You can get two types of cast iron wok on the market. First is the heavy bottom one from USA brands like Staub, Lodge, etc, and the other is the thinner one or the Chinese kind.
With a heavy cast iron wok, you can get away with a wimpier gas stove because it retains heat well. But with the Chinese kinds, you need a lot of heat to make your stir fry perfect. So, the first rule of buying the best cast iron wok for you is to purchase according to your heat source.
Another crucial tip is to buy from a trusted manufacturer as many cast iron woks now come with impurities which has a negative impact on the heat distribution and retention. As a result, your stir fry suffers.
Let’s look at some trustworthy cast iron woks and the top 10 choices this year for stir fry lovers.
Best Heavy Duty Cast Iron Wok
Lodge Pro Logic Wok-For Indoor Heat Source
- sturdy, brutally tough build
- 14 inch, flat bottom
- Pre-seasoned
- best for gas stove, wok burner, grill, etc
Best Light Weight Cast Iron Wok
Imusa Wok- For High Heat sources
- lightweight yet durable
- 14 inch flat bottom wok
- suitable for all stovetop
- heats up easily, comes pre-seasoned
Best Enameled Wok
Le Creuset Wok – rust-proof, no seasoning
- 14 inch enameled wok
- no seasoning required
- comes with a tempered glass lid
- Limited lifetime warranty
- Flat base
- zero maintenance
- high durability
- compatible with all stovetops
Content:
- Best Heavy Duty Cast Iron Wok For Gas Stove: Lodge Pro Logic 14 inch
- Best Japanese Cast Iron Wok for deep frying: Iwachu with Lid
- Best Cast Iron Wok For Outdoor: Kasian
- Best Enameled Cast Iron Wok: Le Creuset 14 inch
- Best Cast Iron Wok for Electric Stove: Kasian 12 inch
- Best Mini Cast Iron Wok: Lodge 9 inch
- Best Cast Iron Wok for Grill: Jim Beam
- Best Induction Cast Iron Wok: Uno Casa
- Best Preseasoned Cast Iron Wok: Victoria
- Best Lightweight Cast Iron Wok for Wok Burner: Imusa
- Cast Iron Buying Guide
- Faq
Top 10 Cast Iron Woks of 2023
1. Lodge Pro-Logic Cast Iron Wok Heavy Bottom For Gas Stove
n Amazon| Material | Cast iron |
| Weight | 11.48 pounds |
| Handle Type | Wide loop handles |
| Coating | Pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil |
| Dimensions | 18.06 x 14.56 x 4.44 inches |
| Additional Features | ✅ Flat base suitable for multiple cooking surfaces ✅ Excellent heat retention and distribution |
Lodge cast iron wok is a household name and for all the reasons it is the best cast iron wok so far made by this company. It is truly adored by stir fry lovers and even Chefs prefer using this wok.
The excellent heat distribution and retention capacities, and a sturdy, brutally tough build make this 14 inches cast iron wok a great choice for high-temperature cooking on a stovetop, oven, induction cooktop, grill, or even burners.
It is pre-seasoned with a 100% natural vegetable oil for protecting the wok from rusting while in the warehouse. This also made it ready to use.
It has a flat-bottom, so it’ll be stable on tables as well as any stovetops or cooktops. The pre-seasoning is pretty durable, and will only get better after each use.
It doesn’t come with a lid, so you may have to find a lid for smoking and steaming.
2. Iwachu – the best Japanese Cast iron Wok For Deep Frying
| Material | Cast iron |
| Handle Type | Wide loop handles |
| Coating | Seasoned with vegetable oil |
| Dimensions | 12.5 x 12.5 x 3.5 inches |
| Additional Features | ✅ Stunning look comes with a lid Ideal for stir-frying ✅ Flat bottom |
The Iwachu cast iron wok distributes heat evenly and retains it, making it the top cast iron wok for stir-frying as well as deep-frying and sautéing.
It comes with a flat-bottom and concave wall. The handles are wide enough to make it easy to serve, and the lid provides a good atmosphere for braising.
The superior quality and durable build are good enough to make this wok last a lifetime. It is pre-seasoned with vegetable oil.
