Wok pan dates back 2,000 years to the Han Dynasty in China. The word “wok” means “cooking pot” in Chinese, and pans are used for a variety of cooking tasks. While the wok pan is best associated with stir-fries in the US, any dish that benefits from a centralized heat source and large, consistent cooking area can (and should!) be cooked in a wok.
This means the wok can be used for stewing, sauces, soups, deep frying, steaming, and more. Wok pan traditionally has rounded bottoms (which usually require a wok ring to help stabilize them) and very smooth, rounded edges, ideal for quick heating and evenly on a low flame.
They usually have long handles that allow you to shake them while cooking, sometimes eliminating the need not to mix at all. Some modern styles come with lids to aid in steaming and gently finishing the food. While many woks are made of carbon steel, there are also cast iron, non-stick, aluminum, electric, and stainless steel woks.
1. Calphalon Signature Hard Anodized Wok- Wok pan

The Calphalon 12-inch wok pan is a beginner-friendly wok for those looking for a full-size wok. A heavy aluminum bowl heats up more slowly than carbon steel pans and hold heat longer, making it difficult to adjust the heat on the fly. The advantage is that the wok is more forgiving because it reduces dramatically temperature changes.
The durable non-stick surface prevents ingredients from sticking to the surface, requiring less oil and less effort to clean. Its size and shape make it perfect for stir-fries and soups for the whole family. This pan is also supplied with a lid, which is ideal for stewing or retaining heat after removing it from the hob.
While many nonstick pans can warp when used at high heat, Calphalon is high temperature compatible and oven safe up to 500º F. The wok is it’s also dishwasher safe, making cleaning a breeze. Plus, this wok pan has one of the most durable non-stick surfaces we’ve tested, which makes it even more user-friendly.
However, the metal auxiliary handle gets hot, which sometimes requires a glove. Plus the price is decent steep and will probably be its biggest drawback for the average consumer. You get what you pay for in terms of quality, durability, and ease of use. All in all, the Calphalon is an ideal multi-purpose pan that leans toward stir-fries.
Pros-
Non-stick coating
Universal
Quality construction
Cons-
The helper handle heats up
Heavy lid
Features-
Built to last with 1.5x more durable non-stick interior (vs Calphalon Classic) Strong, hard-anodized aluminum construction heats evenly for precise cooking and performance.
Oven safe up to 500 degrees F, so you can easily transition from the stove to the oven.
Safe for metals, with a durable 3-layer PFOA-free non-stick interior.
Long stainless steel handles stay cool on the hob.
Recognized as the BEST overall non-stick cookware by Good Housekeeping.
Product information-
Brand Calphalon
Material aluminum
Color Hard anodized non-stick
12-inch capacity
Product Care Instructions Hand wash only
Number of pieces 1
Model name Wok with flat bottom and lid
It has a non-stick layer Yes
Machine washable Yes
Product dimensions 23.25 x 14.75 x 5.75 inches
Item weight 8.08 kg
Manufacturer Calphalon
Country of origin China
Customer rating 4.7 out of 5 stars 4,982 reviews
Best Seller #5,438 in Kitchen & Dining, #22 in Woks & Stir-Fry Pans
Date first available September 23, 2015
2. HexClad 12-Inch Hybrid Stainless Steel Wok- best wok to buy

The 12-inch HexClad wok is exceptionally light and easy to maneuver—we had no problem tossing vegetables and frying denser ingredients. such as noodles. This flat-bottomed wok pan is on the shallow end of the woks we’ve tried, but it’s still roomy enough to hold a lot of food.
It is made of a hybrid of two materials: stainless steel for the exterior and a hard anodized non-stick coating for the interior. This wok pan has a laser-etched design with raised hex and dot ridges to sear chunks of meat that produced some of the best roast beef in testing.
When it comes to cleaning, a gentle rinse under warm, soapy water will suffice. Ease of cleaning is key if you use the wok pan regularly. We were particularly impressed with the non-stick properties of this HexClad wok, but previous testing of HexClad cookware sets has shown the spice. it was necessary for the pans to be truly non-stick.
