If you are a fan of Asian cuisines and want to make traditional Chinese food, you must be equipped with a quality wok. It is versatile, smooth, and known for quickly heating over a small flame. Its ability to reach high temperatures makes it an ideal choice for stir-frying. But the functions of a cast iron wok don’t stop there. It can also be used for making soups and sauces, deep-frying, braising, broiling, and many more.
Just like any other kitchen tool, the options for a cast iron wok are many. If you’re a first-time buyer, you may find the purchasing process to be overwhelming. So, to help you make a wise buying decision, we’ve created a list of the best cast iron wok on the market for you to check out.
Quick Overview: Top 3 Best Cast Iron Woks
Best Choice | Lodge Pro-Logic Wok
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Also great | Jim Beam Pre Seasoned Cast Iron Grilling Wok
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Best Value | Uno Casa Cast Iron Wok Pan
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9 Best Cast Iron Woks Reviewed
1. Lodge Pro-Logic Wok – Most Versatile Wok for all Kitchens
Both home cooks and professional chefs can benefit from the infinite cooking possibilities brought by the Lodge Pro-Logic Wok. Whether it is for making your favorite hometown dishes or authentic cuisines, this cast iron wok can make cooking time short and quick. This is all thanks to its large cooking surface that retains heat effectively.
This Lodge 14-inch Cast Iron Wok is safe to use on the grill or stove, over a campfire, or even in the oven. It comes with a flat base, and large loop handles for easy handling and is designed with excellent heat distribution. You also don’t have to worry about rusting as it is pre-seasoned with 100 percent natural vegetable oil.
When it comes to performance, this lodge cast iron wok review guarantees that you can rely on the Lodge Cast Iron’s durability and versatility. It is built to be tough and can be used for frying, grilling, braising, sauteing, baking, searing, etc.
- Smooth inside surface
- Reduces the need for oil
- Easy to handle and store
- Easy to clean
- Does not come with a lid
- Too heavy for some users
2. Jim Beam 12” Pre Seasoned Heavy Duty Construction Cast Iron Grilling Wok – Best Cast Iron Wok for Beginners
This 12-inches cast iron grilling wok is large enough to prepare and make substantial proportions. It is also built to be durable and long-lasting. Therefore, you can maximize its performance for years. But its main feature is its heavy-duty construction that allows even cooking and exceptional heat retention.
This wok is also designed with a solid flat base. It makes this vessel sit on any surface steadily, whether it is in the oven or grill. It transfers the heat quickly to the wok and remains hot for a long time.
Its handles are ergonomically designed. It offers a safe, secure grip and ensures easy storage. Because it is already seasoned, it is always ready to use after washing. Unlike other cast iron woks out there, this product is lighter and easier to use, especially for starters.
- Lightweight
- No sticking
- Easy to wash
- Well-seasoned
- Not big enough for making large meals
3. Uno Casa Cast Iron Wok Pan – Best Multi-use Cast Iron Wok
If you are shopping for a cast iron wok with a lid, the Uno Casa Cast Iron Wok Pan might be a good choice for you. Its adaptable lid seals in the moisture and heat for a better flavor and texture of your homemade stir-fries. It also comes with a free recipe e-book to be sent automatically to your email after placing an order.
One of its best features is its durable non-stick surface. It retains heat perfectly while cooking and improves with each use. It is well-suited for various recipes and works with all cooktops, including stovetop, gas, oven, induction cooktops, and even over a campfire. While it’s fantastic for making a variety of Asian cuisines, it can also be great for regular sautés and pan-frying.
This cast iron stir fry pan is well-designed with two easy-to-carry handles. It takes up less space from your kitchen, and cleanup and care are effortless. It is non-rust and does not require further re-seasoning. But without proper care, it could still end up with rust.
- Compact and lightweight
- Stable and sturdy flat base
- Heats evenly and quickly
- Handles get too hot quickly
- May rust when not cared for the first time
4. Bruntmor Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Wok–Best Heavy-Duty Cast Iron Wok
The Bruntmor Pre-seasoned cast iron wok provides the perfect balance between innovation and tradition. It takes pride in its modern, rustic design with large loop handles and a flat base. The handles are built to be wider for a more secure grip while the base provides unmatched stability.
The cast iron properties of this cooking vessel deliver optimal heat retention. It is pre-seasoned and can be used immediately right out the box. Oil is baked into the iron’s pores to prevent rusting and offers a natural, non-stick surface when you cook.
Just make sure you don’t put your hot wok into cold water. Otherwise, the metal could crack or warp as a result of a thermal shock. Never use harsh detergents or soap when cleaning this wok. Simply wash it with hot water and a stiff nylon brush, and it will be ready for your next cooking session.
- Can be used on a variety of cooktops
- Easy to clean without the need for soap
- Delivers nice, even heat
- Durable and sturdy
- Can get too heavy and hot to handle
- Interior surface could be smoother
5. Kamado Joe KJ Cast Iron Wok–Best Outdoor Cast Iron Wok
You can quickly cook your most-loved stir-fry recipes or grill vegetables, seafood, and small meats with Kamado Joe KJ Cast Iron Wok. Its excellent heat retention enables even and consistent heating throughout the vessel. Although it might seem heavy for some users, others would find its balanced weight useful to keep it sturdy and stable while cooking.