3. Kasian House Best Outdoor Chinese Wok With Wooden Cover
| Material | Cast iron |
| Handle Type | Long, wooden handle |
| Coating | Pre-seasoned |
| Dimensions | 13.07 x 13.07 x 5.28 inches |
| Additional Features | ✅ Comes with a wooden lid ✅ Flat bottom Suitable for multiple cooking surfaces |
The Kasian House cast iron wok looks exactly like the ancient Asian woks with a wooden handle. But this one has a premium-looking wooden lid also.
With excellent heat transfer, distribution, and retention capabilities, it is the most useful cast iron wok you can get under $80, and honestly, it is a steal at that price.
The wok is built from heavy-duty cast iron, ensuring long life, and is pre-seasoned, which means it is ready to use out of the box.
The large wooden handle makes serving convenient, and the flat bottom assures compatibility with any stovetop.
4. Best Enameled Cast Iron Wok – Le Creuset
| Material | Cast iron |
| Handle Type | Wide loop handles |
| Coating | Enameled cast iron |
| Dimensions | 15.4 x 14.8 x 6.7 inches |
| Additional Features | ✅ Stunning look comes with a tempered glass lid ✅ Limited lifetime warranty ✅ Flat base |
How many times you wanted to buy a cast iron wok but hesitated due to the tough cleaning and storing process?
Here Le Creuset enameled cast iron wok beats other simple cast iron made woks. Enameled cast iron wok is a revolution. It is far more convenient than a non-coated cast iron wok. You need minimal time to clean and maintain, hence can give more time in cooking delicious and healthy stir fry.
Why enameled cast iron wok is the best choice?
“When cast iron is applied with a layer of enamel glaze it is known as enamel cast iron. The glaze on the cast iron slows down rusting, avoids the need for seasoning, and makes cleaning easier.”
I also want to stretch the topic of health more here. Because there are many cast iron wok brands that offer very affordable but unhealthy, and unsafe woks.
Also, the nonstick coated ones have a very bad reputation for emitting toxic fume during high heat cooking.
But Le Creuset enameled wok is the best cast iron wok for daily home cooking.
Other features:
✅ The wok has inherited the concave shape of the traditional Chinese woks and has a flat-bottom to fit on all stovetop heat sources.
✅ This 5-quart wok demands little maintenance as it is enameled and does not need seasoning.
✅ Asian cuisine tastes the best when cooked at high temperatures, and the tight-fitting tempered glass lid will ensure that the heat and moisture are sealed inside.
✅ The wide loop handles make it easy to use and will save you from accidentally getting your hands burnt. You will get a limited lifetime warranty with this product.
I hope this Le Creuset wok review has given you a different outlook on buying a cast iron wok.
5. Kasian House 12-Inch Cast Iron Wok For Electric Stove
| Material | Cast Iron |
| Handle Type | Wide loop handles |
| Coating | Pre-seasoned |
| Dimensions | 15.4 x 13.5 x 5.9 inches |
| Additional Features | ✅ Flat bottom ✅ Sturdy construction Comes with a lid |
Well, Kasian House produces some of the most sought-after cast iron woks on the market today, and it seems like beautiful wooden lids are their trademark.
The wooden lid helps keeps food warn and blocks splatter while cooking.
You can use this wok right out of the box as it comes pre-seasoned, and it has a flat bottom, suitable for any cooktop. But don’t keep the wooden lid in an oven.
This wok is made of durable, heavy-duty cast iron, which means you will get a good return on investment.
Kasian House guarantees satisfaction for all of their products, so rest-assured of your investment.
6. Lodge 9 Inch Best Cast Iron Mini Wok
| Material | Cast iron |
| Handle Type | Wide loop handles |
| Coating | Pre-seasoned with vegetable oil |
| Dimensions | 11.44 x 9.19 x 2.94 inches |
| Additional Features | Flat bottom suitable for multiple cooking surfaces |
The 9-inch cast iron wok from lodge is best fitted for small families.
This is the most preferred cast iron wok for 2-3 servings with some interesting features and an affordable price. It comes pre-seasoned with soy-based vegetable oil.
Whether you’re cooking on a stovetop, oven, induction cooktop, grill, or a burner, with the Lodge cast iron wok cooking amazing stir-fries, deep-fries, and stews at high temperature will be a breeze.
