Stir-frying is a phenomenally easy way to add some sizzle to your weeknight dinners. The three hallmarks of this Asian style of cooking are the pan you cook in (stir-fries are traditionally made in a wok, but a large skillet works, too), high heat, and constant stirring. It takes mere minutes, so be sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start!
Cut all your ingredients into small, similarly sized pieces so they cook at about the same rate. However, those that take longer -- like carrots or chicken -- should be added to the pan first so they can get a head start.
Stir the ingredients frequently so they retain their flavor, color, and crispness. Keep them constantly moving the whole time to evenly distribute the heat. You're done when veggies are just tender and the meat or fish is just cooked through.
Leftover rice is key to this dish (freshly cooked rice is not dry enough). If you don't have any on hand, make a pot in the morning and pop it into the fridge for a few hours to dry out.
