Can you use a wok on an induction hob? If you have a passion for stir fry, you may be wondering if you can cook up your sizzling favourites on an induction hob.
As you may already know, induction hobs are famous for being “picky” when it comes to the types of pots and pans you can use.
That’s because induction hobs only work with pots and pans made from something called ferrous metal. Basically, an induction hob won’t work if you use the wrong type of pan.
But, can you count on your wok to work with an induction hob? Let’s find out!
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Can You Use a Wok on Induction Hob?
Most cookware brands place an induction-compatible symbol that resembles an electric coil on products that are intended for use with induction hobs.
What Metal Are Woks Made From?
Most woks are made from a material called carbon steel. Carbon steel is actually very similar to cast iron. As you may already know, cast-iron is a perfect fit for induction cooking.
Induction compatible woks can also be made using materials like aluminium. Keep in mind that not every portion of a wok needs to be made of induction-compatible materials in order for a wok to work on an induction hob.
In fact, it’s very common for woks to have “comfort handles” that are made using a different material from the base.
Testing Your Wok
There’s an easy way to make sure that your wok is definitely compatible with an induction hob! You can simply use an everyday magnet!
Yes, any pan that sticks to a magnet is considered compatible with induction hobs. Just make sure you’re testing the bottom portion of the wok that comes into direct contact with the hob.
This is actually the most important portion of any piece of cookware that is being tested for compatibility with induction cooking.
Even a wok that only has a magnetic base will still work with an induction hob even if the rest of the wok is made from a lesser material.
Finding the Best Wok for an Induction Hob?
Many of the most trusted and treasured cookware brands offer induction-compatible woks. Anyone shopping for a new wok to use with an induction oven should consider woks made by Le Creuset and Tefal.
Here are a few things to keep in your mind when choosing the best wok for induction hob:
- Is it lightweight?
- Does it need to be seasoned?
- Does it have a non-stick coating?
- Is it safe for oven use?
- Is it dishwasher safe?
- Does it look sturdy?
- Is the size capacity enough for my household?
- Is it easy to clean?
- Will it provide even heating?
- Is it easy to store?
It’s perfectly fine to be picky about woks if you’re serious about getting the best results. Most chefs agree that carbon steel really is the best wok material for hot, sizzling results.
One tip is to pay attention to the weight listed in a product description before settling on a wok.
You want to make sure that a wok isn’t too heavy for the “wrist manoeuvres” that are often used with wok cooking. The last thing you’d want to do is slam down your wok and crack your induction hob.
Can you Stir Fry on an Induction Hob?
An induction hob is great for stir-frying! Thanks to the efficiency of electromagnetics, it takes barely seconds to reach the searingly hot temperatures you need.
You’ve also got intuitive, instant heat control for working your ingredients into a sizzling delicacy. But the only thing you have to be careful of is which wok you choose. To connect with the electromagnetic cooking zone, your wok must be in direct contact with the hob.
Your existing wok might be a traditional type with a concave base. On an induction hob, it simply won’t be able to draw the electromagnetic heat.
Commercial induction hobs have a specially constructed recess that accommodates woks. But in a domestic setting, a new wok with a flat base is the best answer. It’s relatively inexpensive and provides a perfect connection for every stir-fried meal.
Conclusion
Can you use a wok on an induction hob?
Yes! In addition to being a compatible option for an induction hob, a wok is actually a very popular option for induction cooking.
That’s a great reason to start looking up a few homemade stir fry recipes!