Pros-
Easy seasoning
It retains heat well and distributes heat evenly
Includes lid
Cons-
It needs re-seasoning
Features-
PATENTED HexClad TECHNOLOGY: The hexagonal design is created through a laser etching process that provides both stainless steel and a non-stick finish.
This double surface allows your large wok to fry using less oil, fat, and butter.
WHY CHOOSE HexClad: With its patented laser-etched hexagonal design and three-layer construction, HexClad is PFOA-free and oven-safe up to 500 degrees, prepared for the hob and induction range. It is equipped with handles to keep it cool for a premium wok cooking experience.
HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS: Creating a durable kitchen set that lasts requires a three-layer construction. The first and third layers are stainless steel for a strong non-stick inner and outer construction, with aluminum in between to conduct consistent, even heat.
EASY TO CLEAN AND SCRATCH RESISTANT: The 12″ HexClad large wok is dishwasher safe and can be cleaned with burnt or steel pads as it is scratch resistant and won’t scuff or wear from using metal utensils.
SEASONING INSTRUCTIONS: It is essential that you season your HexClad cookware for a non-stick cooking experience. To properly spice up your HexClad cookware, bring the cookware to medium-low heat and brush the inside with 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil.
Your dishes will be ready to use after heating for 2-3 minutes and it will work better over time as it re-season from the fats in the food you are cooking with.
PROPER CARE AND USE: Wash dishes with warm, soapy water before first use. Patented HexClad design enables faster heat distribution, therefore, we recommend cooking at a medium-low temperature for most foods and at a medium-to-medium-high temperature when roasting meat.
LIFETIME WARRANTY: HexClad products are built to last a lifetime. Our cookware is covered by a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty. With HexClad in your kitchen, you can be sure that your cookware will look beautiful and perform well for a long time.
Product information-
HexClad brand
Material Stainless steel
Special features Compatible with gas hob, Compatible with electric hob, Compatible induction hob
Color Silver
Capacity 1 liter
Compatible devices Smooth surface induction
Product care instructions Dishwasher safe
Maximum temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit
Handle material Stainless steel
Item weight 3.5 lbs
Number of pieces 1
It has a non-stick layer Yes
Machine washable Yes
Product dimensions 20.5 x 12.5 x 1 inch
Item weight 3.5 kg
Made by HexClad
Country of origin USA
Customer rating 4.6 out of 5 stars 575 reviews
Bestseller #9,633 in Kitchen & Dining, #37 in Woks & Stir-Fry Pans
Date of first availability August 9, 2019
3. Calphalon Premier Hard Anodized Non-Stick 13 Inch Flat Bottom Wok- best woks

This exemplary modern wok pan is a fantastic bridge for those trying to master wok cooking techniques, supported by the peace of mind of working with a non-stick surface. With this model from Calphalon, you get all the familiarity, ease, and quality of hard anodized cookware – and then some.
Its three-layer interior is a significant improvement on its already excellent other lines; it’s remarkable that it can withstand the use of metal spatulas, whisks, and spoons (but not knives or forks),
which is typically a no-no for non-stick. In addition, this wok pan boasts a specially textured surface designed for frying that can mimic the coveted wok hei effect of kissed food.
Another technical, traditional aspect that makes this wok pan a winner is the relatively small size of the flat bottom combined with a wide overall diameter of 13 inches. This dramatic expansion means your food is less likely to sit on the bottom and burn or pile up and steam, collecting crunchy killing moisture.
You’ll have plenty of side cooking surfaces to cook your ingredients without risking vegetables soaking from the bottom. But if vaping is your goal, more good news: This version comes with a low-profile tempered glass lid, which allows you to view without losing heat. Plus, the long, ergonomic riveted handle makes tossing this 6.5-pound pan easy if you’re feeling ambitious about showmanship.
Pros-
It does not require any seasoning or special maintenance
Specially structured surface for frying
Triple-coated non-stick surface
Suitable for oven up to 500 degrees
Cons-
Not compatible with induction hobs
The helper handle can get very hot
Features-
Built to last with a 40% longer non-stick surface (vs. Calphalon Classic).
Durable 3-layer non-stick metal cookware safe interior with a hard anodized aluminum exterior.
