Q: How can I prevent soggy vegetables when I stir-fry?A: To keep stir-fry vegetables crisp, the key is to have a very hot wok. Also, be sure to use the freshest vegetables, and remember that certain vegetables cook faster than others; it all depends on their density and moisture content (the amount of water they hold). Start with carrots, green beans and broccoli since they have a higher density. After these vegetables have been sauteéd for a couple minutes, add the thinner, lower-density vegetables like snap peas, red peppers, mushrooms and spinach.
Q: What can I add to my soy sauce to spice up my stir-fry?
Great question! Some of the best choices are pepper flakes, curry paste, honey, orange juice. The honey and orange juice give the soy sauce a sweetness that works well to complement the saltiness. And here's another great idea for a special soy sauce that will add to the appeal of any stir fry ....
Ingredients:
1 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup pineapple juice
2 tsp. curry paste
Simply mix curry paste with pineapple juice, then add soy sauce.
Q: What should I know about buying and using fresh ginger?
A: Fresh ginger tastes wonderful in Asian cuisine. It's actually a rhizome -- its stems grow underground. A whole, full-grown piece is called a "hand." When buying ginger, select a firm, heavy hand that doesn't have too many bumps. Check to make sure the ginger emits a fresh, spicy fragrance. And always remember that fresh ginger adds a lot of flavor, so a little goes a long way. Ginger can be grated or sliced paper thin, just remember to peel or scrape off the outer skin first. Store it in a plastic bag in the refrigerator and it will usually last about two weeks; many grocers carry fresh ginger all year. Add just a little to your stir fry for an extra-tasty treat!
Money-saving tip: One of the best things about stir-fry meals is the great opportunity they offer for using leftovers. If you have roasted chicken or beef one night, use the leftover meat in a stir-fry for dinner the following night. Simply cut up the pieces, fry them in the wok with a little oil and soy sauce for a few minutes, then add in your vegetables and a little more sauce -- and you've just made an easy, delicious meal!