7. Jim Beam Heavy Duty 12 inch Best Cast Iron Grill Wok
| Material | Cast iron |
| Handle Type | Wide loop handles |
| Coating | Pre-seasoned |
| Dimensions | 10.98 x 3.5 x 14.49 inches |
| Additional Features | ✅ Flat bottom ✅ Heavy-duty construction ✅ Excellent heat distribution |
Unlike other top-rated cast iron woks on this list, the flat area of this wok is not that wide, ensuring an even better heat distribution throughout the wok.
It comes pre-seasoned. The ergonomically designed handles allow easy handling, and at a diameter of twelve inches, it can serve a family of 2-4.
The heavy-duty construction promises long-lasting cooking adventures with this wok.
8. Uno Casa Best Induction Cast Iron Wok Review
| Material | Cast iron |
| Handle Type | Wide loop handles |
| Coating | Pre-seasoned |
| Dimensions | 16.5 x 12.5 x 3.94 inches |
| Additional Features | ✅ Stable, flat base ✅ Comes with a silicone lid Heavy-duty construction |
The sixth-best cast iron wok in our list is from Uno Casa, thanks to its premium, durable, heavy-duty build and tons of features that make cooking effortless.
It comes with a natural non-stick coating, that will get better after each use.
At a capacity of 5.2 quarts, it can serve all the needs of small families, and the flat bottom allows cooking on stovetops, oven, burners, and induction.
If all of that doesn’t impress you, the package also contains a silicone lid that can effectively seal the heat and moisture, and also fits various other pots and pans by Uno Casa.
9. Victoria Best Preseasoned Light Cast Iron Wok
| Material | Cast iron |
| Handle Type | Loop style handles |
| Coating | Seasoned with 100% non-GMO flaxseed oil |
| Dimensions | 14.25 x 17 x 4 inches |
| Additional Features | ✅ Flat bottom suitable for multiple cooking surfaces ✅ Excellent heat distribution and retention |
This 14-inch traditional cast iron wok has a curved, wide base for even heating and great stability on stovetops, induction cooktops, ovens, and grills, expanding its versatility for both indoor and outdoor cooking.
The heat retention and distribution capabilities of this wok are top-notch, and it will last a lifetime even on a high-temperature burner.
Its capacity to withstand high heat allows you to cook restaurant-style stir-fries in it, and the wider, double loop handles make manipulation easy.
The wok comes pre-seasoned with 100% non-GMO flaxseed oil. And the seasoning will get even better after prolonged use, to a point where you won’t have to season it for a while.
Although the company offers a lifetime warranty, including a lid can make it a complete package.
10. Imusa USA 14″ Light Cast Iron Wok For Wok Burner
| Material | Cast iron |
| Handle Type | Stainless steel handle |
| Coating | Pre-seasoned with soybean oil |
| Dimensions | 6.3 x 23.6 x 14 inches |
| Additional Features | ✅ Sturdy construction ✅ Lighter than traditional cast iron woks ✅ Perfect for camping |
The Imusa USA 14-inch cast-iron wok is a great lightweight wok that offers a rich and meaningful cooking experience.
It heats up pretty fast, distributes heat evenly, and retains heat efficiently, making it an ideal choice for stir-frying on kitchen stovetops.
The big, 14-inch cooking surface ensures a capacity to feed a family of 3-4 people easily.
It has inherited the traditional shape with high walls and flat bottom and is suitable for cooking on any cooktops.
The riveted stainless steel handle and the lightweight design make it easier to handle, and it comes pre-seasoned with soybean oil.
At a price below $50, the Imusa USA light cast iron wok is a great choice for medium-sized families to cook delicious, restaurant-style stir-fries and pan-fries at home.
The sturdy, durable construction ensures a longer lifetime.
The only negative side is that it doesn’t come with a lid, which is desirable for different cooking purposes. But for the price, it offers good value for the money.
✅ How to buy the best Cast Iron Wok?
The best one totally depends on your needs. All of the woks listed in this buyer’s guide are quite good and great for cooking Asian cuisine. What determines which is the best for you is the number of servings you want, your maintenance preferences, budget, and whether you are using oven, induction, stovetop, or a burner.
- Size: A 14-inch wok can serve up to five people, and a 12 or 13-inch wok can easily serve two to three people. When choosing the best cast iron wok for you, consider the storage space also.
- Maintenance: Enameled cast iron woks are easy to maintain as they don’t need seasoning. Pre-seasoned woks can be used right out of the box, but they need seasoning every now and then to prevent rusting. A non-stick coating will start to form on seasoned woks and will get better after each use.
