A wok is one of the most important tools in your kitchen. If you love to cook and enjoy experimenting with different cuisines, a good quality wok is essential.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, investing in a good wok can take your stir-frying game to the next level. In this listicle, we’ll be discussing the best models on the market based on their material, size, shape, handle, weight, and price, so you can make an informed decision and find the perfect wok for your kitchen.
Material
The general consensus is that the best material for a wok is carbon steel. Keep in mind, though, that quality may vary widely across brands and the price range. The main advantages of carbon steel are:
- good heat conduction
- chemical-free composition
- longevity
- low price
The main disadvantage is poor heat retention; carbon steel loses heat relatively quickly to the surrounding air and surfaces.
Aluminium woks are a popular choice because of their:
- low weight
- low price
- good heat conduction
Aluminium is light and soft, which also makes it prone to damage and warping; they have to be replaced more quickly than woks made of other materials.
Stainless steel woks are generally not the best for stir frying but still hold their own because they are:
- acid-resistant
- rust-resistant
- light
- easy to clean
Stainless steel does not conduct heat as well as carbon steel and iron, which can slow your cooking.
Cast iron woks are also regarded highly. The main advantages of cast iron are:
- good heat conduction
- chemical-free composition
- durability
- versatility
A cast iron wok is heavier than its counterparts, though, and may not be suitable for all cooks.
Size
There are 2 main factors to consider when you consider the size of a wok:
- How much you cook at a time
- The weight of the wok
Most home chefs will be comfortable with a wok that is between 20 cm (8 in) and 30 cm (12 in). You may consider a smaller or larger one if it will be better suited to your needs.
Shape
Woks traditionally have a round bottom that makes it easy to toss ingredients together when stir frying. Some newer designs may also incorporate a flat base for use on an induction or electric stove.
Handle
A wok with two handles makes for easy lifting and tossing of ingredients. Wooden or bamboo handles are good options as they do not conduct heat.
Weight
A wok should be lightweight enough to toss and stir-fry ingredients easily.
Price
Woks can cost less than S$50 while some can cost many hundreds of dollars. While it is generally true that the most expensive models are of better quality, consider whether using a cheaper everyday brand and model will really affect the quality of the food you cook.
We took into account value for money and practical use when we compiled our list.
Here are the 10 best woks in Singapore
1. Yosukata Black Carbon Steel Flat Bottom Wok
- Material: Carbon steel
- Size: 30cm
- Weight: 1.3kg
- Accessories: Lid
Buy now from S$86 at Amazon
2. NutriChef 12″ Stainless Steel Wok
- Material: Stainless steel with DAKIN non-stick coating
- Size: 32cm
- Weight: 3.13kg with lid
- Capacity: 3.5L
- Accessories: Glass lid
Buy now from S$49 at Amazon
3. Joyce Chen J21-9972 Classic Series
- Material: Carbon steel
- Size: 35cm
- Weight: 1.47kg
- Accessories: Lid, 12-inch bamboo spatula, recipe booklet
Buy now from S$73 at Amazon
4. DOTCLAD Hybrid 12 inch Wok pan with Lid
- Material: Stainless steel
- Size: 30.5cm
- Weight: 2.72kg
- Capacity: 2.8L
- Accessories: Glass lid
Buy now from S$57 at AmazonÂ
5. Jim Beam JB0200
- Material: Cast iron
- Size: 30cm
- Weight: 2.58kg
- Capacity: 4.8L
Buy now from S$57 at Amazon
Best air fryer: The top 10 & how to choose one [Oct 2024 update]
6. Tefal C52897 Wok
- Material: Aluminium with PFOA-free ceramic coating
- Size: 40cm
- Accessories: Stainless steel lid
Buy now from S$70 at AmazonÂ
7. KitchenAid Induction Non-stick Wok
- Material: Aluminium 3003 with 3-layer non-stick coating
- Size: 28cm
- Weight: 2.4kg
- Capacity: 4.6L
- Accessories: Lid
Buy now from S$274 at AmazonÂ
8. La Gourmet Shogun Misato 28cm Marble Wok
- Material: Aluminium with  6-layer non-stick Tritanium Dura coating
- Size: 28cm
- Weight: 2.5kg
- Accessories: Lid
Buy now from S$49 at AmazonÂ
9. Todlabe Nonstick Carbon Steel Wok
- Material: Carbon steel
- Size: 33cm
- Weight: 1.43kg (2.0kg with lid)
- Capacity: 5.3L
- Accessories: Vertical lid, stainless steel spatula
Buy now from S$58 at Lazada
10. Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Wok
- Material: Stainless steel with encapsulated aluminium core
- Size: 35.6cm
- Weight: 1.6kg with lid
- Accessories: Glass lid
Buy now from S$82 at Amazon
Best rice cooker Singapore: Our top 10 & how to choose one [Oct 2024 update]
The post Best wok to buy & a guide on how to choose one [Oct 2024 update] appeared first on SETHLUI.com.