Those white, cup-like, little boxes, with really good food in them, are a lifesaver. I think you know what I am talking about: Chinese take outs! Back in the day when I still had no little ones and living on my own, whenever I got busy I would have food delivered or picked up at my favorite local Chinese restaurant.
1. Lodge Pro-Logic Wok With Flat Base and Loop Handles
2. Souped Up Carbon Steel Wok
3.Joyce Chen’s Carbon Steel Wok
Crisp vegetables, saucy noodles, sweet and sour pork, dumplings, and stir-fried rice, the list goes on. Sometimes as I munch away, I wonder how Chinese food always tastes as amazing as it does. Is it something they put in the dish?
According to a lot of my Chinese friends, their cuisine tastes great not because they have added some special or secret ingredient, but mainly because of the way everything is prepared. Of course, certain dishes call for special spices and mixes, for example, but these items alone do not make the dish tasty – the secret is the technique, and the tools. Realizing this was when my search for the best induction wok began.
If you have a view into the kitchen of any Chinese restaurant and observe the way they prepare meals, the chefs use really big cast iron woks. Clearly, a wok is an all-around cookware, but only a wok can help any chef make a stir-fry like it’s supposed to be: Crisp vegetables that are not wilted and tender to the bite, with meat that has the right amount of sear and its juices still intact.
That’s the beauty of the wok’s structure – heat is distributed at different levels throughout the cookware. Most heat to sear at the bottom, and gradually less towards the edges. This heat distribution is also maximized by the way they stir-fry and toss the food within the wok.
- Best Induction Wok: Our Top Recommendations
- Your Induction Wok Buying Guide: Things To Consider Before Your Purchase
- 10 Best And Highly Recommended Induction Woks
- Lodge Pro-Logic Wok With Flat Base And Loop Handles: Best Of The Best Wok
- Souped Up Wok: Best Carbon Steel Wok
- Joyce Chen’s Carbon Steel Wok: Best For Families
- Helen Chen's Asian Kitchen Flat-Bottomed Wok: Best Flat-Bottomed Wok
- Ozeri Green Earth Wok: Best Ceramic-Coated
- Sky Light Wok Pan: Best Oven Safe Wok
- Cooks Standard Stainless Steel Multi-Ply Clad Wok: Best Stainless Steel Wok
- Cooklover’s Chinese Wok: Best Die-Cast Aluminum Wok
- Te Chef’s Art Pan: Beauty And Efficiency In One
- Uno Casa Cast Iron Wok Pan: Best Compact Wok
- FAQs
- What Is The Best Wok For Induction Cooking?
- Do Woks Work On Induction?
- Which Wok Is Best For Chinese Cooking?
- Our Tried And Tested Hacks For Your Induction Wok
- What Is The Best Rated Wok?
- Wrap Up
Best Induction Wok: Our Top Recommendations
Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
You will see a lot of modern versions of the classic wok. Manufacturers have produced woks that use different materials, diameters, and woks that can be used with different cooktops, such as induction.
Woks are not usually an inclusion in the best induction cookware sets, but there are those sold separately at great value for your money. Here are my top recommendations for the most innovative woks available today.
Your Induction Wok Buying Guide: Things To Consider Before Your Purchase
WOK SIZE AND CAPACITY. Woks come in different depths and diameters. When choosing the best induction wok, you would need to consider the amount of food to be cooked, as well as the storage space available in your kitchen.
BUDGET. Woks that are compatible with induction cooktops are a bit more pricey than regular ones. You can splurge if your budget allows you, but there are also great quality woks at a much lower price that you can purchase.
MATERIAL. Induction woks offer almost the same performance in heat distribution and retention, as well as durability. Here are the different materials that woks are made of, and their properties:
- CAST IRON: Let’s start with the traditional material used for thousands of years. Cast iron makes way for great heat conduction and retention, and these are seasoned right during their manufacturing. Cast iron woks are heavier than others made of different materials, and require careful maintenance and cleaning.
