Can You Use A Wok On An Electric Stove?

The skill of cooking and appliances used to complete the task keep on changing. You have traditionally used a gas stove, but technology has improved, and now the market is flooded with electric stoves. You need to move fast with the change and buy a wok that can effectively work on an electric stove lest you are left behind. If you do not know how this goes, there is no need to worry. You can use a wok on an electric stove with some simple tips.

What Kind Of Wok Is Best For An Electric Stove?

It is possible to use a wok on a glass top electric stove, you need to decide which style. Many experienced chefs recommend using a flat-bottomed; these take less time to heat than round-bottomed versions. Because of the direct contact that flat-bottomed woks have with the heating element, you enjoy high heat conductivity and fast smoking.

Woks that are made of carbon steel are the best when it comes to wok material. Other people prefer using stainless steel or cast iron on electric stoves. However, iron and stainless steel are good heat conductors and do not warp easily.

So, How To Use An Wok On An Electric Stove?

A wok is one of the commonest appliances that is found in almost all kitchens. There are different kinds of woks. To find out how to use a wok on an electric stove, you need to know the kind of electric stove you are using. You can use either a glass-ceramic stove or an electric coil stove.

If you have a new electric stove or a new wok and don't know how the two work together, don't worry; the steps below will give you all the information you need. Woks heat up fast and evenly and are a great pick for stir-fried dishes. The trick of using a wok on an electric stove lies in the shape of the wok.

You can spice up your dishes by following the steps below to use a wok on an electric stove.

Step 1: Place The Wok On The Cooker

Place the wok on the burner, preferably one with a surface area similar to the wok. If you have a flat-bottomed wok, there is no need to worry about the burner's surface. If you go with a round-bottomed wok, do not lift it more than half an inch from the flame so that it can heat evenly.

Step 2: Give The Wok Time To Preheat

Regardless of the type of wok you are using, it is important to allow it to heat gradually and not all at once. If you don't, the sudden contraction and expansion will cause the wok to warp, you wouldn't want that.

If the wok you have is made of carbon steel, set the heat to a medium or low level until it begins to smoke. If you are using a cast iron wok, set the heat to high and give it at least 10 minutes before you begin to cook.

Step 3: Add Cooking Oil And Continue To Heat

Put your favorite cooking oil in the wok and wait for a bit for it to heat. Put the ingredients in the wok when the oil heats up and stir. You can start with the ingredients that do not take long to cook. You will notice when the oil heats when you hear a sizzling sound.

Note the heat intensity that is subjected to the wok impacts its durability. So be sure to stick to the recommended temperature levels.

How To Use A Wok Ring On An Electric Stove?

Wok rings are essential and ensure the stability of the pan by keeping it in place when cooking, especially if you have round-bottomed woks. Rings also regulate heat and direct it to the bottom of the wok. There are different wok rings, including wire, stainless steel, cast iron, and carbon steel.

It is simple to use working on an electric stove. Place the wok ring on top of the burner. Place the ring so that the narrow part is on the upper side and the broader part at the bottom. You can then place the pan on the upper and vacant side of the ring.

Can You Use A Wok On A Glass Top Stove?

Woks work perfectly well on glass-top electric stoves. Flat-bottomed style woks work better than round-bottomed woks.

Glass top stoves are normally smooth because of the ceramic and glass combination. Because of this, glass tops are considered the most fragile. Glass tops are made so that they partially get crystalized to withstand extreme temperatures without shattering.

This glass top is strong for the heat but not for physical force. If you drop a wok on a glass top, it might break. It is also not advisable to drag the wok on the glass surface as it may scratch.

What You Should Consider When You Choose Wok For Electric Stove?

If you want to use a wok on an electric stove, it is important to buy a work made for that purpose. Consider the following factors when buying a wok to use on the electric stove.

Material Used

The material of the work determines how it will perform and the ultimate taste of the food. You must go for materials that can withstand high temperatures. Carbon steel and light cast iron are the best materials. Stainless steel is also a good pick, but you should avoid Teflon at all costs.

Weight

The material it is made of determines the wok weight. Go for lightweight woks that you can carry with ease. Cast iron woks are the heaviest. Carbon steel is not only lightweight but also durable.

Handles

A wok's handle might seem very simple, but it determines your cooking experience. If you are cooking stir-fry dishes, you will hold the wok for the better part of the cooking process. Buy a wok that has a handle with a good grip. If the handle is slippery, you risk getting an accident.

The handle should have an ergonomic design to ease movement. Avoid wood handles since they tend to get hotter with time.

Surface Area

If you plan to cook for a multitude, then wok diameter is an important factor to consider. This means you need a big wok with a wide diameter. Wok sizes range between 10"-20" in diameter. If you have a small family, a 14" diameter work will do the work for you.

Durability

Buying a wok is a long-term investment; hence, you should be looking at a wok that has a strong body. The wok should resist heat, especially if you use high temperatures. The most durable works are made of carbon steel and cast iron.

Wok Style

Consider buying a flat-bottom wok for an electric stove since these retain heat more. you can also use this wok on a gas stove.

Non-stick Coating

Nonstick woks make the cooking experience hassle-free. It eliminates cooking oil, food comes right off the wok after cooking, and cleaning is easy. However, this will force you to use low temperatures when cooking.

Conclusion

Woks are a big asset in the kitchen. You can prepare various dishes with this appliance and will get the tastiest stir-fry dishes. If you are new to this, consider the abovementioned factors to buy the best quality woks in the market. Once you have it, follow the steps highlighted here to use it on an electric stove and start cooking your favorite meal.