Updated on April 2023
What is a Wok Ring and How to Use it Properly?
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Wok ring is a very convenient option for those who want to concentrate as much as heat possible on the bottom of the pan, without using a high heat wok burner. Thus wok rings are very useful for making smoked stir fry on normal stovetops. But to get the most benefit out of a wok ring, you need to use it properly and also know which wok ring is best suited for your cooking habit. Here is a detailed article on wok rings.
What is a wok Ring or Wok stand?
A wok ring is a circular metal device that sits on top of the burner grate of a gas stove and provides a stable platform for a wok. It is typically made of cast iron, steel, or other heat-resistant metals.
Wok rings come in different sizes to fit different wok sizes and are designed to accommodate both round-bottomed and flat-bottomed woks. The most common sizes for wok rings are 4 inches, 5 inches, and 6 inches in diameter.
Wok rings are made to keep the wok steady so it doesn't tip over while cooking. This is particularly important for round-bottomed woks, which are prone to tipping on flat surfaces. Wok rings also help to distribute heat evenly around the wok, allowing for more consistent cooking.
When using a wok ring, it's important to position the wok in the center of the ring and make sure it is stable before adding any ingredients. It's also important to preheat the wok and the ring before adding any oil or food, to ensure that the heat is distributed evenly.
To clean a wok ring, simply wipe it down with a damp cloth or sponge after use. If there are any stubborn stains or burnt-on food, you can soak the wok ring in warm, soapy water for a few minutes before scrubbing with a soft brush or sponge.
Overall, a wok ring is a useful tool for anyone who enjoys cooking with a wok on a gas stove. It keeps the pan steady and spreads the heat evenly, which lets you get better results and makes cooking easier and more fun.
Types of wok support rings
You will find wok rings of numerous patterns, shapes, and styles, here are some of the popular ones-
1. Cast Iron Wok Ring
This is the best cast iron wok support ring from K&H for gas stove. A cast iron wok ring is a kitchen accessory used to stabilize round-bottomed woks on a gas stove. It is typically a ring-shaped stand made of cast iron, designed to sit on the stove's burner grate and provide a stable platform for the wok to sit on.
The wok ring helps to distribute heat evenly and prevent the wok from wobbling or tipping over during cooking. Cast iron wok rings are durable and long-lasting, and they can also be used with other types of cookware, such as Dutch ovens and other round-bottomed pots.
They are a useful tool for anyone who enjoys cooking with a wok or other round-bottomed cookware on a gas stove.
2. Wire Wok Ring
These are the most stylish wok rings on the market. This wok ring is of stainless steel and will not rust. The wire wok rings can also be used for serving meals due to their design and functionality. You can efficiently serve your plates and platter using the wire wok ring. These are designed specifically for different wok sizes. Thus these are also known as multi-functional wok stands or holders. The wire rings are also commonly found made with steel.
3. Steel wok ring
The steel wok rings are the most popular wok rings used globally. These rings ensure the stability of your wok pan and keep it in place. These wok rings also regulate the way of heat and concentrate it towards the bottom of the wok. Steel wok rings are also compatible with high heat cooking, and the material being solid, is durable and long-lasting.
If you are using steel wok rings for high heat cooking, then make sure to buy the one with holes and a good brand that ensures quality wok stands like this one from Wok Rack.
When to use a Wok Ring?
You might be thinking if it is necessary to use a wok ring? or when to use one? Well, the answer is wok rings aren’t a compulsion when using a wok pan. But for a better cooking experience and great convenience, wok rings are a must.
Whenever you are using a round bottom wok pan, you must use the wok ring. It not just stabilizes the pan but prevents its movement, slipping off the stove or falling. You can also use a wok ring when preparing large meals or deep frying because the wok ring offers heat-trapping & concentration.
Where Wok Ring Doesn’t Work?
Woks ring possibly won’t work with the electric cooktop and induction or ceramic glass surface. This is because these electric, induction, and glass cooktops produce minimal heat; thus, using a wok ring will spoil the process. The wok rings will extend the height difference from the stove surface to the wok pan bottom, and using them on top of the electric burner will reduce the amount of heat reaching the pan.
So it is better not to use the wok ring and avoid using a round bottom pan on flat cooktops like induction. Also the glass surface will get scratched and ruined by a wok ring.
How to use a wok ring on a gas stove?
