In recent years, many stoves have been changed from gas to electric. But now the question has been raised again- can you use a wok on an electric stove? It might seem a silly question because you can stir fry with a wok on any stove, right?
However, it is not wrong to ask this question because there are many types of electric stoves. Some can be used for cooking, and some cannot.
But as you are here, you will be assured today and can buy a good wok because we have good news for you. Guessed it already? Yes, woks are allowed to use an electric stove. To know in detail, hop into the content right away.
Can you use a wok on a glass top electric stove?
Well, as we have already said, you can use a wok on an electric stove. Another related question arises: What is the best wok for an electric stove? Are we guessing right?
WHAT KIND OF WOK IS PERFECT FOR ELECTRIC STOVES?
Well, flat-bottomed woks are highly recommended for electric stoves. Because they don’t require any wok rings. As a result, they heat quickly on a glass top stove. But for round bottom woks, a wok ring is required for perfect sitting. But remember, because of the wok ring over an electric stove, they will take more time to be heated than flat-bottomed one.
Well, as far as the question of material goes woks, carbon, stainless steel and cast irons are the best options. The durability of carbon steel is more than stainless steel. But carbon steel has the possibility of being damaged by rust. Well, carbon steels are also lighter and can conduct heat easily. On The other hand, cast iron is heavy and more capable of transferring heat properly than the other two types.
WHAT KIND OF STOVE YOU SHOULD USE?
Do you have a flat bottomed wok? Then an electric coil stove is suggested. But if it is round-bottomed, then a glass-ceramic stove is recommended.
Heat damage isn’t an issue, and you don’t have to worry. Because manufacturers made quality glass tops that can handle extreme heat, be careful not to drop wok over the glass top. Otherwise, it could break. Again, ensure proper cleaning of the flat bottomed wok, if you are using it so often. But remember not to transfer wok too much, it will cause scratches.
But if you are passionate about cooking and wok is your life, then go for gas stoves. They can provide better heat, cook quickly, and are also powerful. However, electric stoves can also be a stable option.
THE TIME OF COOKING WITH A WOK ON AN ELECTRIC STOVE-
Well, you must follow the below-mentioned steps, to get a better result-
Set up at least two burners
As we know, electric stoves take time to heat up and cool down. So for better results, set two burners at a time. You can set one burner at low temperature and the other at high temperature. As a result, it will be easy to change the temperature when it is needed. But remember, if you don’t set two burners, food will burn.
Preheat your wok
If you compare an electric stove with a gas stove, electric stoves require more time to heat up. So it is necessary to preheat the wok for at least 10 minutes before cooking.
Apply oil after preheating
After preheating, apply oil to the wok and move the wok in such a manner that the entire wok is coated with oil. When you get to see ripples in oil, wok is ready to fry.
Move your food constantly on the wok
Well, food is cooked faster in flat-bottomed woks than round-bottomed ones. So, when the base becomes hot, it is enough to burn your food. So while stirring or frying, don’t leave the site of food.
High heat is your friend
Well, cooking with a wok, then high heat is your friend. Don’t be afraid to crank up the stove’s heat. But be careful to heat it to the max. For some electric stove models, high heat is necessary. Though every model is different, make sure you have a high-quality hood over.
Don’t wrap your wok
Woks of any material can wrap when they are heated up or cooled down. So be careful about it and avoid wrapping. Even the wok can wrap if you put it under cold water immediately after finishing cooking and so it is better to cool it down on the stove before cleaning with the dishwasher.
Avoid putting too many foods on the wok
Woks are designed to hold too much food at a time. But if you crowd your wok, then half of the food will be burned, and half of the food will be steamed. This scenario is not expected, right? So, avoid putting in too much food.
Done frying? Move your wok immediately
While stir-frying, look carefully at the food. The time you start getting the desired charm, move the wok immediately from heat. Otherwise, your food will come out burning.
Follow these steps carefully and get the expected results from using wok on an electric stove.
FAQs
WHAT KIND OF WOK IS BEST FOR AN ELECTRIC STOVE?
Woks of carbon steel, stainless steel, and cast iron are best for electric stoves. Carbon steel is light in weight and good heat conductive. Stainless steel is also a nice option. But cast iron is heavier and conducts heat incredibly well.
IS IT WORTH USING A WOK ON AN ELECTRIC STOVE?
Though with woks, a gas stove is the best option. But an electric stove is also a viable option for stir-frying with woks.
CAN YOU USE A WOK RING ON A GLASS TOP STOVE?
Yes, you can use a wok ring on a glass top stove only for some specific woks. If your wok is flat-bottomed, then a wok ring isn’t required. But with other woks, wok ring is needed. Remember, it will take more time to heat if wok rings are used.
WHAT KIND OF STOVE DO YOU NEED FOR A WOK?
Gas stoves are the best options for wok cooking. Because high heat is required for stir-frying, but electric stoves can’t generate enough heat. And the round bottom of the wok can’t get enough heat to cook quickly.
Final Words
Got the answer of Can you use a wok on an electric stove? We think you are. So feel free to use a wok on an electric stove. Follow all of the cooking steps properly, and you will find the food will be awesome to taste.
That’s all for today. Best of luck with wonderful cooking!