The best wok lid is the one that comes with your wok. Unfortunately, not all woks come with a lid. So to find the most suitable lid for your wok you need to factor in the material, design, and durability.
How different a lid can be from another one? You will be fascinated by the types of wok covers available on the market. Surely a cover is just a cover, but as the style and material differ in a wok lid, its quality of function differs too. Here in this article, I have picked the 5 best wok lids of this year suitable for wok cooking.
Top 3 Lids for Wok
1.
Natural Wood Wok Lid
- made from natural cedarwood.
- anti-bacterial, and healthy.
- lid has a bevel edge.
- external diameter larger than the internal diameter – will fit perfectly
- The wood is carbonized; lid is highly durable.
- available in many sizes.
2.
Aluminum Dome Wok Lid
- commercial grade, durable, and heavy gauge aluminum
- lightweight, easy to lift
- very comfortable handle
- dome shape to prevent spilling
- best for Mammafong woks
3.
Nonstick Wok Lid
- made of safe Alloy steel
- non-stick inside and out, cleaning is a breeze.
- sit just inside the rim of a wok, which ensures a secure grip
- You can use this on skillets and other pans too.
Top 5 Wok Lids on the Market
The most standard size of a wok is 14 inches. And the lids available on the market are usually of that size. Although there are other sizes of wok lids available too, sadly not many options are there. So, if you don’t own a wok my strong recommendation is to buy a wok with a lid. This will make your life so much easier. Here are the 5 best wok lids available on the market.
1. Natural Wood Wok lid
The wok lid made of natural wood is one of the most sought-after accessories of a wok. Buyers just love this wooden lid. I have come across so many wok owners who are using this lid.
- These lids are mostly made from natural cedarwood.
- Clearly, it is environment-friendly, anti-bacterial, and healthy.
- This lid has a bevel edge.
- The external diameter is around 1 cm larger than the internal diameter of the lid, which means it will fit perfectly while locking the moisture in while fastening your cooking process.
- The wood is carbonized hence no bacteria will catch it and it will be highly durable.
- The best part of the lid is that it is available in many sizes. So buyers get an array of options to choose from.
This particular brand is my personal favorite because the look and feel of the wok give you an authentic experience of wok cooking.
Con: The healthy and environment-friendly nature of the wok mainly drives people towards it, however, a spacious wok lid like the dome-shaped ones is more useful. Also, the lid is not see-through, hence you have to check the cooking process from time to time.
2. Flat-top Aluminum Dome Wok lid
These wok lids are shaped like domes but the only difference is the top. The top has a flat surface and a big wooden handle.
- In terms of sealing moisture and fastening your steaming, braising, or reducing splatter while deep-frying, it is the same as the other dome-shaped lids.
- But when you think of the big, convenient wooden handle, that makes gripping easier than dome lids with knob handles, the flat-top is worth it.
Mammafong Aluminum Wok lid 14″
- You need a wok lid to be light-weight to ease the cooking process, and this product is just the same. But that does not imply that it is not sturdy.
- The material used in this Mammafong wok lid is a commercial grade, durable, and heavy gauge aluminum. This ensures the durability of the wok lid.
- Also, Mammafong manufactures some of the best Carbon steel woks in the industry and this lid is compatible with their, 14-inch hand hammered flat and round bottom wok.
Con: The only disadvantage of this wok lid is that it is not see-through hence you will be unable to see the cooking process.
3. Non-stick steel dome Wok lid
Non-stick wok lids are the most convenient to use. These are shaped in the form of a dome, which means the lid is spacious. If your wok has less depth, you can still fill the wok all the way up and put on the dome lid to boil or steam something. This way there are fewer chances of spilling.
Joyce Chen Non-stick Dome Lid for 14 inch Wok
- Also as these lids are non-stick inside and out, cleaning is a breeze.
- Most of the wok lids of this kind are designed to sit just inside the rim of a wok, which ensures a secure grip and traps moisture very well.
