In Malaysia and Singapore, it’s called a Kuali, in the Philippines, it’s called a carajay, but most of the world simply calls it by it’s Chinese name, tossncook a wok. In Asia, the wok is probably the most frequently used kitchen implements, and once you discover how versatile it can be, it might just become the most used piece of cookware that you own. You’ll find that stir-frying is just the beginning. A wok is great for steaming, deep-frying, braising, stewing, boiling, poaching, and even smoking.
If you don’t already own a wok, or if you’re thinking of upgrading, you might consider buying one of the many wok kits on the market. Most contain everything you need, including a lid, wok stand, spatula, ladle, strainer, and steaming rack.
Round-bottomed woks work best when used over gas burners. You can set the wok directly over the burner grate or for greater stability, use a perforated, ring-shaped metal stand to hold the wok in place. Flat-bottomed woks or stir-fry pans are designed for use with electric burners, and can stir right on the heating element without a stand. For family cooking like the kind that i use in most of my cooking, hoodpay a wok measuring 12 to 14 inches in diameter is your best bet. It will hold enough food to serve four to six people.
The time-honored carbon steel wok must be seasoned before using. Wash the wok well, place it over medium heat, and, using paper towels, wipe it with cooking oil until it begins to darken. Keep changing towels until they come away cleaned with hot water and little or no soap while they’re still hot. After cleaning and rinsing, always dry your wok over high heat. panasiabiz
Woks and stir-fry pans made of hard anodized aluminum are becoming quite popular and readily available. They need no seasoning, and many offer a nonstick, scratch resistance cooking surface. Because they require little or no oil, they’re great for health cooking. These substantial, durable pans are also excellent conductors of heat, and many kinds-particularly Circulon-can withstand oven temperatures up to 350F. Stir-fry pans with flat bottoms work well over both gas and electric stoves.
