If I am unable to find lemongrass, what can I use as a substitute?
- Lemon zest with small amounts of fresh ginger. Approximately ½ Tbs. combination total for 1 lemongrass stalk.
- A few leaves of lemon balm or lemon leaves. Approximately 2 leaves for 1 lemongrass stalk.
Do I really need to use a wok when stir-frying?
You do not need a wok to be a stir-fry master. A large skillet will do the trick. However, woks are ideal for Asian cooking because of their concave shape - it prevents the food from flying out of the pan. Another great thing about woks or any non-stick finish pan is that they need less oil, so it's a healthier way to cook.
How long do I need to soak my rice noodles?
The traditional method is to soak the dried rice noodles in room temperature water for at least 1 hour or even overnight. After 1 hour, they should be soft, firm but flexible. Drain the water before using. At this point they are ready for cooking. However, for quick preparation, just bring enough water to a boil to cover the noodles. Turn off heat and immerse rice noodles in hot water for 3-7 minutes until noodles are soft but still firm. Rinse with cold water for 30 seconds and drain well.
What is blanching and how do you do it?
Blanching is a cooking process intended to enhance the color, flavor and texture of vegetables. To blanch your vegetables, simply place in boiling water for about 1 minute, then place in cold water for about 1 minute. This allows the vegetables to be slightly cooked, yet still crunchy when you stir-fry.
Can you use leftovers in Asian cooking?
Yes, yesterday’s chicken, steak and shrimp work great for preparing quick and delicious stir-fry dishes for tomorrow night’s dinner. Or why not use your leftovers to create the next day’s lunch? Just toss them over some mixed greens with a tasty Thai vinaigrette for a healthy Asian salad.
How is Fish Sauce used and where can I find it?
Fish Sauce is the main flavoring ingredient in Thai cuisine, and is commonly referred to as the soy sauce of Southeast Asia. Use it in place of salt or soy sauce to season almost any savory dish or stir-fry. With the growing popularity of Asian cuisine, fish sauce is widely available in Asian markets, supermarkets and health food stores or online at www.thaikitchen.com. However, if you do not have fish sauce available, you can substitute with soy sauce, although the flavor will not be as robust.
I am gluten intolerant and have heard that many Thai dishes are gluten-free. Are Thai Kitchen products gluten free?
You’re in luck. Because wheat isn't grown readily in Thailand, gluten is not a big part of the Thai diet. Most traditional Thai dishes are completely gluten-free and so are most Thai Kitchen products. However just to be certain, you can check on the allergy information link to be sure your purchase doesn’t contain gluten.
What Asian foods should I keep on hand to be able to whip up my favorite Pan-Asian dishes, anytime?
Chicken Broth
Coconut Milk*
Corn Starch
Curry Paste*
Fish Sauce*
Garlic
Ginger
Jasmine Rice*
Red Chili Paste*
Rice Noodles*
Sesame Oil
Soy Sauce
Spicy Chili Sauce*
Sweet Red Chili Sauce*
* Items Available From Thai Kitchen