- These are quality wok covers to fasten your cooking process.
- Also, this non-stick steel dome lid is not limited to a wok. You can use this on skillets and other pans too.
Con: As, the lids are not see-through, keeping up with the cooking process is an issue.
4. Metal and Glass Combined Wok Lids
According to me, this is the best-suited lid for a metal wok. But mostly for the home cooks. Because these lids are not suitable for commercial usage.
- This type of lid has a dome shape.
- The center of the lid is made of sturdy tempered glass and the outer rim is either made of aluminum or stainless steel.
- These are great at locking moisture.
- You can see the progress of the cooking process via the tempered glass. No need to open the lid and check.
- The lid is dishwasher safe.
Normal glass lids are heavy and you need to deal carefully with them. But because of the stainless steel rim, the lid has now become lighter and safer to use. These lids look sleek too and are universal in nature. You can use them on all pots and pans.
However, the particular dome-shaped glass and metal lids are mostly available with woks. To buy them separately, you need to compromise on the dome shape. Still, this is a great buy according to me.
Separate Lid: Universal Lid for Pots, Pans and Skillets, Stainless Steel and Tempered Glass
Con: Availability of such a great wok lid is an issue.
5. Glass Wok Lid
Calphalon Contemporary Glass Lid, 12-inch
Glass wok lids are very common and widely used.
- These are the sleekest-looking lids.
- They are great in terms of checking the cooking progress while keeping the lid on.
- The tempered glass is sturdy and not easily breakable.
- These lids have high-temperature tolerance and are completely dishwasher safe.
- You can get to choose a separate glass wok lid for your wok from a wide variety of options available online as well as offline.
- These are universal and save you space.
But while buying the lid separately, I will recommend you avoid the glass lids with knobs. As, the glass lids are heavy, picking the lid with the knob is painful. Also, it becomes slippery at times.
A good long gripping handle is perfect to go with like this product below.
Con: You need to use a wok lid made of glass very carefully. Also, these lids are heavy.
What is a wok lid used for?
A wok lid is a type of cooking lid that is designed to fit snugly on top of a wok. Its primary purpose is to trap heat and steam inside the wok, which helps to cook food more evenly and quickly. In addition, the lid can also be used to control the amount of oil or other liquids that are used during cooking, as well as to prevent splattering. While a wok lid is not required for every recipe, it can be a helpful tool for those who want to get the most out of their wok cooking.
Advantages of a wok lid:
A wok lid is an essential piece of cookware for anyone who loves to cook Asian cuisine. Not only does it help to keep the heat in, but it also protects against splattering oil and water. Additionally, a wok lid can be used to steam vegetables or fish, giving them a wonderfully fresh and vibrant flavor. And because a wok lid is typically made of glass, it’s easy to see when the food is cooked through. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, a wok lid is an essential tool for any Asian-style kitchen.
Cons of Wok Lid
A wok lid can help to keep heat and moisture in while cooking, but it also has some drawbacks. For one thing, it can be difficult to see what’s going on inside the wok, if your lid is not see-through. This can make it difficult to know when food is done cooking, or to check on the progress of a dish.
Additionally, a lid can trap heat and moisture, which can lead to scorching or steaming. If not carefully monitored, this can ruin a dish. Finally, a lid can make it difficult to add ingredients or stir-fry, as the lid will need to be removed and replaced each time. For these reasons, many cooks prefer to cook without a lid. However, the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference.
How to buy a wok lid? – Buying Guide
Woks are an essential piece of equipment in any Asian kitchen, and a good wok lid is crucial for getting the most out of your wok. But with so many different types and sizes of wok lids on the market, how can you be sure you’re choosing the best one for your needs? Here are a few tips to help you select the perfect wok lid:
- Firstly, consider the size of your wok. You’ll need a lid that is slightly larger than the diameter of your wok in order to fit properly.
- Secondly, think about the material you want your wok lid to be made from. Glass or metal lids will allow you to see what’s happening inside your wok, while wooden lids will provide a more traditional appearance.