Like most large cast iron woks, this product has two loop handles. They provide ease in handling and a secure and comfortable grip. Also, using Kamado Joe cast iron wok will allow you to easily fry, grill, or steam in just one place.
Although this cast iron wok is specially designed for Kamado Joe grill, it can also be used inside your home on your induction, oven, gas, and electric cooktops. This is possible with its sturdy, flat bottom and a large surface area.
- Sleek and heavy-duty performance
- Superior heating properties
- Ideal for grilling
- Holds heat well
- Re-seasoning might still be necessary
6. Homeries Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Wok– Best Non-stick Cast Iron Wok for Everyday Use
Cook in real Chinese style with Homeries Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Wok. Its stylish wooden lid allows for an authentic Asian feel while stir-frying, steaming, simmering, or frying. It also features two upward handles. With this, you can save space in your kitchen or on your stovetop and carry it around with ease.
This cast iron wok is pre-seasoned with quality vegetable oil. It gives this tool a non-stick surface and prevents it from rusting. Therefore, you do not have to season it yourself, and it can be used directly from the box. Regardless, it is still a good idea to season it to add extra protection.
Although some users find this wok a bit heavy, its heat distribution is impressive, and it works exceptionally well. The wooden lid is lightweight and doesn’t get hot. It means you can list it easily and stir your food when necessary without burning your hands.
- Non-stick surface
- Easy to store
- Suitable for various cooktops
- Retains heat well
- Still subject to rust without proper care
7. Nutrichef Pre-Seasoned Cast Pan-5.8 QT Heavy Duty Non-Stick Iron Chinese Wok– The Best Cast Iron Wok for Large Meals
In case you are cooking for a lot of people, the Nutrichef Pre-seasoned Cast Pan Non-stick Iron Chinese Wok could be your best bet. It is a large cast iron wok with a wide diameter and 5.8-quart capacity. It will allow you to save time and effort when feeding a large crowd.
This wok is designed to last long with its heavy-duty construction. It works on induction, gas, glass-ceramic, and stovetop and has been used for restaurants and many homes for efficient and smooth food preparation. It also comes with a wooden lid to give its users an authentic Asian feel while cooking.
Because it is pre-seasoned, you don’t have to worry about rusting while it’s in the warehouse or on store shelves. It has a non-stick surface and effectively retains and distributes heat to ensure even cooking.
- Rust and stain resistant
- Compatible with a variety of heating methods
- Smooth surface
- East to clean
- Thick and solid construction
- Can be very heavy for some users
- Might still require seasoning
8. Klee Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Wok- Best Performance, Durable Cast Iron Wok
Klee Cast Iron Wok could be a fantastic choice for your next meal preparation due to its ability to distribute heat evenly and withstand direct heat. It ensures that everything in the wok is cooked at the same time to achieve excellent results. It is pre-seasoned with vegetable oil coating baked into its surface and soaked up by the metal.
Thanks to its rustic charm, this fourteen-inch wok pan adds a real Asian feel to your kitchen. It is even emphasized by its large, wooden lid. It was added to help keep your delicious meals warm until they are served. Instead of a flat handle, this cast iron wok features two handles in an upward position. It provides easy storage and takes up less space on your stovetop.
You can use this wok on various cooking surfaces, including a gas stove, induction, glass top, and electric stoves. You can also use it on the grill or in the oven. Just remember that this product is not dishwasher safe and shouldn’t be placed in cold water when hot.
- Large handles
- Versatile cooking
- Easy to care for and use
- Seasoned with a food-safe oil
- Handles get hot quickly
- Can accumulate a rust film over time
9. Backcountry Iron’s Cast Iron Wok –Simple yet Rugged Cast Iron Wok
BackCountry Iron’s Cast Iron Wok boasts superior craftsmanship and quality. It is durable and hand-made with the use of a proprietary metallurgy alloy and seasoned with the company’s unique blend of the finest food-grade oils on the market.
The product surface consists of iron micro-globuals. It is a technological advancement invented in-house to make sure the seasoning adheres quickly and easily.It works in all cooking surfaces, including electric, gas, induction, grill, broiler, oven, or even a campfire and a fire pit.
This cast iron wok offers optimal heating retention to achieve even cooking. It is designed in the USA and built to last for a long time. It also has a good size with fourteen inches diameter to feed more people.
- Excellent heat distribution
- Ideal for cooking different meals and desserts
- Offers consistent cooking
- Durable design
- Lacks a smooth finish
- Susceptible to rust
A Buyer’s Guide to Finding the Best Cast Iron Wok
Whether you want to buy a new one or have never had this cooking vessel before, this guide will help you choose the best cast iron wok on the market. Although they are generally durable and rugged, no two products are created the same. You would want to maximize your investment by purchasing a high-quality wok that is guaranteed to last for a long time.
Now that you’ve had a glimpse of the best ones available, we will delve deeper into the key considerations and tips on how to pick the right cast iron wok that works for you. In this buyer’s guide section, we will also answer some frequently asked questions about the product. This ensures that you make an informed decision and not waste your hard-earned money on the wrong cooking pot.
