Best Carbon Steel Woks in 2024

For many chefs, a carbon steel wok is the perfect cooking pan. They are a non-stick surface and conduct heat quickly and evenly. This makes it ideal for high-heat cooking techniques such as stir-frying and deep-frying.

Furthermore, the non-stick surface of a carbon steel wok allows for quick and easy food release, so your dishes won’t stick.

Pre-seasoned carbon steel woks have already been seasoned with oil, making them ready to use right out of the box. This eliminates the need to season the wok before use, which can be a lengthy and tedious process.

Many pre-seasoned carbon steel woks come with a lid, allowing you to control the amount of steam and heat inside the wok while cooking. This is especially beneficial when you are trying to achieve a certain texture or crispness in your dishes.

Best Choice: Craft Wok Traditional Hand Hammered Carbon Steel Pow Wok

Image & Product: Amazon

Benefits of Using a Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok

A Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok is a great kitchen tool offering a variety of benefits. It is a great option for chefs looking for a durable and versatile cooking experience.

Quick Heat-Up Time: Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Woks have a great ability to heat up quickly. This is due to the thick and heavy-duty construction of the wok which helps to evenly distribute heat.

Non-stick Surface: They provide a non-stick cooking surface, allowing for less oil to be used. This makes it great for those looking for healthier cooking options.

Durable: The Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok is known for its durability. This is due to the heavy-duty construction, making it ideal for those looking for a wok that will last for years.

Easy Clean-up: They are also easy to clean. This is due to the non-stick surface of the wok, which makes it easier to wipe down after use.

Top 10 Best Carbon Steel Wok Review

Our picks are the best of the best when it comes to carbon steel woks. Featuring top-notch quality, high ratings, and great customer reviews, these woks are sure to satisfy any cooking enthusiast. Take the time to read the reviews and pick the perfect one for you!

1. YOSUKATA Carbon Steel Wok Pan – 13,5 “ Woks and Stir Fry Pans

VEW IT

Bring the authentic flavors of Chinese and other Asian cuisines to your kitchen with the Yosukata Carbon Steel Wok Pan. The 13.5-inch wok is pre-seasoned with special techniques at high temperatures over 600F and made of heavy-duty black carbon steel.

The unique ergonomic design of the wooden handle ensures a comfortable grip when using this pow wok.

Not only does it allow you to stir-fry, but you can also cook healthy meals using traditional techniques such as pan-frying, braising, and deep-frying. What’s more, it is lightweight and easy to store, making it an ideal choice for your kitchen.

• Authentic Chinese/Asian flavors
• Pre-seasoned carbon steel
• Heavy-duty black carbon steel
• Versatile cooking techniques
• Ergonomic wooden handle
• Easy to handle & store
• High-temperature pre-seasoning

2. Carbon Steel Wok Pot with Lid, Nonstick Stir Frying Pan with Flat Bottom for Braising and Deep Frying

From flavorful stir-fries to delectable deep-fries, you can now enjoy the best of both worlds with This Carbon Steel Wok Pot with Lid. This nonstick stir-frying pan is made with premium Japanese carbon steel and is designed to provide you with effortless, hassle-free cooking.

With a special ‘iron nitride + iron oxide’ surface, it is both non-stick and scratch-resistant, making it perfect for your everyday cooking needs.

This flat-bottom wok is suitable for all cooking surfaces and is lightweight at only 1.7kg, making it perfect for a family of 2-3. It is durable and safe, it’s also easy to clean. It even comes with a glass lid that helps lock in the heat and moisture for hot and flavorful food.

Plus, you can rest assured knowing that you’re covered by this 24h customer support, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need help!

Discover the ultimate cooking experience with this Carbon Steel Wok Pot with Lid. Enjoy the best of both worlds with its effortless cooking, nonstick surface, and lightweight design that makes it perfect for everyday use.

• Premium quality Japanese carbon steel
• Suitable for electric, induction, and gas stoves
• Non-stick and scratch-resistant surface
• Lightweight and durable
• Micro-spiral design prevents stickiness
• Glass lid locks in heat and moisture
• 24h customer support

3. YOSUKATA Carbon Steel Wok Pan – 14 “ Woks and Stir Fry Pans – Chinese Wok with Round Bottom Wok

This 14-inch pre-seasoned work is specially designed to lock in the juicy flavors and aromas of your ingredients.