Using a wok ring is relatively easy. All you need is – take your wok ring, place it over the burner and then place the round-bottomed wok over the wok ring. Make sure the ring you use is compatible with the wok pan size and fits firmly. Usually the wok ring needs to be 4″ smaller than the diameter of the bottom of your wok pan.
This is the perfect size to concentrate heat on to the bottom and get the pan evenly heated. When done using the wok ring, be careful as it might have turned too hot.
How to use a wok ring on an electric stove?
Using the wok ring over the electric stove is quite similar. Place your wok ring over the burner area. Place the broader part of the wok ring down and the narrower part at the upper side. And now place the wok pan on the upper and vacant end of the ring. However, I will recommend you to buy a good quality carbon steel flat bottom wok for your electric stove rather than using a wok ring. As mentioned before the electric stove does not have an open fire. And wok ring only works with open fires.
How to choose a wok ring?
Now here is the big question, how to choose a perfect wok ring? Choosing the right wok ring isn’t a big deal just a good understanding of your wok pan, stove style, & types of the ring is all you need.
Remember, the ring material doesn’t need to match that of your wok material. It would be best if you chose a ring that is compatible with the wok pan. When choosing a ring, keep the following in mind:
The ring size:
This is the critical factor when choosing a wok ring. Wok rings are available in numerous sizes and so do the pans. The size matters as it holds the wok pan, so it is better, you choose a size that best fits the pan. Always pick a wok ring that has 4 inches smaller diameter than the bottom of your wok pan.
Versatility:
The market is full of options. You can choose the rings for multi-purpose use. The rings like wire rings and steel rings are available in stylish designs, which can also be used for serving the platters and plates.
Pros and Cons of using a wok ring:
Although a wok ring is a very useful cooking tool, there are few disadvantages you might face if you don’t know how to use it properly.
Pros of using the wok ring:
1. Stabilizing the wok pan –
The primary use of the wok ring is to provide stability to the wok pan. It is used explicitly with the round bottom wok pan.
2. Aligning heat concentration –
The wok ring traps the heat and concentrates it towards the bottom surface of the wok pan. Thus it is best suited for high-temperature cooking as the wok ring helps the pan get evenly heated.
3. Multi-purpose use –
Wok rings can be used for varied purposes, including serving the food, steaming, using for double boiling method, or keeping the hot pan and cookware aside.
4. Easy maintenance –
The wok rings are easy to clean and maintain. The stainless steel woks don’t rust. However cast iron wok rings need extra care.
Cons of using wok ring:
There aren’t many cons of using a wok ring. The few includes:
Wok ring may cause scratch over the flat cooking surface like the induction cooktop burner and glass stove surface. It can also damage the heating element in the ceramic stove. This is because the wok ring will trap the heat and concentrate it, which will reflect from the wok surface, and this excessive heating will damage the stove surface or the heating element inside.
It will also affect the cooking by reducing the amount of heat reaching the wok surface when used on flat cooktops or electric stoves.
Wok Ring For Gas Stove
When it comes to using a wok on a gas stove, a wok ring can provide stability and ensure even heat distribution. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best wok ring for a gas stove:
- Size: Make sure to choose a wok ring that fits the size of your wok and your gas stove's burner size. A wok ring that is too small will not provide enough stability, while a wok ring that is too large may not fit on the burner properly.
- Material: Look for a wok ring made of heat-resistant material, such as cast iron, steel, or aluminum. These materials can withstand high temperatures and provide stability for your wok.
- Design: Look for a wok ring that has a stable base and evenly spaced supports for the wok. The supports should be designed to hold the wok in place without tipping or wobbling.
Based on these factors, some popular options for wok rings for gas stoves include:
- BBQ-PLUS Store Wok Ring:
This wok ring is made of heavy-duty cast iron and is designed to fit round-bottomed woks. It has a stable base and three evenly spaced supports for the wok, providing stability and even heat distribution.
2. Ycanware Stainless Steel Wok Ring:
This wok ring is made of stainless steel and is designed to fit both round-bottomed and flat-bottomed woks. It has a stable base and four evenly spaced supports for the wok, ensuring stability and even heat distribution.
Wok Ring for Electric Stove
When it comes to using a wok on an electric stove, a wok ring can still be useful to provide stability and ensure even heat distribution. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the best wok ring for an electric stove:
- Size: Make sure to choose a wok ring that fits the size of your wok and your electric stove's burner size. A wok ring that is too small will not provide enough stability, while a wok ring that is too large may not fit on the burner properly.
