Have you ever felt amazed by the wok skills of Chinese chefs? Have you wanted to learn those amazing food-tossing skills? If that's the case, you probably need a functional wok to practice!
But with so many different woks to choose from--cast iron, stainless steel, and more--it can be confusing to know which one to pick. Don't worry and just keep reading. Our list of top 10 woks and buying guide at the end will give you some tips in choosing the perfect wok for you.
Quick List - Top Woks
Craft Wok
Hand-Hammered Carbon Steel Wok with a Round Bottom
Cuisinart
Stainless Steel with an Aluminum Encapsulated Base to Eliminate Hot Spots
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A wok can be a great addition to your cookware collection, but choosing one is not easy. You would need to think about factors such as the type of the wok, the material, and the handle design. Take a look at this buying guide for more details!
There are two main types of wok: round-bottomed and flat-bottomed. Each type has its own pros and cons that you should take into consideration before making a purchase.
Round-bottomed woks are one of the most common cooking tools in Chinese cooking. They're great because they can distribute heat evenly from the bottom to the sides of the wok.
If you love stir-frying your food, then round-bottomed is the way to go! It's easy to toss things around, and you will be able to cook all the particles of your foods evenly (even tiny pieces of chopped garlic). Compared to flat-bottomed woks, a round-bottom wok can get hotter as well!
Although you can use them on gas stoves, round-bottomed woks won't work well on electric ranges. You might need to purchase a wok ring separately to help with that!
A flat-bottomed wok can work perfectly with both gas and electric ranges alike. Furthermore, the flat surface helps keep it stable while cooking and allows the pan to come into direct contact with the heat source.
However, flat-bottomed woks can have hot spots on the bottom. They may warp under high heat temperatures.
Woks can be made from many different materials, ranging from stainless steel to carbon steel. Since the materials matter a lot to the heat conduction or ease of use, you should definitely pay attention to them!
Carbon steel woks are by far the most popular choice since they are durable and relatively inexpensive. Plus, they are lighter in comparison to a cast iron wok. Furthermore, a carbon steel wok can heat up quickly and evenly and can form its own nonstick coating later on.
However, you would need to take care of your carbon steel wok so as to maintain the coating. Be sure to keep your wok completely dry after washing, and don't use soap or a rough sponge when cleaning. You can also apply a layer of oil after drying to improve the patina coating!
Most of the traditional woks in China are made from the heavy, durable cast iron, so if you want to replicate the authentic taste of a Chinese dish, why don't you start from the same cookware first?
When it comes to heat retention, not many materials can surpass cast iron. Furthermore, a cast-iron wok can distribute the heat evenly while you're cooking, so you don't have to worry about some burnt parts here and there.
Furthermore, it will form a natural glossy patina afterward if you season and take good care of the wok. A cast-iron wok may be heavy as well, so check the specs to see if you can handle the weight!
While a traditional cast-iron wok can be really (like really) heavy, a stainless steel wok is lightweight and rust-resistant. Furthermore, they are non-reactive, so you can freely make vinegary foods like sweet and sour pork without worrying that you'll ruin the wok.
However, be careful with the heat since a stainless steel wok can transmit heat easily. Furthermore, don't expect your stainless steel wok to remain shiny forever since you are likely to scratch the surface to remove the oil residue. But compared to a cast-iron or carbon steel wok, you won't have to season or maintain it as carefully.
Non-stick and Teflon-coated woks are pretty common as well. They have a non-stick cooking surface so you won't have to do any seasoning to start a patina. They are also easy to clean up.
However, most nonstick coatings cannot tolerate high-heat conditions. Even the best non-stick woks can hardly withstand a heat of 500 degrees Fahrenheit, so we suggest not using a non-stick or Teflon-coated wok if you usually cook at high temperatures!
Traditional woks have two small metal handles posited at different ends. Therefore, they are easy to lift up and can be put straight in an oven if you ever want to.
Nowadays, instead of two small handles, some woks have one long handle similar to that of a skillet, and a small handle on the opposite site. The long handle helps you move or tilt the wok easily when stir-frying while the small handle allows you to lift up the wok easily.
So if you're just starting to use a wok, using one with a long handle might be easier since it's pretty much similar to a skillet.
The size of a wok matters since you probably don't want to purchase one that's too big for your stovetop. So before making a purchase, think about the size of your stovetop as well as how much food you would usually cook in the wok!