Made from heavy-duty black carbon steel, the ergonomic wooden handle ensures a comfortable grip for easy handling. In addition to stir-frying, you can use this traditional Chinese wok for pan-frying, braising, deep-frying, and more.

Enjoy the convenience of easy carrying and storage with the Yosukata Carbon Steel Wok Pan.

• Authentic Asian flavors
• Pre-seasoned Carbon Steel
• Heavy-duty black steel
• Versatile cooking techniques
• Ergonomic wooden handle
• Easy handling and storage
• Perfect for stir-frying

4. Letschef Preseasoned Carbon Steel Wok 14 Inches Hand Hammered Chinese Traditional Wok and Stir Fry Pan

This 14-inch wok is made with pre-seasoned carbon steel and has a round bottom that locks in the juice and flavor of your ingredients. Its ergonomic bamboo handle ensures a comfortable grip while avoiding burns.

This wok is perfect for a variety of cooking, from the kitchen to outdoor cooking or BBQ. Plus, it is lightweight, allowing you to easily toss, flip, and stir-fry.

To ensure your wok is well-maintained, simply wash it by hand with warm water and a soft brush and then dry it with paper towels and lubricate with neutral cooking oil.

Take your cooking to the next level with the Letschef Preseasoned Carbon Steel Wok!

• Pre-seasoned, no-rust carbon steel
• 14″ round bottom design locks in juice & flavor
• Versatile for kitchen, camping, or BBQ
• 1.2mm carbon steel construction, 3.3lbs
• Hand-wash with warm water & soft brush
• Lubricate with neutral cooking oil & wipe off
• Metal utensils safe for cooking

5. OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel, 12″ Wok Pan with Removable Silicone Handle Holder

This pan has been precision engineered for powerful performance from stovetop to grill and comes pre-seasoned, so you can just wash and start cooking—no seasoning required. With its lightweight body, the pan heats quickly and is built to last.

Additionally, it’s oven safe up to 660˚F/350˚C and includes a removable silicone sleeve for comfortable handling. What’s more, the pan develops a non-stick patina over time and is metal utensil safe.

Best of all, it’s suitable for all stovetops, including induction. Unleash your culinary creativity with the OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel 12″ Wok Pan!

• Pre-seasoned steel
• Develops non-stick patina
• Lightweight & powerful
• Oven safe up to 660˚F/350˚C
• Removable silicone handle
• Metal utensil safe
• Induction compatible

6. ChefSeason Carbon Steel Wok, Round Bottom Wok Pan 12.6“, Large woks & stir-fry pans

This pre-seasoned, nonstick Chinese wok is crafted from heavy-gauge premium professional-grade carbon steel, making it strong, lightweight, and corrosion-resistant.

The large round bottom and exquisitely designed wall curves create an energy-efficient cooking pan that heats up quickly and evenly, locking in juices and flavors for perfect results in every meal.

The detachable wooden handle provides a firm, comfortable grip and stays cool for safety, making it perfect for all kinds of cooking.

With its hassle-free maintenance, free shopping bag, and lifetime warranty, the ChefSeason Carbon Steel Wok is an essential kitchen tool for home cooks.

• Non-stick & rust-resistant
• Superior quality
• Energy efficient
• Adaptive & versatile
• Hassle-free maintenance
• Large wok bottom design
• Includes free tote bag & lifetime warranty

7. BK Black Steel Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok, 12″

Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, the BK Black Steel Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok is the perfect kitchen essential. This lightweight pan offers superior heat conductivity to deliver excellent searing results, while its pre-seasoned surface develops a nonstick patina layer with repeated use.

The Black Steel is three times denser than aluminum and is corrosion and stain resistant for added durability. Oven safe up to 600°F, this wok can also be used on an open flame or grill.

With a riveted cast iron handle and compatibility with all stovetops, including induction, the BK Black Steel Wok is the ideal choice for all your cooking needs. Plus, it ships with a thin silicone wax coating that’s easy to remove and ready to use right out of the box.

