stir-fry

UK: /ˈstɜː.fraɪ/ | US: /ˈstɜːr.fraɪ/

Definition

  1. vt. to cook small pieces of food quickly by stirring them in hot oil

  2. n. a dish prepared by stir-frying

Structure
stir <to mix>fry <to cook in hot oil>
Etymology

The term "stir-fry" combines the English words "stir" (from Old English styrian, meaning "to agitate") and "fry" (from Old French frire, meaning "to cook in oil"). It emerged in the mid-20th century to describe a Chinese cooking technique where ingredients are rapidly stirred in a wok over high heat. The word reflects the action (stirring) and method (frying) central to the process.

Examples

  1. She taught me how to stir-fry vegetables with garlic and soy sauce.

  2. This chicken stir-fry is packed with flavor and fresh ingredients.

  3. Always use high heat when you stir-fry to achieve the right texture.

  4. He prepared a quick stir-fry for dinner after work.

  5. The secret to a good stir-fry is cutting all ingredients uniformly.