Cause A Stir

Stir-frying is a great way to make delicious and healthy meals in minutes. It helps preserve nutrients (and the crunch of fresh veggies). Here's how to stir-fry successfully:

• Prepare your meal the Asian way: light on meat, heavy on veggies.
  
• If you have a new wok, break it in ("season" it). It'll create an even distribution of heat. Place the wok on the stove over medium-high heat for a few minutes, add a few drops of oil and swirl it around to coat the surface evenly.
  
• Remove the wok, let it cool and wipe the residue out with a paper towel.
  
• Place a stainless-steel wok over high heat until very hot. Add a little oil to just coat the surface.
  Note: the heavier the wok, the better it will retain heat, and the quicker your food will cook. 
  
• Stir-fry in batches to keep the wok hot, cooking meat or seafood first. Set cooked food aside on a plate.
  
• Add a little more oil, then stir-fry the veggies. Begin with the harder ones such as baby corn and carrots, then add beans and capsicum. Add soft veggies such as mushrooms and leafy greens last.
  
• Return the meat to the wok and add any sauces, nuts or noodles and stir until heated through. Serve.