• Pre-seasoned carbon steel
• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Corrosion/stain-resistant
• Oven/grill/open flame use
• Metal utensil safe
• Riveted cast iron handle
• For all stovetops including induction

8. Todlabe Nonstick Wok, 13-Inch Carbon Steel Wok Pan with Lid Woks & Stir-Fry Pans

This 13-inch Carbon Steel Wok Pan with Lid provides a superior cooking surface with no chemical coating. The pre-seasoned wok provides excellent wear resistance and is perfect for stir-frying, pan-frying, braising, and deep-frying.

With its greater curve and higher walls, heat is better distributed up the walls and the high curvature allows for a broader base for maximum area of heat transfer. Plus, the ergonomic wooden handle ensures a comfortable grip and protection against burns.

This wok set also includes a stainless steel spatula and a vertical lid for easy gripping.

• Pre-seasoned & nonstick carbon steel
• Genuine taste, high curvature
• Flat bottom, suits all stoves
• Comfortable wooden handle & lid
• Vertical lid for easy grip
• Includes stainless steel spatula
• Lifetime quality guarantee

9. Babish Carbon Steel Flat Bottom Wok and Stir Fry Pan, 14-Inch

For the home chef, the Babish Carbon Steel Flat Bottom Wok and Stir Fry Pan is an essential piece of cookware. With its heavy-gauge carbon steel construction, this wok distributes heat quickly and evenly, making it perfect for frying and stir-frying.

Its riveted wooden handles stay cool to the touch and provide extra strength, while its natural nonstick capability allows for easy food release and cleanup. This wok is safe to use on gas, electric, ceramic, glass, and induction stoves, and can even be used on the grill.

Thanks to its easy care instructions, the Babish Carbon Steel Flat Bottom Wok and Stir Fry Pan is a must for any home kitchen.

• Heavy-gauge carbon steel
• Riveted wooden handles
• Absorbs oil for nonstick
• Safe on grills, stoves & induction
• Handwash only
• Season for OVEN/STOVE
• Check Babish Brand Store

10. Eleulife Carbon Steel Wok, 13 Inch Wok Pan with Lid and Spatula, Nonstick Woks and Stir-fry Pans

Perfectly sized for the whole family or small gatherings, the 13 inches wide and 3.9 inches deep wok is designed to lock in the juices and flavors of the foods. Crafted from premium black carbon steel material, it heats up faster and dissipates heat more evenly for optimal cooking performance.

The non-stick, non-rust, and scratch-resistant surface of the nonstick wok helps you cook healthier meals with less oil. It also ensures that there is no chemical coating, making your cooking healthier and more secure.

The wok also features a solid wood anti-scalding handle and a flat bottom design to make sure that it sits securely on any stovetop.

Best of all, the wok set comes with a pre-seasoned carbon steel wok, a carbon steel lid, and a stainless steel spatula with lifetime quality assurance.

• 13” wok & lid for 3-6 people
• High-quality black carbon steel
• Non-stick & no chemical coating
• Solid wood handle for safe grip
• Flat bottom for secure stovetop use
• Pre-seasoned for ease of use
• Lifetime quality assurance

top 3 Carbon Steel Woks comparison

This table compares the key features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of three popular pre-seasoned carbon steel woks. Each offers unique benefits such as pre-seasoning for ease of use, compatibility with various heat sources, and special features like non-stick surfaces or inclusion of accessories. The choice between them would depend on specific cooking needs, preferred cooking methods, and the desired capacity for serving sizes.

Some More Specific Carbon Steel Woks for Elevate Your Cooking

Best 14 Inch Carbon Steel Wok

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line carbon steel wok, Craft Wok Traditional Hand Hammered Carbon Steel Pow Wok is an excellent choice. This 14-inch wok is made with a 15 gauge (1.8mm) heavy carbon steel material, is hand-hammered by Chinese professionals in Guangzhou, and features a round bottom for traditional Chinese cooking.

It features a steel helper handle for high-heat stirring and a wooden handle for a tight grip. Not only is it durable and easy to use, but it also comes with easy-to-follow seasoning instructions.

Best Carbon Steel Wok Flat Bottom

For a flat-bottomed wok that is perfect for home use, the Eleulife Carbon Steel Wok is an excellent choice. This 13-inch wok is made with high-quality black carbon steel material, is pre-seasoned with hydraulic technology, and has a non-stick and no-chemical-coating surface.

