Growing up we were known as the awesome foursome. Four girls who came together in kindergarten and went on to share twelve glorious years of togetherness and companionship. To each other our lives was an open book, no secrets, nothing unknown, nothing to hide. Our different ethnicities were never a hindrance, in fact it made our friendship more colorful, complete and constructive. We enjoyed different cuisines, tried to learn a smattering of each other’s languages. Our friendship added to our personalities. Never needing anyone else, we were the four quarters that made up the whole.

We are coming together again after almost eight years. Having chosen different courses, we moved to different colleges and campuses but made it a point to touch base with one another when we returned home. Careers parted us further, though we have been in constant touch through social media. It is after a very long time that we are meeting up again for the Awesome foursome reunion! I am super excited to meet my girl gang again. I know it will be like we were never away, it will be like picking up from where we left off. Giggling, gossiping and guffawing.

I am just a little confused as to, what can I feed Liaan? My kitchen caters to hardcore non-vegetarians only! And she is now a confirmed vegan! I have spent the last few days reading and researching on veganism. A hard-core vegan will not only refrain from eating dairy products but no animal products too! So technically even honey is out of ambit.

Blankly staring into basket full of vegetables I had a eureka moment! I was going to make her, her favorite cuisine, Chinese Asian. The Vegan stir fried Udon Noodles it was to be. Healthy and delicious, it would also be simple and easy to dish up. Ingredients and all condiments in place I reached out for my JIM BEAM CAST IRON WOK and got to work.

The JIM BEAM CAST IRON WOK is one such utensil which is a must have for anyone serious about any type of cooking. A multi-faceted vessel it can be used for steaming, pan frying, poaching, boiling, stewing, smoking and a multiple of other uses. With a diameter of 26.5 cm and 8.5 cm in height it is suitable to cook large enough portions. Its depth ensures that the food tossed lands inside the wok and not on the stove.