When you want to create a wonderful dinner quickly, the best electric wok can be used to whip up your favorite recipes. If you’re cooking multiple dishes at once or simply don’t want to heat up the stove, these woks may be a better option. However, because there are so many to pick from these days, and more people are learning how practical and adaptable these pans are, finding the ideal model can take some serious study.
I’ve put together this buyer’s guide, which includes all of the important features to look for, frequently asked questions, and the benefits that come with using one.
Contents
Benefits of an electric wok appliance for cooking
There are various advantages to using an electric wok. Aside from the fact that they cook great food, they have a few advantages over other woks. Let us look at a few of them:
1) Storage:
Electric woks are compact and versatile, making them ideal for use at home. Their design allows you to simply push them into your cabinet. They can even be stacked in the corner of your kitchen. They also have a nice appearance, unlike the hefty iron woks that have to be hidden somewhere. As a result, you may use them even at the dining table with guests all around and the food will be cooked there. Aside from a pleasant conversation, you might also share some of the delicious aromas coming from the wok. Storage is a great concern for a home chef, so don’t forget to take a look at the best wok for home for the best options.
2) Portable:
Because these woks are powered by electricity, they may be used wherever there is a power socket. You might take it with you when you go camping or on other travels. All it requires to work is an electrical supply. As a result, even if you are traveling to a location where you will not have access to a kitchen or fuel, you may prepare food in your electric wok.
So if you are ready to go on camping, check out our listing of the best camping wok and get the best wok for your travel needs. And if you travel in your RV, you can check out our list of the best woks for RV.
3) Cooking:
A wok is great for stir-frying and noodles, veggie fried rice, spaghetti, ground turkey, French fries, and meat sauce. Cooking is made even more convenient by the fact that it is powered by electricity. You may cook omelets, hash brown potatoes, and stew in this wok, among other things. In fact, anything you can cook in a pan will fit in a wok. You can also deep-fry in a wok. If you love to make deep-fried food at home, it’ll be great if you take a look at the best wok for deep frying.
4) Easy Cleaning:
Electric woks are relatively easy to clean and maintain. Because they are usually composed of nonstick material, you won’t have to clean as much. Also, they are usually detachable from their base for easy cleaning.
Non-stick woks are way easier to clean compared to any other type of material and you won’t have the complaint that the food is sticking to your wok. I think these features are enough to convince you to buy one for yourself.
5) No stove needed:
The most significant advantage of an electric wok is that it does not require any fuel or heating element to cook meals. You only require electricity. So, in the summer, when the temperatures are exceedingly high, it becomes very convenient to stand in the kitchen and cook for hours.
Did You Know? There are many recipes you can prepare with an electric wok. Electric woks are large enough to cook a whole chicken or roast. You can learn more about a wok and some recipes by taking a look at Everyone Can Cook.
Which material should you choose for your wok?
Cast iron is one of the most durable materials on the planet. Its sturdy structure can endure high temperatures and will provide you with excellent cooking results. Although cast iron takes a long time to heat up, it can maintain and conduct heat quite well. Some cast-iron cookware companies pre-season their woks, which gives your food an extra layer of flavor. Our experts have collated a list of the best-cast iron woks if you are looking for one.
On the other hand, woks made of aluminum are lighter as well as easier to handle. Due to the superior thermal conduction qualities of aluminum, the pan will heat up faster, the dish will cook quickly, and less energy will be needed.
Titanium is one of the best cookware materials because of its fast heat conduction and lightweight. This material is also quite long-lasting. The scratch-resistant titanium coating that provides the pan its non-stick qualities prevents the ingredients from sticking into the pan. As a result, it’s perfectly safe to use. Also, check out our expert listing of best titanium wok.
Stainless Steel is a popular choice because it is both affordable and has a neutral style. This means it will blend into most kitchens without looking out of place and will last for a long time. The primary difficulty is that they can rust, and they keep their heat for a long time, so make sure the handle is heat resistant.
Similarly, you can also check out copper woks as they are the finest heat conductors of all metals. For the list of the best copper wok, refer to our expert listing.
Things to consider when buying the best electric wok
Size
Before making your final purchase, consider the size of the base and the wok itself. Do you intend to keep your wok in a cabinet or on the counter? Your plans will influence the size of the unit you purchase. If you wish to cook for your family, the wok should be large enough to accommodate multiple meals. If you live alone and usually cook for one, a small unit with a small wok would suffice.