The upper circumference of a wok can range from 8 to 20 inches. A wok ranging from 12-14 inches is sufficient enough for most home cooks. However, if you live by yourself and just want a small wok, then an 8- or 9-inch one might be a good option.
Additionally, you should consider the shape (the concave property for example) of the wok. With a wok that is too large or too shallow, you won't be able to move food up the sides. But a wok that is too deep won't be able to retain heat. Usually, a depth of 3-4 inches is sufficient.
A lid would come in handy if your recipes require you to simmer or boil the ingredients. Furthermore, the lid helps you retain heat longer, and at the same time helps the contents heat up faster. Many woks actually come with a lid, so opt for them if you think a lid would make your cooking life easier.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Lodge Pro-Logic Cast Iron Wok | ![]() | Pre-Seasoned, 100% Cast Iron Wok For Better Heat Retention | |
2 | T-fal Jumbo Wok |A80789 | ![]() | Nonstick Interior for Easy Cooking and Cleaning | |
3 | Craft Wok Treaditional Hand Hammered Carbon Steel Pow Wok |731W88 | ![]() | Hand-Hammered Carbon Steel Wok with a Round Bottom | |
4 | Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless Stir-Fry Pan |726-38H | ![]() | Stainless Steel with an Aluminum Encapsulated Base to Eliminate Hot Spots | |
5 | Lodge Mini Wok with Loop Handles | ![]() | Mini Wok with Loop Handles for a Secure Grip | |
6 | Presto Stainless Steel Electric Wok|5900 | ![]() | An Electric Wok for Convenience | |
7 | AmazonBasics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Wok Pan | ![]() | Oven-Safe to 500 Degrees Fahrenheit | |
8 | Cooklover Chinese Wok | ![]() | Marble Coating for Easy Cleaning and Cooking | |
9 | Mauviel M'Steel Wook | ![]() | Carbon Steel for Excellent Heat Conduction | |
10 | Uno Casa Heavy Flat Bottom Wok with Silicone Lid | ![]() | Flat, Broad Bottom for Heat Retention |
Made from 100% cast iron, this wok can retain heat very well and help you cook the perfect stir-fry. And with a flattened bottom, it can be used on all cooking surfaces, ranging from induction to gas ranges.
Also, instead of synthetic coatings or chemicals, this wok is pre-seasoned with 100% vegetable oil. So the more you use your wok, the better the seasoning will become! Some reviewers complained that the wok was a bit heavy and rusted if not cared for properly. Nevertheless, many loved how incredibly evenly the wok heated.
Some others were also satisfied that the wok could be cleaned easily with just hot water and a sponge. Although the wok comes pre-seasoned, reviewers suggested re-seasoning it with peanut oil or grapeseed oil to help the wok become more non-stick.
Constructed with aluminum, this wok can heat up quickly and evenly to help you make your favorite foods without any hassle! Furthermore, this product has a nonstick interior, so you won't have to worry about stubborn food bits sticking to your wok.
Additionally, the product can withstand heat up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and is also dishwasher- and oven-safe. Some reviewers found the product didn't heat up as well on an electric cooktop since the contact area on the bottom was too small. You'd be better off using a gas stove.
On the other hand, many reviewers were satisfied with the size of the wok, which allowed them to cook a staggering amount of food and serve the whole family. According to some others, the non-stick interior made cleaning super easy as well.
Are you looking for an authentic wok that can help you replicate your favorite Chinese foods? Look no further! Hand-hammered by professionals in Guangzhou, China, this wok has a traditional round bottom that can distribute heat evenly. And since it is made from carbon steel, you know it's durable!
Some reviewers complained about their wok rusting quickly. They suggested scrubbing the rust away with a scouring pad. Many people emphasized that you should dry the wok and season it carefully to prevent rusting.
Additionally, reviewers were satisfied with the solid construction of the wok. Many also commented that the product could carry heat nicely. However, you won't be able to use this on a flat electric or induction cooktop.
One of the biggest cons of regular stainless steel woks is that many don't distribute heat evenly. However, with an aluminum encapsulated base, this stainless steel wok by Cuisinart can heat up quickly and evenly. No more of those hot spots!
The wok also comes with a see-through glass lid that allows you to seal in moisture, texture, and nutrients of your foods. Many customers thought the see-through glass was useful, especially as a splatter shield.
