If you want to cook authentic stir-fried food, you need a wok. A wok is your number one go-to pan for delicious, fragrant stir-fried food, but it is a very versatile pan. It can be used for a lot of different cooking applications such as steaming, sauteing, braizing, deep-frying, roasting, and also smoking all types of food, making soup, and also roasting nuts.
To be a super home chef who prepares restaurant-style stir-frys, invest in a quality wok.
The 7 Best Woks
- Calphalon 1877054 Contemporary Black Hard-Anodized Aluminum Nonstick Cookware
- Mammafong Authentic Hand Hammered Wok
- Cooks Standard Stainless-Steel Stir Fry Pan
- T-fal A80789 Specialty Nonstick Jumbo Wok Cookware
- TeChef – Art Pan Wok/Stir-Fry Pan
- Lodge Pro-Logic Wok (Our Top Pick)
- Mauviel M’Steel Black Steel Wok
Our Top Pick for the Best Wok
Our top pick for the best wok is the Lodge Pro-Logic Wok. Lodge is famous for its superbly crafted cookware so you can expect the same quality from their solid cast iron wok.
This fantastic wok delivers an excellent level of heating conductibility and also provides just the right type of environment for stir-frying and searing. It has plenty of room for larger family-sized meals. Although the cast iron wok requires some maintenance, it will reward you with consistent cooking results and you will be proud to pass it down as a family heirloom.
Check the price on AmazonLove Stir-Fried Food? Invest in a Quality Wok
A wok is a unique piece of cookware due to its special design. It has a small, flat base that allows it to sit on a stove’s cooktop and extra high sides that allow you to slide, flip and also toss your food without having to worry about the food slipping over the edges of the wok.
One of the most important aspects of a wok is its highly durable construction which means it can be used for high heat cooking, which is absolutely necessary for stir-fry recipes.
One of the most highly versatile pieces of cookware, the wok not only allows you to cook all types of meals, but most types of woks can go in the oven. Some woks such as the Mauviel M’Steel Black Steel Wok can be used for a barbeque.
Whether you are a first-time wok user and want to create your own home cooked stir-fry recipes or you want to upgrade your old wok, here are some important features to consider when buying a wok.
How to Choose the Best Wok
Size
Here is a good guide for choosing the right sized wok that will fit your cooking needs.
- 10-inch wok = 2-3 persons
- 12-inch wok = 4-5 persons
- 13-inch wok = 6 persons
- 14-inch wok = 6 or more persons
Construction/Design
– Stainless Steel
Stainless steel has a lot of signature features that make it the top choice for many professional chefs and also home-based cooks. The highly polished mirror surface shines brightly and the steel has a high level of durability. It also doesn’t easily react with the food. As well as being compatible with most ovens, also with induction cooktops, stainless steel has a superior natural non-stick resistance.
Stainless steel woks, such as the Cooks Standard Stainless-Steel Stir Fry Pan, are an excellent choice for stir-fry cooking as it has an impressively fast and even heat absorption and conductibility rate due to the multi-element alloy aluminum core that goes along the bottom and up the sides. A stainless steel wok may take a while to heat up, but for reliable cooking results and easy washing up, you cannot beat stainless-steel.
– Heavy-Duty Carbon Steel
Heavy-duty carbon steel is an excellent choice for a wok. This super-strong metal has an extra high level of durability. It is also well known for providing a fast and even heat distribution throughout the cooking process and excellent searing capabilities.
Carbon steel has ultra-high anti-warping properties which means your wok will have no problem withstanding higher oven temperatures. You will have to season the wok and maintain it so that it does not rust. However, for top-quality stir-fry results, invest in a carbon steel wok such as the Mauviel M’Steel Black Steel Wok.
– Cast Iron
Cast iron is one of the most long-lasting materials on earth. Its tough construction can withstand high heating and will also reward you with an impressive cooking performance. Although cast iron may heat up slowly, it can maintain and conduct heat very well. So as well as being a great choice for preparing stir-fried food, it also delivers amazing searing results.
