Cast iron woks might seem like an unnecessary purchase, especially when there are other, more lightweight options on the market, some of which are available from the cookware shop at London-based cookery school, School of Wok, cast iron woks are often considered to be the better investment if you’re looking to master the art of cooking authentic asian cuisine. 

School of Wok not only have a variety of carbon steel, non-stick woks, but they’re also able to supply cast iron woks that are of a superior quality; perfect for any budding oriental chefs out there. But why, exactly, should you choose a cast iron wok over more conventional alternatives? Let’s take a look.

1.  They have impressive heat retention properties

One of the most popular and talked-about benefits of a cast iron wok is the fact that they’re able to retain its heat incredibly well. Cast iron, as a material, is quite dense and so, although it can take a short while for it to become hot enough to cook with, it gives it the right properties to be able to retain the heat, even if heat hasn’t been directly applied to it for quite some time. Not only is this great for actually cooking your food, but it’s also very beneficial for keeping the food warm until you’re ready to serve it up to your diners.

2. They're incredibly versatile 

Cast iron woks are often thought of to be an extremely versatile piece of cookware. This is because they can be used for a wide range of different cooking styles and they also have the ability to perfectly cook most food types, from meat and fish to rice and vegetables. Cast iron woks can be used to sauté, braise, stir-fry and even deep-fry foods. 

This gives the user the option to choose different choking methods depending on what the recipe calls for or depending on how healthy you wish to be. Cast iron woks can also be used on many different heat sources, including: gas, electric, induction hobs, grills and ovens. 

Not only does this give the user the option to use a wok stove-top, but they can also use it as an oven dish; perfect for baking or roasting food. This means you won’t have to use multiple dishes or pans to get the desired results - something that’s only possible with a cast iron wok.

3. They’re heavy-duty & long-lasting, meaning they’ll last a lifetime

You often hear of cast iron cookware being handed down the generations, and the same goes for cast iron woks. Cast iron is an incredibly durable material, generally, meaning that they’ll most likely last a lifetime. As long as you’re caring for your cast iron wok properly, you’ll get many decades of use out of your cast iron wok. The material itself is designed to last a lifetime, which is why many old cookware items are made out of cast iron. Being virtually indestructible, it’s no wonder that cast iron is used to make woks and other cooking pans.

4. They often have non-stick surfaces

In this day and age, cooking pans and woks are usually made to be non-stick, and that’s no different when it comes to cast iron alternatives. Although, you do need to make sure that you’re seasoning the cast iron wok properly in order for it to take on non-stick properties. 

Unlike traditional non-stick pans and woks that have a coating that can chop or wear off over time, cast iron can adopt non-stick properties through the seasoning process. With each use, you’ll notice that your cast iron wok will become more and more non-stick. Continue to look after it and season it well to prolong the non-stick benefits.

5. They’re easy to clean

Cast iron woks are very easy to clean. Although there is a process to it and it’s unlike how you’d wash or clean traditional cooking pots and pans, it’s still incredibly straightforward to make sure your cast iron wok is kept clean and sanitary in between uses. There are several different methods that are used to keep cast iron cookware clean, but choose one that works for you and your lifestyle.

6. They’re affordable

It’s a common misconception that cast iron cookware is expensive, which is why many of us don’t actually own any cast iron pots or pans. However, cast iron woks are very affordable, which is why people are starting to choose those over more traditional non-stick woks. Depending on the size of the cast iron wok you need, you could be spending upwards of just £50 for a high-quality cast iron wok that will last a lifetime.

School of Wok are pleased to provide customers throughout London with expert cooking classes as well as fun and informative corporate events. With a wealth of activities to choose from, you’ll be able to count on School of Wok for all of your corporate event needs. In addition to being able to offer specialist cooking classes, School of Wok can also supply high-quality cookware, including chopsticks, woks, cooking tools and more. If you would like further information about the goods and services School of Wok are able to offer, then get in touch with us today on 0207 018 9119.