- Budget: All the woks mentioned in this guide are durable and can last longer. So, choose the best cast iron wok according to your budget.
- Usage: Some woks are not suitable for induction cooktops and ovens. If you use induction cooktops or oven, make sure the product has a flat bottom and is suitable for the cooking methods you use.
How To Wash Cast Iron Wok?
Cast iron cookware is a must in any kitchen, and for a good reason. It is durable and easy to care for, making it a favorite choice for those who love to cook. However, cast iron is not dishwasher safe and should be hand-washed using hot water and mild soap. Never use harsh detergents or abrasive cleaners on cast iron cookware, which could damage the pan. Finally, dry cast iron cookware with a cloth before storing.
However, there are other non-stick coatings such as ceramic coating which can withstand high temperatures also. But they are not very popular and it may be hard to find a cast iron wok with a ceramic non-stick coating.
✅How to maintain a cast iron wok?
Most of the woks come pre-seasoned, but it is always better to season it before the first use. Wash the wok gently, heat it to a high temperature, and add two tablespoons of oil to it. Tilt the wok so that the oil reaches all areas. This should go on for about twenty minutes to make a thin non-stick coating and to prevent rusting.
If the food gets stuck to the bottom, cool the wok, soak it in water until food is loose, and then scrub gently. Aggressive scrubbing may damage the surface.
To avoid rusting, scrub the with a dry cloth and coat it with oil or season it before storing. Avoid keeping it in highly moist places as it can increase the chances of rusting.
✅Are non-stick cast iron woks safe?
It totally depends on the type of non-stick coating. Some cast-iron woks are heavily seasoned, so there will be a natural non-stick coating on them. These coatings get better after every use and are totally safe.
Some cast-iron woks have Teflon non-stick coatings which make cleaning and cooking very easy. However, although they are safe for home cooking on induction cooktops and stovetops, they are not good for high-temperature cooking. The Teflon coating can come off at temperatures above 500°F, and they start chemical decomposition at temperatures above 670°F. Such coatings can scratch easily, especially if we use metal utensils.
How To Season Cast Iron Wok Without Oven?
Seasoning your cast iron wok is a simple and effective way to keep it in good condition and increase its lifespan. You can do certain things to season your wok, and you can do all of them without using an oven.
- The first thing you need to do is clean your wok with soap and water.
- Once it is clean, dry it off and apply a layer of cooking oil to the wok. Make sure to coat the entire surface of the wok.
- Next, heat the wok over high heat until it is hot, adding your desired seasoning. For example, you can add salt, pepper, or garlic powder to your wok.
- Finally, cook your food in the wok until you cook it to your liking.
By following the steps, you will be able to season your cast iron wok and effectively. It will help to keep it in good condition and increase its lifespan.
How to clean cast iron wok for the first time?
Cast iron woks are a classic piece of kitchenware, and you can use them for various purposes, such as cooking rice or stir-frying. Cast iron is durable, usually nonstick, making it a versatile cooking surface. However, like all cookware, you must properly clean cast iron to ensure that your food is clean and tastes great.
To clean your cast iron wok:
- Start by heating it on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
- Once it is hot, add a bit of water to the wok and swirl it around to create a deep cleaning solution.
- Scrub all dirt and food particles off the wok with a brush.
- Use a stiff brush to scrub the surface of the wok.
- Dry the wok with a cloth and repeat the process if necessary.
Cast Iron Wok Pros And Con
Cast iron woks are a versatile cooking tool that you can use for various dishes. They are also an excellent choice for those who want to cook with an iron skillet. Here are some short pros and cons of cast iron woks.
Pros
- Cast iron woks to heat quickly and evenly, perfect for stir-frying and other fast cooking techniques.
- They are durable and can last for many years if you take care of them properly.
- You can use them on all types of stovetops, including induction ranges.
- They can accommodate a wide variety of ingredients and are perfect for multi-cooking.
- They make an excellent gift for the food lover in your life.
- They are easy to clean and store.
- You can use them to make a variety of Chinese dishes.
Cons
- It can be expensive
- Cast iron woks need proper storage
Cast Iron Wok Or Carbon Steel
Cast iron woks are a classic choice for Chinese cooking and for a good reason. They are heavy and durable, making them perfect for stir-frying and other forms of cooking that require high heat. They also have a nonstick surface that makes them easy to clean.