Long handles stay cool on the hob
Oven safe up to 450 degrees F, so you can easily transition from the stove to the oven
Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Compatible with most hobs including gas, electric, and glass.
Lifetime Warranty.
Product information-
Brand Calphalon
Material aluminum, non-stick interior
Special features Compatible with gas stove, Compatible with electric stove
black color
13-inch capacity
Product care instructions Hand wash only, dishwasher safe
Number of pieces 1
Model Name Premier Hard Anodized Non-Stick Cookware
It has a non-stick layer Yes
Machine washable Yes
Product dimensions 25.5 x 17 x 10.75 inches
Item weight 5.76 kg
Manufacturer Calphalon
Country of origin China
Customer rating 4.7 out of 5 stars 124 reviews
Bestseller #26,026 in Kitchen & Dining, #85 in Woks & Stir-Fry Pans
Date of first availability June 8, 2020
4. T-Fal A80789 Specialty Nonstick Dishwasher Oven Safe- Favorite wok pan

This bargain is a good choice for those just starting out in the art of waking. Its non-stick interior impressed our tester, who noted that “even I most stubborn ingredients – such as thinly sliced mushrooms, diced onions, and grated garlic – slid right off without leaving any residue burns.”
This feature, in addition to the lightweight aluminum composition, may be just the boost the home cook needs to stir, flip, and steam with confidence. Our reviewer loved the generous 14-inch diameter of this wok pan, which allows you to cook several portions at once.
Long handle and stay cool a silicone helper loop provides extra security against failure, and the flat base means anyone with a gas or electric stove can cook.
Pros-
Large capacity
Handles remain cool to the touch
Suitable for the dishwasher
Cons-
It may be too large for small living spaces
Only suitable for ovens up to 350 degrees
Not suitable for induction
Features-
14-inch jumbo wok for cooking family meals; perfect for frying, roasting, roasting and more.
Excellent non-stick interior and exterior surface makes cooking and cleaning easy.
Healthy cooking results in minimal oil or fat. Aluminum construction for quick and even heat distribution.
Superior non-stick ProGlide interior.
Long ergonomic handle that stays cool.
Dishwasher safe; Oven safe up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Product information-
Brand T-fal
Material aluminum
Special Functions Manual
black color
Product care instructions Oven-safe, dishwasher safe
Item weight 2 lbs
Number of pieces 1
Model Name T-fal A80789 Special Non-Stick Jumbo Wok Cookware Oven Safe PFOA Free
It has a non-stick layer Yes
Machine washable Yes
Product dimensions 18 x 14 x 5 inches
Item weight 2 lbs
Department T-fal 14″ Jumbo Wok
Manufacturer T-fal
Country of origin China
Customer rating 4.6 out of 5 stars 4,753 reviews
Bestseller #9,739 in Kitchen & Dining, #38 in Woks & Stir-Fry Pans
Date first available January 22, 2008
5. Cooks Standard Stainless Steel Multi-Ply Clad Wok- Wok pan reviews

The Cooks Standard 13-inch Wok has a larger bottom surface than others we’ve tested, making it a hybrid between the popular pan and wok However, the rounded, tapered sides were effective at holding cooked food as we walked, and it was light enough to toss vegetables around while frying.
This wok pan was also our favorite for deep frying the potato chips, which created minimal splatter and cooked the chips perfectly on all sides. It’s worth noting that traditionalists don’t like stainless steel woks because they take longer to heat up and usually don’t heat as evenly as carbon steel pans.
However, while the Cook Standard took longer to heat up, we were impressed with how efficiently it maintained that heat. Aluminum the core and multi-layer metal construction was a game changer, making the pan light enough to be comfortable to use while still producing even heat with little to no hot spots.
