For those into asian culinary , specialty :woks?

Question

Ello everybody. My boyfriend is beginning to get more into his asian culture and wants a wok for his birthday.
ANyway, I’ve been looking around and haven’t made a decision yet as to what is a good long lasting Wok that is big but also a big bargain. I'll will continue to look around but could possibly some of you cool chiefs out there give me some good pointers as to what’s the best wok to use. Any information is good information... unless you’re here to hate. If that’s the case dont expect me to respond to your immaturity.

Thanks!

Answer 1

Just a couple of reminders when buying a wok.
Most non asian family only uses the wok for stir frying or pan frying, so a cast iron one is the best. It's a little heavy but it works best once seasoned.
Second, the wok itself is less important than the heat you put under it. Gas fire is the best. You need to have the heat off the center of the wok. i.e. like the second ring of a bullseye.
Last but not least, most stir fry cooking requires a little tossing around of the food in the pan, so don't get anything smaller than 16". Those baby ones are for show and serving only.
Happy cooking !

Answer 2

I use a carbon steel wok with a stick handle and rounded base which is perfect for me. However, the type of wok you choose will depend on what type of cooker you have. This wiki article will tell you more.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wok

I would NOT recommend a non-stick wok as they do not develop the seasoned patina which gives stir fried food it's unique flavour. Seasoning a wok is very important and takes quite a long time. It is worth doing it properly. This site will tell you more.

http://www.thaifoodandtravel.com/features/wok1.html

A properly seasoned wok is one of the best thinks to use in the kitchen and will give you great results for years so it is well worth paying a bit of care and attention. I hope you find this useful and that your BF likes his gift!

Answer 3

You can buy woks in Chinatown-- you can find many stores that sell kitchen appliances.

Buy woks that are deep and have wood handles, so your boyfriend won't burn his hands while he tosses his food when he cooks in it. Buy a big and small woks for cooking-- I'm not sure how big they are-- but my philosophy-- the bigger the better. And it should fit above your electric or gas stove. Good luck!!!

Answer 4

E-bay maybe not to buy but you can atleast see alot of whats out there and there will probably be alot listed from china japan etc

Answer 5

you should go to china town or asian store or restaurant to get some ideas, vietnamese and chinese are the best

Answer 6

Go to a nearby Chinese supermarket (i.e. 99 Ranch)