The Best Chinese Wok That You Should Know
A wok is a versatile cookware in any kitchen. It can be used for stir-frying, deep frying, smoking, steaming, and others. Different woks are not made similar. They are of different sizes, metals, shapes, handles, and other features. They are relatively cheap. The best Chinese wok will help you to cook easily and enjoy.
There are various factors that should be considered before buying a wok. The following are some of the factors that you can consider.
Rank | Image | Product Name | Our Score | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | 4.8 /5 | |||
2 | The Cooks Multi-Ply Standard Clad Stainless Steel Wok, 13-Inch, Domed Lid | 4.6 /5 | ||
3 | 4.7 /5 | |||
4 | Joyce 22-0060 Chen Uncoated Carbon Steel Wok, Pro Chef Flat Bottom | 4.0 /5 | ||
5 | The Calphalon Nonstick Contemporary Aluminum Hard Anodized Cookware, Flat Bottom Wok, Black | 4.5 /5 |
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The Material Used
Different woks are made of different materials. Some are made of stainless steel, cast iron, carbon steel, and other materials. Stainless steel woks are heavy. They will take a long time to get hot or cool down. Cast iron woks may take some time to get hot and cool down.
The surfaces are nonstick. If the material used is too thin, the wok will be too fragile. They are not resistant to cracks. If the cast iron is thick enough, the wok will be durable and long lasting. The carbon steel woks can get hot faster evenly. They are relatively cheap as compared to other models.
The Shape
Most woks are deep bowl-shaped. They can easily fit into any circular opening over the hearth. They cannot be used on the electric and the gas ranges. The woks that have flat bottoms may make the process of flipping hard. Taking food in and out of these woks at high temperatures may not be easy. A good wok should have sides that are sloping gently about 14 inches. The area at the bottom should be about 5 inches. This is ideal for searing and flipping.
The Handles
Some woks have two handles on the sides. Others have a long handle with a smaller handle on the other side. This makes it easier to lift the woks. The longer handle can be used to stir fry and flipping.
The Cooking Surface
The nonstick coatings are not ideal to be used at high temperatures. They may release fumes that are dangerous before the required temperatures are reached. Browning of the food may be difficult.
Maintenance
Most woks will get better as you use them often. Some models have a film of oil for protection against rust and tarnishing. The film can be removed before using the wok for the first time. The wok should be cleaned using hot and soapy water.
Scrub it gently and dry it thoroughly. Heat the wok until it gives out some smoke. Rotate it for even heating at high temperatures. Use a paper towel and rub it with some oil using a pair of tongs to hold the towel. This will ensure that it is ready for safe use.
The Cleaning Process
The wok should not be scrubbed after use. You can clean it by rubbing it with a sponge that is soft after rinsing. It should be dried using a towel and rub it with some cooking oil. This will make it vapor-proof to prevent rust. The wok can end up being nonstick. This is because the oil used to cook will break down to be polymers. They will fill the pores that are microscopic on the surface. This will make it nonstick.
Availability Of A Lid
When cooking Chinese food with the wok, the lid will make your work easier. The ingredients will simmer properly.
The Following Are Some Of The Best Chinese Woks That You Can Consider If You Need A Wok.
1. The T-fal Specialty A80789 Jumbo Wok Cookware, Black
This jumbo wok is used to prepare delicious meals. it is large enough to serve the whole family. It is nonstick. You can clean it in the dishwasher safely. The wok can be used safely in the oven. it is made of aluminum that is durable.
The base is narrow with a wide top. The heat is distributed evenly and quickly. This ensures that the flavor is sealed in. It has a surface that is non-stick in the inside and outside. You will only need less oil or no oil for cooking healthier foods. The food will be released effortlessly.
You can use the wok for steaming, stir-frying, sautéing, searing, deep frying, braising, poaching, and even making soup. The handle will stay cool during the cooking process. This ensures that it can be gripped securely without burning your hands. The handle has a hole at the end for easier storage. You can use this in the oven safely up to 350 degrees.
Pros
- The capacity of this wok is large enough to prepare food for the whole family.
- The exterior and the interior have nonstick surfaces. The food is released effortlessly and the cleaning process is easier.
- It is made of aluminum. The heat is distributed quickly and evenly.
- The jumbo wok can be cleaned in the dishwasher safely. This makes it convenient.
- It can be used in the oven up to about 350 degrees F.
- It has a lifetime warranty that is limited.
- The material used to make this wok is free of cadmium, lead, PFOA, and other harmful particles.
- The handle is made of silicone. It is long enough to prevent your hands from burning. It stays cool during the cooking process. This ensures that it can be gripped securely.
Cons
- The nonstick coating may come off. This may make it unsafe for food.
- It cannot fit well in the dishwasher.
- It is a little bit shallow.
- The ridges are very sharp. They may scratch the cooktop.
2.The Cooks Multi-ply Standard Clad Stainless Steel Wok, 13-inch, Domed Lid
The wok is designed beautifully. It has three layers. The interior and exterior layers are made of stainless. The core is made of aluminum alloy. This is at the bottom and the sides. The aluminum alloy ensures that the heat is distributed quickly and evenly.
The exterior is resistant to scratches. The side handle is made of stainless steel and another small handle that is riveted to offer strength. They feature an air flow technology which ensures that they will stay cool during the cooking process. The lid is dome shaped. It fits perfectly on the wok. The lid will trap heat and moisture for better cooking.