Pros-
Keeps heat well and distributes evenly
Features a domed lid
Large area
Cons-
Stainless steel rather than carbon steel
Features-
13-inch wok made of 18/10 stainless steel with an aluminum core
Solid stainless steel riveted handles stay cooler with airflow technology
Securely fitting stainless steel dome lid traps heat and moisture
Dishwasher safe; oven safe up to 500 degrees F
Product information-
Brand Cooks Standard
Material Stainless steel
Special features Compatible with gas hob, Compatible with electric hob, Compatible with induction hob, Dishwasher safe
Color Silver
Capacity 7 liters
Product care instructions Dishwasher safe
Handle material Stainless steel
Item weight 8 lbs
Number of pieces 1
Model name Multi-Ply Clad Stainless Steel
It has a non-stick layer no
Machine washable Yes
Product dimensions 23 x 13.5 x 5 inches
Item weight 8 lbs
Manufactured by Cooks Standard
Country of origin China
Customer rating 4.6 out of 5 stars 2,344 reviews
Best Seller #24,098 in Kitchen & Dining, #81 in Woks & Stir-Fry
Date first available December 15, 2010
6. Anolon three-layer stainless steel wok pan

Stainless steel is popular for many reasons: its durability, resistance to stains and damage, ability to withstand metal tools, non-reactive features, and easy maintenance.
This smaller wok pan with a flat bottom (for gas, electric, or induction cookers) completes the appetizer with a three-layer Construction around an aluminum core for the fast heat conduction you want in a wok pan.
And more importantly, especially for smaller ones wok – because this one is less than 11 inches – are tall walls that keep the heat in so your vegetables don’t cook. A height of 4.75 inches, that’s more than enough to keep your food between its slanted sides and a flat bottom.
Pros-
Very tall rims
Suitable for grilling and oven up to 500 degrees
Lifetime Warranty
Cons-
More cooking oil should be used to prevent them from sticking
Discolors over time
Features-
Durable frying pan: durable three-layer construction with an aluminum core between layers of stainless steel for excellent heat distribution while cooking with this exceptional wok pan.
Easy to clean: This induction-compatible frying pan is dishwasher safe for convenience and the polished stainless steel exterior is easy to clean.
Sturdy wok handle: The comfortable stainless steel handle is double riveted for strength for a sure grip when moving with mitts or mitts.
High-Temperature Frying Pan: This fryer is oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
Lifetime and NSF certified.
Product information-
Brand Anolon
Material Stainless steel
Special features Compatible with induction hob
Color Silver
3-pound capacity
Product care instructions Oven-safe, dishwasher safe
Item weight 2.7 lbs
Number of pieces 1
Model name Triple Clad
It has a non-stick layer Yes
Machine washable Yes
Product dimensions 19 x 10.75 x 4.75 inches
Item weight 2.7 kg
Manufactured by Meyer
Country of origin China
Customer rating 4.6 out of 5 stars 397 reviews
Best Seller #171,630 in Kitchen & Dining , #471 in Woks & Frying Pans
Date first available November 6, 2013
7. Souped Up Recipes Carbon Steel Wok For Electric- best wok for electric stove

The pre-seasoned Soaped Carbon Steel Wok is gorgeous, with a flat bottom and wooden lid reminiscent of a traditional Chinese wok. Adding a spout on the side helps pour cooked food effortlessly. It took two rinses to remove the protective coating and was helpful the user guide walked us through the process.
The guide also includes lots of tips for later use on how to create spices and recipe suggestions. We were amazed at how quickly this wok pan brought the oil up to frying temperature—it only took us three minutes to go from 75°F to 280°F.
However, the temperature consistency was a constant struggle once we started pan-frying the potatoes. This wok pan either turned the heat down more than needed deep frying or could not stop overheating.
Another minor puzzle was with the wooden lid. While it’s lovely and great for keeping warm when cooking and steaming, we prefer a domed glass lid so we can better monitor the cooking process.
Pros-
Pre-seasoned
The side spout makes pouring easier
It heats up quickly
Cons-
It fights by retaining heat
Flat lid
Features-
PREHEAT FOR IMMEDIATE USE – Sizzling stir-fries, crispy stir-fries, pan-frying to perfection… and soups and stews too!
Can handle high heat and scratches – the carbon steel wok has no Teflon coating and can withstand extremely high temperatures without damage. You can use metal utensils and you don’t have to worry about scratches. With proper care, it will last you a lifetime.
VIDEO AND WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS – Have you had problems with other carbon steel woks rusting? We have very simple care instructions, so you will cook like a pro!
ORIGINAL FLAT BOTTOM WOK – Works on electric stoves, induction stoves, gas stoves, and other heat sources. Produces and imports popular Youtuber, soup recipes.
