Cooking with a Wok & How to Use a Wok

Cooking with a Wok & How to Use a Wok
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Types of Woks

Traditional woks have been actively used in traditional Chinese cooking. The pan is made of cast iron and has a rounded shape with one loop handle on each side. Also, the average wok is 14 inches wide which offers space for whole turkeys, ducks, and chicken with sufficient space for additional food such as vegetables and rice.

Stainless steel cooking woks provide heat transfer throughout the body and prevents your food from sticking to the bottom of the wok.

Though Chinese cast iron woks have several benefits, they are heavy and can be damaged if dropped on the floor so extra care is needed when cooking.

Some wok accessories include a metal spatula for a metal wok, a wooden wok for a non-stick wok, and bamboo steamer for steaming your food.

Prepare for Wok Cooking

Wok cooking provides tasty, healthy meals in a short time. One important tip is to prepare for wok cooking by having your ingredients ready before you cook. For instance, you may decide to cook sliced chicken with chopped mushrooms, onions, and carrots so make sure you have sliced your vegetables, measured your oil, and placed all of your cooking items nearby.

Remember, wok cooking is quick so if do not have all of the proper ingredients it will slow you down. A second tip is to keep moving your food around to prevent it from burning or under cooking on one side. Another wok tip is cook your poultry/meat first since it takes the longest to cook. Remove the poultry/meat then make your vegetables and rice and replace the poultry/meat.

Cleaning and Storing Your Wok

You should clean your wok immediately after cooking to prevent your food from sticking to the bottom. Also, review the wok care and maintenance instructions you receive when you purchase your wok. Most will suggest that you season your wok before using it for the first time. This process removes the preservative oil used by wok manufacturers to prevent rusting and replaces it with a light cooking oil coat.

Cooking with a wok can be a joyful way to make healthy meals. You should learn about the best types of wok for your needs, prepare for wok cooking, and cleaning your wok after each use and store it in your pantry.