Deep Frying in the Wok

This is a continuation of our series on cooking with the wok, as pulled from excerpts from Renegade Wok:  New Dimensions in Wok Cooking. In this article we focus on how to deep fry with a wok.

Deep frying in the wok provides you with all the crispness and flavor that you demand in fried chicken, shrimp, oysters, pork, noodles, vegetables, etc., especially when you have dipped them in your favorite batter.

The addition of various kinds of batter and/or oils increases our recipe count immensely, and permits you to choose condiments accordingly.

We see a trend in the selection of cooking oils. If your concerns are in the reduction of calories and cholesterol, please refer to our Oil Well section. If you have referred to our Oil Well section, you may now have a different opinion on the orderly reduction of oil and fats that we may use in our diets. Moderation in consumption and acceleration in exercise may permit us to pursue healthier and longer lives.

Remember, when you are deep frying in a wok do not let the oil smoke or burn, as you will break down the oil. When in doubt discard the oil after each use and do not use it in other dishes.

A light detergent rinse of the wok may be preferred between change of oils or the use of strong-tasting condiments. To further offset our consumption of fried foods, we recommend that their presentation be with salads, fruits, legumes, boiled vegetables, or over beds of leafy vegetables.

We have charted a spectrum of deep-frying recipes and sauces that complements their consumption. The rest of the measuring is up to you. Of course, adjust the varying amounts of condiments just like those originally called for in the fried chicken and apple pie recipes that mom used to make! She wouldn't tell you either!

In the next edition of Jade Dragon Online we will focus on steaming, followed by many other exciting Renegade Wok secrets.

To become a full-fledged Renegade Wokker more quickly, order the Renegade Wok source book at our discounted rate of only $9.99 (retail $12.95) using our mail order form.

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