Cast iron will be heavier than other types of materials and can be susceptible to corrosion if you do not maintain it properly. However, if you look after the wok, it will become a timeless heirloom. Some cast-iron cookware manufacturers, such as Lodge, pre-season their woks, and this special seasoning adds extra flavor to your food, but you will need to pre-treat the surface with oil.
– Aluminum
Aluminum can conjure images of flimsy pans that will soon be destined for the trash, but these days manufacturers of aluminum cookware are upgrading their products. They are using heavy-gauge, hard-anodized, or premium grade aluminum, which is a very good choice for a wok.
As well as being a lighter material, aluminum is more affordable than stainless steel, carbon steel, or cast-iron. It is also an excellent heat conductor. So for a lighter wok that can distribute heat that results in faster cooking, have a look at the Calphalon 1877054 Contemporary Black Hard-Anodized Aluminum Nonstick Cookware, the T-fal A80789 Specialty Nonstick Jumbo Wok Cookware or the TeChef – Art Pan Wok/Stir-Fry Pan.
Non-Stick Surface
The best type of non-stick coating is durable and should allow you to effortlessly remove all types of food, without any sticking. While most woks have very good non-stick surfaces, the TeChef – Art Pan Wok/Stir-Fry Pan has a superior non-stick surface, which is made from a unique Teflon Platinum 5-layered PFOA and BPA-free coating that is designed to last longer than ceramic cookware.
Handles and Lids
As you will be flipping or tossing your food several times before it is ready, the handle or handles on a wok are critical. So look for handles that use stay-cool air-flow technology or metal handles that are covered with wood. Sturdy, securely riveted handles are also important to look out for as some woks are very heavy to lift.
Extra helper handles are a great idea as they make it easier to flip and also toss the food and carry the wok to your table. While lids are not essential for stir-fry cooking in a wok, a lid is a good idea if you want to let the flavors permeate through your food or if you want to keep your food warm.
7 Best Woks – Reviews
1. Calphalon 1877054 Contemporary Black Hard-Anodized Aluminum Nonstick Cookware
With a stylish, contemporary design and an exceptional cooking performance, the Calphalon 1877054 Contemporary Black Hard-Anodized Aluminum Nonstick Cookware is a reliable pan that is just right for everyday stir-fry cooking for two people.
The wok features a traditional wok design with its deep bowl and a flat bottom that keeps the heat contained in a smaller zone, which makes it the perfect pan for quick and also easy stir-frying, sautéing, and searing meat, fish, and vegetables. Also, the curved shape allows you to easily toss, turn, and stir food.
The Calphalon wok has a heavy-gauge, hard-anodized aluminum construction which is well known for its excellent consistent heating properties and a high level of durability. You do not have to worry about your food sticking to the pan as it has a PFOA-free multi-layer ultra-durable non-stick black surface which also means you can use less oil or butter for healthy, low-fat cooking.
The easy gripping double-riveted stainless steel stay-cool handles are extra long and also sturdy. The pan is oven safe up to 450°F so you can use it for a lot of different cooking applications, and it is dishwasher-safe. However, to maintain its cooking integrity, it is best to hand wash it but it is very easy to clean.
This stir fry pan is intended for gas, electric, electric rings, halogen, or glass-ceramic stovetops. It is not recommended for induction-ready stoves and should be used with nylon, coated, or wooden utensils to protect the non-stick surface from damage.
