Updated on May 2023

Should I get a 12 or 14 inch wok?

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A 12-inch wok is a smaller-sized wok that is generally suitable for cooking for 1-2 people. It is a popular choice for those who have limited counter space or who cook in smaller quantities. A 12-inch wok heats up quickly and is easy to maneuver due to its smaller size. It is also lightweight and easy to store. However, it may not be suitable for cooking larger quantities of food or for entertaining.

A 14-inch wok is a larger-sized wok that is generally suitable for cooking for 3-4 people or for larger quantities of food. It is a popular choice for families or for those who entertain often. A 14-inch wok heats up quickly and is also easy to maneuver, although it may be heavier than a 12-inch wok. It provides ample space for tossing and stirring ingredients during cooking and can handle larger volumes of food. However, it may take up more counter space and can be more challenging to store.

Should I Get A 12 Or 14 Inch Wok?

The size of wok you should get depends on a few factors such as the number of people you usually cook for and how much food you typically cook at once.

A 12-inch wok is generally suitable for cooking for 1-2 people, while a 14-inch wok is better for cooking for 3-4 people or for larger quantities of food.

Consider your cooking needs and the size of your stovetop burners. If you have a smaller stove or are limited in counter space, a 12-inch wok may be a better option. If you have a larger stove and cook for a family or entertain often, a 14-inch wok may be a better choice.

Ultimately, the choice between a 12-inch or 14-inch wok will depend on your personal preferences and cooking needs.

what is the best thickness for a wok?

The thickness of a wok is an important factor to consider as it affects the wok's heat distribution and ability to retain heat. The best thickness for a wok depends on the material of the wok.

For a carbon steel wok, which is a popular material for traditional stir-fry cooking, a thickness of around 1.5-2mm is generally recommended. This thickness allows the wok to heat up quickly and evenly, while also providing good heat retention.

For a cast iron wok, which is heavier and denser than carbon steel, a thickness of around 3-4mm is suitable. The additional thickness helps to evenly distribute heat throughout the wok, allowing for consistent cooking results.

In general, it's important to choose a wok with a thickness that is appropriate for its material and intended use. Thicker woks may be more durable and retain heat better, but they can also be heavier and harder to handle. Ultimately, the best thickness for a wok will depend on your personal preferences and cooking needs.

what is the most popular wok size?

The most popular wok size can vary depending on cultural and regional cooking practices, as well as personal preferences. However, a 13.5 or 14-inch wok is generally considered a popular and versatile size for home cooking.

The most popular wok on the market is the 13.5 inch Yosukata Carbon Steel Wok which is preferred by both professionals and home chefs.

A 13.5 inch or 14-inch wok is large enough to cook for a family or small group, while also being manageable in terms of weight and storage. It is also a good size for stir-frying, which is one of the primary cooking methods used with woks.

That being said, some people may prefer a smaller or larger wok depending on their cooking needs and the amount of food they typically prepare. It's important to consider the size of your stovetop burners and your personal preferences when choosing a wok size.

What kind of wok do professionals use?

Professional chefs and cooks often use carbon steel woks for their versatility and durability. Carbon steel woks are lightweight, heat up quickly and evenly, and are able to withstand high temperatures. They are also easy to season and maintain, which is important for frequent use.

In addition to carbon steel woks, some professionals may also use cast iron woks or stainless steel woks depending on the specific cooking needs and preferences. Cast iron woks are heavier and retain heat well, which makes them good for searing and slow cooking. Stainless steel woks are durable and easy to clean, but they don't have the same heat conductivity as carbon steel or cast iron.

Ultimately, the choice of wok material depends on the cooking needs and preferences of the professional chef or cook. However, carbon steel woks are a popular choice due to their versatility, durability, and ability to handle high heat.

What is the best height for a wok? 

The height of a wok is an important consideration, as it can affect the wok's ability to retain heat and cook food evenly. The best height for a wok depends on the wok's size and the type of cooking you plan to do.

For a 12-inch wok, a height of around 3-4 inches is recommended. For a 14-inch wok, a height of around 4-5 inches is recommended. This height allows the wok to retain heat while also providing enough space to toss and stir the ingredients during cooking.

However, some chefs and cooks may prefer a slightly higher or lower wok height depending on their personal preferences and cooking needs. It's important to choose a wok with a height that is appropriate for the size of the wok and the type of cooking you plan to do.

Best Carbon Steel Wok Recommended by Wokware

Mammafong 14 inch Traditional Hand Hammered Round Bottom Carbon Steel Pow Wok Set

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.