If you love to cook, you know that having the right tools in your kitchen is essential.
A wok is one of the most versatile cooking equipment you can have in your kitchen. It is a large, deep-sided frying pan popular in Asian cuisine. It is ideal for stir-frying, deep-frying, braising, and steaming.
There are many different types of woks available on the market, each with its advantages. And when it comes to woks, you should consider adding a few different styles to your collection. So, are you excited to find the right pick for you? Keep reading to learn more!
1. A Carbon-Steel to Seal the Deal
A steel stir fry pan type is popular among professional chefs because it heats quickly and evenly. It’s also very lightweight, which makes it easy to manoeuvre.
Carbon steel is an excellent choice for those who want to be able to cook food at high temperatures. It’s great for stir-frying due to its quick-heating properties. And if you’re environmentally conscious, this one’s a feather in your cap. Most carbon-steel woks are made from 99% iron and a dash of steel. This makes it non-toxic to cook with and environmentally friendly. However, the downside is that it can be challenging to season a carbon-steel stir fry pan, but once you’ve done it, it will be non-stick and easy to use.
Consider the next one if you’re looking for something heavy and durable.
2. A Cast-Iron to Get in Action
A cast-iron stir fry pan is a kitchen staple in many Asian households. It is also becoming increasingly popular in modular kitchen as more people learn about the benefits of using a cast-iron stir fry pan.
It is an excellent option for those who want a durable and long-lasting cooking surface. Cast iron is a solid material that can withstand high heat, making it ideal for cooking at high temperatures. Also, cast-iron woks tend to be very heavy, which helps distribute heat more evenly. This results in less food sticking to the stir fry pan and makes clean-up a breeze.
Another pro of a cast-iron stir fry pan is that you can use it on any stovetop, including induction cooktops. This makes it a versatile option for those who might have different types of cooktops in their home. Meanwhile, their prices range from low to high based on the brand and making.
Try option three if you’re looking for something at the lower price-end!
3. A Stainless-Steel for a Painless Meal
Finally, here is the stainless-steel wok. This one is the most popular type among home cooks because it’s easy to clean and maintain. It’s also very affordable, which makes it budget-friendly for beginners. Besides, they aren’t any different in terms of performance and durability compared to the options mentioned earlier.
Stainless steel woks have non-reactive properties making them fit for cooking acidic or vinegar-based dishes, perhaps even tomatoes. However, they can disappoint when it comes to stirring frying as the material doesn’t entirely ensure the best results; you may end up deep frying! So, consider a stainless-steel one for other purposes like stewing, simmering, or steaming. That’s still an excellent offer for a lower price!
Whether you’re a newbie or a chef, woks never disappoint. The versatility that they come with helps various cooking purposes. However, the several types of woks available can confuse a beginner. Hence, it is best to start and stick with the essentials. So, evaluate your cooking needs, consider to essentials mentioned above, and start shopping!
