Olivia Carter
Carbon steel woks have long been a favorite among professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts alike. Known for their durability and excellent heat distribution, these versatile pans are a must-have in any kitchen. In this article, we will discuss the best carbon steel wok as recommended by America’s Test Kitchen, a renowned authority in the world of cooking and kitchen tools.
America’s Test Kitchen rigorously tests various kitchen products to determine their functionality, ease of use, and overall performance. Their team of experts goes through a thorough process to find the best carbon steel wok that stands out among the rest. Through extensive testing and evaluation, they consider factors such as heat distribution, handling, cooking performance, and longevity to determine their top recommendation.
After hours of testing, America’s Test Kitchen has declared the Joyce Chen Classic Series Carbon Steel Wok as the best carbon steel wok on the market. This wok is praised for its excellent heat retention, even heat distribution, and durable construction. Made with heavy-duty carbon steel, it can withstand high heat and is suitable for various cooking methods, including stir-frying, deep-frying, and more.
The Joyce Chen Classic Series Carbon Steel Wok also features a comfortable wooden handle that stays cool during cooking, allowing for easy and safe handling. Its spacious 14-inch diameter provides ample space for stirring and tossing ingredients without overcrowding. Additionally, it comes with a dome-shaped lid that traps heat and moisture, perfect for steaming and simmering.
Whether you’re an experienced chef or just starting to explore Asian cuisine, investing in the best carbon steel wok can greatly enhance your cooking experience. The Joyce Chen Classic Series Carbon Steel Wok, recommended by America’s Test Kitchen, is a reliable and versatile option that will undoubtedly elevate your favorite dishes to the next level.
What is a Carbon Steel Wok?
A carbon steel wok is a type of cooking pan that is made from carbon steel, which is a mixture of iron and carbon. It is known for its excellent heat distribution and retention properties, making it a popular choice among professional chefs and home cooks alike.
The unique shape of a carbon steel wok, with its rounded bottom and high sides, allows for quick and even cooking. The high sides make it easy to toss and stir-fry ingredients, while the rounded bottom promotes even heat distribution.
A carbon steel wok requires proper seasoning before use to create a natural non-stick surface and prevent rust. This involves heating oil in the wok and coating the entire surface, which over time creates a protective layer that enhances the wok’s cooking performance.
Carbon steel woks are versatile and can be used for various cooking methods, including stir-frying, deep-frying, sautéing, and boiling. They are also lightweight, making them easy to handle and maneuver in the kitchen.
Overall, a carbon steel wok is a must-have for anyone looking to cook authentic Asian cuisine or for those who want a versatile and durable cooking pan for their kitchen. With proper care and maintenance, a carbon steel wok can last for many years and provide delicious meals for a long time.
Benefits of Using a Carbon Steel Wok
A carbon steel wok is a versatile and popular kitchen tool that offers several benefits compared to other types of woks. Its unique properties make it a favorite among both professional chefs and home cooks.
1. Superior Heat Distribution: Carbon steel woks are known for their ability to distribute heat evenly and quickly. This ensures that your food cooks evenly, preventing hot spots that can result in burnt or undercooked portions. The high heat conductivity of carbon steel also allows for faster cooking times, making it an efficient choice in the kitchen.
2. Lightweight and Durable: Carbon steel woks are lightweight, making them easy to handle and maneuver while cooking. Despite their lightweight nature, they are incredibly durable and can withstand high heat and heavy use. Carbon steel woks are designed to last for a long time, providing excellent value for money.
3. Non-Stick Surface: With proper seasoning and care, carbon steel woks develop a natural non-stick surface. This makes them ideal for stir-frying, as the food slides easily across the surface without sticking. The non-stick properties also make cleaning the wok a breeze, saving you time and effort in the kitchen.
4. Versatility: Carbon steel woks are versatile cooking tools that can be used for various cooking techniques, including stir-frying, deep-frying, steaming, and even smoking. They can be used on a variety of stovetops, including gas, electric, and induction, making them suitable for any kitchen setup.
5. Retains Heat: Carbon steel is known for its ability to retain heat, which allows food to stay warm even after it is removed from the heat source. This is particularly beneficial in a wok as it allows for better control over the cooking process and keeps food warm until it is ready to be served.
Overall, a carbon steel wok is a valuable addition to any kitchen, providing superior heat distribution, durability, a non-stick surface, versatility, and excellent heat retention. With its many benefits, it’s no wonder that carbon steel woks are a favorite among cooks of all levels of expertise.
