A wok is a Chinese pan that is most often used for stir-fry, but it can also be used to deep fry, steaming, and braising meat.Woks are in many shapes, sizes and materials.If you cook frequently, a wok is a good investment.To get a wok, you need to research the different types, buy one from an ideal location, and learn to take care of it.
Step 1: Pick a material.
The traditional wok is made of cast iron.There are advantages and disadvantages to each material.Teflon, which should not be used for frying, is the only type of wok that will work for stir-frying, steaming, or frying.There are different types of woks.The traditional material is this.This type of wok cooks food evenly and retains heat longer than other types.Iron is a good choice, but it has drawbacks.You will need to dry cast iron woks before and after use.It is recommended to avoid cooking acidic food in this type of wok.The wok is made of aluminum.The woks made of aluminum are light and thin.It does not retain heat very well, but aluminum is a great conductor of heat.It isn't as durable as an iron wok.The wok is Teflon.A non-stick wok is ideal for steaming, stewing, and boiling.Do not use this type of wok if you plan to deep fry or stir fry food because the non-stick coating will come off into the food at high temperatures.Carbon steel.The most recommended type of wok is this one.It is the cheapest choice, and the most durable.A carbon steel wok heats up quickly and evenly, and is almost a non-stick surface if cared for properly.
Step 2: You can decide on a bottom.
Flat bottoms have been introduced in recent years, but round bottoms are still the most common.If you cook on a gas stove, a round bottom is ideal.Electric stoves use flat bottom woks.Most cooks still recommend to use a round bottom if possible, even though the choice depends on taste and stove type.Food can burn better with a flat bottom wok because the heat is spread throughout the pan.A round bottom pan makes it easier to use a spatula.
Step 3: Determine the correct size.
The amount of people you want to feed will affect the size of the wok.A family-sized wok is usually 14 inches in diameter.Woks are as small as 8 inches for travel.Woks of this size are usually only used in restaurants.
Step 4: Pick a type of handle.
The handles all serve the same purpose.The wok is removed from the burner with the help of the handles.There are woks that come with two loops on each side as handles, a long metal or wooden handle, and ones that have a stick on one side and a metal loop on the other.The easiest way to lift the handle is by choosing it.The easiest type of handle to use is a long stick on one side and a loop on the other.Chefs use long handles for easy tossing.
Step 5: Decide on a buying method.
You should go to the nearest Chinatown to buy a wok.Inexpensive and durable are the qualities of these woks.There are other options if Chinatown is not possible.You can purchase a specialty store on the internet or go to a department store with a cooking section.If you purchase a wok from the internet, make sure you choose a legit website.Check the reviews and material.If you are looking for a specific type of wok, look at the online catalog.
Step 6: Pick a price range.
The least expensive woks are the highest recommended.In Chinatown, Woks are usually around $7.You can find a good wok for $30 elsewhere.Spending $200 or more for a Wok is usually not necessary.
Step 7: It's important to check for weight and durability.
Check the quality and weight of the wok you buy.Press slightly on the wok if you can.The metal should not give in if it is aluminum.Make sure the wok is not too heavy to lift.The wok will be heavier with food in it.
Step 8: Buy more than one accessory.
The accessories in the box are usually weak and not made well.To get the most out of your wok, you will need to purchase accessories.A domed cover is necessary.Two long-handled Chinese spatulas.This can be either metal or wooden.Extra-long cooking chopsticks and steamer racks are optional accessories.
Step 9: A wok ring is a good buy.
The bottom of the pan can be raised with a wok ring.Many woks do not come with rings.Wok rings are needed for round bottom woks, but not for flat bottom ones.Electric stoves are recommended to lift the wok slightly above the coil because of the need for rings.There are two types of rings.There are two types of metal, one with open sides and the other with small holes for ventilating.It's best to use the former for gas stove and the latter for electric stove.There are different sizes and depths of woks rings.Pick one that works best on your burner.Before buying a wok ring, you may want to take a measurement of your burner.An extra wok ring is needed for round bottom woks to be placed on the counter after being removed from the stove.
Step 10: The new wok needs to be cleaned.
You will need to scrub off the protective coating on the woks.The woks are fresh in the store.To remove it, use soapy water and a towel.If you want to prevent it from rusting, put it on the stove.
Step 11: There is a season.
To add flavor to your cooking, you will need to season the wok.The heat on the oven should be turned to the highest setting.Corn, vegetable, or peanut oil should be poured on the pain.Spread the oil on a paper towel.When you achieve a thick, black patina on the bottom of the pan, you should repeat this process frequently.Adding ginger and/or spring onions to the seasoning process is an option.Don't open your windows during the season because it will produce a lot of smoke.
Step 12: Cook.
There are many ways to cook with a wok.Make sure your wok is hot.There should be smoke rising from it.Add oil to the pan.You can add your ingredients after that.If you stir your ingredients, they will burn.The food should be spread along the sides of the pan.If you want to add ingredients, flick water onto the wok.If the water starts to evaporate quickly, it's hot enough to start cooking.When the wok is hot, add cold oil to it.Cold oil should not be added to a wok.It is recommended to cook in batches if you want to get the most flavor in your food.
Step 13: Well, clean it.
You can clean your wok with hot water and a sponge.It is recommended to avoid soap if you choose to.If you want to get rid of any water, put it back on the stove.Salt and a paper towel can be used to scrub the pan if something is sticking to it.For the first few uses, wipe the wok with oil and paper towels.The color of your wok will eventually change from silver to brown to black.This is a positive thing.Each time you cook, you will get a delicious meal.