Steaming, Tips and Hints | Cuisinart WOK-730 instruction

04CU13116 WOK-730 IB 6/22/04 10:41 AM Page 6

NOTE: Wooden utensils will not damage the nonstick surface of the wok.

Stir-frying is usually done in stages, as foods tend to have different cooking times. Cooked foods can be removed from the wok and returned at a later stage when sauces or spices are added to complete the dish.

The Cuisinart™ Electric Wok has been treated with a nonstick coating for easy food preparation and easy cleanup. The nonstick coating gives you the option of stir-frying with small amounts of oil for healthier cooking.

It is very important when stir-frying to have all of your ingredients prepped before starting to cook. Once you start, there is no time to stop and chop vegetables, slice meats, or measure and mix sauces, or search the cabinet for an herb

or spice.

When you are ready to begin cooking, heat the wok to 375°F, or the temperature suggested in your recipe, for about one minute before adding oil. Add oil (peanut, canola or other vegetable oil) by drizzling it down the sides of the wok for more even distribution – and it will heat faster this way. To test the hotness of the oil, add a single piece of vegetable into the hot wok. If it sizzles, then you are ready to begin cooking.

Tips and Hints:

•For even cooking, cut all ingredients into a similar size, unless your recipe states otherwise. If you are not following a recipe, cut all your ingredients into bite-sized pieces.

•You may season the oil before adding other ingredients, by cooking a few pieces of garlic and/or fresh ginger for 20 to 30 seconds. Reduce the heat to keep the garlic or ginger from burning and remove the pieces of garlic/ginger after the oil has picked up their flavor before continuing with your recipe.

•If the recipe calls for meat and vegetables, the meat can be cooked first and removed before cooking the vegetables. Return it to the wok just before adding your sauce ingredients – this will keep the meat from over- cooking and help the meat and vegetables maintain their own individual flavors.

•Meats are most often stir-fried using high heat to seal in juices.

•Meats/seafood cook best in smaller amounts – you may stir-fry your

meat/seafood in 1-cup batches so that it will sear and not steam.

•Remove stir-fried beef from the wok when it changes color – since the pieces are small, it will be about 80% cooked.

•When stir-frying meats and seafood, wait a few seconds before moving and tossing them in the wok to give them a chance to brown. Alternatively, vegetables should be moved about immediately.

•Stir-fry times for vegetables will vary according to their density/hardness. The densest vegetables should be added first. Denser vegetables such as broccoli and carrots will require longer cooking times than leafy greens, bok choy or snow peas.

•Wash vegetables ahead of time and allow them to dry before stir-frying unless recipe indicates otherwise. Spinach may be an exception, as cooking with a bit of water helps it wilt.

•If vegetables seem a bit dry when stir-frying, add a few drops of liquid such as water or chicken or vegetable broth, but add it sparingly.

•When it is time to add the finishing sauce to your stir-fry, move the meats and vegetables up on the sides of the wok to form a “well” in the center. Add the sauce to the center of the wok and stir to thicken before combining with the cooked ingredients.

•Keep a variety of Asian condiments in your refrigerator or pantry. Some ingredients are used only in minimal amounts but are essential to the flavor of the recipe – store properly according to package instructions after opening. Some items to keep on hand include: black bean sauce, fermented/salted black beans, chili bean paste, chili oil, dried mushrooms, 5-spice powder, hoisin sauce, soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice wine or sherry, rice wine vinegar, nam pla (Thai fish sauce). These ingredients can be found in Asian grocery stores, and in many well-stocked grocery stores and “gourmet” food stores.

Steaming

Steaming food in your wok offers you a healthy method of food preparation. It is an optimal method of cooking to retain the flavor, shape, and texture of foods. Fewer vitamins and minerals are destroyed or leached away into the water as

WOK-730 specifications

The Cuisinart WOK-730 is a versatile and efficient kitchen appliance designed to elevate your culinary experience. This electric wok is known for its ability to deliver high-performance cooking while preserving the authenticity of traditional stir-frying techniques. With its spacious cooking surface, the WOK-730 can accommodate generous portions, making it perfect for families or gatherings.

One of the standout features of the Cuisinart WOK-730 is its large 14-inch non-stick cooking surface. This expansive area allows for even heat distribution, ensuring that ingredients are cooked uniformly. The non-stick coating not only facilitates easy food release but also simplifies cleanup, making the overall cooking experience more enjoyable and less time-consuming.

Temperature control is another key aspect of the Cuisinart WOK-730. The wok is equipped with a powerful heating element that reaches high temperatures quickly, which is essential for achieving that signature stir-fried texture and flavor. The adjustable thermostat allows users to select the perfect cooking temperature for various types of dishes, whether you’re sautéeing vegetables, searing meat, or preparing a flavorful sauce.

Designed with safety in mind, the WOK-730 features cool-touch handles that remain safe to touch, even at high temperatures. This thoughtful design element allows users to easily maneuver the wok without the risk of burns. Additionally, the wok’s base has a stable, flat design that prevents tipping, ensuring safe cooking even in busy kitchen environments.

Another noteworthy technology in the Cuisinart WOK-730 is its tempered glass lid. This lid allows for easy monitoring of your dish without losing heat or moisture. The lid’s venting system helps to release steam, preventing sogginess and ensuring that your meal retains its desired texture.

Moreover, the Cuisinart WOK-730 is not only suitable for stir-frying; it is also a multipurpose appliance that can be used for deep-frying, steaming, and even making soups. Its versatility makes it an essential tool for any kitchen, whether you are a novice cook or a seasoned chef.

In conclusion, the Cuisinart WOK-730 embodies modern culinary technology combined with the traditional art of stir-frying. With its large non-stick surface, precise temperature controls, safety features, and versatile cooking options, this electric wok is a valuable addition to any kitchen. Whether you are preparing a quick weeknight meal or an elaborate feast, the Cuisinart WOK-730 ensures that your cooking experience is both efficient and enjoyable.