Seasoning a new Non-stick Wok?

Question

I just bought a new wok and tried to season it as per the instructions that came with it. You were supposed to wash it with water and some mild detergent. After which you are supposed to heat it and wipe it clean a few times with some oil and tissue paper. Each time I did this, I noticed that there is a film of blue residue on the tissue. I have washed it again, heat it and wipe it with oil and tissue at least 15 more times and still the blue stains keep showing up. What could this be? Is it safe to cook in this wok yet? Ever?

Answer 1

It sounds as if you bought a very cheap quality wok. Sometimes manufacturers will cover up the so-called non-stick element by using a food-dye to give the metal surface a shiny non-stick look. This is usually blue. So what you are probably getting out each time you scrub you new wok clean is this blue dye coming off. I would suggest to throw away the damn thing rather than take a chance on cooking in a toxic metal container. Or take it back and demand your money back. If you wish to keep this, then just keep scouring away at the surface until the blue dye is done. But I would definitely file a complaint so the other people are not screwed like you almost were.

Answer 2

Seasoning A Nonstick Wok

Answer 3

Bake it in the oven with a film of oil at 300-350 for 1-2 hours.