It also has an ergonomic wooden handle for a comfortable grip, a flat bottom that sits securely on any stovetop, and a lightweight design. It comes with a lid, a stainless steel spatula, and lifetime quality assurance.

Best Round Bottom Carbon Steel Wok

YOSUKATA Carbon Steel Wok Pan is the perfect choice for an authentic round-bottomed carbon steel wok. This 14-inch wok is made with heavy-duty black carbon steel and is pre-seasoned at high temperatures.

It has a non-stick, non-rust, and scratch-resistant surface, a comfortable wooden handle, and a lightweight design. It also comes with a lid and a stainless steel spatula, making it a great choice for cooking healthy meals with less oil and locking in the flavor of ingredients.

Best Wok Pan With Lid 13 Inch Nonstick

The Eleulife Wok Pan with Lid is the ideal choice for a 13-inch nonstick wok. This work is made with high-quality black carbon steel material, is pre-seasoned with hydraulic technology, and has a non-stick and no-chemical-coating surface.

It features an ergonomic wooden handle for a comfortable grip, a flat bottom for secure sitting on any stovetop, and a lightweight design. It also comes with a lid, a stainless steel spatula, and lifetime quality assurance.

Best Carbon Steel Wok with Lid

Todlabe Nonstick Wok is the perfect choice for a carbon steel wok with a lid. This 13-inch wok is made with heavy-duty black carbon steel and is pre-seasoned at high temperatures.

It has a non-stick, non-rust, and scratch-resistant surface, an ergonomic wooden handle, and a vertical lid for a comfortable grip. It also comes with a stainless steel spatula and is lightweight and versatile, making it great for various cooking tasks.

How to Choose the Best Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok?

Selecting a pre-seasoned carbon steel wok can be a daunting task, given the immense variety available. Here are a few guidelines to help you choose the right one:

Size: A larger wok is ideal for home cooking as it can accommodate a bigger quantity of food. However, if you do not have the space to store a large wok, opt for a smaller one.

Weight: Carbon steel woks are usually heavier than other pans. If you plan to move it around frequently, opt for a lighter wok.

Handle: Carbon steel woks come with either a long handle or two looped handles. The former is ideal for cooking on a stovetop as it allows for better control. The latter is ideal for oven cooking.

Seasoning: Pre-seasoned woks are easier to maintain. Look for one that has been seasoned with vegetable oil or sunflower oil, as these are healthier alternatives.

Rivets: Ensure that the rivets are well-secured and do not come away from the pan while cooking.

Price: The price of a pre-seasoned carbon steel wok varies according to its size and quality. Choose one that fits your budget and meets your cooking needs.

Read More: Do You Need a Range Hood for an Induction Cooktop?

Seasoning Carbon Steel Wok in Oven

For those who enjoy cooking with a wok, seasoning a carbon steel wok prior to use is essential. Seasoning a wok helps to protect it from rust, and also adds flavor to the food cooked in it. The oven is the best method to season a carbon steel wok.

To begin the seasoning process, start by washing the wok with hot water and a mild detergent. Use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub the entire surface of the wok and remove any dirt or debris. Rinse the wok, and then dry it thoroughly with a clean cloth.

Next, rub a thin layer of vegetable oil into the wok. Make sure the entire surface is coated with the oil. Place the wok on the middle rack of the oven and set the temperature to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Leave the wok in the oven for 1 to 2 hours, allowing the oil to polymerize and form a protective coating.

After the wok has finished seasoning, take it out of the oven and let it cool. Once the wok has cooled to room temperature, use a paper towel to wipe off any excess oil. The wok is now ready to use.

It is important to note that a carbon steel wok must be seasoned prior to each use. This helps to keep the wok from rusting and also helps to impart flavor to the food cooked in it.

How to Season a Wok on an Electric Stove?

To season a wok on an electric stove, it is important to take the necessary steps to create an effective nonstick surface. This process is best done with a new wok, but it can also be used to restore an old wok.

The first step is to heat the wok until it is very hot. This should be done on high heat, and the wok should be heated until smoke is coming off of the surface. It should remain on the heat for a few minutes before moving on to the next step.