How to Season a Carbon Steel Wok
Seasoning a carbon steel wok is an important step to ensure its longevity and optimal cooking performance. Seasoning creates a non-stick surface and helps to prevent rusting. Here are the steps to properly season a carbon steel wok:
1. Wash the wok: Before seasoning, wash the wok with warm water and a small amount of mild dish soap. Use a sponge or soft cloth to clean the interior and exterior of the wok. Rinse thoroughly and dry completely.
2. Heat the wok: Place the wok on high heat and let it heat up until it starts to smoke. This will help to remove any residual oils or impurities on the surface of the wok.
3. Apply oil: Using a heat-resistant brush or a wadded paper towel, apply a thin, even layer of oil to the interior of the wok. Common oils for seasoning include vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil. Make sure to coat the sides of the wok as well.
4. Heat the oil: Continue heating the wok on high heat, allowing the oil to smoke. This process helps to bond the oil to the surface of the wok, creating a protective layer.
5. Cool and repeat: Once the wok has cooled down, repeat steps 3 and 4, applying another layer of oil and heating until it smokes. Repeat this process for 2 to 3 times, or until the wok develops a dark, shiny patina.
6. Clean and maintain: After each use, clean the wok with warm water and a soft sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners as they can remove the seasoning. Dry the wok thoroughly and give it a light coating of oil to prevent rusting.
By following these steps, you can properly season your carbon steel wok and enjoy its non-stick properties while cooking. Remember, the more you use and care for your wok, the better it will perform over time.
Choosing the Best Carbon Steel Wok
When it comes to choosing the best carbon steel wok, there are several factors to consider. The first thing to look for is the size of the wok. Carbon steel woks come in various sizes, ranging from small to large. It’s important to choose a wok that is suitable for your cooking needs. If you often cook for large groups or have a big family, a larger wok would be more practical. However, if you have limited kitchen space or cook for only a few people, a smaller wok would be more suitable.
Another important aspect to consider is the weight of the wok. Carbon steel woks can vary in weight, and choosing the right weight for you is crucial. A lighter wok is easier to handle and maneuver, making it ideal for stir-frying and tossing ingredients. On the other hand, a heavier wok provides better heat retention and distribution, which is important for cooking food evenly. Consider your cooking style and preferences when deciding on the weight of the wok.
Additionally, the quality of the carbon steel is an important factor to consider. High-quality carbon steel is durable and heats up quickly, allowing for efficient cooking. Look for a wok with a thick and sturdy construction to ensure longevity. A wok with a non-stick coating can also be a good option as it makes cooking and cleaning easier.
It’s also worth considering the handle design of the wok. Look for a wok with a long handle and a helper handle. The long handle provides good grip and control, while the helper handle offers stability when lifting or moving the wok. Handles that are heat-resistant are also preferable to prevent burns and accidents.
Lastly, consider the price point and brand reputation. While it’s not always necessary to go for the most expensive option, investing in a reputable brand can ensure that you’re getting a reliable and high-quality product. Reading customer reviews and doing research can also help you make an informed decision.
In conclusion, choosing the best carbon steel wok requires careful consideration of factors such as size, weight, carbon steel quality, handle design, and price point. By taking these factors into account, you can select a wok that suits your cooking needs and preferences, allowing you to enjoy delicious stir-fries and other Asian-inspired dishes with ease.
America’s Test Kitchen Reviews
America’s Test Kitchen is a highly reputable organization that conducts thorough and unbiased reviews of kitchen products. Their team of experts rigorously tests and evaluates different products to provide consumers with accurate and reliable information. With their extensive testing process, America’s Test Kitchen provides insightful and detailed reviews that help consumers make informed decisions.
One of the key strengths of America’s Test Kitchen reviews is their commitment to transparency and objectivity. They provide clear explanations of their testing methods, allowing readers to understand how they arrived at their conclusions. This transparency helps build trust with consumers and ensures that the reviews are based on objective criteria rather than personal opinions.
America’s Test Kitchen reviews cover a wide range of kitchen products, including cookware, appliances, and gadgets. They take into consideration factors such as performance, durability, ease of use, and value for money. This comprehensive approach ensures that consumers can find reliable information on a variety of products, helping them make informed choices that best suit their needs and preferences.
Overall, America’s Test Kitchen reviews are a valuable resource for anyone in the market for kitchen products. Their thorough testing process and commitment to transparency make their reviews highly trustworthy. Whether you’re looking for the best carbon steel wok or any other kitchen item, America’s Test Kitchen can help you make an informed decision.
Top Picks for the Best Carbon Steel Wok
When it comes to cooking delicious stir-fries and other Asian dishes, a carbon steel wok is an essential tool in every kitchen. The high heat retention and even heat distribution of carbon steel make it perfect for achieving that classic wok hei flavor. If you’re in the market for a new carbon steel wok, here are some top picks that are highly recommended by experts and home cooks alike.