- Finally, think about what type of cooking you’ll be using your wok for. If you plan on steaming food, look for a lid with a hole in the center so that steam can escape. Alternatively, if you’ll be using your wok for stir-frying, choose a solid lid to prevent oil from splattering everywhere. By keeping these factors in mind, you can be sure to find the perfect wok lid for you.
Tips to Buy a Wok lid
When it comes to cooking, a good wok is essential. And, of course, a good wok needs a good lid. But with so many different types of wok lids on the market, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a wok lid.
First, think about the type of wok you have. If you have a flat-bottomed wok, you’ll need a lid that fits snugly around the edges. For a round-bottomed wok, look for a lid with a small hole in the center to allow steam to escape.
Second, consider the material the lid is made from. A metal lid will conduct heat well and evenly, but it may be too heavy for some pans. A glass lid will allow you to see inside while cooking, but it may not hold heat as well as a metal lid.
Finally, think about the size of the lid. You’ll want a lid that’s large enough to cover the entire surface of the pan, but not so large that it’s cumbersome to lift or store. With these factors in mind, you should be able to find the perfect wok lid for your needs.
Top Materials Used in Making Wok Lids:
Wooden Wok Lid
A wooden wok lid, also known as a breathing lid, is a type of lid used when cooking with a wok. The lid allows steam to escape while still keeping the heat in, and it also helps to prevent splattering. Wood wok lids are often made from bamboo or other woods that are durable and heat-resistant. The porous nature of the wood also helps to absorb steam and keep the food moist. In addition, wooden wok lids add a unique flavor to the food, making them a popular choice for many cooks. When shopping for a wooden wok lid, be sure to select one that fits snugly on your wok. This will ensure that the lid stays in place during cooking and does not come loose. If you are using a carbon steel wok, you may also want to season the lid before use. This will help to prevent the wood from drying out and cracking.
Stainless steel wok lid
A wok is a versatile tool that can be used for stir-frying, deep-frying, braising, and steaming. And while a traditional wok doesn’t come with a lid, some modern versions do. A stainless steel wok lid can be helpful for trapping heat and steam, which can speed up the cooking process.
Additionally, a lid can prevent oil splatters and help to contain odors. If you’re looking for a lid that fits your wok snugly and seals in heat, look for one made from stainless steel. Not only is stainless steel durable, it’s also easy to clean. Plus, it won’t react with any acidic ingredients that you might be cooking with. For a quality stainless steel wok lid that will help you get the most out of your wok, shop around and compare features to find the perfect fit for your kitchen.
Tempered Glass Wok Lid
A tempered glass wok lid is a kitchen essential for any home cook who loves to stir-fry. This type of lid is made from heat-resistant glass that can withstand high temperatures, making it ideal for use with a wok. Tempered glass wok lids are also shatter-resistant, meaning they will not break into small pieces if dropped. In addition, these lids have steam vents to prevent food from becoming soggy during cooking. Most importantly, tempered glass wok lids allow home cooks to see the contents of their wok while cooking, so they can monitor the progress of their dish and avoid overcooking.
Is a Wok lid necessary?
When it comes to stir-fry, the debate over whether or not to use a lid is one that has been around for years. Some people argue that a lid helps to keep the ingredients from flying out of the pan, while others say that it prevents the vegetables from getting properly cooked. So, what’s the truth? The answer may surprise you.
Contrary to popular belief, using a lid during stir-fry can actually lead to soggy vegetables. This is because the steam generated by the cooking food will condense on the lid and then drip down into the pan, making the ingredients wet. If you want your vegetables to be crispy and evenly cooked, it’s best to leave the lid off.
Of course, there are exceptions to every rule. If you’re stir-frying delicate ingredients like fish or shrimp, you may want to use a lid to prevent them from drying out or falling apart. And if you’re cooking in a particularly hot wok, a lid can help to regulate the temperature and prevent the food from burning. Ultimately, whether or not to use a lid is a matter of personal preference. Experiment and see what works best for you.
