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Although it would seem to be a easy task to buy a wok, the decision of which wok to buy may not be as simple as it may first seem. Although to the untrained eye one wok may appear to be indistinguishable to every other wok on the shelves, there are some slight differences that can make a big difference to the food you are able to create with your new wok. Here I am going to advise you about a few of the key things that you ought to look out for when you get a wok.
Which Material Should I Select for my Wok?
One of the significant things that will shape the results you get with any wok is the material which it is made from. Most woks bought today are made of either carbon steel or cast iron. Traditionally, cast iron was what was most widely used in China, and so may create the most genuine results. Carbon steel is probably more popular at the moment though, as it has some other benefits such as being light and taking less time to heat-up then cast iron versions. If you asked a sizeable number of Chinese cooks which is the better of the two, it is quite possible that you would end up with a fifty-fifty split in opinion both are good options to produce good quality, authentic Chinese food.
Newer models which have come out on the market include aluminium and stainless steel woks. The main advantage with these kind of woks is that they stop food sticking on the inside. They are often offered with non-stick coating, which most people automatically assume is a bonus. Before you dash out and buy one of these newer styles of wok there is one thing to think about however you are able to create the same effect yourself in a carbon steel or cast iron wok by seasoning the metal. This is a process where fat and salt are heated in the pan to cover the metal. This prevents rust as well as preventing food from sticking.
What Shape of Wok Should I Decide on?
While many people automatically think of woks as having rounded bottoms, it is also possible to buy a wok with a flat base. Which you choose will probably not create a vast effect on the food you create with the wok. Instead it is more related to the type of cooker you have. Rounded bottom woks are superior for gas stoves, but are almost unfeasible to use on ceramic hobs.
Does it Matter What Style of Handle My Wok Has?
Although the handle may be something you would usually give little thought to when buying a pan, it can be important when you buy a wok. This is particularly true if you opt for a large steel or iron wok, as this will be heavy to lift - a single, small handle may make it difficult to pick up, especially when it is hot. Some woks offer an additional small handle on the side of the pan, and this is something which you should certainly opt for if you are buying a wok which is sizeable or made of iron. Choosing a wok with a wooden handle is also preferable to a metal handle, as there is less likelihood you will get burned when handling a hot wok.