How to Organize the Kitchen

Organizing the kitchen ahead of time will help avoid confusion when you're preparing Chinese food .   

Difficulty Level: Average        Time Required: n/a

Here's How:

1. Make sure the food preparation area is separate from the cooking area.
2. Place knives and cleavers near the food preparation area.
3. Place at least one (preferably two) cutting boards in the food preparation area.
4. Store several small plates and bowls in the food preparation area. You can use these to transfer the prepared ingredients to the wok.
5. Keep the wok as close as possible to the sink, as it needs to be rinsed often.
6. Keep sauces, seasonings, and cooking utensils near the wok.
7. Have a supply of paper towels handy to wipe out the wok.
8. Keep oven mitts near the wok, as the handles can get hot.

Tips:

1. When not using the wok, be sure to store it in a place where it will not get scratched or become damp.
2. When preparing ingredients, place a can or bag nearby so that you are not running back and forth to the garbage can.