1. Lodge 14-Inch Carbon Steel Wok
The Lodge 14-Inch Carbon Steel Wok is a popular choice among carbon steel wok enthusiasts. Its sturdy construction and generous size make it perfect for both home cooking and professional use. The wok features a flat bottom that allows it to sit securely on any stovetop, including induction cooktops. It also comes pre-seasoned with vegetable oil for a natural non-stick surface, making it easier to clean and maintain.
2. Joyce Chen Classic Series Carbon Steel Wok
The Joyce Chen Classic Series Carbon Steel Wok is another top pick for its excellent heat retention and durability. This wok features an ergonomic wooden handle that stays cool to the touch, providing comfort and safety during cooking. It also has a flat bottom that ensures stability and even heat distribution. The Joyce Chen Carbon Steel Wok is an affordable option that delivers outstanding results.
3. Helen Chen’s Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok
Helen Chen’s Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok is designed with the needs of home cooks in mind. It features a lightweight and compact size that makes it easy to handle and store. The wok’s long wooden handle stays cool during cooking, while its flat bottom allows for use on a variety of stove types. This wok is great for those who are new to using a carbon steel wok and want a reliable option.
When choosing the best carbon steel wok for your kitchen, consider the size, handle design, and overall durability. These top picks are highly recommended for their performance and versatility in the kitchen. Whether you’re a professional chef or a beginner home cook, any of these carbon steel woks will help you achieve delicious and authentic Asian dishes.
Cooking Tips and Techniques with a Carbon Steel Wok
Cooking with a carbon steel wok can seem intimidating, especially if you are new to using this versatile kitchen tool. However, with a few tips and techniques, you’ll be able to master the art of wok cooking and create delicious meals for yourself and your family. Here are some cooking tips and techniques to help you get started.
Seasoning Your Carbon Steel Wok
Seasoning your carbon steel wok is an essential step before you start cooking with it. This process creates a natural non-stick surface and enhances the wok’s durability. To season your wok, wash it thoroughly with warm water and a mild detergent. Then, heat the wok over high heat until it becomes hot. Add a thin layer of cooking oil and spread it evenly across the surface using a paper towel or heat-resistant brush. Let the wok cool down and repeat this process a few times until the wok develops a dark, glossy patina. Now your wok is ready for cooking!
Preheating Your Wok
Preheating your wok is crucial for achieving the perfect stir-fry. Heat your wok over high heat for at least 5 minutes until it becomes smoking hot. This high heat will ensure that your ingredients cook quickly and evenly, retaining their vibrant colors and crisp textures. Remember to have all your ingredients prepared and ready to be added to the wok, as stir-frying is a fast-paced cooking method.
Stir-Frying Techniques
When stir-frying in a carbon steel wok, it’s essential to use a spatula or a wok shovel to continuously toss and turn the ingredients. This constant movement ensures that the food cooks evenly and prevents it from sticking to the wok. Don’t be afraid to use high heat and keep the ingredients moving quickly. For best results, cook ingredients with similar cooking times separately and then combine them at the end to avoid overcooking or undercooking any of them.
Cleaning and Maintenance
After cooking with your carbon steel wok, allow it to cool down before washing it. Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive sponges, as they can damage the seasoning. Instead, use warm water and a soft sponge to gently clean the wok. If there are any stubborn food residues, you can use a non-metal brush or a bamboo scraper to remove them. After washing, dry the wok thoroughly to prevent rusting. If rust does occur, simply scrub it off with a scrubbing pad and reseason the wok before using it again.
In Conclusion
Cooking with a carbon steel wok can be a rewarding experience. By following these tips and techniques, you’ll be able to unlock the full potential of your wok and create delicious stir-fries, fried rice, and other Asian-inspired dishes. Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors and ingredients and enjoy the unique taste and texture that wok cooking can bring to your meals. Happy cooking!