Next, oil should be added to the wok. It is best to use an oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut oil. A couple of tablespoons of oil should be added and spread around the wok, making sure to coat the entire surface. The oil should then be heated until it starts to smoke.

Once the oil has been heated, the wok should be removed from the heat and allowed to cool. Once cooled, a paper towel can be used to wipe away any excess oil from the wok.
The wok should be re-heated on high heat until it starts to smoke again. This step should be repeated multiple times until a dark patina appears on the surface.

Once the patina has been created, the wok should be cooled again and wiped with a paper towel. This process should be repeated a few more times to ensure the patina is properly created.

Lastly, the wok should be stored properly to ensure it remains well-seasoned. It should be washed with a mild detergent and warm water after each use, and it should be wiped with a paper towel and lightly oiled before storing. With proper care, the wok should remain well-seasoned for years to come.

Pros and Cons of Carbon Steel Woks

A Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok is a great cooking tool for many home cooks. Here are some of the Pros and Cons of using a Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok.

Benefits

Durability: Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Woks are very durable and will last for many years with proper care.

Heat Retention: They are very good at retaining heat, making them ideal for stir-fry cooking.

Non-Stick Surface: The pre-seasoned surface of the wok prevents food from sticking, making it easier to clean and maintain.

Drawbacks

High Maintenance: Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Woks require frequent oiling to keep the surface in good condition.

Rusting: If not cared for properly, Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Woks can rust over time.

Weight: Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Woks can be heavy and difficult to maneuver.

Tips for Caring for the Best Pre Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok

A pre-seasoned carbon steel wok is an excellent tool for cooking, as it allows for higher cooking temperatures than other cookware. To get the most out of your wok and keep it in top condition, it’s important to take care of it.

Clean After Use: After each use, rinse the wok with hot water and use a soft cloth to scrub away any food that has stuck to the surface. Avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners as these can strip away the layer of seasoning.

Dry Thoroughly: After washing, make sure to dry the wok thoroughly. Moisture can cause rust, so be sure to wipe the wok with a clean cloth until it is completely dry.

Season After Cleaning: After each use, you may want to season the wok to ensure it remains properly seasoned. To do this, heat the wok and then add a small amount of oil to the surface. Rub the oil into the surface with a clean cloth, then remove the excess oil.

Store Properly: To keep your wok in top condition, you should store it properly. Wipe away any excess oil and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Learn More: The Best Compact Camping Stove: A Guide

Frequently Asked Questions About Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Woks

What Is Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel?

Pre-seasoned carbon steel is a type of steel alloy that has been treated with a thin layer of oil during the manufacturing process. This oil helps to protect the steel from rust, as well as provides a non-stick cooking surface.

Can I Clean My Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Wok?

Yes! It’s important to clean your wok after each use. Use warm soapy water and a soft-bristled brush to remove any cooked-on food. Be sure to thoroughly dry your wok to prevent rust.

Does Pre-Seasoning Help Prevent Rust?

Yes! The oil that is applied during the pre-seasoning process helps to protect the steel from rust. However, it’s important to keep your wok properly seasoned and cleaned to ensure it remains rust-free.

How Often Should I Season My Wok?

It’s recommended that you season your wok at least every 6 months. This will help to keep the non-stick coating in good condition and prevent rust.

Do Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Woks Need to Be Oiled?

Yes, pre-seasoned woks need to be occasionally oiled to maintain their non-stick coating. When you season your wok, be sure to use high-quality cooking oil. Pre-seasoned carbon steel woks are a great addition to any kitchen. With proper care and maintenance, your wok will last for years and provide delicious meals.

Conclusion

In summary, carbon steel woks, especially those that are pre-seasoned, stand as a testament to the blend of tradition and convenience in modern cooking. Their rapid heat-up times, enduring non-stick surfaces, and unmatched durability make them a must-have in any kitchen.

Proper care, including regular cleaning and periodic seasoning, ensures these woks serve you well, contributing to a healthier cooking routine. Engaging with a pre-seasoned carbon steel wok not only enhances your culinary skills but also brings a piece of culinary heritage into your home. It’s a choice that echoes the sentiment of generations of chefs: to cook is to care, for both the tool and the tales it tells through each meal prepared.