A 3-quart container is large enough for a solo meal or a small meal for two. If you need to cook for a large group, look for larger woks. Also, keep in mind that a larger unit often comes with a larger base, which will take up more space on your counter or within your cab.
Adjustable heat
Most electric woks allow you to adjust the heat to your liking. You should be able to select high temperatures for wok-style stir-frying, so verify the maximum temperature setting on your desired unit. A top temperature of about 400°F is ideal. Don’t bother with a model that doesn’t get at least that hot.
Construction
A nonstick coating keeps food from sticking to the surface of your wok, but buy a high-quality electric model to avoid the coating flaking. If possible, choose a wok that is free of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). If you wish to avoid nonstick surfaces due to health concerns, use a stainless steel or ceramic wok instead. Talking about ceramic, you can take a look at our list of ceramic woks and add a beautiful piece of cookware to your kitchen.
Traditionally, the bottom of a wok is round, but most electric versions have a flat base. Electric woks are heated by an element, which is normally connected by a base. For uniform heating, a butterfly element is ideal. Check to see if the base is removable for easy cleaning. Refer to best flat bottom woks for more options.
If you’re searching for a product that can help you spend less time in the kitchen, a dishwasher-safe wok is a good option.
Check out our list of the best professional wok if you are looking to buy the best of the best wok.
Lid
Some electric wok models include a lid. A lid is useful if you intend to use the unit for different types of cooking in addition to stir-frying. Opt for a model with a glass lid so you can keep an eye on your food and avoid overcooking. Considering all these factors, I would highly recommend you to get a wok with a lid.
Price
Electric woks range from $25 to $100. For frequent usage, invest in a higher-priced wok made of durable materials. Pick a model made by a trustworthy brand with a decent warranty policy. Take a look at our 25 dollar woks if you are on a tight budget.
Did You Know? Most electric woks feature a nonstick surface on the inside of the wok, giving them an advantage over traditional range-top woks.
A wok can cook anything from Chinese noodles to Thai curry. Mentioning that, check out our listing of best wok for thai curry if you are looking for a wok to make some delicious Thia curry.
Best electric woks – Wok summary list
#1 NuWave Induction Wok – This wok, unlike any other I’ve seen, has better versatility, precision, heat pattern, and control.
#2 Breville Hot Wok BEW600XL – This high-quality electric wok is ideal for cooks of all skill levels and would be a wonderful addition to any kitchen.
#3 VonShef 7.4Qt Electric Wok with Lid – The wok has a sturdy design that can withstand regular usage, although it is fairly limited in terms of the variety of dishes it can prepare.
#4 Presto Stainless Steel Electric Wok – This long-lasting, easy-to-clean wok has an aluminum base for consistent heating, a stainless-steel body and handles, and a tempered glass lid.
#5 Aroma Housewares AEW-306 Electric Wok – This all-in-one package, complete with accessories, provides excellent value and authentic features.
List of top 5 electric woks – Best Rated Electric Woks
#1 NuWave Induction Wok
This wok can reach 575 degrees Fahrenheit in less than a minute, with a digital dial panel that adjusts in 5-degree increments as well as time, and three wattage settings to choose from; no other rival comes close to that level of temperature control.
The round-bottomed, stick-handled carbon steel wok itself is the other big difference and the one that takes it over the top. You can also take a look at round-bottom woks for more options.
Furthermore, most electric woks have smaller side handles and locked-in bases, making flipping impossible—but not this one. A long silicone handle allows you to quickly remove it from the heater and toss it like a pro-mid-cook.
Its strong and sturdy carbon steel construction is one of the key reasons it’s on the top of the list. Check out more options like this by clicking here.
User Experience
According to its users, if you like cooking Chinese food then buy this. They liked that it heats much faster than an average electric wok. They mentioned that this Wok is easy to use and clean. One of the users commented that the food comes out delicious and is consistent every time. No significant complaints by the users.
Pros
- Reaches high temperatures quickly
- Traditional round bottom, long handle, and carbon steel material
- Can be removed from the base while cooking
- Includes lid, draining rack, and wok stand
Cons
- Carbon steel requires seasoning and extra care
My Verdict: The NuWave Mosaic induction wok set is unlike anything else I’ve seen, offering versatility, precision, heat patterns, and control that far surpass any other technology out there. Refer to our expert listing of the best induction woks for more options.
