Woks
Commercial Oriental Woks & Catering Wok Pans
Shop Cooksmill’s range of commercial Oriental woks, designed for restaurants, takeaways and professional kitchens. Choose from carbon steel woks, aluminium woks, non-stick wok pans and Chinese-style cooking woks available in multiple sizes.
Woks are one of the most versatile cookware pieces in any kitchen, known for their ability to handle high heat and fast cooking techniques. Originating in East Asia, woks are widely used around the world for stir-frying, steaming, deep-frying, and simmering. At Cooksmill, our range of woks includes durable options designed for both professional kitchens and home cooking.
Built for High-Heat Cooking
The defining feature of a wok is its deep, sloped shape, which allows heat to concentrate at the base while cooler sides provide flexibility during cooking. This design makes woks ideal for rapid cooking techniques that preserve flavour and texture.
Woks are commonly used for:
- Stir-frying vegetables and noodles
- Cooking meats quickly at high heat
- Deep-frying and shallow frying
- Steaming with inserts
- Preparing soups and broths
This versatility makes them one of the most adaptable cookware options available.
Fast Cooking with Better Flavour
Woks are designed for fast, high-temperature cooking, which helps retain the natural texture and colour of ingredients. Stir-frying in a wok allows food to cook quickly while preserving crispness and flavour, making it ideal for fresh, vibrant dishes.
Traditional and Modern Materials
Cooksmill offers woks in a range of materials to suit different cooking styles. Carbon steel woks are the traditional choice, known for excellent heat responsiveness and flavour development. Stainless steel and non-stick woks provide easier maintenance and convenience for everyday cooking.
Suitable for Multiple Cooking Techniques
One of the biggest advantages of a wok is its versatility. Beyond stir-frying, woks can be used for steaming, braising, frying, and even smoking food with the right accessories.
This makes them popular across:
- Asian cuisine
- Fusion cooking
- Street food setups
- Modern home kitchens
Designed for Professional Kitchens
Woks are widely used in commercial kitchens due to their ability to cook food quickly and efficiently. Their high heat tolerance makes them ideal for busy service environments where speed matters.
Easy to Maintain
Many modern woks are designed for simple maintenance, while traditional carbon steel woks can be seasoned to develop a natural non-stick surface that improves over time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Oriental Woks
What is the best wok for a commercial kitchen?
The best wok for a commercial kitchen depends on your cooking style, heat source and volume of food preparation. Carbon steel woks are a popular choice for restaurants and professional chefs because they heat quickly, are durable and develop a natural non-stick surface with regular use. For busy catering environments, choose a wok size and material that suits your daily cooking requirements.
What size wok is suitable for catering use?
Commercial kitchens often use larger wok sizes than domestic kitchens to handle higher food volumes. Woks between 30cm and 40cm are commonly used for restaurant cooking, while larger sizes may be preferred for busy catering operations, takeaways and high-volume food preparation.
Are carbon steel woks suitable for restaurants?
Yes, carbon steel woks are widely used in professional kitchens. They offer excellent heat distribution, are lightweight compared with some alternatives and are ideal for high-temperature cooking methods such as stir-frying, searing and wok cooking.
What is the difference between an Oriental wok and a standard frying pan?
An Oriental wok has a deep bowl shape that allows ingredients to be moved easily while cooking at high temperatures. The curved sides help distribute heat evenly and make woks ideal for stir-fries, noodles, rice dishes and Asian-inspired cuisine. Unlike a standard frying pan, a wok provides more space for tossing and combining ingredients.
Can commercial woks be used on gas and electric hobs?
Many catering woks are designed for use with gas burners, which provide the high heat traditionally associated with wok cooking. Some wok pans are also suitable for electric and induction cooking, depending on the material and design. Always check the product specifications before purchasing.
How do you maintain a carbon steel wok?
To maintain a carbon steel wok, clean it with warm water and a soft brush after use, avoid harsh detergents where possible and dry it thoroughly. Applying a light coating of cooking oil after cleaning helps protect the surface and maintain its natural seasoning.
What types of food can be cooked in an Oriental wok?
Oriental woks are versatile pieces of cookware suitable for stir-fries, noodles, fried rice, curries, vegetables, seafood and meat dishes. Their large cooking surface makes them ideal for both professional chefs and home cooks preparing a wide range of cuisines.
Where can I buy professional catering woks in the UK?
Cooksmill supplies a range of professional Oriental woks and catering cookware suitable for restaurants, commercial kitchens and food service environments. Choose from different sizes and materials to find the right wok for your cooking needs.
Why Choose Cooksmill Woks?
Cooksmill woks are selected for performance, durability, and versatility. Whether you’re recreating authentic Asian dishes or experimenting with high-heat cooking techniques, our range offers reliable wok options for every kitchen.