Materials
Woks vary in shape, size, and material. Although we mainly focused on cast iron woks, it also makes sense to learn about some other varieties you can find today.
- Cast iron vs. carbon steel wok
Some of the oldest cookware today is made from this material, including Chinese woks. They were traditionally designed with two metal handles and used across China in every household for years.
Cast iron woks are exceptionally durable and known for their weight. Although they are heavy, they can tolerate extremely high temperatures and retain heat exceptionally well. Once it is heated, the wok stays hot for a long time. It allows users to save on energy.
On the other hand, carbon steel woks are lighter and combine even and fast heating with durability. It actually has many similar properties to cast iron, including the ability to hold heat well. Due to its malleability, it lends well to pressing and shaping. It is also less brittle.
- Stainless steel
Another popular material for Chinese woks is stainless steel. Like carbon steel and cast iron, stainless steel woks are popular for their ability to retain and distribute heat evenly. They do not need seasoning, which has both benefits and drawbacks. Not having to season can be a good thing for new users, but it could also mean that food may stick to the wok’s surface.
Seasoning
If you are new to cast iron woks, you might think that seasoning requires liberally sprinkling your wok with salt, pepper, and herbs. In reality, it merely involves forming a layer of oil to coat the iron, creating a non-stick surface.
The majority of the best cast iron woks included in our list come pre-seasoned, but that does not always mean you should forgo seasoning. Although pre-seasoned cast iron woks are ready to be used straight out of the box, it is still a great idea to season it yourself.
How to season a cast iron wok?
A well-seasoned cast iron wok will create a non-stick surface for cooking and resist rust. To season, clean your wok first to remove any applied machine oil to avoid rusting during transit. Heat the wok on high heat for about ten minutes. As you do this, make sure that all sides are heated evenly.
You will notice the wok changing its color as you expose it to heat. While it is hot, coat it with a high smoke point oil. Vegetable oil, coconut, peanut, almond, and flaxseed oil are some of the best ones you can use for seasoning cast iron. The entire surface must be covered with oil.
Keep the wok hot, and when you notice that its color begins to change to a dark hue and matte finish, the seasoning process is complete. Let it cool and store it until you are ready to use it. But you can always repeat the process to achieve a thicker protecting coating and a slicker non-stick surface.
Round or Flat bottom
Traditionally, woks have a round bottom, and Chinese kitchens and restaurants have special stoves with a round opening that supports round-bottomed woks. You might also need a stove that has a wok top or use a wok ring. The rounded bottom allows the wok to get closer to the flame. It creates a hot spot at the bottom while also allowing even heat around the sides.
However, since many of today’s stoves do not accommodate the shape of round bottom woks, most home cooks prefer using flat bottom ones. They do not need any additional accessories and can be used in virtually all heat sources.
Wok vs. Cast iron skillet
If you are shopping for a wok, chances are you’ve come across cast iron skillets during your research. Both types of cookware are considered kitchen essentials, especially if you love stir-fries and are a fan of deep-frying. Although skillets are a more recent invention than woks, they are equally suited to a range of cooking tasks.
Skillets are remarkably similar to sauté pans, but instead of straight sides, theirs are slightly flared. It allows for easy stir-frying because you can have better access to the food you are cooking.
Cast iron skillets are also great for making different dishes, from eggs and pancakes to dessert and chicken pot pies. They can also be well-seasoned and last for a long time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cast Iron good for stir fry?
A cast iron can retain heat well. This makes it a suitable cooking vessel for making a crispy stir fry. Making your favorite stir-fries in a cast iron wok that does not lose heat also means even cooking and excellent texture of the meat and vegetables.
What is the best size wok to buy?
The size of cast iron wok varies from about nine to eighteen inches. Its size is measured across the widest part’s diameter. The base can also be half the diameter or less. Therefore, the size of the wok you should buy must depend on how much you want to cook at a time and your range size.
Should a wok have a lid?
Not necessarily. Some of the best cast iron woks don’t come with a lid. Indeed, it could make your life easier when cooking dishes or ingredients that need to be covered. But you shouldn’t limit your option by buying only the ones that have a lid. Besides, there are many cooking tasks where you shouldn’t cover your pot while cooking.
Which wok is best for deep frying?
Ultimately, the best wok for deep frying is the one you like and prefer. But if you’re looking for specific recommendations, Lodge, Bruntmor, Homeries, and Jim Beam are some of the best ones you can find.
How hot should a wok be for stir fry?
The temperatures between 350- and 450-degrees Fahrenheit are ideal when making stir fry. Fortunately, cast iron woks can withstand extreme heat temperatures. This means you can toss and turn meat and vegetables in the wok over high heat in just a few minutes without burning your food.
In Summary
The best cast iron wok can be a significant investment for both home cooks and professional chefs. It is designed to serve you for a long time and help you make flavorful and delicious dishes for you and your loved ones. We understand that the buying process can be challenging and tricky. But with this comprehensive guide, it is hoped that you’ll be able to find the right one for your needs.
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