Topics:

• How to season a new wok
• What oil to use for seasoning a wok
• How to prepare wok for first use

Answer:

Seasoning a new carbon steel wok will result in the best cooking experience and the most flavorful results.

• Properly seasoning the wok gives it a nonstick surface and helps to sear food.
• Seasoning a wok requires dish soap, a steel wool pad, cooking oil, tongs, and a soft cloth or paper towel.
  • Grapeseed oil is recommended, but most oils also work, including vegetable, canola, peanut, or coconut.

1. Wash new wok with warm, soapy water and steel wool to remove residual oil from manufacturing.
2. Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth or towel.
3. Place wok on the wok burner over high heat. The bottom interior will begin to turn blue.
4. To season the sides, use heat-safe mitts or towels to hold the wok handles. Tilt and slowly turn the wok so that seasoned sections overlap.
5. Turn off flame.
6. Use tongs to hold a small clean cloth or paper towel. Wet cloth with oil and use it to generously apply oil to the bottom and sides of wok, coating the surface.
7. Turn on ventilation.
8. Place wok over flame at medium heat. The wok will smoke slightly.
9. Repeat process 3-5 times prior to first cooking.