- ALUMINUM: Woks made from aluminum are lighter in weight. They can also be placed inside the dishwasher with no worries. Pure aluminum woks might not suit food with acid content, so check if they have extra coating to prevent acid from interacting with the metal.
- CARBON STEEL: Woks made of this material offer the efficiency of cast iron, but are practically lightweight. There is an even distribution of heat throughout the cookware. Like woks made of cast iron, though, woks in carbon steel also require seasoning and maintenance.
- STAINLESS STEEL: Woks made of stainless steel are light, easy to heat up, and can be cleaned effortlessly.
BOTTOM: The base of your wok will be a choice between a flat-bottomed wok, or a round-bottomed one. It is recommended to use a flat-bottomed one if you are using an induction cooktop, to ensure that the pan connects efficiently with the heating element. There are certain food preparations that would require a particular surface, such as direct searing or flipping, for which I recommend checking out the best induction grill pans that I also reviewed.
NON-STICK COATING: Your consideration for non-stick induction woks can also be greatly influenced by the materials used to create the wok. Coated aluminum woks are usually created with a ceramic coating. Cast iron woks, as well as those made of carbon steel, need frequent seasoning to maintain the non-stick property of the cookware surface.
CLEANING: It is recommended to wash cast iron and carbon steel woks by hand, while aluminum and stainless steel ones are safe to be placed in the dishwasher.
10 Best And Highly Recommended Induction Woks
Lodge Pro-Logic Wok With Flat Base And Loop Handles: Best Of The Best Wok
This 14-inch diameter wok is perfect for any amount of cooking. The cast iron material of this wok speaks of its durability and heat distribution that we mostly look for in any cookware. This wok has a heavier and flat weight concentrated at the bottom, which makes it steady even as you passionately toss your stir fry!
- 14 INCH CAST IRON WOK: Seasoned and ready to use, this cast iron wok features helpful, modern handles and a large cooking...
- HEAT RETENTION: This cast iron wok features unparalleled heat retention for consistent, high-heat cooking and even heat...
- NATURALLY NONSTICK: This naturally seasoned cast iron wok is made with just iron and vegetable oil, creating a quick-release...
Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- The bottom of the wok might make you assume that it has limited options when it comes to cooktops. This wok is absolutely perfect to use on any heat source including induction, ovens, stoves, and even directly placed on fire.
- It has big handles paired with a solid base, for efficient cooking and handling.
- It offers even distribution and longer retention of heat
- This wok is pre-seasoned right at manufacturing
- It is not limited to your typical stir-fry. You can use it to braise, deep fry, broil, and many more.
Cons
- The wok, being made of cast iron, can be quite heavy for those who are not used to cooking with cast iron cookware.
- This cookware requires more careful cleaning to maintain its non-stick, smooth surface.
Souped Up Wok: Best Carbon Steel Wok
The classic and gorgeous lid that comes with this wok immediately caught my eye, plus a spatula made of stainless steel which also comes as a freebie. Who wouldn’t want this beautiful wok in their kitchen?
- PRE-SEASONED FOR IMMEDIATE USE - Sizzling stir frys, crispy deep frys, pan-searing to perfection.... while also able to make...
- HANDLES HIGH HEAT AND SCRATCHES - Carbon steel wok has no tefflon coating and can sustain super high temperature without...
- VIDEO AND WRITTEN INSTRUCTIONS - Had problems with other carbon steel woks getting rusty? We have very simple care...
Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- This wok is designed with a flat bottom that perfectly works with all stove types, including induction.
- The wok is made of carbon steel, so you don’t need to worry about the weight of the pan while carrying it around in the kitchen. This material is also responsible for the efficient heating of the wok.
- “Souped Up Recipes” is in fact a popular YouTube star, and this product includes a video guide plus a lot of recipes that are referred to as “takeout”, which guarantees to give you a feel of that classic Chinese takeout that you always order, only this time, you’re preparing it at home!
Cons
- Follow the seasoning instructions to avoid compromising the quality of the cooking surface.
