“We’re Wok Stars, Mom”

 

© 2008 eleanor hoh

Maritza & Sophia

Pembroke Pines, Florida

“PS... true story... on the first night of cooking with our wok, I couldn't remember one of the cuts that you had shown us in class and I was quite frustrated.  Sophia looked at me and said, "Mommy, remember we are not classical musicians, we are Wok Stars!".... from the mouth of babes... priceless!”


For my explanation of what a “Wok Star” is, watch the video "What is a Wok Star" in the upper left of the home page.

I was very hesitant to invite an 8 yr. old to join my cooking classes but, I was so pleased Sophia came.  It just shows how kids are a great incentive to get you trying new things!  She was so mature and enthusiastic and even has her own website business.


Kudos to her mom, Maritza who encourages and supports Sophia's interests.  It's a beautiful thing to watch them blossom together in their new adventure with their wok! They are truly Wok Stars who


I never mind answering questions from them (or anyone) because they are so eager to learn new things.  I realize it's difficult at the beginning when you're used to following directions from a recipe, but once you break out of that habit, you'll be free as Maritza...


“THANK YOU Eleanor! You've really made a difference to our kitchen and the way we cook.  I feel much more confident now in not measuring.  It's quite liberating  : ) We are so happy with our Wok Star kit.... thank goodness for the DVD's.  I find myself referencing it quite a bit in the beginning.”

Dr. Maritza Paz and 8 yr. old Sophia

Pembroke Pines, Florida

Family Wellness Chiropractor & Whole Food Advocate

www.floridanaturalhealthcare.com

Sophia’s website:  www.sophiasflowerpens.vpweb.com

Maritza invited Sophia's friends to try a hand at making their own pancakes at her birthday party.  It was a lovely idea to introduce her friends to her new way of preparing so many things in a wok, not just Asian stir frys.  I bet her friends will brag about their experiences and spread the word.  Also take a look at Tips segment I wrote: Cooking with Kids for more on this topic.
 
Sophia and I have had a great time cooking on her birthday.  She likes Italian food so we made Shrimp Scampi and it was fantastic... and so easy!  We marinated in Sherry, lemon juice, pepper and corn starch.  Once we seared the shrimp we added the butter, scallions and herbs.” 
 
”Thanks also for the recommendations for the local asian markets.  We discovered Lotus Root at one of them and used it as a crunchy substitute for water chestnuts.  We are having so much fun cooking together and discovering new things.”
 
“I can't thank you enough for passing on your knowledge and making the tools so readily available for us. Sophia and I LOVE cooking different things in our wok.... we've made eggs, omelettes, soup and of course yummy stir fries all in the wok.... it is quickly becoming my favorite pan!”


“THANK YOU Eleanor! You've really made a difference to our kitchen and the way we cook. I feel much more confident now in not measuring.  It's quite liberating  : )  Just thought you would want to know that your Wok Star Kit is being put to good use!”


They have also used their wok for other ethnic dishes:

“I made cuban black beans and rice yesterday but of course I used my wok for the chicken.... it was PERFECT.  Simple and fast.”  

 

Here are some wonderful things they have to say about their versatile Wok Star Kit":

“The Rainbow Lettuce Wraps were so delicious and so easy to make that I am bringing my wok to the office tomorrow to make them for my staff as a treat!”

“It's great to be able to take your kitchen with you anywhere.”


“I've decided to take my wok since it is so easily portable and so VERSATILE... I can make lots of healthy food for her (and me!) while I'm there.....”


“Since I took your class I put my wok and burner right on my stove where I keep it every day.  I am concerned that if I put it away, it won't be as convenient and I won't use it as much. I have only turned on my stovetop once (for a BIG pot of beans) since we took your class...we've spent less than $2 on our energy source for cooking in the last two weeks.  I can only imagine that this will show up as a savings on our electric bill.  We've even stopped using the microwave to warm up food!  It's faster and healthier in the wok.”