Wok size

Types of wok sizes

A wok size is a measure of the diameter of the cooking pan. It is often accompanied by other measurements, such as the depth of the pan and the diameter of the wok handle. There are multiple wok sizes, each with unique features and benefits.

• Small woks

  Small woks are approximately 24cm (9.5 inches) wide. They are designed for small families or kitchens with limited space. Their size allows for quick heating and cooking, making them ideal for stir-fries, deep fries, and steaming small batches of food. The small diameter makes it easy to store them in small cabinets or drawers.

• Medium woks

  Medium woks are around 28cm (11 inches) wide. They are suitable for medium-sized families or those who occasionally cook for guests. They offer more cooking surface than small woks but are still compact enough to fit in most kitchens. The additional space makes them ideal for stir-fries, stews, and curries.

• Large woks

  Large woks are 32cm (12.5 inches) wide or larger, making them suitable for large families or those who frequently entertain guests. Large cooking pans provide ample cooking surface, making them perfect for stir-fries, deep frying, steaming, or making big batches of food. They take up more storage space because of their larger sizes.

• Flat bottom

  Flat-bottomed woks are designed to sit evenly on flat surfaces such as electric cooktops or glass-top stoves. This shape ensures maximum contact between the cooking surface and the heat source, resulting in even heating and cooking. They are ideal for use on Western-style stoves and are compatible with all types of heat sources, including gas, electric, and induction.

• Round bottom

  Round-bottomed woks are traditionally used over open flames in Asian kitchens. The curved shape allows for swift movement of food from the center to the rim, creating a hot and cool cooking zone. They are best suited for gas stoves, which provide high heat output. They are not compatible with flat electric cooktops or glass-top stoves because they cannot make full contact with the cooking surface.

• High sided

  High-sided woks have a deeper pan than usual, which makes them suitable for cooking larger quantities of food or dishes that require more liquid, such as soups or stews. The high sides help contain all the ingredients within the pan while keeping everything else neat and tidy. They can be used for various cooking methods, including stir-frying, steaming, braising, and boiling.

• Low sided

  Low-sided woks are the exact opposite of their high-sided counterparts. They have shallower pans, making them more suitable for lighter dishes like salads or appetizers. The low sides allow easy tossing and turning of ingredients without spilling them over the edge of the pan. They are often used for quick cooking methods that require minimal liquid, such as sautéing or roasting.

Design of wok sizes

• Shape

  The shape of the wok is a spherical curve. The wok bottom shape is flat in recent modern times to adapt to the present-day cooking ranges. The sides of the wok curve downwards and are more inclined than the previous versions. The spherical shape permits even heat distribution across the cooking surface and up the sides. The curved sides enable cooking techniques such as stir-frying, steaming, and deep frying.

• Materials

  Woks are made from various materials to meet different cooking needs. The most popular material is cast iron. It retains heat well and is suitable for all cooking surfaces, including induction. Another common material is stainless steel. It is durable, non-reactive, and resists staining and corrosion. Copper woks provide excellent heat conductivity, while carbon steel woks are lightweight and offer quick heating. The material chosen depends on factors like heat source, cooking style, and budget.

• Handle

  Woks typically have one main handle for lifting and moving the cookware. This handle is usually made from heatproof materials like wood, plastic, or silicone. It is secured to the wok body with metal rivets or clamps. The main handle is long and sturdy, enabling easy handling of the wok, even when full. Some woks also have detachable handle systems, allowing for more convenient storage and use.

• Other features

  Some woks have additional features to increase their cooking versatility. Lids are crucial for steaming and braising, as they trap moisture and flavor inside the wok. A removable lid allows for easy access to the food being prepared. Some woks also have side handles or helper handles, making it easier to lift or move the wok when it is full or heavy.

Scenarios of wok sizes

Woks are versatile cooking tools that work well in various culinary scenarios. They are great for stir-frying, deep-frying, steaming, and more.

• Stir-frying

  A wok is designed for stir-frying. Its curved bottom and spacious surface allow cooking a meal quickly over high heat. Consider choosing a bigger wok size if most of the cooking involves stir-frying.

• Batch Cooking

  For those who meal prep or cook in batches, a larger-sized wok will accommodate more ingredients, making stir-frying efficient.

• Steaming

  With a tight-fitting lid, a wok can steam foods like vegetables or dumplings. Using a larger wok size to hold more water and produce steam may be better.

• Deep-frying

  While a skillet may be the go-to pan for deep-frying, a wok can also do the job well. Its high sides make it suitable for frying. Using a larger wok size will be suitable as it will have enough space to hold oil and fry food.

• Small Kitchen

  In a small kitchen where space is limited, a smaller wok size may be ideal. A smaller wok can still perform multifunctions without occupying much kitchen space.

• Cooking for Many People

  When cooking for many people, a big wok size will be suitable as it will accommodate more food. Otherwise, a few batches will be needed, which may waste time and change the food quality.

• Gluten-Free Cooking

  For those on a gluten-free diet, a medium-sized wok will be perfect for preparing gluten-free stir-fry dishes.

How to choose wok sizes

Choosing the right wok involves considering various factors. It is essential to ensure that the cooking tool fits one's cooking style and needs. Here are some factors to consider. They will help one choose the right wok size and type.

• Cooking style and cuisine

  One should consider what dishes are often cooked. Do users stir-fry a lot? If so, a larger one would be better. But if they make more soups or curries, a medium-sized wok would be more suitable.

• Amount of food

  Consider how much food is usually cooked at once. A larger capacity wok can handle big volumes. But it may not be necessary for smaller meals. It is also important to note that a larger wok could be less precise when cooking small amounts.

• Storage space

  A wok needs to be stored when not in use. Therefore, consider how much space is available for storage. If space is limited, a collapsible or thinner model might be better.

• Heat source

  The wok's material affects how well it works on different heat sources. For example, flat-bottomed woks work well on induction cooktops, while rounded ones are better suited for gas burners.

• Material and construction

  Woks are traditionally made from cast iron or carbon steel. But now, aluminum, stainless steel, and non-stick versions are available. Each material has unique advantages, such as non-reactivity or being lightweight.

• Handle and lid

  The handles of some woks have a lid. The lid helps retain moisture during cooking. In contrast, the handles provide a secure grip for stir-frying. Some models have foldable handles, making them easy to store.

Q&A

Q1: What are the popular wok sizes?

A1: Woks are available in different sizes, ranging from 8 inches to 36 inches in diameter. The small 8-inch wok is suitable for one-person meals, while the 36-inch wok is ideal for cooking large quantities for many people.

Q2: What size wok is best for stir-frying?

A2: A 14-16 inch wok size is considered ideal for stir-frying because it offers enough space to accommodate food for 2-4 people and provides a comfortable cooking surface for stir-frying.

Q3: What size wok should be used on an 11-inch burner?

A3: It is recommended to use a 14-inch wok size on an 11-inch burner. The size will fit perfectly on the burner, ensuring even heat distribution.

Q4: What are the benefits of a large wok?

A4: A large wok can be used for various cooking methods, including stir-frying, steaming, deep-frying, and boiling. It offers versatility and flexibility in the kitchen.

Q5: What wok size is best for a flat electric stove?

A5: A 14-inch wok size is suitable for a flat electric stove. The size will provide a good fit on the flat surface of the stove.