10 Best Carbon Steel Wok America’s Test Kitchen
YOSUKATA Carbon Steel Wok Pan – 13,5 “ Stir Fry Pans - Chinese Wok with Flat Bottom Pow Wok - Traditional Japanese Woks - Black Carbon Steel
Features
| Part Number | 123 |
| Model | 123 |
| Warranty | If for any reason you are not satisfied, send your item back within 30days of receipt. We will exchange or arrange a full refund of the purchased price. After 30 days please contact us and we will do our best to support you. We will replace the defective item if any defect of material or workmanship found during normal household use and care according to the instructions. Item is not eligible for replacement in case of slight color variations, surface markings, others minor imperfections and/or item shows ordinary wear and tear. Item with damages from misuse like improper cleaning, accident, neglect, theft, commercial use, etc. is not eligible for replacement. Warranty does not cover parts as handles. We do not guarantee a non-stick performance level as it depends on users’ skills and proper usage. A replacement will not be made unless there is clear defect in the product. There will be no replacement for an item purchased outside of our store. |
| Color | Black |
| Size | 34cm |
- GENUINE TASTE: Discover the rich, authentic flavors of Chinese and other Asian cuisines in your own home. The Yosukata 13,5 inch wok with flat bottom is specially designed to lock the juice and flavor inside ingredients. Our outdoor wok is conveniently designed for use as a camping wok, wok BBQ, grill wok
- PRE-SEASONED: Our carbon steel wok is pre-seasoned at high temperatures over 600F using special technics unlike unseasoned woks and stir fry pans. Still require full seasoning with oil like any Chinese wok
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS: This large wok pan is made from heavy-duty, black carbon steel. The ergonomic design of the wooden handle ensures a comfy grip when you use this pow wok
- VERSATILITY: In addition to stir-frying, with the Yosukata carbon wok pan, you can cook healthy meals using various traditional cooking techniques like pan-frying, braising and deep-frying
- EASY HANDLING and STORAGE: Our steel wok is convenient to carry and easy to store
Craft Wok Traditional Hand Hammered Carbon Steel Pow Wok with Wooden and Steel Helper Handle (14 Inch, Round Bottom) / 731W88
Features
| Part Number | 731W88 |
| Model | 731W88 |
| Color | Steel |
| Size | 14-in |
- Round Bottom Heavy 14 Inch 15 gauge (1.8mm) carbon steel wok, commercial grade. Original design by Craft Wok since 2014, proven quality over the years. Chinese wok pan with a round bottom.
- Not suitable for flat electric or flat induction stove. Carbon steel wok may rust. Do not forget to season it before use! Instructions for easy seasoning are included with the wok. Our customer service is ready to guide through the process whenever you need it.
- Hammered by Chinese masters in Guangzhou. This wok is the proven choice of many professional Chinese chefs. Wok weight: 4.6 pounds (2.1 kg). Heavy and sturdy.
- Steel helper handle will not burn when you stir fry over high heat, also helpful for hanging the wok for storage. Wooden handle has special hygroscopic not slippery surface for tight grip when you stir-fry.
- Craft Wok - Love Wok! We are a team of professionals drawn together by our passion for the carbon steel wok. Our mission is to bring you as much pleasure from Stir-frying in a wok, as chefs get in restaurants across China. Our range of branded products is classic carbon steel woks, 9 years on the market.
Craft Wok Flat Hand Hammered Carbon Steel Pow Wok with Wooden and Steel Helper Handle (14 Inch, Flat Bottom) / 731W316
Features
| Part Number | 731W316FBA-14INCH-FLAT-NOTFORSALE |
| Model | 731W316FBA-14INCH-FLAT-NOTFORSALE |
| Color | Steel |
| Size | 14-inch |
- Flat Bottom Heavy 14 Inch 15 gauge (1.8mm) carbon steel wok, commercial grade. Original design by Craft Wok since 2014, proven quality over the years. Chinese wok pan with a flat bottom for electric and gas stoves.
- Chinese wok pan with flattened bottom: suitable for flat electric and flat induction stove. Not 100% flat - bottom has flat bubble which sets up. Do not forget to season it before use! Instructions for easy seasoning are included with the wok. Our customer service is ready to guide through the process whenever you need it.
- Hand hammered by Chinese professionals in Guangzhou. This wok is the proven choice of many professional Chinese chefs. Wok weight: 4.6 pounds (2.1 kg). Heavy and sturdy. The flat part of the bottom is not 100% flat: it has a flat bubble that sets up. This is due to the real hammering method of production. It does not affect the cooking process.
- Steel helper handle will not burn when you stir fry over high heat, also helpful for hanging the wok for storage. Wooden handle has special hygroscopic not slippery surface for tight grip when you stir-fry.
- Craft Wok - Love Wok! We are the team of professionals drawn together by our passion for the carbon steel wok. Our mission is to bring you as much pleasure from Stir-frying in a wok, as chefs get in restaurants across China. Our range of branded products is classic carbon steel woks, 9 years on the market.