The Calphalon wok comes in two sizes, 10 and 13-inch and it is covered by a lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Exceptional cooking performance
- Traditional wok design: flat bottom and high, curved sides
- Heavy-gauge, hard-anodized black aluminum construction
- Very good even heating
- PFOA-free non-stick coating
- Stylish modern design
- Long and also sturdy cast stainless steel stay-cool handle for confident handling
- Oven safe up to 450ºF
- Dishwasher safe for easy clean-up
- Available in 10 and 13-inch sizes
- Lifetime manufacturer’s warranty
Cons
- Too small for large portions
- Thick material takes a while to heat up
- Not recommended for induction stoves
2. Mammafong Authentic Hand Hammered Wok
Built to withstand the demands of a busy professional kitchen, the traditional Mammafong Authentic Hand Hammered Wok will have you cooking truly authentic delicious and also healthy Chinese stir-fry dishes for 6-10 people. This stylish silver wok has been 100% hand-hammered by a master craftsman in Guangdong, China, so it is beautiful as well as durable.
It is made from premium carbon steel and its heavy-duty 16-gauge body ensures fast heating conductivity, superior heat distribution, and also retention abilities. As the wok has a round bottom, you can add a lot of your favorite ingredients and cook your latest stir-fry creation to perfection.
The extra-long and also sturdy blond wood handle provides a safe, comfortable grip, and the handle is securely fastened to the wok by two screws. As well as having a lightweight design that makes it easier for you to maneuver the wok as you toss your ingredients, the carbon steel hand helper makes it easier to lift the wok and you can use the hand helper to hang the wok up in your kitchen.
Mammafong includes a bonus foundational seasoning of 100% vegetable oil which has no synthetic coatings or chemicals. The wok cannot go into the dishwasher but it is very easy to clean with warm soapy water.
Pros
- High quality
- Great value for money
- Ideal for a large family
- Authentic Chinese wok design
- Round bottom provides plenty of room for ingredients
- 100% hand-hammered by a master craftsman
- Heavy-duty carbon steel
- Sturdy and also durable
- Excellent heating and cooking abilities
- Two handles: wooden handle and a helper handle
- Bonus foundation seasoning of 100% vegetable oil
Cons
- Needs to be seasoned before first use
- Not dishwasher safe
- Round bottom may not suit all cook-tops
- Can rust if it is not dried properly
3. Cooks Standard Stainless-Steel Stir Fry Pan
Love the look and high cooking performance of stainless-steel? Take home the Cooks Standard Stainless-Steel Stir Fry Pan. Made from 18/10 durable rust-resistant stainless-steel, the wok looks fabulous with a highly polished mirror finish. It will be a stylish addition to your kitchen and you will want to show it off at the dining table.
You can expect a high cooking performance and an impressively fast and also even heat absorption. The multi-element alloy aluminum core (on the bottom and up the sides), eliminates any hot or cold spots so your food will be cooked to perfection.
This wok has a spacious 13-inch wide opening, a dome lid, and also a non-stick surface that you can season easily. To keep your hands safe, the handles feature an open V-shaped design with stay-cool air-flow technology that allows air to flow over the handle.
Both the long handle and the generous loop-style handle are securely riveted so you can get a firm grasp on the handle when you need to lift the wok and turn or toss the stir-fried ingredients.
To seal in the heat, moisture, and flavors and to keep the food hot until you are ready to serve it, the Cooks Standard wok also comes with a secure-fitting stainless steel dome lid. You can safely use the wok on any type of stovetop, including gas, electric, ceramic glass, and also induction. It is oven-safe up to 500°F.
It is also easy to clean by hand without scratching or lowering its aesthetic value over time. The wok is covered by a limited lifetime warranty on any defects.
Pros
- Excellent quality
- High cooking performance
- Great value for money
- Attractive mirror finish
- Durable and also rust-resistant 18/10 stainless-steel
- Multi-ply aluminum core
- Riveted stay-cool handles
- Dishwasher safe
- Oven-safe up to 500°F
4. T-fal A80789 Specialty Nonstick Jumbo Wok Cookware
With plenty of room for a stir-fry feast for the whole family, the T-fal A80789 Specialty Nonstick Jumbo Wok Cookware delivers excellent cooking results and it comes at a very affordable price. The wok is made from premium-grade aluminum that distributes heat evenly for faster cooking. It is traditionally shaped with a wide top and narrow base, which makes sure that it heats quickly and also evenly, sealing in flavor.
