Wok Cooking Techniques
A wok is an oversized skillet used for cooking a variety of Asian cuisines including Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese. A wok has tall sides that slope up from the bottom of the pan, two large handles and a lid. Woks are used for boiling, steaming, frying and warming foods and liquids.
Heat
Heat is the biggest factor in working with a wok. Because a wok is a round-bottom pan, heat distributes throughout the metal evenly, allowing for optimal cooking conditions. A wok also heats quickly, and almost every recipe that requires a wok will tell you to heat the pan before beginning. Knowing how a wok heats and cooks is essential to coming out with a good dish.
Additional Utensils
You will need other utensils. A high-heat-resistant, preferably curved, spatula is helpful. High heat from the wok will require that ingredients be moved constantly to avoid burning, and one or more curved spatulas will help with this task.
Ingredient Prep
The type and amount of ingredients that can be used in a wok are almost endless. The size and thickness of these ingredients, however, are very important. All vegetables should be cut into bite-size or just larger than bite-size pieces so that they won't burn before the middle of them gets done. All meats, as well, should be thinly sliced or chopped so that they will be fully cooked when everything else is finished.
Order
Just as important is your timing. Put aromatic ingredients, such as herbs, spices and other flavorings, in the wok first. Proteins, such as chicken, pork or beef, should follow. Next come the thicker vegetables, and finally, the thinner, leafy vegetables. This ensures that all of the foods get enough time to be cooked thoroughly without ruining the integrity of the ingredients themselves.
Safety
As with any cooking utensil that involves heat, woks present certain dangers. Steam burn is a common problem. When you lift the lid off the pan, lift away from you so that you don't get a burst of steam in your face or on your arms and hands. Some woks don't have heat-resistant handles, so use pot holders. Always read the safety instructions that come with your kitchen utensils to make sure you are using it properly and safely.
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