#2 Breville Hot Wok BEW600XL
This stainless-steel electric wok has a power output of 1500 watts and a maximum temperature of 425 degrees. This model is built of aluminum, which uniformly distributes heat and encourages a faster cooking time. The pan has a six-quart cooking capacity and fifteen precision heat settings, allowing you to select the appropriate temperature based on the meal you wish to prepare.
It also comes with a clear glass lid, allowing you to keep an eye on your food while it cooks without having to remove the top. Removing the lid can have the heat and steam escape, this can have a negative impact on the cooking process. Check out best wok with steamer for more similar options.
The lid and pan are both dishwashers safe; simply remove the pan from the base.
User Experience
Users liked that it heats up quickly and evenly. Users mentioned that they can clean the wok with a wet towel, it has an awesome non-stick surface so food does not stick. They also mentioned that it’s big, it’s heavy, and the heating element is solid and easy to control. One of the customers commented that this wok is the best kitchen thing she’s ever gotten. There’s a reason why it’s expensive – it’s because it’s that good. Some of the users were complaining that wok got scratches and the coating was chipping off after a while of use.
Pros
- Made out of aluminum
- Fifteen precision heat settings
- Dishwasher safe lid and pan
- Butterfly heating element
Cons
- Nonstick coating scratches easily
My Verdict: This will allow you to cook delicate dishes that are very sensitive to even the slightest temperature change.
Take a look at best-hammered steel wok if you want more options of good quality stainless steel woks.
#3 VonShef 7.4Qt Electric Wok with Lid
This is a fairly large electric wok, having a cooking capacity of 7.4 quarts. This model is likewise constructed of aluminum, so it conducts heat extremely well. This 14-inch model has a nonstick coating, allowing you to cook healthily without using butter or oils.
This wok also has temperature control; simply use the included rotary dial to select one of four heat settings. Unfortunately, the lack of other heat settings can limit the types of meals you can create, therefore this wok is not advised for use while preparing delicate cuisine.
User Experience
Users mentioned that it heats up quickly and works quite well. They also mentioned that clean-up is remarkably easy. One of the customers’ commented that it’s one of the best cooking gadgets that she has ever used. They also mentioned that it heats up fast and is hot enough to sear meat, fry bacon, stir fry. Love to stir fry food? We have a perfect list of woks for stir fry to help you out.
No significant complaints by the users.
Pros
- Silicone cool-touch handles
- Lid included
- Large cooking capacity
- Pan is made out of aluminum
Cons
- Only four heat setting options
My Verdict: This model offers a large cooking capacity which can be great for a family.
This wok might be too big for some, but don’t worry, we have a list of the best 12-inch woks just for you.
#4 Presto Stainless Steel Electric Wok
This sturdy electric wok is made of stainless steel and has a power output of 1500 watts. The base is built of aluminum, which allows for even and quick heating. Each side of the wok has a side loop handle, making it easier to transfer the wok from surface to surface. This model also includes a lid made of tempered glass, which is meant to withstand extreme heat.
The wok is dishwasher safe and detaches effortlessly from the base. The lid can be washed in the dishwasher as well. This model also includes a long-handled wooden spatula, however, it is not dishwasher safe and must be washed by hand.
Being made of stainless steel, you won’t face any annoying rusting problems. Talking about that, you should also take a look at the best rustproof woks for more options.
User Experience
Users really liked that it is dishwasher and sink safe making cleaning up a breeze. They mentioned that this wok heats precisely and quickly. It is pretty big so make sure you have someplace to store it when not in use. Users also mentioned that the clear glass lid makes it easy to see how things are going without having to lift it off. One of the users commented that she made a chicken stir fry for six people and it was large enough to handle that which is awesome if you have a big family. If you are looking to cook some bbq, check out our listing of the best bbq wok.
Some of the users, on the other hand, were complaining that the wok gets very hot and burns food and it sticks to the bottom.
Pros
- Handles and body are made out of stainless steel
- Tempered glass lid
- The wok is dishwasher safe
- The base is made out of aluminum
Cons
- Must be seasoned
My Verdict: This wok is a great buy and features the type of rugged design that allows it to easily withstand heavy-duty use due to its stainless steel construction. Refer to best stainless steel woks for more options.
This wok needs to be seasoned before use. Although if you want to escape that, we have a list of pre-seasoned woks which you can directly use.
#5 Aroma Housewares AEW-306 Electric Wok
This wok has a huge seven-quart capacity, making it ideal for large families or the cook who enjoys hosting dinner parties. The wok comes with a huge dome-shaped lid to keep liquids from splattering all over your counters. Furthermore, the convex curve shape allows for great heat circulation, resulting in faster, more even cooking.
