You can buy a carbon steel wok for around $30, so why spend so much more?The wok body is heavy but not too heavy. Professional Chinese chefs generally prefer carbon steel, though some like cast iron. Having cooked on both, I like the responsiveness of carbon steel.
The size and shape of the wok are nicely suited for home use. I use it on a gas range and prefer having the flat-bottom style vs. using a wok ring, which raises the wok up away from the burner and lets the wok tip a bit more. (If you have an electric range, definitely choose a flat-bottom wok or else it can't get hot enough.)
Not visible in the photo are the concentric rings around the the outside, giving the wok at least the appearance of being made of spun (vs. stamped) steel.
The wood handles are beautiful, smooth maple - and are solidly attached to the body of the wok. The glass lid is a little too upscale for a wok - it seems to defy the peasant roots of the vessel. I would have been perfectly happy with a tall metal lid but don't have any real complaints about the glass one, though the thin metal rim looks like it might dent easily.
Reminders: Don't forget to season the wok before you use it. Wash with hot water, no soap. Dry on the stovetop to prevent rust.
Lastly, I'll add a recommendation for this book for choosing, seasoning, and cooking in a wok. A great read beyond the recipes it offers:
The Breath of a Wok: Unlocking the Spirit of Chinese Wok Cooking Through Recipes and Lore
Product Description
Developed by the Chinese two thousand years ago, stir frying is the wonderful art of quick healthy cooking.Stir frying lets you cook meat, fish, vegetables and poultry over high heat, using small amounts of cooking oil.As a result, stir frying is a healthier way to eat.You can prepare a whole meal in no time. Vegetables remain crisp and crunchy.Meats and seafood are tender and juicy.Stir frying is easy and is perfect for today's healthy lifestyles.It's a faster way to prepare delicious, wholesome and more economical meals than any other cooking method. This Pro Chef wok set is made of 2.0mm uncoated carbon steel. This is traditional style carbon steel cookware so it will require a simple seasoning process.The 8 piece set consists of a 14" wok with maple wood handles, dome glass lid, stainless steel wok spatula with maple handle, cooking chopsticks, steaming rack and CD cookbook of stir fry recipes.
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