- This wok is also oven-ready, but be sure to leave off the handle before placing it in the oven.
Joyce Chen’s Carbon Steel Wok: Best For Families
This is a 14-inch carbon steel wok with a very handsome steel dome lid is perfect for family cooking. You will also receive a free bamboo spatula and a recipe booklet to get you start. So go ahead and whip up those stir-fry, noodle, or tofu dishes for the whole family to enjoy!
- Turn up the heat—designed to withstand high-temperature cooking
- Season before use, and season regularly for optimum use
- Lighweight 1.5mm carbon steel gauge is stronger, lighter, and thinner than most traditional compositions
Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- This wok has assist handles made of birchwood, which stays cool to keep you safe all throughout your cooking session. Move about the kitchen with ease without fear of getting your hands burnt.
- The knob of the big, nonstick dome remains cool to the touch, and is big enough to seal in heat while you cook.
- This curved wok collects the heat at the bottom of the pan, which means you can use less oil compared to flatter woks. Heat the oil up and start tossing your ingredients using a spatula (or two!)
Cons
- This wok requires seasoning before its first use. Seasoning might be a bit tricky but make sure to follow the instructions included to maintain the integrity of the pan.
Helen Chen’s Asian Kitchen Flat-Bottomed Wok: Best Flat-Bottomed Wok
Prepare your own stir-fry, dumplings, fried rice, and even cross over a bit by making a delicious bowl of Pad Thai. Helen Chen’s flat-bottomed wok is made of tough carbon steel that is lightweight but durable. Get a feel of the traditional wok while enjoying cooking efficiency and cookware durability.
- Helen’s Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok for stir frying, stewing, sauteing, steaming, braising, frying, and deep frying...
- Made from 1.6-millimeter carbon steel with heat-resistant bamboo handle, helper handle, and high-domed lid; sturdy riveted...
- Carbon steel distributes heat quickly so foods cook evenly; cooking surface collects a natural patina over time for non-stick...
Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- Imagination is your only limit with the dishes that you will prepare using this wok. The non-stick surface and the even heat distribution offers a perfect cooking experience each time.
- This wok has a bamboo handle that stays cool to the touch.
- The lid has a high dome that will lock in moisture and heat for that proper cook on your favorite dishes, and also prevents splatters from ruining your countertop.
- This wok comes with a lifetime warranty.
Cons
- You need to strictly follow the seasoning and cleaning instructions to avoid compromising the quality finish of this wok.
- You will not be able to see through the lid as you cook, so this could be another point to consider when buying this wok set.
Ozeri Green Earth Wok: Best Ceramic-Coated
As I have previously shared with you in some of my posts, I purchase with my eyes first. This wok is so aesthetically-pleasing that I just had to have one in my kitchen. Just take a look at and admire the lime green colored coating, and you’ll know what I am talking about!
- Utilizes an ultra-safe ceramic coating inspired by nature which is 100% free of PTFE, PFAS and GenX fluorinated chemicals...
- Delivers unprecedented non-stick performance without releasing harmful fumes or toxins at high temperatures.
- Features a scratch-resistant 100 percent ceramic coating that is super easy to clean.
Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- The ceramic Ozeri Earth wok is free from harmful chemicals that are present in some cookware, such as PTFEs and PFOAs.
- The ceramic-coated surface is scratch-proof, quick to clean, and is damage-resistant even when used at high temperatures.
- The trademark “Bakelight” handle stays cool while cooking.
- This wok will also perfectly work on your induction cooktop.
Cons
- Allow the wok to cool at room temperature before cleaning or washing it.
- Follow the seasoning and cleaning instructions to maintain the surface quality of the wok.
Sky Light Wok Pan: Best Oven Safe Wok
The sleek, black finish of this induction wok will also catch your attention. The overall make of the pan allows for even distribution of heat and is totally rust-proof, and when maintenance instructions are followed, it is a wok that can last you many years.