The pan’s interior has a smooth nonstick coating that prevents food from clinging to the surface and makes cleanup a breeze. Another reason to buy is the quick heat-up time.
User Experience
Users commented that it’s super easy to clean and is lightweight. They liked the indicator light feature that goes out to let you know when your selected temperature has been reached. Given the price, the users were astonished at the quality of the materials. Users mentioned that they like that the wok is easy to clean as it has a non-stick surface. One of the customers commented that it is a generous size, has good temperature controls, and has a sturdy stand to stay still while stirring. Some of the users were disappointed with the non-stick coating quality. According to them, it was coming off after a while of use. While some users were complaining that the heating was not adequate.
Pros
- Nonstick surface
- Dome-shaped lid
- Fast heat uptime
- Cool-touch base and handle
- Large capacity
Cons
- Cord unplugs from the base easily
My Verdict: This durable wok is perfect for braising, cooking your favorite stir fry, or steaming fresh fish and veggies.
This wok can easily be the best budget wok for large families. You can take a look at our list of the best budget wok for more budget options.
FAQ
1. Can I use olive oil for cooking in an electric wok?
If you’re cooking stir-fries at high heat, we don’t recommend using olive oil, as it has a low smoke point and will burn at high temperatures. Alternatives include avocado oil, canola oil, peanut oil, and sesame oil. Take a look at our list of woks for high heat.
2. What can I cook in an electric wok?
You can cook just about anything you’d cook in a standard pan, including stir-fries, stews, soups, fried rice, and other fried foods, and even popcorn. Most of the people make fried rice at home and search for a wonderful wok to cook in. We have collated a list of best woks for fried rice just for you.
3. How does an electric wok work?
An electric wok is powered by, well, electricity. Like all other non-battery-operated small appliances, you can plug it into any regular outlet to draw power to the base. This base contains a heating element—typically a coil one—that cradles your wok and transmits heat throughout it. Similar coils can be found in your coil stove. If you have such type of stove, I would recommend you to take a look at best wok for coil stove. How fast and how hot it gets depends on the size and pattern of the heating element and the material the cookware is made of.
4. How do you clean an electric wok?
Cleaning practices depend on the electric wok you buy. Typically, the cooking vessel is removable from the base, which is where the heating element usually is. Often, the plug is detachable as well, so that you can clean the base more thoroughly, too. This allows you to soak and wash the wok itself however you would a skillet made of that material. Some are also fully dishwasher safe, from base to basin to lid.
5. What type of wok should you choose for your stovetop?
The kind of stove, as well as the form of heat source (electric or gas), will influence your wok purchase, so think about that first. People generally always prefer a gas flame. For a detailed listing of gas stove models, refer to our expert listing best wok for gas stove.
However, some people have an electric stove, so keep that in mind while choosing a wok. You can take a look at the best wok for an electric stove and make a choice.
Glass top stoves are also very popular these days. They give a modern and elegant look to the kitchen. The gas stoves with glass top are durable, look amazing, and are much easier to clean than the normal stainless-steel top gas stoves. Don’t worry, we have collated a list of best woks for glass stovetops just for you.
Here’s a detailed video to help you out by differentiating between an electric wok and a stovetop wok.
Conclusion
The best electric wok will make preparing your favorite food quick and easy. These pans are extremely versatile, allowing you to cook far more than a simple stir fry. Electric variants are becoming more popular since they heat up rapidly, encourage even cooking, and let you prepare a range of meals in a fraction of the time that a regular wok on the burner would take.
Each of the products on my list received a high rating in a variety of categories, including durability, ease of use, and quality of the product. By selecting one of the models in my top five list, you’ll get a wok that’s robust, reliable, and built to last. We have also collated a list of the best woks which you can check out and choose the wok which suits your needs.
Meanwhile, you can also take a look at the best calphalon woks for some of the best options.
To those who want to read honest reviews and make a solid decision which they will not regret later. Ritik is an enthusiastic writer and what makes him stand out is his extensive knowledge in the field of kitchen gadgets and appliances. Seeing his mom using different gadgets and appliances at home fascinated him more in this niche since the childhood. He loves to share his research and knowledge about all the latest kitchen gadgets and appliances being released in the market and provide his reviews along. He helps his audience decide what will fit the best in their kitchen and what not.
