When it comes to cooking up a storm, few tools are as versatile or effective as the humble wok. With its curved shape and non-stick surface, a wok allows for quick and easy stir-frying of a wide variety of ingredients, from vegetables and meat to noodles and tofu. And with so many different flavors and cuisines to draw inspiration from, there’s no end to the delicious meals you can create with your trusty wok by your side.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 18 sizzling wok recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic Chinese dishes like Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry and Vegetable Lo Mein, to international twists like Thai Basil Chicken and Singapore Noodles, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out with cooking, these wok recipes will have you cooking up a storm in no time.
Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry
A classic Chinese-inspired stir fry that combines tender beef, crisp broccoli, and savory flavors in just a few minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Cut the beef into thin strips and season with salt.
2. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. Add the garlic and broccoli to the pan; cook for 1 minute, stirring frequently.
5. Add the cooked beef back into the pan with the broccoli mixture.
6. Stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using); season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Serve: Over cooked rice or noodles, garnished with green onions if desired.
Spicy Garlic Shrimp Wok
Add a burst of flavor to your meal with this spicy garlic shrimp wok recipe, perfect for a quick and delicious dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the olive oil, garlic, ginger, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove from heat and stir in soy sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vegetable Lo Mein
A classic Chinese dish, Vegetable Lo Mein is a flavorful and easy-to-make stir-fry that combines the perfect balance of vegetables, noodles, and savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cups bean sprouts
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, 2-3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and bean sprouts. Stir-fry for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour sauce over the vegetable mixture; stir-fry for 1 minute to combine.
5. Add cooked noodles to the skillet; stir-fry until combined with the sauce and vegetables.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
Experience the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with this simple and delicious Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 2 tbsp Teriyaki sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the mixed bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the Teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir-fry everything together for 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is coated with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kung Pao Tofu
Savor the bold flavors of this Sichuan-inspired dish, featuring crispy tofu and a medley of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon chili bean paste (doubanjiang)
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. In the same wok, add garlic, ginger, and bell peppers. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in peanuts, soy sauce, chili bean paste, and cornstarch mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add tofu back to the wok and stir-fry everything together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes.
Honey Sesame Pork Wok
A sweet and savory Asian-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of honey, sesame oil, and tender pork with crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder or loin, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add garlic, onion, and bell peppers. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add soy sauce, ginger, honey, and cooked pork back into the wok. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the freshness of Thai basil with the richness of chicken, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 2 tablespoons Thai red curry paste
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil leaves
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, bell peppers, and curry paste; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Pour in coconut milk, fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in Thai basil leaves and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Singapore Noodles
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry dish that combines the bold flavors of Singaporean cuisine with the comfort of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 200g noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cooked chicken; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cumin, turmeric powder; stir-fry for another minute.
6. Combine noodles with the vegetable mixture; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ginger Soy Mushroom Stir Fry
This quick and flavorful stir-fry combines the savory flavors of soy sauce, ginger, and mushrooms to create a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 8 oz mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Add the mushrooms; cook for 2-3 minutes, until they release their moisture and start to brown.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and honey.
5. Pour the soy-honey mixture over the mushrooms; stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the mushrooms are coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Crispy Orange Beef
A sweet and savory twist on traditional beef recipes, this Crispy Orange Beef dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye work well)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange marmalade, soy sauce, garlic powder, and ginger.
3. In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Remove beef from skillet and set aside.
6. Pour orange marmalade mixture into the same skillet and bring to a simmer.
7. Return beef to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
8. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until beef is cooked through.
9. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Lemongrass Beef with Rice Noodles
Savor the aromatic flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple and delicious recipe, featuring tender beef, fragrant lemongrass, and springy rice noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked rice noodles
Instructions:
1. In a blender or mortar, combine lemongrass, garlic, and 1 tbsp oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Heat the remaining 1 tbsp oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
4. In the same pan, add onion and bell peppers. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Return beef to the pan, and stir in lemongrass paste, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve over cooked rice noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Szechuan Eggplant Stir Fry
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this simple and quick stir-fry recipe, featuring tender eggplant, crunchy vegetables, and a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup roasted peanuts or cashews
– 2 teaspoons Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until fragrant (30 seconds).
3. Add eggplant, broccoli, and peanuts; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together Szechuan peppercorns, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Pour the sauce into the wok; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cashew Chicken Wok
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry recipe that combines the nutty goodness of cashews with the savory taste of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the wok.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the wok. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in cashews, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 1 minute.
5. Return chicken to the wok and stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Garlic Green Beans with Pork
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the natural sweetness of green beans with the savory taste of pork and pungency of garlic, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 ounces cooked pork (such as ham or bacon), diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chicken broth for added moisture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse green beans and trim ends if necessary.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add green beans to the skillet and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in diced pork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until green beans are tender.
8. Remove foil and add chicken broth if using; return to oven for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pad Thai Wok Style
This classic Thai dish is a stir-fry masterpiece that combines sweet and sour flavors with the perfect balance of texture and taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rice noodles ( Pad Thai noodles)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables ( bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 1 cup cooked chicken or tofu, diced
– 2 tablespoons tamarind paste
– 2 tablespoons palm sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts and lime wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked chicken or tofu; stir-fry for 1 minute.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together tamarind paste, palm sugar, soy sauce, and fish sauce.
7. Pour the sauce into the wok and stir-fry until well combined.
8. Add noodles to the wok; stir-fry until coated with the sauce.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped peanuts and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Vegetable Stir Fry
A sweet and sour vegetable stir fry that combines the freshness of vegetables with a tangy and sweet sauce, making it a perfect side dish or main course. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sweet and sour sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sweet and sour sauce, and sugar.
5. Pour the sauce into the wok and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Black Pepper Beef Wok
This classic Chinese dish is a staple of Sichuan cuisine, with the bold flavors of black pepper and soy sauce bringing out the best in tender beef. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye), sliced into thin strips
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp black pepper, freshly ground
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup scallions, chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, garlic, black pepper, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Return beef to the wok and stir-fry until combined with the sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Wok-Fried Ramen
In just a few minutes, you can create a flavorful and satisfying bowl of ramen using your wok! This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bean sprouts, carrots, green onions)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken or pork, diced
Instructions:
1. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in your wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the onion and garlic; stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until they’re tender-crisp.
5. Add the cooked noodles, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the wok. Stir-fry everything together for about 2 minutes, ensuring the noodles are well coated with the sauce.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up a storm with these 18 mouth-watering wok recipes! From classic stir-fries like Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry and Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry, to spicy dishes like Spicy Garlic Shrimp Wok and Kung Pao Tofu, there’s something for every taste. Try your hand at Vegetable Lo Mein or Singapore Noodles for a delicious and easy meal. And don’t miss out on the sweet and sour options like Sweet and Sour Vegetable Stir Fry or Crispy Orange Beef. These recipes are sure to bring sizzling flavor to your dinner table!
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