YOSUKATA Flat Bottom Woks & Stir Fry Pans- 13.5" Blue Carbon Steel Wok - Preseasoned Carbon Steel Skillet - Wok for Electric Induction Cooktops
Features
| Model | 123 |
| Color | Blue |
| Size | 13.5" |
- PRE-SEASONED: YOSUKATA large blue carbon steel wok flat bottom pan is pre seasoned at high temperatures over 600F using special technics. It takes just a few minutes to fully season this traditional Japanese pan with oil and start cooking right away. Our outdoor wok is conveniently designed for use as a camping wok, wok BBQ, grill wok
- PREMIUM GRADE QUALITY for LIFETIME USE: This traditional hand hammered carbon steel pow wok is extra-sturdy. Each wok flat bottom pan is made of high-quality carbon steel using traditional production technology.
- MULTIPURPOSE: This is the best wok carbon steel cookware for cooking delicious, healthy meals as it retains the juice and flavor within ingredients. Perfect for pan-frying, braising and deep-frying.
- FOR ALL COOKING SURFACES: Our flat-bottomed large wok is an excellent traditional Japanese wok for electric stove, induction cooktop, gas cooker or even open fire.
- SECURE GRIP: The long handle of our carbon steel wok pan is tightly fixed through welding. Also, it combines optimal diameter and shape, a special non-sliding finish, well-dried wood.
YOSUKATA Carbon Steel Wok Pan - 14 in Woks and Stir Fry Pans - Chinese Wok with Round Bottom Wok - Traditional Chinese Japanese Woks - Black Steel Wok
Features
| Warranty | If for any reason you are not satisfied, send your item back within 30days of receipt. We will exchange or arrange a full refund of the purchased price. After 30 days please contact us and we will do our best to support you. We will replace the defective item if any defect of material or workmanship found during normal household use and care according to the instructions. Item is not eligible for replacement in case of slight color variations, surface markings, others minor imperfections and/or item shows ordinary wear and tear. Item with damages from misuse like improper cleaning, accident, neglect, theft, commercial use, etc. is not eligible for replacement. Warranty does not cover parts as handles. We do not guarantee a non-stick performance level as it depends on users’ skills and proper usage. A replacement will not be made unless there is clear defect in the product. There will be no replacement for an item purchased outside of our store. |
| Color | Black |
| Size | 14" |
- GENUINE TASTE: Discover the rich, authentic flavors of Chinese and other Asian cuisines in your own home. The Yosukata 14 inch wok with round bottom is specially designed to lock the juice and flavor inside ingredients. Our outdoor wok is conveniently designed for use as a camping wok, wok BBQ, grill wok
- PRE-SEASONED: Our round bottom carbon steel wok is pre-seasoned at high temperatures over 600F using special technics unlike unseasoned woks and stir fry pans. The wok must be seasoned with oil before use
- HIGH-QUALITY MATERIALS: This large wok pan is made from heavy-duty, black carbon steel. The ergonomic design of the wooden handle ensures a comfy grip when you use this cooking wok
- VERSATILITY: In addition to stir-frying, with the Yosukata 14'' pow wok, you can cook healthy meals using various traditional cooking techniques like pan-frying, braising, deep-frying, etc. Compatible only with gas stovetops and open fire.
- EASY HANDLING and STORAGE: Our steel wok is convenient to carry and easy to store. Care instructions, potential issues, and how to prevent and fix them can be found in the manual provided with each wok and on the listing videos.
FAQ
What is a carbon steel wok?
A carbon steel wok is a traditional cooking utensil used in many Asian cuisines, especially Chinese cuisine. It is made from carbon steel, which is a durable and heat-conductive material.
How to season a carbon steel wok?
To season a carbon steel wok, first wash it with warm water and scrub off any protective coating. Then, heat the wok over high heat until it becomes hot. Add a thin layer of oil and spread it around the entire surface of the wok, including the sides. Let the wok cool down and repeat this process 2-3 times. This will help create a non-stick surface and prevent rust.
Can I use soap to clean a carbon steel wok?
It is not recommended to use soap to clean a carbon steel wok as it can remove the seasoning and make it more prone to rust. Instead, use hot water and a soft brush or sponge to clean the wok. If there are stubborn food residues, you can use a small amount of salt to scrub them off. After cleaning, make sure to dry the wok completely to prevent rusting.
Conclusion
In conclusion, carbon steel woks are versatile and efficient cooking tools that can greatly enhance your culinary skills. They heat up quickly, distribute heat evenly, and retain high temperatures, making them perfect for stir-frying and other high-heat cooking techniques. Their non-stick surface and ability to hold seasonings also add depth and flavor to your dishes. However, they require special care and maintenance to prevent rust and maintain their seasoning. By following the tips and techniques discussed in this article, you can make the most out of your carbon steel wok and elevate your cooking to new heights. So don’t be afraid to explore the world of carbon steel wok cooking and discover the delicious possibilities it has to offer!
