The Cooks' Den » Woks & Stir-Fry Pans http://www.thecooksden.com Cooking Tools - Gear for Cooks and Chefs Thu, 27 Oct 2011 04:49:11 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 Green Gourmet Wok by Cuisinart | GreenGourmet Ceramic Nonstick Eco Friendly Recycled Cookware http://www.thecooksden.com/green-gourmet-wok-by-cuisinart-greengourmet-ceramic-nonstick-eco-friendly-recycled-cookware/ http://www.thecooksden.com/green-gourmet-wok-by-cuisinart-greengourmet-ceramic-nonstick-eco-friendly-recycled-cookware/#comments Thu, 29 Sep 2011 19:47:33 +0000 Sharon http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=12790 Green Gourmet Wok by Cuisinart The GreenGourmet line from Cuisinart is a really great idea conceptually. Both product and packaging are made from materials that are recycled, better for the environment, and healthier for your body. This wok is just one of many GreenGourmet options to choose from, and it holds up like the rest.

The solid construction is made out of hard anodized aluminum, a material that heats up quickly and requires less energy to maintain high temperatures. The wok is coated inside with ceramic-based non-stick coating, not petroleum-based -- just one more way to conserve resources. It's also PTFE and PFOA-free. All stainless steel parts are made from 70% recycled materials, and the product packaging is 100% recycled and printed with soy ink.

This wok measures 12 inches in diameter and comes with a tight-fitting glass lid. The handles are stay-cool, and it's still safe in oven temperatures up to 500 degrees as well as under the broiler. Cuisinart also covers this GreenGourmet product with a limited lifetime warranty.

At first, this GreenGourmet wok offers a lot more non-stick action than an ordinary stainless steel pan. After a while, though, it's possible that the surface could become more reminiscent of stainless steel. Some users mention that after 6 months or so, it's not as non-stick as it was out of the box. However, most cooks don't report any problems at all. In any case, it's best to follow the manufacturer's cooking and maintenance instructions to extend the life of the pan, such as not exposing it to extreme stovetop temperatures or not washing it in the dishwasher.

Compare this GreenGourmet wok with the Joyce Chen Wok Set, another eco-friendly alternative.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/green-gourmet-wok-by-cuisinart-greengourmet-ceramic-nonstick-eco-friendly-recycled-cookware/feed/ 0 Swiss Diamond Wok, Nonstick | Dishwasher Safe Cast Aluminum w/ Lid & Rack http://www.thecooksden.com/swiss-diamond-wok-nonstick-dishwasher-safe-cast-aluminum-w-lid-rack/ http://www.thecooksden.com/swiss-diamond-wok-nonstick-dishwasher-safe-cast-aluminum-w-lid-rack/#comments Tue, 31 May 2011 19:04:02 +0000 Sharon http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=12394 Swiss Diamond Wok, Nonstick To me, this Swiss Diamond Wok is a stand-out product for two reasons: the cooking surface and the added features. Both are things that don't normally come with every wok purchase. Time to take a closer look.

First, the cooking surface is unlike any other on the market. It's made from real diamond crystals, the hardest material known to man. Swiss Diamond uses this diamond surface in a cast aluminum pan that they advertise will never "peel, crack or blister." All that, and it's non-stick, too. A virtually indestructible pan would also allow cooks to use metal utensils liberally, since they wouldn't affect the surface.

Second, not every wok comes with a rack attachment and a special lid like this one does. The rack is used for deep-fat frying; when draining fat or oil from the pan, the rack keeps the food in place. Additionally, the tempered glass lid also works as a steam vent via the center handle.

The standard, "typical" cookware features are there as well. The Swiss Diamond Wok has a flat surface that is safe for use on all electric, gas, and ceramic cooktops. It's also dishwasher safe and is OK to use in the oven up to 500 degrees F.

With all its nifty features, however, keep in mind that this wok has a chance of not living up to your expectations. It's a gamble. I've used this pan for a while and don't have any problems with it -- then again, I don't take chances with metal utensils and I normally wash it by hand. Swiss Diamond's "virtually indestructible" claims don't necessarily mean "perfectly indestructible." There's always room for imperfections, and that's not something I want to test to the max, since Swiss Diamond's limited lifetime warranty and customer service can be a bit of a gamble as well. In any case, I feel it's a good habit to treat any of my cookware items with care, regardless of whether or not it's made to withstand more than it should. So far, so good.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/swiss-diamond-wok-nonstick-dishwasher-safe-cast-aluminum-w-lid-rack/feed/ 0 Joyce Chen Pro Chef Wok | Unseasoned Carbon Steel 14 Inch http://www.thecooksden.com/joyce-chen-pro-chef-wok-unseasoned-carbon-steel-14-inch/ http://www.thecooksden.com/joyce-chen-pro-chef-wok-unseasoned-carbon-steel-14-inch/#comments Tue, 22 Sep 2009 19:18:09 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=7712 Joyce Chen Pro Chef Wok You can pair the benefits of fast food with home cooking if you know how to use a wok effectively. The actual cooking time is very brief, and wonderful meals with balanced nutrition and exceptional flavor are possible. This is an excellent way to spice up day to day cooking or to get more vegetables into your diet. Foods are cooked lightly, so they retain their crunch and their nutrients.