- Material: Look for a wok ring made of heat-resistant material, such as cast iron, steel, or aluminum. These materials can withstand high temperatures and provide stability for your wok.
- Design: Look for a wok ring that has a stable base and evenly spaced supports for the wok. The supports should be designed to hold the wok in place without tipping or wobbling.
Based on these factors, some popular options for wok rings for electric stoves include:
1. MCAMPAS STORE WOK RING:
This wok ring is made of heavy-duty cast iron and is designed to fit round-bottomed woks. It has a stable base and evenly spaced supports for the wok, providing stability and even heat distribution.
2. MOODUUTY Wok Ring:
This wok ring is made of stainless steel and is designed to fit both round-bottomed and flat-bottomed woks. It has a stable base and four evenly spaced supports for the wok, ensuring stability and even heat distribution.
Wok Ring for Glass Top Stove
When it comes to using a wok on a glass top stove, it's essential to find a wok ring that will provide stability and prevent scratches on the glass surface. Here are some of the best wok rings for glass top stoves:
Grillflame Cast Iron Wok Ring -
This wok ring is made from high-quality cast iron and is designed to provide a stable base for your wok. It has a non-slip surface that helps to prevent the wok from moving around while cooking, and it's also easy to clean.
Super leader Stainless steel Wok Ring
This wok ring is designed specifically for glass top stoves and is made from high-quality steel. It has a wide base that provides stability and prevents scratches on the glass surface, and it's also easy to clean.
No matter which wok ring you choose, it's important to make sure it's the right size for your wok and your stove. It's also essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for using the wok ring to ensure safe and efficient cooking.
Best Carbon Steel Wok Recommended by Wokware
Mammafong 14 inch Traditional Hand Hammered Round Bottom Carbon Steel Pow Wok Set
Faq.
No, you don't necessarily need a wok ring to use a wok, but it can be helpful in certain situations. A wok ring is a metal stand that sits on top of the burner and provides a stable base for the wok to rest on. It can help to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the wok from wobbling or tipping over.
If you have a gas stove, you can place the wok directly on the grate and use a high flame to create the necessary heat. However, if you have an electric stove or a glass top stove, it can be more challenging to generate the required heat, and a wok ring can be beneficial.
Using a wok ring can also help to protect your stove's surface from scratches or damage caused by the wok's weight. Overall, while you don't need a wok ring to cook with a wok, it can make the cooking process easier and more efficient, especially on electric or glass top stoves.
The purpose of a wok ring is to provide a stable base for a wok when cooking on a gas stove or other flat surface. Woks are designed to be used over a high flame, and their rounded shape can make them unstable when placed on a flat surface. A wok ring solves this problem by holding the wok in place and preventing it from wobbling or tipping over.
A wok ring can also help to distribute the heat evenly around the wok. When a wok is placed directly on a gas stove's grate, the flames can only heat the bottom of the wok, which can cause uneven cooking. With a wok ring, the flames are directed up the sides of the wok, which can help to cook food more evenly.
In addition to providing stability and even heat distribution, a wok ring can also protect the surface underneath the wok from scratches or damage caused by the wok's weight. Overall, a wok ring is a useful tool for anyone who loves to cook with a wok and wants to achieve the best possible results.
If your wok came with a ring, it is most likely a wok ring. A wok ring is a metal stand that sits on top of a gas stove or other flat surface and provides a stable base for the wok to rest on. Wok rings can be made from various materials such as cast iron, carbon steel, or stainless steel, and they come in different sizes to fit different wok sizes.
The purpose of a wok ring is to hold the wok in place and prevent it from wobbling or tipping over while cooking. It also helps to distribute heat evenly around the wok, allowing for better cooking results. Additionally, a wok ring can protect the surface underneath the wok from scratches or damage caused by the wok's weight.
If your wok didn't come with a ring, you can purchase one separately if you plan to cook with your wok on a gas stove or other flat surface. Just make sure to choose a ring that is the appropriate size for your wok and stove.
Author: Preeunka
Editor at Wokware
She is an expert in the niche of kitchenware for 10 years now. She has given readers fact based, well researched, to the point answers of their valuable questions. Her goal is to simplify kitchen products and their utilities.