stir
v.v. to move a liquid or substance around with a spoon or tool to mix it. You do this when cooking to stop food from burning or to blend ingredients together.
v. to move a spoon or similar implement round and round in a liquid or other substance in order to mix it thoroughly. Transitive when used with an object; also used intransitively to describe the act of mixing.
Stir the soup slowly so it does not splash.
You should stir the sauce constantly over low heat to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
The chef instructed his apprentices to stir the risotto continuously, explaining that the mechanical action was essential for releasing the starches that create a creamy texture.
The verb is transitive and takes a direct object, but can also be used intransitively.