How to Stir Fry Anything & A Master Class

Pailin's Kitchen

Video Stats

Channel: Pailin's Kitchen
Host: Pailin's Kitchen
Published: Aug 26, 2025
Views: 779.4k

Recipe Overview

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 20 min
Difficulty: Intermediate
Serves: 4

Overview

Stir frying is a fundamental cooking technique that can transform a variety of ingredients into a delicious meal. In this master class, the host emphasizes the importance of understanding the basic structure of a stir fry, which consists of three main components: the nuggets, the sauce, and the aromatics. This approach allows cooks to be creative and adaptable, using whatever ingredients they have on hand.

The video breaks down the process into clear steps, starting with the preparation of proteins and vegetables. The host explains that the key to a successful stir fry is to cook proteins separately to ensure they are perfectly cooked before adding them back to the dish. This method prevents overcooking and allows for better flavor integration.

Aromatics play a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish. The host suggests using garlic and chilies as foundational aromatics, while also encouraging experimentation with other herbs and spices. The addition of a well-balanced sauce is essential for tying all the flavors together, and the host provides tips on how to create a universal stir fry sauce that can be customized for different dishes.

Overall, this video is an excellent resource for anyone looking to improve their stir frying skills. The host’s clear explanations and practical tips make it accessible for both beginners and experienced cooks alike. By mastering the art of stir frying, you can create a wide range of delicious meals that are both quick and satisfying.

Recipe Details

Steps & Tips

02:20

Tip: The chewier the meat, the thinner you need to slice it.

04:10

Tip: Use salt for a cleaner tasting stir fry when working with homegrown vegetables.

06:42

Tip: You don't need to make stir fry sauce from scratch every time; keep a jar of universal stir fry sauce in the fridge.

1
08:56

Pre-cook the protein first and separately to control cooking time.

2
09:29

Heat oil in the pan before adding the marinated protein.

3
10:01

Cook the protein until at least halfway cooked, then toss to finish cooking.

12:01

Tip: Browning meat adds extra flavor, similar to the difference between boiled and fried chicken.

4
12:15

Add more oil and sauté non-delicate aromatics like garlic and chilies.

5
13:41

Add vegetables to the pan, toss, and then add the sauce.

14:12

Tip: Always have water on hand when stir frying at high heat to cool down the pan if things start to burn.

15:29

Tip: Mix your sauce in a bowl ahead of time to avoid burning while reaching for ingredients.

6
15:39

Add the pre-cooked protein back into the pan and toss everything together.

7
16:09

Turn off the heat and add delicate aromatics like green onions.

8
17:14

Sauté garlic, then add kabocha squash and water to steam.

9
19:13

Cover the pan to steam the squash until tender.

20:48

Tip: Don't add too much water when steaming vegetables; it's better to add a little more if needed.

10
21:06

Add eggs to the pan and lightly scramble, letting them set.

11
22:19

Turn off the heat and add delicate aromatics like Thai basil.

22:40

Tip: Let eggs sit and set a little when scrambling to keep some chunks instead of overcooking.

Ingredients

Serves: 4
Garlic4 cloves
Chilies2
Vegetables300g
Soy Sauce2 tbsp
Fish Sauce1 tbsp
Brown Sugar1 tsp
Palm Sugar1 tsp
Coconut Milk100ml
Sesame Oil1 tsp
Allergen Alerts

Ingredient: Eggs

    → Substitution: Flaxseed Meal + Water

Ingredient: Soy

    → Substitution: Coconut Aminos

Nutrition

Calories
400
kcal per serving

Skill Level

Skill Level Intermediate
Beginner Intermediate Advanced

Frequently asked questions

Below you will find answers to the most common questions about this recipe.

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Interesting Tidbits

  • Stir fries are versatile and can include any combination of proteins and vegetables.
  • The key components of a stir fry are the nuggets (protein/vegetables), sauce, and aromatics.
  • Cooking proteins separately helps prevent overcooking when combined with vegetables.
  • A splash of water can help deglaze the pan and prevent burning during high-heat cooking.
  • Delicate aromatics like basil should be added at the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.