Some reviewers found the wok lightweight but difficult to clean and heat up quickly. Some also encountered issues such as food sticking to the bottom of the wok. You might want to add peanut or coconut oil to the wok before cooking to prevent foods from burning or sticking to your wok.
If you are looking for a mini wok, this 9-inch cast-iron product might be a great option for you. Furthermore, it is equipped with loop handles for a secure grip.
The wok is also pre-seasoned with vegetable oil, so you won't have to spend too much time seasoning the wok before using. The wok is also great for various types of cooking surfaces, including induction.
Some reviewers said the wok was difficult to maintain and also easy to rust. Nevertheless, many reviewers say it's perfect for small households or single servings. People also complimented that the wok was durable and easy to clean.
Requiring no seasoning process like other cast-iron or carbon steel woks, this electric wok with a 1500-watt heating element is a great option to help you whip up some stir-frying meals quickly.
The wok also comes with a long-handled wooden spatula that pairs perfectly with the wok! The wok is dishwasher-safe as well, so you just need to remove the heat control and toss everything else into a dishwasher.
Some reviewers complained that the product could not heat oil above 350 degrees Fahrenheit, so you might want to use it for low temperature cooking instead of frying at high temperatures.
On the other hand, reviewers complimented that the wok was well-made and produced no harmful fumes that might affect your foods. Many also thought the product was easy to clean and lightweight.
With a round bottom, this cast-iron cookware allows heat to spread evenly to cook your perfect stir-fry dishes. Additionally, the product is oven-safe and can handle heat up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
It's also pre-seasoned, so you can just use it right away. However, this wok is not dishwasher-safe, so make sure to hand wash it!
Some reviewers found the wok a bit heavy and that it rusted easily, so you should dry the wok carefully after washing to prevent this. However, many customers were impressed with the heat distribution and conduction of the wok. They also said the wok was easy to maintain and clean.
Frustrated with all of the burnt foods sticking to the bottom of your wok? Then this wok might be a solution for you. Layered with 100% toxin-free marble coating, this wok is totally scratch-resistant and non-burnt.
Furthermore, the die-casting aluminum body allows for even heat distribution, and the ergonomic wooden handle is not only good-looking but also helps you maneuver the wok more easily.
Some reviewers complained that they could only use this wok at medium heat (according to the instruction) with great results. Some further mentioned that after a few months, the non-stick feature had worn off.
Yet, many customers also complimented that the wok was easy to clean, lightweight, and durable. People also loved that the wok did not have hot spots and was able to heat up quickly as well. Another plus point for many was the glass lid with silicone seal and a convenient stand-up feature.
Made from 100% carbon steel, this wok can heat up quickly and spread the heat evenly as well! And unlike other stainless steel or non-stick products, it can withstand high temperatures. You can use this wok for searing, longer preheating, or other cooking styles at high temperatures.
Furthermore, the flat bottom allows you to use this product on all cooking surfaces, including induction stoves. The wok is layered with beeswax to prevent it from rusting and to save time when seasoning. However, some reviewers complained that getting the beeswax off the wok was a bit of a chore.
Nonetheless, many reviewers were impressed at the wok's solid construction and great heat conduction (though it was a bit heavy for some). Reviewers further added that the wok had a nice depth, which made tossing foods around fun and easy!
Made with cast iron, this wok can retain heat well and spread heat evenly. The flat, broad bottom makes heating a bit quicker as well. It also comes with a silicone lid that can seal in heat and moisture of your homemade foods, giving them the to-die-for flavors.
The wok is also pre-seasoned, so you don't have to spend much time seasoning it again. But some reviewers warned that the wok may rust quickly. Some also said that the cast-iron handles could become too hot to be held. You can use some plastic holders or protective mitts!
On the other hand, many reviewers loved that the wok cooked all the food evenly. Some also said the wok was easy to clean and much lighter in comparison to their other cast-iron products.
The perfect kitchen with the best tools is within your reach as long as you know where to look. Here are our suggestions!
No. 1: Lodge|Pro-Logic Cast Iron Wok
No. 2: T-fal |Jumbo Wok |A80789
No. 3: Craft Wok|Treaditional Hand Hammered Carbon Steel Pow Wok |731W88
No. 4: Cuisinart|Chef's Classic Stainless Stir-Fry Pan |726-38H
No. 5: Lodge |Mini Wok with Loop Handles
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