Part 7/9:
This approach maximizes flavor while preserving the vegetables' contrasting textures—crisp stems and tender leaves.
The Power of Preparation and Technique
Huang emphasizes that preparation is the real work in stir-frying. Techniques like velveting protein, par-cooking vegetables, and mise en place (organized ingredient setup) streamline the rapid cooking process, allowing home cooks to produce restaurant-quality dishes effortlessly.
He advises using a good-quality wok or high-sided sauté pan that retains heat effectively. The pan must be heated to smoking point to ensure ingredients sear instantly, creating that desirable “wok hei” (breath of the wok).
Practical Tips for Success
- Always work with high heat and keep ingredients moving.