On the other hand, carbon steel is a popular choice for Western cooks because it is versatile, and you can use it for multiple cooking purposes. It is also light, making it easy to maneuver. However, carbon steel does not have a nonstick surface, so it may not be as durable or easy to clean as cast iron woks. Additionally, it can be prone to rust, so it is essential to take care of it.
Cast Iron Wok Vs. Stainless Steel
Cast iron woks are a classic option for those who love to cook Chinese food. They are nonstick and can withstand high temperatures, perfect for stir-frying and deep-frying. They also have a long life, so they will be worth your investment in the long run.
Stainless steel woks are a newer option on the market and are perfect for modern-day cooks. They are also nonstick and can withstand high temperatures, but they are not as durable as cast iron woks. They also require occasional maintenance, such as cleaning with a steel wool pad and a little bit of oil, to keep them in good condition.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. If you seek a durable and nonstick wok, cast iron woks are the best option.
Cast Iron Wok Vs. Skillet
Cast iron woks are the traditional choice for Chinese and Asian cuisine, as they are profitable and reliable. You can use them for many cooking purposes, from stir-frying to steaming. They also have a nonstick surface, which makes them easy to clean.
On the other hand, skillets are a more recent invention, and you typically use them for cooking over direct heat. They are lighter and easier to carry around, making them a popular choice for those who frequent outdoor activities, such as hiking and camping. They also have a nonstick coating, which makes them easier to clean. However, skillets can be less versatile than cast iron woks and may not suit all cooking purposes.
Cast Iron Wok Vs. Nonstick
Cast iron woks are a classic kitchen tool that you can use for various purposes, including stir-frying. They are heavy and durable, and because they comprise cast iron, they heat up slowly and evenly, making them perfect for cooking over high heat. They also have a ridged surface that helps to create even heat and prevent sticking.
On the other hand, Nonstick woks are popular for their quick and easy cooking ability. They comprise PFOA-free materials, which is essential because PFOA can cause cancer. They also boast a nonstick surface that makes them easier to clean. However, they do not hold their heat as well as cast iron woks, and they can be difficult to season.
Cast Iron Wok Vs. Aluminum
There is no wrong answer when it comes to woks – as long as the wok is the right size for your needs. Cast iron woks are heavier and take longer to heat up, but they are also more durable and hold their heat better. They are also better for deep-frying, as they produce less oil and don’t become greasy.
Aluminum woks are lighter and faster to heat up, but they can be less durable and may not hold their heat. They are also not as good for deep-frying, as they produce more oil and can get greasy. Additionally, aluminum is not as good for searing or cooking over high heat, as it can quickly get too hot and start sticking to the food. Ultimately, the choice of wok depends on your needs and preferences. If you are looking for a versatile all-purpose wok that can do it all, cast iron is for you.
Is Cast Iron Wok Dishwasher Safe?
Cast iron woks are considered one of the most versatile and durable kitchen appliances around. However, cast iron woks should be hand-washed and never put in the dishwasher like any other kitchen appliance. It is because cast iron is a porous material, and the water and detergents will seep into the pores and eventually cause the cast iron to rust. Additionally, hot water and soap can cause the wok to warp or crack.
Can You Use A Cast Iron Wok For Deep Frying?
Yes, you can use a cast iron wok for deep frying. However, you will need to follow a few precautions to ensure your wok is in the best condition for frying:
- Make sure you season the wok before using it.
- Do not overheat the wok.
- Use a moderate amount of oil in the wok.
- Do not overcrowd the wok.
- Overcrowding will cause the oil to splatter, which can lead to burns.
Using A Cast Iron Wok For The First Time
Cast iron woks are a great way to add flavor and texture to your meals. They are also an excellent tool for those new to cooking as they are easy to use and heat evenly. Cast iron woks are also a healthy option as they are high in iron, and storage oil is unnecessary.
To use a cast iron wok, season it with oil or butter before cooking your dish. For stir-fries, you will want to use less oil or butter as the cast iron will do the cooking for you. For soups and stews, use more oil or butter as the cast iron will help to keep the dish from sticking to the bottom of the pan. When using a cast iron wok, be sure to use caution as the metal is hot. If you are using a cast iron wok for the first time, you should get help from an expert.
