even cooking. Spread the chicken in a single layer in the wok, allowing it to sear and develop a nice golden color. Stir-fry the chicken until it's about 80% cooked. This should take around 3-4 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken pieces.
Once your chicken is almost cooked through, it's time to add your vegetables. Now, the order in which you add your veggies may vary depending on their cooking time. As a general rule of thumb, start with the vegetables that take the longest to cook. For example, if you're using carrots or broccoli, add them first. Stir-fry them for a couple of minutes until they start to soften.
Next, add your quicker-cooking vegetables, such as bell peppers or snap peas. These veggies just need a few minutes to cook, so be mindful not to overcook them. Stir-fry everything together, using a spatula or a pair of tongs to toss the ingredients and ensure even cooking.
Now, it's time to add your aromatics, like minced garlic, ginger, or chili peppers. These fragrant ingredients will infuse your stir fry with incredible flavors. Stir-fry them for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
Finally, it's time to add your sauces. This could be a combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, or any other sauce you prefer. Pour the sauces over your ingredients, making sure to evenly coat everything. Continue stir-frying for another minute or so, allowing the flavors to meld together.
And voila! Your chicken stir fry is ready to be served. Remember to taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can garnish your dish with some fresh herbs, like cilantro or green onions, for an extra pop of flavor and color.
So, there you have it! The correct order to add ingredients to your wok for a delicious chicken stir fry. By following this order, you'll ensure that each ingredient is cooked to perfection, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal. Happy wok cooking!