You can expect effortless food release as the non-stick coating has a high level of non-stick and scratch-proof ability. It is PFOA, lead, and cadmium-free, and it only requires the use of little to no oil or fat for healthier cooking. As well as being your number one go-to pan for stir-frying, this versatile wok also works well for steaming, searing, sauteing, pan or deep frying, poaching, boiling, braizing, making soup, or even roasting nuts.
The wok’s long, stay-cool silicone ergonomic handle promotes a secure grip and also keeps your hands a safe distance from the heat. There is a hole at the end of the handle for optional hanging storage. It is also very easy to clean.
The wok is oven safe up to 350°F and it is dishwasher safe. There is a limited lifetime warranty that covers all defects.
Pros
- Top-quality wok
- Affordable price
- Ideal for family-sized meals
- Versatile: can use it for a wide range of cooking applications
- Traditional wok design
- Premium-grade aluminum
- Attractive black finish
- Excellent non-stick and scratch-proof ability
- BPA, PFOA, lead, and cadmium-free
- Requires minimal oil or fat
- Oven safe (350°F)
- Dishwasher safe
- Easy to clean
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Special instructions for use
- Round base
- Bulky to store
- Not ideal for prolonged high heat
5. TeChef – Art Pan Wok/Stir-Fry Pan
TECHEF has been creating innovative cookware since 1982 and its Art Pan Collection features heavy-duty construction, new Teflon non-stick coatings, and Print Design technology, which will make the TeChef – Art Pan Wok/Stir-Fry Pan your favorite everyday pan for all types of dishes.
It will also have you cooking like a professional chef. Their 12-inch wok is a great example of TECHEF’s dedication to groundbreaking cookware as this wok also doubles as a stir-fry pan fan.
This very stylish wok is made from heavy-gauge aluminum that has a high level of durability. To ensure excellent cooking results, TECHEF uses forged aluminum material with thin walls and a 3.5 mm thick heavy-duty steel base.
This patented design helps to spread the heat faster and evenly across the bottom of the pan and all the way up the sides, which also means the wok can be used on any cooktop, though it does not always give good results on induction stoves.
The special pattern on the inside of the wok also helps you to cook healthier food with the right amount of oil: the small circle equals 1 tsp (5 ml) and the large circle equals 3 tsp (15 ml).
You can expect effortless cooking as the wok has a Teflon Platinum 5-layered non-stick surface that is PFOA and BPA-free. It is designed to last longer than ceramic cookware and the high sides keep the food safely inside the wok while you toss your ingredients like a professional chef.
The wok has an attractive Aubergine Purple exterior that will look stunning in your kitchen. TECHEF uses Teflon Print Design Technology, which is an innovative and also safe method for applying color and prints without the use of harmful external paints. So you can use this pan knowing that it is safe from harmful chemicals such as lead or cadmium.
To protect your hands from high heating cooking, the wok has a sturdy cool-touch handle. As well as being easy to cook with, the TECHEF wok is very easy to clean with hot soapy water. TECHEF offers a limited lifetime warranty on its top-quality wok. The wok does come with a sturdy tempered glass lid but you have to purchase it separately.
Pros
- Very good value for money
- Heavy-gauge aluminum
- Thick heavy-duty flat steel base
- Distributes heat fast and also evenly
- Teflon Platinum 5-layered coated non-stick surface
- Coating last longer than ceramic cookware
- Very good non-scratch surface
- BPA and PFOA-free
- Special pattern on the surface means less oil
- New Teflon Print Design Technology
- Cool-touch handles
- Stylish design
- Attractive Aubergine color
- High sides
- Easy to clean
- Induction-ready design
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Cannot use metal utensils
- Not dishwasher safe
- Not ideal for oven use
- Does not always give good results on induction stoves
- Have to purchase the lid separately
6. Lodge Pro-Logic Wok
For a superior cast iron wok, you cannot do better than the Lodge Pro-Logic Wok, one of the best manufacturers of cast iron cookware. With a fantastic cooking performance, cast iron is a great investment for your kitchen.
