Step 1

Prepare the noodles as needed: Prepare the noodles according to package directions. If using dried rice or cellophane noodles, soak in water until softened. Be careful not too overcook the noodles — it's better to slightly undercook than over cook.

Step 2

Drain the noodles: Rinse the noodles with cold water. Drain the noodles and shake the strainer a few times to get the noodles as dry as possible.

Step 3

Toss the noodles with a little vegetable or peanut oil: Return the noodles to the pan you used to cook them and toss them with a little oil. This prevents them from sticking and forming a big mass in the wok.

Step 4

Cut the noodles: Using a pair of kitchen shears, cut the noodles a few times directly in the saucepan. Aim for roughly 6- to 8-inch pieces. This makes the noodles easier to mix in with the other stir-fry ingredients. Set the saucepan near the stove.

Step 5

Prepare any other stir-fry ingredients: Make sure any other stir-fry ingredients, like chicken or bok choy, are cut into bite-sized pieces so they cook at the same rate and are ready for the wok. Keep them in separate bowls within reach near the stove. If you're making a sauce or using any other flavoring ingredients, make sure they're ready near the stove.

Step 6

Heat the wok: Set your wok over high heat until a drop of water evaporates within a second or two of contact.

Step 7

Add 1 tablespoon of oil: Pour 1 tablespoon of oil down the side of the pan. Swirl to coat the bottom and lower sides of the wok evenly.

Step 8

Stir-fry the aromatics: If you're using garlic or other aromatics, add it now. Stir-fry just until fragrant, 10 to 20 seconds. When done, push the aromatics up the side of the pan to make room for the next step.

Step 9

Stir-fry any meat or vegetable ingredients: Start with stir-frying the meat. Sear for 1 minute without stirring, then stir-fry another minute to work in the aromatics. Add the vegetables. Stir-fry another minute or so until everything nearly cooked, another 1 to 2 minutes.

Step 10

Add the noodles: Swirl another tablespoon of oil around the hot wok. Add the noodles and use two spatulas to gently toss the noodles with the other stir-fry ingredients, like tossing a salad. Do this a few times until the ingredients are mixed. Note: Your wok may move or wobble as you do this; it's helpful to have a kitchen helper to hold the wok steady for you.

Step 11

Add the stir-fry sauce: Season the stir-fry with the salt, and swirl in any liquid sauce ingredients, like soy sauce or chicken broth. Stir and toss the noodles and other stir-fry ingredients to coat evenly.

Step 12

Stir-fry one more minute: Once the sauce has been added, stir and toss the stir-fry just another minute or so, until the noodles are warmed and any meat you're stir-frying is cooked all the way through.

Step 13

Serve immediately: Transfer the noodle stir-fry to a serving dish or to plates. Serve immediately while still hot with extra seasoning ingredients on the side.