VIRAL TAKEOUT RECIPES – Over 1 million subscribers trust her recipes… and we’ll also include a link to over 200 video recipes in the box, which many that you can make this wok.
Product information-
Branded soup recipes
Material carbon steel, stainless steel, wood
Color carbon steel
Capacity 10 liters
Number of pieces 15
Model Name Soup Recipes
It has a non-stick layer no
It is suitable for dishwashers no
Product dimensions 12.5 x 12.5 x 3.74 inches
Item weight 5.37 kg
Soup recipe maker
Customer rating 4.5 out of 5 stars 6,943 reviews
Best Seller #4,399 in Kitchen & Dining, #18 in Woks & Stir-Fry Pans
Date of first availability September 27, 2019
8. Joyce Chen Professional Carbon Steel Wok Set

The Joyce Chen wok has always been a top choice, but it gets an upgrade with a full set that goes beyond the bare basics. This set comes with a tempura rack, bamboo utensils, chopsticks, a steaming rack, bamboo tongs, rice paddles, and a heat-resistant solid metal lid – basically everything you must immediately fry, fry, or fry.
The wok itself is made of carbon steel, the material of choice for many professionals We specialize in wok cooking. “[Carbon steel] is durable, conducts heat quickly and evenly,” says George Chen, founder, and executive chef at China Live San Francisco.
Heavy and solid on a flat bottom, it also contains a few subtle features. It requires hand washing, but its non-stick surface can tolerate the use of metal utensils. However, the included bamboo tools are recommended if you don’t want to tap them 25-year brand warranty on the non-stick surface.
Pros-
The included accessories go beyond just the basics
Pre-seasoned, naturally non-stick carbon steel
25-year guarantee on the non-stick surface
Cons-
Not dishwasher safe
Handle extensions need regular tightening
Features-
Everything you need for a stir-fry dinner: carbon steel non-stick wok with lid, tempura rack, bamboo spatula, tongs, rice scoop, chopsticks, 6 pairs of chopsticks, a steaming rack, a recipe booklet.
Excalibur’s tough non-stick surface resists metal cookware and makes cleaning easy.
Lighter and stronger than cast iron – easily turns vegetables.
Solid maple wood handle (plus auxiliary handle) is removable for oven temperatures up to 500 degrees.
Hand wash for best results.
Dimensions: Round 14 inches.
Product information-
JOYCE CHEN brand Wok pan
Material carbon steel
Special Functions Manual
black color
Capacity 3 liters
Product Care Instructions Hand wash only
Item weight 4.32 lbs
Number of pieces 1
Model Name Joyce Chen Professional Series 14 Inch Carbon Steel Non-Stick Wok Set
It has a non-stick layer Yes
It is suitable for dishwashers no
Product dimensions 25 x 14 x 6 inches
Item weight 4.32 kg
Made by Honey-Can-Do
Country of origin Taiwan
Customer rating 4.4 out of 5 stars 1,077 reviews
Bestseller #96,981 in Kitchen & Dining , #287 in Woks and Frying Pans
Date first available October 10, 2004
9. Kenmore Hammond Flat Bottom Carbon Steel Wok pan

The Kenmore Hammond flat bottom is made of carbon steel and has a PTFE and PFOA-free non-stick surface, which is a nice combination of conventional design and modern paint.
We enjoyed cooking with this wok because it reacts to temperature changes, the non-stick surface makes it a breeze to use, and is designed for high heat up to 500º F. The non-stick surface means no seasoning is needed, it is easy to clean and has virtually no gluing problems.
The acacia handles are visually appealing and reduce the need for pot mats even when cooking at high temperatures. Conversely, Kenmore’s non-stick surface requires some precautions—the manufacturer recommends plastic or wooden utensils to prevent scratching.
In addition, the manufacturer recommends slowly bringing the pan to a high temperature and not placing it in the oven. At a distance of 22 5/8 inches from the handle for handling, the Kenmore also takes up a significant amount of space in the kitchen cabinet and on the stovetop.
Despite the power and warmth of the Kenmore Combining modern and conventional design elements, the wok is a great choice for frying enthusiasts who want easy cleaning, minimal maintenance, and a price tag that won’t break the bank.
