description Yan Can Cook Overview
Yan Can Cook is an instructional cooking program hosted by Chinese American chef Martin Yan that began in 1982. Through rapid demonstrations, humor, and detailed knife work, Yan teaches techniques and recipes associated with Chinese cuisine while also introducing ingredients and regional food traditions to a broad public television audience. The series is especially associated with Yan's energetic presentation and his recurring phrase, "If Yan can cook, so can you."
help Yan Can Cook FAQ
Who is Martin Yan, and why is he associated with Yan Can Cook?
Martin Yan received formal restaurant training in Hong Kong and later moved to Calgary, Canada. PBS traces the public television series to 1978, while its archive also contains episodes dated 1982, which explains the different start years seen in listings ([PBS](https://www.pbs.org/show/yan-can-cook/)).
Does Yan Can Cook teach real knife and wok techniques?
Yes. Martin Yan demonstrates Chinese cleaver work, parallel cutting, wok cooking, and methods such as red-cooking instead of only giving ingredient lists ([PBS knife demonstration](https://www.pbs.org/video/how-to-meal-prep-with-martin-yan-1kpggx/)).
Can I still watch Yan Can Cook online?
PBS lists Yan Can Cook for streaming on pbs.org and through the PBS app. The series remains associated with Martin Yan's fast demonstrations, humor, and Chinese cooking instruction ([PBS](https://www.pbs.org/show/yan-can-cook/)).
Is there a Yan Can Cook episode specifically about a wok and microwave?
Yes. The PBS archive lists 'Wok Versus Microwave' with a date of December 30, 1982, and the episode compares traditional wok preparation with microwave cooking ([PBS episode archive](https://www.pbs.org/video/wok-versus-microwave-feyovi/)).
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