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| What
to look for when buying a Wok |
FOOD
& COOKING |
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I bought my first wok (and only) back in 1995. I bought it
from the Aldi supermarket in Cheltenham shortly after it first
opened. I do not remember what I paid for it but I know it
was not expensive otherwise I would have probably not bothered.
As it turned out it was a great investment. Every time I use
it I clean it with wire wool, dry it and then lightly oil
it so I does not rust.
When shopping for a wok there are several factors to consider
to ensure that you choose the right one for your needs. Here
are some important things to look for:
- Material:
Woks are typically made of carbon steel, cast iron or non-stick
materials. Carbon steel is lightweight, heats up quickly
and is highly responsive to temperature changes, making
it ideal for stir-frying. Cast iron woks are heavy and take
longer to heat up but they retain heat well and are suitable
for searing and deep-frying. Non-stick woks are convenient
for low-fat cooking but they tend to be less durable and
heat-resistant than other materials.
- Size:
Woks come in various sizes, from small 8 inch models to
large 14 inch ones. Choose a size that fits your cooking
needs and the size of your stove top. If you are cooking
for a small family, a 14 inch wok might be too large, while
an 8 inch wok might be too small if you are cooking for
a large family or entertaining guests.
- Shape:
Woks are typically round, with gently sloping sides that
make it easy to stir-fry ingredients and prevent food from
spilling over. Flat-bottomed woks are ideal for use on electric
or induction cooker tops, while rounded-bottomed woks are
best for use on gas stoves.
- Handle:
The handle should be securely attached to the wok and made
of heat-resistant materials. If you have a small kitchen,
choose a wok with a detachable handle for easy storage.
- Price:
Woks are available at a range of prices, from budget-friendly
models to high-end, premium woks. While more expensive woks
tend to be of higher quality, it is important to choose
one that fits your budget while also meeting your cooking
needs.
- Brand reputation:
Consider the reputation of the brand you are buying from.
Look for brands that have a good track record for producing
high-quality woks that are built to last.
- Seasoning:
Woks that are made of carbon steel or cast iron should be
seasoned before use. Seasoning helps to protect the wok
from rust and creates a non-stick surface that makes cooking
easier.
- Maintenance:
Consider how much time and effort you are willing to put
into maintaining your wok. Cast iron and carbon steel woks
require regular oiling to keep them from rusting, while
non-stick woks are easier to clean and maintain.
When shopping for a wok, it is important to choose one that
meets your cooking needs and budget. Consider the material,
size, shape, handle, price, brand reputation, seasoning and
maintenance requirements when making your selection. By taking
the time to choose the right wok, you can ensure that you
will have a versatile and reliable kitchen tool that will
last for years to come.
David Jenkins
Hub-UK
Email
Hub-UK : info@hub-uk.com
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