Pair a traditional wok, like this Joyce Chen model, with one of the many exceptional rice cookers from Sanyo or Zojirushi, and you're already halfway to dinner before you have cut a single slice of radish. Prepackaged, prewashed veggie mixes can be tossed right into the hot, oiled wok, or you can take a few spare minutes to chop your own blend of favorites.

Don't feel like you have to pick a cartload of options. The best meals focus on one or two ingredients plus seasoning, allowing the flavors to combine and enhance one another. That means the possible combinations are endless. If you're unsure about exotic ingredients, stick to familiar choices like broccoli, carrots, or zucchini, then try a single something new: Napa cabbage, bean sprouts, water chestnuts. You will be surprised how different even items you've eaten for decades can taste when prepared in this fashion.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/joyce-chen-pro-chef-wok-unseasoned-carbon-steel-14-inch/feed/ 0 Joyce Chen Classic 4 Piece Wok Set | Carbon Steel 14 Inch w/ Maple Handles http://www.thecooksden.com/joyce-chen-classic-4-piece-wok-set-carbon-steel-14-inch-w-maple-handles/ http://www.thecooksden.com/joyce-chen-classic-4-piece-wok-set-carbon-steel-14-inch-w-maple-handles/#comments Sun, 07 Jun 2009 21:05:37 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=4907 Joyce Chen Classic 4 Piece Wok Set The Classic Set includes a wok with maple wood handles, dome lid, bamboo spatula, and a recipe booklet. The pan has a 1.8mm carbon steel body made for rapid heating and a great fit with gas or electric burners. Carbon steel is THE material people who want to cook traditional Asian cuisine flock to. Heat your wok before you add the oil for food that won't stick. It should just begin to lightly smoke or make droplets of water sizzle when they are dropped in the pan.

There are a couple of kinds of cooks: those who can adapt and work with more complicated products and those who simply aren't cut out for it. There's no shame in being who you are. The trick is realizing the category you fit best and sticking to it when you purchase pieces for your kitchen.

If you are the former, you will enjoy this lovely carbon steel wok. You will lovingly season the pan, never clean it harshly, and oil it after each use. If you're the latter, you will likely be displeased that the pan rusts if it isn't dried and oiled. You'll be angry that it isn't nonstick because you'll tend to cook in it differently than someone with a bit more experience. It's ok to be the type of cook you are, as long as you understand that the wok isn't to blame.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/joyce-chen-classic-4-piece-wok-set-carbon-steel-14-inch-w-maple-handles/feed/ 1 Traditional Cast Iron Wok Set | Stir Fry Pan w/ Aluminum Lid and Spatula http://www.thecooksden.com/traditional-cast-iron-wok-set-stir-fry-pan-w-aluminum-lid-and-spatula/ http://www.thecooksden.com/traditional-cast-iron-wok-set-stir-fry-pan-w-aluminum-lid-and-spatula/#comments Sat, 18 Apr 2009 00:53:43 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=4377 Traditional Cast Iron Wok Set This five piece traditional cast iron wok set is made in China. The two handles make it possible to manipulate the wok with greater control. The set includes the wok, cooking ring, stainless steel spatula, aluminum lid, and bamboo cleaning whisk. Special attention should be paid to the directions for cleaning and seasoning the wok as this is essential to its longevity and performance.

The wok is a versatile piece of cookware, accommodating more than just a stir fry. Cooks can deep fry, roast, steam, simmer and braise in the pan. The cooking surface extends well into the tall sides. High heat is used, so careful attention must be paid and an oil which can withstand a high temperature without smoking is required. Typically, peanut oil is used, but corn or soybean oil serve well.

Small amounts of food per batch are best and can be prepared quickly and easily. Because the cooking is fast, all foods should be prepared ahead of time and ready for addition to the pan. Uniform pieces work best as they cook at a similar rate.

The wok requires less oil than a regular pan and its shape allows a cook to keep food moving over the heat without losing any over the side of the pan. The ring enables the wok to perform better on an electric stove, but care should be taken as some say that round-bottomed woks can reflect heat and damage the elements.