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Pros
- This wok can also be used in the oven, and can be directly heated up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. Just remember to detach the wooden handle before doing so.
- Speaking of handle, it is ergonomically-designed for easy lifting and moving of the wok, while the ring at the end of the handle will help you hang it up easily when drying or storing the cookware.
- It has a wide, 6.5-inch flat bottom, that will securely fit on any cooktop including induction.
- This cookware’s finish is resistant to corrosion, rust, and other damages that are results of high cooking temperatures or wrong maintenance.
Cons
- In terms of seasoning this particular wok and brand, better research the standard way of seasoning carbon steel pans, such a helpful videos on YouTube. I wouldn’t recommend following the instructions in the manual.
Cooks Standard Stainless Steel Multi-Ply Clad Wok: Best Stainless Steel Wok
Who wants a really good-looking, shiny wok set? I do! Cooks Standard’s wok is made of high-quality and durable stainless steel, which has an aluminum layer at its core for faster and more even heating throughout the pan.
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Pros
- The multi-layer construction of this wok heats not just the bottom of the pan but distributes it all throughout the pan’s body.
- The bottom of the pan is also scratch-proof, and will perfectly work with your induction cooktop.
- The handle has a patented “Air-Flow” technology that keeps it cool to the touch. For safety reasons, it is still best to use mitts or pot holders.
- Because it is stainless steel, it is perfectly safe to place it in the dishwasher.
Cons
- Keep in mind that this wok is made of stainless steel and does not need to be seasoned like others made of cast iron, for example.
- The wok is a bit heavy, which could be an issue for those looking for a wok with lighter weight.
Cooklover’s Chinese Wok: Best Die-Cast Aluminum Wok
I absolutely had to have this wok as part of my kitchen, too. But one can only dream. However, I would recommend this wok not only for its lovely finish, but also for its scratch-proof die-cast aluminum body.
- ✅ NON-STICK MARBLE COATING - interior & exterior is coated by high performance non-stick ceramic marble coating makes the...
- ✅ STURDY REINFORCED DIE-CASTING ALUMINUM BODY - ensures fast, even heat distribution,4mm thicken bottom provides a stable...
- ✅ ERGONOMIC BAKELITE KNOB AND HANDLE - COOKLOVER's wok builds with heat resistant soft touch silicone Bakelite knob and...
Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- Its beautiful marble coating is non-stick, which make cleanup a breeze.
- The die-cast body of this wok allows an even distribution of heat during cooking. It also takes less time for the wok to heat up, saving you more energy and precious time. You won’t be saying hello to hotspots with this one, either.
- The glass lid provides a window to your cooking, so you can see how far along you are in preparing the best meals.
- This wok is also a great cookware to use on your induction cooktop.
Cons
- This wok is not suitable for use in the oven.
- The handle and knob have a wooden design but please take not that it is not made of wood.
Te Chef’s Art Pan: Beauty And Efficiency In One
Can manufacturers just stop making lovely pans such as this one? If I could only purchase everything! The finish of Te Chef’s pan is just so pretty to look at. And when it comes to performance? This won’t disappoint, either! Check out the features of this cookware below:
- Built for Performance - Extra-heavy gauge and forged aluminum construction distributes heat evenly and prevents hot spots
- Multipurpose Cookware - It's perfect for tossing food, stir-frying, boiling water, deep-frying, steaming, smoking, roasting,...
- High-performance nonstick - Durable 5-layer coatings with new, proprietary, and patented scratch resistance technology and...
Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- The durable and efficient aluminum make of this wok is forged without cadmium, lead, PTFEs, and PFOAs.
- The lovely finish on this pan automatically makes it an added accent to your kitchen.
- The patterns on the pan also serve as oil quantity indicators to make sure you use the right amount each time.
- It comes with a clear lid that traps in moisture and flavor, while letting you occasionally check the meal that you’re preparing.
- It is both over and dishwasher safe.
Cons
- Carefully follow the maintenance and cleaning instructions, which is quite the challenge for a lot of (if not all!) non-stick cookware.
