The wok or skillet must be fully heated before stir-frying. You’ll know it has reached optimal heat when a swirl of white smoke begins to appear on its surface.
Add the oil once the wok or skillet is fully heated. Make sure the oil completely coats the bottom surface.
Cut the ingredients, such as chicken, beef, pork, or seafood, into uniform pieces. It’s also important to have all the ingredients prepared, measured, and placed close to the wok or skillet. Once added, spread the ingredients in a single layer to ensure even cooking.
Stir-fries are generally prepared with a light sauce. Mix the sauce in advance in a small bowl by combining all the ingredients. If using cornstarch, ensure it is completely dissolved. Before adding the sauce to the stir-fry, give it a quick stir to make sure nothing has settled at the bottom of the bowl. Authentic Chinese stir-fry dishes shouldn’t be doused in too much sauce; the sauce should barely cling to the ingredients.
The spatula should play an active role in stir-frying. Use it to continuously stir and toss the ingredients in a back and forth, circular, turning, and/or flipping motions.