How to clean a wok lid?
Woks are a versatile tool in the kitchen, perfect for stir-frying, braising, and deep-frying. But because of their size and shape, they can be tricky to clean. The wok lid is especially challenging, as it has a tendency to trap grease and food particles. Here are a few tips for getting your wok lid clean and keeping it in good condition. First, soak the lid in warm soapy water for several minutes to loosen any stubborn dirt. Then, use a soft brush or cloth to scrub away any remaining residue. Rinse the lid well and dry it with a clean towel. To prevent the build-up of grease, you can also rub the inside of the lid with a little cooking oil after each use. With proper care, your wok lid will last for many years of cooking enjoyment.
FAQ
Well, stir fry in general does not need a lid. However, a wok has a versatile functionality other than just stir-frying when you are using it in your kitchen.
For example, you need a wok lid to steam, stock, braise, sear, boil, etc other than just stir-frying. And a wok lid will help you to convert a wok pan into a wholesome cooking tool.
A wok is a versatile cooking tool that can be used for everything from stir-frying to steaming. When it comes to using a lid with a wok, there are pros and cons to consider. One of the main advantages of using a lid is that it helps to retain heat, which can speed up the cooking process. In addition, a lid can help to prevent splattering and keep ingredients from flying out of the wok. However, there are also some disadvantages to using a lid. For one thing, it can trap the steam, making it difficult to achieve the desired level of crispness when stir-frying. In addition, a lid can make it harder to see what’s going on inside the wok, which can lead to overcooking. Ultimately, whether or not you use a lid with your wok is up to you. Experiment with both methods and see what works best for your cooking style.
When it comes to cooking stir-fry, there are two schools of thought. Some people argue that a lid is essential in order to trap in the heat and prevent the food from drying out. Others contend that a lid is unnecessary and can actually lead to overcooked vegetables. So, what’s the verdict? The answer may depend on the type of stir-fry you’re making. If you’re using a large pan or wok, you may find that a lid is helpful in keeping the heat evenly distributed. However, if you’re using a smaller pan, you may find that a lid traps too much heat and makes it difficult to control the cooking process. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not to use a lid when stir-frying. Experiment with both methods and see what works best for you.
There are two ways to measure a wok lid. The first is to measure the diameter of the wok at the top. The second is to measure the circumference of the wok at the top. To measure the diameter, simply use a ruler or tape measure to find the distance across the wok at its widest point. To measure the circumference, wrap a tape measure around the wok and then multiply that number by 3.14. The measurement you get will be slightly larger than the diameter, but it will give you a more accurate estimate of the size of the wok lid. Either way, once you have your measurement, you can then shop for a wok lid that is the same size.
A wok is a unique kitchen tool that allows for quick, intense cooking. It is typically used for stir-frying, but it can also be used for steaming, deep-frying, and braising. One of the key features of a wok is its concave shape, which helps to distribute heat evenly and prevent food from sticking. However, this concave shape also makes it difficult to find a lid that fits properly. If you don’t have a lid for your wok, there are a few different ways to cover it. One option is to use a large plate or bowl. Another option is to use foil or parchment paper, making sure to secure it tightly around the edges of the wok. With a little creativity, you can easily find a way to cover your wok without a lid.
Woks are an essential part of many Asian cuisines, and they can be used to cook a wide variety of dishes. One of the most important parts of a wok is the lid, which helps to trap heat and prevent spillages. If you have a wok with a wooden lid, it’s important to clean it properly to prevent the wood from drying out or developing stains. The first step is to remove any dirt or debris from the surface of the wood. This can be done with a soft cloth or brush. Next, fill the wok with water and add a mild detergent. Place the lid in the water and let it soak for several minutes. Finally, use a soft sponge or cloth to scrub away any remaining dirt or residue. Rinse the lid well and dry it before using it again. With proper care, your wooden wok lid will last for years to come.