The US-made wok is made from a pre-seasoned one-piece construction that contains 100% cast iron which is well known for its superior heating and also heat retention properties. Also, the large surface area can accommodate large servings for family-sized meals.
The sturdy 7-inch flat bottom is good for all types of stovetops, even induction stoves, and it can also go into the oven. There are two sturdy integrated loop handles that give you a good firm grip.
The wok has been pre-seasoned with oil for a natural, easy-release finish that improves with use and also adds extra flavor to your food.
The only downside of this premium wok is that it is very heavy and it can rust without the proper protective seasoning. However, don’t fear if this occurs. Lodge recommends that you scour the rust, rinse, dry, and also rub with a little vegetable oil. If the problem persists, you will need to thoroughly remove all rust and follow Lodge’s re-seasoning instructions.
You have to hand was the Lodge wok as it is not dishwasher safe, but it is very easy to clean. The wok comes with a limited lifetime warranty cover.
Pros
- Excellent quality
- Great value for money
- Fantastic cooking results and heating properties
- US-made
- 100% cast iron
- Pre-seasoned
- Large capacity for family-sized meals
- Sturdy flat base
- Can use it on all types of stoves
- 2 large integrated hoop handles
- Can use it in the oven
Cons
- Very heavy
- Rough surface
- Can rust if it is not maintained
- Not dishwasher safe
7. Mauviel M’Steel Black Steel Wok
This Mauviel M’Steel Black Steel Wok is the perfect choice for stir-frying and searing your favorite meat and also vegetables due to its excellent level of heat conductibility and superb quality construction.
The wok is made from extra-thick, solid carbon black steel which delivers a high cooking performance as the commercial-grade steel construction can withstand high temperatures and conducts heat around the wok and up the sides and allows for longer preheating and also excellent searing capabilities.
A highly versatile wok: you can use it on any type of stove, gas, electric, induction, halogen stovetops. It can also go into the oven after you have unscrewed the long handle, and you can also use it for a barbecue.
The wok has a good weight of 6lbs, which makes it quite easy to handle while you sear all types of meat. The extra high sides make it easy to flip food without it spilling over the edges.
There are 2 iron handles, an extra-long handle, and a loop-style handle that allow you to lift and maneuver the wok during the cooking, flipping, and tossing process and when you need to carry the wok to your dining table.
You can expect a high level of non-stick ability, as the wok’s steel surface is naturally non-stick. However, you will need to season the pan as per the manufacturer’s recommendations before you use it. The wok will build up a natural non-stick property and the surface will darken over time.
After cooking, wash the pan in hot water, wipe with a soft sponge, and also dry thoroughly. Do not use dish soap and the wok cannot be put into the dishwasher. The Mauviel wok comes with a limited lifetime warranty cover.
Pros
- Made from extra-thick black steel
- Superb quality
- Solid and also sturdy
- Excellent conductor of heat
- High cooking performance
- Made in France
- Perfect wok for stir-frying and also searing
- Commercial-grade construction
- Can use it on all types of stoves
- Oven safe
- 2 iron handles: long handle and a loop-style handle
- Durable
- Extra high sides
- Natural non-stick surface
- Highly versatile
- Can use it on the barbecue
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Expensive
- Small size
Our Top Pick for the Best Wok
Our top pick for the best wok is the Lodge Pro-Logic Wok. Lodge is famous for its superbly crafted cookware so you can expect the same quality from their solid cast iron wok.
This fantastic wok delivers an excellent level of heating conductibility and also provides just the right type of environment for stir-frying and searing. It has plenty of room for larger family-sized meals. Although the cast iron wok requires some maintenance, it will reward you with consistent cooking results and you will be proud to pass it down as a family heirloom.
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