Pros-
Ease of use
Low maintenance
Affordable
Cons-
Large storage space
Medium quality
Features-
HAMMOND WOK: a versatile flat-bottomed wok perfect for frying, steaming, deep-frying, or even just quickly heating up last night’s dinner.
WHAT’S IN THE PACKAGE: 14” flat bottom wok made from heavy-duty 1.8mm carbon steel that retains and distributes heat evenly and twice riveted acacia wood handles that resist heat and provide an ergonomic grip.
NON-TOXIC COOKING: non-stick PTFE and PFOA-free interior that is heat resistant up to 500F. These properties enable cooking with low oil and fat content with easy cleaning.
HOBTOPS: The flat bottom allows this wok to sit perfectly on all hobs, including gas, electric, glass ceramic, and induction cookers.
KENMORE: A brand trusted in homes for superior performance and quality for over 100 years! We supply products that work to a high standard throughout the house to get the job done the first time. This consistent trusted performance of Kenmore items along with
Beautiful design helped bring comfort and happiness to the homes of all generations.
Product information-
Kenmore brand
Material Stainless steel
Special features Flat bottom
black color
Product Care Instructions Hand wash only
Number of pieces 1
Wok model name
It has a non-stick layer Yes
It is suitable for dishwashers no
Item weight 5.75 kg
Manufactured by Gibson Overseas, Inc
Country of origin China
Hammond Item model number
Customer rating 4.4 out of 5 stars 3,778 reviews
4.4 out of 5 stars
Bestseller #23,562 in Kitchen & Dining, #79 in Woks & Stir-Fry Pans
Date of first availability October 30, 2019
Final recommendations –
Our top picks will be based on quality first, then popularity and budget, Let’s take a look at the best wok according to our review, even if it’s expensive but gained people’s trust, 83% of people gave it 5-star feedback, The product is “Calphalon Signature Hard-Anodized Nonstick 12-inch Flat Bottom Wok”, you can buy it without hesitation.
I want to recommend you another one if you don’t have a problem with money, you can consider it, the product is “HexClad 12 Inch Hybrid Stainless Steel Wok” which is also a very good-rated product if you want a cheaper and at the same time popular product, then I want to recommend “T-fal Specialty Nonstick Jumbo Wok cookware”.
What to look for when buying a wok pan-
Material-
Carbon steel
Traditional woks are made of carbon steel, an alloy of iron and carbon. It has many similar properties to cast iron: it holds heat well, can be used on any type of hob (including open flame and induction), and is extremely durable. Carbon steel is lighter and less brittle than cast iron and also reacts better to changes in heat.
The malleability of carbon steel also lends itself well to forming and pressing, so the surface carbon steel pans will be smooth compared to the rougher surface of a cast iron pan. However, raw carbon steel requires a lot of seasoning, and all carbon steel is more high maintenance than other materials as it must be hand washed, kept dry, and oiled frequently.
Cast iron
This durable material is the best choice for cooking at high temperatures as it can retain heat – making it the perfect choice for roasting. and deep frying as well as keeping food warm for a long time. While cast iron requires a little extra care to retain its spice,
cookware made from this material has a very long life and can be used on virtually any hob.
This material is great for large fryers; however, the hot handles and heavy weight make it unsuitable for tossing if that’s your wok pan style.
Non-sticky
As with non-stick pans, foods cooked in non-stick pans are easily released thanks to the slippery coating, and any cooking residue is removed. easily removable. Non-stick coatings can take several forms, from high-end ceramic to hard-anodized aluminum.
However, non-stick coatings are softer than bare metals and are prone to scratching and flaking, and historically cannot be used with metal or sharp utensils. The maximum cooking temperature for non-stick pans is usually lower than for other materials, so if you want to get charcoal that a traditional wok would give, you may want to choose a different version.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel is the best choice for quality cookware because it is durable and resistant to stains and other damage. A wok pan made of this material will typically have a thermally conductive aluminum core surrounded by layers of 18/10 stainless steel, which gives it some weight and thickness.
These types the pans are not only beautiful to look at, but also stand up to sharp or metal kitchen utensils without getting scratched. Moreover, they are generally easy to care for.