If you need another wok for an elegant dinner party, see the Mauviel Cuprinox Pour La Table copper wok.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/traditional-cast-iron-wok-set-stir-fry-pan-w-aluminum-lid-and-spatula/feed/ 0 Mauviel Cuprinox Pour La Table Wok | Copper Stainless Bronze Handles http://www.thecooksden.com/mauviel-cuprinox-pour-la-table-wok-copper-stainless-bronze-handles/ http://www.thecooksden.com/mauviel-cuprinox-pour-la-table-wok-copper-stainless-bronze-handles/#comments Thu, 16 Apr 2009 17:16:11 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/mauviel-cuprinox-pour-la-table-wok-copper-stainless-bronze-handles/ Mauviel Cuprinox Pour La Table Wok Mauviel has manufactured a highly efficient version of the traditional wok. Wok cooking requires high temperatures to stir fry, deep fry, braise, steam, simmer or roast items. Both intensity of heat and control over the degree of that heat are essential.

Mauviel's Cuprinox Pour La Table Wok provides exactly the environment necessary through the use of a 2 mm thick copper exterior. The construction and materials used allow heat to travel evenly across the pan, well into the sides. The sides flare widely with a relatively small flat spot on the bottom.

The interior is composed of non reactive stainless steel, capable of heavy use and cleaned easily once the meal is complete. The wok is equipped with a varnished long bronze handle, plus a carrying handle, both attached with stainless steel rivets. The wok has a polished exterior. Hand washing is recommended. The wok comes with a limited lifetime warranty.

Mauviel began nearly 170 years ago in the Normandy region of France. Today, their facilities are state of the art, but it is still a family owned business. Mauviel is located in Villedieu Les Poeles (the city of copper), an historic location where traveling knights of the Crusades stopped and taught the craft of copper manufacture, still the center of such manufacturing today.

Also see this Mauviel Splayed Saute Pan.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/mauviel-cuprinox-pour-la-table-wok-copper-stainless-bronze-handles/feed/ 0 Calphalon One Everyday Pan | Hard Anodized Aluminum Nonstick 10 Inch http://www.thecooksden.com/calphalon-one-everyday-pan-hard-anodized-aluminum-nonstick-10-inch/ http://www.thecooksden.com/calphalon-one-everyday-pan-hard-anodized-aluminum-nonstick-10-inch/#comments Tue, 07 Apr 2009 17:55:58 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=3431 Calphalon One Everyday Pan The hard anodized interior and exterior of this pan have been infused with a nonstick polymer. The aluminum provides great distribution of heat and helps to cook without burning or hot spots. The nonstick allows speedy cleanup and provides easy release of food. Cook with less oil and finish with a pan which will resist stubborn stains.

The ergonomically shaped handles are generously proportioned and stay cool on the stove. Rolled sides and edges aid in the preparation of foods like omelettes and are great for those foods you need to keep moving in the pan. The flat rims help you pour without spilling. The entire pan is stain resistant and safe for metal utensils. The pan can be used in ovens up to 700 degrees. The tempered glass lid is domed, helping draw moisture back into your dishes; it lets you view the cooking process without lifting the lid and losing valuable nutrients. And as always, Calphalon comes with a lifetime warranty.

Nonstick coating on the pan's exterior? Why have we waited so long for this?! Extremely easy upkeep, the benefits of cooking with aluminum's handling of heat- what a marriage of convenience. The unique bowl shape makes it nice to place right on the table for serving. This pan has gone right to the top of the list of favorites. Some people never bother to put it away.

Compare this with the Cuisinart Chef's Classic Everyday Pan.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/calphalon-one-everyday-pan-hard-anodized-aluminum-nonstick-10-inch/feed/ 0 All-Clad Stainless Fry Pan | Kitchen Deep Skillet Aluminum 12 Inch http://www.thecooksden.com/all-clad-stainless-fry-pan-kitchen-deep-skillet-aluminum-12-inch/ http://www.thecooksden.com/all-clad-stainless-fry-pan-kitchen-deep-skillet-aluminum-12-inch/#comments Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:23:04 +0000 Dan http://www.thecooksden.com/all-clad-stainless-fry-pan-kitchen-deep-skillet-aluminum-12-inch/ All-Clad Stainless Fry Pan Many folks shopping for cookware balk at the high prices commanded by the All-Clad line. Chefs and cooking professionals don't, because we understand the value of a top quality tool. For me, a fry pan that won't let me down is worth its weight in gold. Otherwise known as a skillet, this is the pan that gets the most use in my kitchen.

The pots and pans in the All-Clad line are manufactured in a unique way that bonds multiple layers of heavy stainless steel with a thick aluminum core. This results in a pan with exceptional heat dispersing qualities throughout. That means you can do your cooking with greater control and less heat. The stainless steel interior has no nonstick coating applied. The highly polished surface is naturally resistant to sticking, and as long as you follow the instructions for use you will find that it performs as well as any coated pan, and last much longer. These pans carry a lifetime warranty against defects.