This wok can be used on all cooktops including an induction cooktop. You can only use it in the oven up to 500 degrees. It can be cleaned in the dishwasher safely or by hand. It has a lifetime warranty that limited. It cannot be used in the broiler.
Pros
- The interior and exterior layers are made of stainless. They are resistant to scratches. This makes them durable.
- The wok can be used on all the cooktops including the induction cooktop.
- It has a long handle and a small handle on the other side to ensure that the wok is gripped securely. The handle stays cool during the cooking process.
- It has a lid that is dome-shaped. The lid fits perfectly to lock in the moisture and nutrients.
- The core is made of aluminum alloy. This ensures that the heat is distributed quickly and evenly.
- It can be cleaned safely in the dishwasher or by hand.
Cons
- Food may stick or burn in this wok.
- It may take long to get hot.
- It does not retain heat.
3. The Lodge Seasoned P14W3 Cast Iron Wok
The wok has a contemporary style. The lines are curved and its performance is excellent. This a 14-inch wok. The capacity is ideal for cooking enough food for more people. It is made of cast iron. The heat is distributed and retained well.
This will ensure that the food is cooked evenly. It has loop handles which you can use to grip the wok safely. The wok is designed with a flat bottom. It can be used on gas or electric range. You don’t need a ring to hold the wok.it is made in the USA. It is durable and economical. A cast iron cookware should be seasoned.
The wok is seasoned with a finish that is easy-release. The heated oil will fill the pores to prevent it from rusting. This will give you a nonstick surface after some uses. A nylon brush that is stiff should be used to clean the wok after every use. Harsh detergents, soap, and cold water should not be used.
Pros
- It has loop handles that can be used to grip the wok securely.
- The wok has a flat bottom. You can easily use it on gas ranges or electric ranges. It can be used on al cooktops safely.
- The cast iron can distribute the heat evenly to ensure that food is cooked evenly.
- The capacity is ideal for cooking enough food for more people.
- The base is sturdy. It will remain stable on the cooktop during the cooking process.
- It is seasoned with oil for easier release that will be better after some time.
Cons
- It can easily crack or warp if placed in a cold water.
- It is not resistant to rust.
- It is too heavy. It may take too long to get hot.
4. Joyce 22-0060 Chen Uncoated Carbon Steel Wok, Pro Chef Flat Bottom
The wok is made of carbon steel that is heavy gauge. The phenolic handle can stay cool during the cooking process. The handle has a hole for hanging. It is large enough to prepare more food for your family and friends.
It is a 14-inch wok. It has a flat bottom which is ideal for gas or electric ranges. Before using the wok, it should be seasoned. The cleaning process is easier. It only requires hand wash. Ensure that the coating protecting the wok is removed before it is used for the first time. Boil the wok with water that is half full for about 7 minutes.
Pour the water and scrub immediately. Use hot water that is soapy and scour with a pad. Rinse and dry it properly. Season it as directed by the manufacturer. It should not be dipped in cold water. Avoid detergents and soaps. Use only hot water and a scouring pad when cleaning after cooking. It should be re-seasoned if it rusts. It cannot be cleaned in the dishwasher.
Pros
- It has a flat bottom which is ideal for gas or electric ranges.
- The cleaning process is easier. It only requires hand wash.
- It is large enough to prepare more food for your family and friends
- It has a phenolic handle that can stay cool during the cooking process.
Cons
- You cannot clean it in the dishwasher.
- It is not resistant to rust.
- The small handle is made of plastic which may melt on high heat.
- The handles are not very strong.
5. The Calphalon Nonstick Contemporary Aluminum Hard Anodized Cookware, Flat Bottom Wok, Black
This wok is stylish with a modern design. The wok is made of aluminum that is heavy gauge. The heating is even. It is hard anodized for durability. You can easily clean it the dishwasher safely. The handles are long.
They are made of stainless steel that is brushed. They can stay cool when cooking. The interior coating has three layers that offer durability and easy release surface. The wok can be used for stir-frying food on electric or gas ranges. The lid is domed for better simmering and steaming.
You need less or no oil for cooking. This is because the cooking surface is nonstick. It has a full lifetime warranty. The cleanup is easier. You can use it safely in the oven up to 450 degrees.
Pros
- It has a lid that is dome shaped. This makes simmering and steaming of food easier.
- It is made of aluminum. This ensures that heat is distributed evenly and the food is cooked evenly.
- It can be used on electric or gas range cooktops. This is because it has a flat bottom.
- The handles can stay cool during the cooking process.
- The wok can be cleaned easily. You can place in the dishwasher safely.
Cons
- It is small.
- The lid does not fit perfectly.
- It is not resistant to scratches.
The Best Chinese Wok Is:
Among the above reviews, I like the T-fal Specialty A80789 Jumbo wok. The wok is designed beautifully. It has three layers. The interior and exterior layers are made of stainless. The core is made of aluminum alloy. The exterior is resistant to scratches. The side handle is made of stainless steel and another small handle that is riveted to offer strength.
They feature an air flow technology which ensures that they will stay cool during the cooking process. The lid is dome shaped. It fits perfectly on the wok. This wok can be used on all cooktops including an induction cooktop. You can only use it in the oven up to 500 degrees. It can be cleaned in the dishwasher safely or by hand. It has a lifetime warranty that limited.
When choosing a wok, consider your needs and what you like. This will help you to choose the best.
You can also check the best electric wok on the market.