Size
Home wok pans come in a wide range of sizes, from tiny 8-inch versions perfect for singles to 36-inch ones for feeding a party. A good average size is a 12- or 14-inch wok, which fits well on a standard stove and can usually feed three to four people, depending on their tastes.
It will give you enough space to fry a large amount of food without having to worry about accidentally throwing some of it out of the wok.
Round or flat bottom
Traditional round-bottomed woks are intended for use with a special stove with a burner that is mounted on the wok cradle. This setting creates Hotspot on the bottom while sending heat up the sides of the wok and also allows for smooth scooping for mixing ingredients.
If you opt for a round-bottomed wok, you’re more likely to produce restaurant-style results, but you’ll also need a special ring to allow your burner that holds the wok – and the gas stove. If that sounds like a problem, go for a flat-bottomed wok – this style will work just fine for you. existing hob without needing any special placement.
Heating performance
Restaurants that specialize in wok cooking often cook at higher temperatures than you can achieve on a home stove, so traditional carbon steel wok can easily withstand the highest heat within your reach.
Cast iron and stainless steel can also withstand high temperatures – double-check with the manufacturer to verify the cooking range of your wok pan. Non-stick pans generally don’t do well at very high heat, so if you’re looking If you want to achieve restaurant-quality frying, you should choose a pan with a higher temperature threshold.
Price
As with most cookware, woks can vary widely in price. Since woks are a special pan that not all manufacturers make, you may not find as many them options as with other pans, but there are some great options in cast iron and carbon steel that shouldn’t be overlooked.
How to use and cook with a wok
✔️ Use oil with a high smoke point. If you will be using the wok at high temperatures, use an oil that can withstand the heat without burning grapeseed, peanut, or canola oil.
✔️ If you are using a seasoned wok, preheat it before cooking. If you don’t overheat the wok, the ingredients will stick. To check if your wok is on the right temperature for frying says Young, “Heat an empty wok until a drop of water evaporates within one second of contact, be careful so it doesn’t overheat.
” Note that if you’re using a non-stick wok, you’ll want to use a lower heat to avoid destroying the non-stick coating.
✔️ Use tasty ingredients and high heat to achieve “wok hei”. Young translates “wok hei” as “wok breath” and says it’s a Cantonese phrase that is used to describe a perfectly cooked scrambled egg, filled with delicious, rich, concentrated flavor and smoky aroma.
According to Young, there is a common misconception that achieving wok hei is all about high heat: “If the ingredients aren’t inherently tasty, there’s no flavor. highlight when fried.’
✔️ Make sure all your ingredients are prepped, dried, and organized. Woks cook food quickly, which means you’ll need everything ready to go nearby, including sauces and aromatics such as ginger and garlic.
Be sure to cut all the proteins and vegetables evenly so that they cook evenly and set aside. Young also points out that it’s important to dry produce well, otherwise, you risk soggy frying.
✔️ Do not overfill the wok. Too many things in the wok can cause the ingredients to steam rather than fry. If necessary, cook on a small scale batch, set aside the cooked food so that it does not overflow, and then mix everything at the end. As a good rule of thumb, Young suggests cooking a pound of food at a time in a 14-inch wok
Tools and accessories for wok cooking
Wok Turner: You will need a wok-turner or spatula to help you move or flip the food in the wok. These are longer than regular spatulas for the protection of hands from high heat.
Non-stick wok spatula: If your pan is non-stick, we recommend using a wok spatula that won’t scratch the surface. Even though the wok says it’s safe for metal cookware, using non-metallic tools will help maintain a non-stick surface.
Bamboo Steamer: Use it in a wok to steam dumplings, vegetables, fish, and more. Be sure to check what size steamer will fit in your wok.
Spider strainer: Helps remove food from hot liquid, such as dumplings from frying oil. A slotted spoon can also be used, but spider webs can pick up larger foods and drain faster.
Wok Lid: You don’t need a wok lid for frying, but it comes in handy if you’re boiling, steaming, or whatever. don’t let liquids splatter – it’s even great for popping popcorn.
Wok ring: If you buy a wok with a round bottom, you will need a wok ring to keep it stable on the stove.
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