Uno Casa Cast Iron Wok Pan: Best Compact Wok
This wok by Uno Casa will take up less space in your kitchen, it has a smaller diameter than other woks, but provides the same cooking capacity. But like other cast iron cookware, this wok heats evenly, and will only improve with each use provided that you care for it properly.
- COMPACT & LIGHT - You won’t break your back carrying around this well-designed preseasoned wok. With the same volume as...
- STABLE, FLAT BASE - The wide base on this flat-bottom traditional cast iron wok keeps it sturdy & safe on all cooking...
- DOUBLE-SIDED HANDLES - Enjoy a deep cast iron pan that’s easy to hold, move, & cook in. With two sturdy handles to twist &...
Last update on 2024-10-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pros
- The flat bottom of this wok makes it stable and sturdy, and is safe to use on all cooktops including induction.
- The surfaceof this wok has been pre-treated and would not require another round of seasoning.
- It has a silicone lid that locks in the moisture and heat of the food that you are cooking, which means that flavors are getting locked in, too!
Cons
- This wok is bit on the heavy side, in case you’re looking for lightweight cookware you might want to consider woks made from other materials.
- Follow cleaning instructions to avoid rusting and discoloration.
How did you find my recommendations? Did any of those amazing woks pique your interest?
As soon as you make that purchase, why not check out some of my recipes and put that wok to the test. I would love for you to try my quick and easy Shrimp Fried Rice recipe!
FAQs
What Is The Best Wok For Induction Cooking?
I highly recommend Lodge’s Wok with Flat Base because it is so durable, and so efficient when heating up and cooking your food evenly. The heavy duty cast iron material also gives you an authentic feel of Chinese cooking as traditional woks do.
Do Woks Work On Induction?
Woks that are compatible with induction cooktops work really well. They allow for heat to be quickly generated and evenly distributed all throughout the wok. This ensures that you do not miss out on the results of traditional wok cooking (with big flames and all), even when using an induction cooktop.
Which Wok Is Best For Chinese Cooking?
In this case, it is really choosing which wok you would be comfortable with. There are tons of amazing and easy-to-follow Chinese recipes out there. However, if you are equipped with the wrong tools, then a lot of things could go wrong. Take note of the considerations that I have listed above when choosing the best wok for your induction cooktop.
Our Tried And Tested Hacks For Your Induction Wok
- SEASONING YOUR WOK
- Clean your wok the first time that you take it out of the box. Manufacturers usually pre-season the woks to prevent any excess humidity during transport and shipment, which then turns to rusting. Wash the wok with hot, soapy water, while gently scrubbing all parts with a scouring pad (not abrasive ones!). Rinse and dry thoroughly.
- To make sure the wok is completely dry, you can place it on the stove and heat until all moisture is gone. Allow to cool.
- Now that the pan is bare without the initial seasoning, use grape seed oil (highly recommended) to coat the cooking surface of your wok. Place back on your cooktop until the oil has completely dissipated.
- Repeat this process of oil coating until your wok has a matte and dark finish. Rinse thoroughly under hot water.
- Place on the stove once again to remove all excess water.
- Note that you might need to repeat this seasoning process.
- DO NOT allow for water (such as in the sink) to sit in your wok for too long.
- Always check if your wok is dishwasher safe or not. I always like to err in the side of caution, and I wash my cast iron cookware by hand.
What Is The Best Rated Wok?
It is difficult to single out the best wok as the different models cater to different cooking requirements. The best 3 for me are those of Lodge, Souped Up, and Joyce Chen.
Wrap Up
Are you now ready to prepare your own Chinese-inspired meals at home? The best induction woks have the versatility and durability to help you out in the kitchen, and this of course means not limiting your options to Chinese cuisine when using the wok to cook your meals.
The next time you bite into that tender-crisp piece of vegetable which you successfully stir-fried in your wok, I hope you think of how much more there is to explore about different cuisines, all you need are the right tools!