This fry pan, like the others in the line, has a magnetic steel exterior that is said to perform equally well on an induction cooktop as well as any standard burner. The weight provides good balance during use and the extra long handle stays cool to the touch. Keep in mind, this cookware requires a bit more care than some. You must pay attention to the cooking temperature and keep the heat lower than you might be used to. Also, if the interior becomes stained or coated from foods cooked at too high a heat it will affect the stick-resistance and need to be cleaned thoroughly to bring back the polished finish.

These pans are manufactured right here in America, at the All-Clad plant in Pennsylvania. So you can call the purchase an economy booster as well as an investment in your own cookware account.

Compare this with the All-Clad Stainless Steel French Skillet.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/all-clad-stainless-fry-pan-kitchen-deep-skillet-aluminum-12-inch/feed/ 1 Lodge Pro Logic Wok | Cast Iron Stir Fry Pan | 14 Inch w/ Loop Handles http://www.thecooksden.com/lodge-pro-logic-wok-kitchen-stir-fry-14-inch-cast-iron-loop-handles/ http://www.thecooksden.com/lodge-pro-logic-wok-kitchen-stir-fry-14-inch-cast-iron-loop-handles/#comments Wed, 11 Feb 2009 02:31:17 +0000 Lora http://www.thecooksden.com/lodge-pro-logic-wok-kitchen-stir-fry-14-inch-cast-iron-loop-handles/ Lodge Pro Logic Wok Pro Logic items, including this cast-iron wok, are pre-seasoned with a proprietary "electrostatic" vegetable oil spray system. This readies the wok for cooking right out of the box, saving you time by pre-seasoning the wok for you. The oil spray system also creates a nonstick finish that helps preserve the cookware. Subsequently, you may be paying more for this wok than others, but it's an investment that will pay for itself many times over as you pass the wok on to future generations.

The wok, which measures 14 inches in diameter and 4 1/2 inches deep, allows plenty of room to cook family-size meals. With its heavy-duty cast-iron construction and unique flat bottom, heat spreads evenly across the wok and up its gently sloping sides. Food heats evenly, the temperature never wavering. This is ideal for stir-frying, braising, and simmering.

Because the base is flat, this wok can be used directly on an electric or gas range without a ring to hold the wok steady. This helps the heat rapidly transfer from the burner to the wok. Two large loop handles make the wok easy to handle.

Hand washing is recommended, as with all cast-iron cookware, but the wok's rustproof, nonstick finish makes cleaning easy.

There's no need to take risks with another product when everything you could want in a wok is right here. Besides, the wok comes with a lifetime warranty, making this one of the safest investments you'll find in today's market.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/lodge-pro-logic-wok-kitchen-stir-fry-14-inch-cast-iron-loop-handles/feed/ 0 Cuisinart Classic Stir Fry Wok Pan | Kitchen Stainless Aluminum 14 Inch w/ Lid http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-classic-stir-fry-wok-pan-kitchen-stainless-aluminum-14-inch-w-lid/ http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-classic-stir-fry-wok-pan-kitchen-stainless-aluminum-14-inch-w-lid/#comments Wed, 11 Feb 2009 02:31:16 +0000 Lora http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-classic-stir-fry-wok-pan-kitchen-stainless-aluminum-14-inch-w-lid/ Cuisinart Classic Stir Fry Wok Pan Cuisinart's Classic Stainless 14-inch Stir Fry is part of its new variety of specialty pieces offered in their Chef's Classic Stainless Cookware series. These specialty pieces make everyday cooking tasks a pleasure.

You may wonder how a stir-fry pan is different from a skillet. First of all, the gently sloped sides of the stir-fry pan allow you to quickly rotate or stir ingredients in the pan without worrying about the meat, vegetables, or sauces spilling over the sides. Plus, the Cuisinart Stir-Fry's smoothly tapered rim eliminates drips and spills while pouring.

The pan's aluminum encapsulated base heats quickly and evenly eliminating hot spots that would burn your food. And the tight fitting stainless steel lid seals in moisture and nutrients for healthier, more flavorful food.

Because the Cuisinart Stir-Fry is oven safe to 550 F, you can use it on the stovetop, in the oven, or under the broiler. It's also freezer safe for easy storage. Talk about versatile.

And it's attractive to boot. The Stir-Fry pan is made of 18/10 mirror-finished stainless steel giving it a polished, professional look. It performs professionally, too. The cooking surface does not discolor, react with food, or alter flavors.

Stir-fry is a quick, healthy, and flavorful one-dish meal that the whole family can enjoy. And it's easy to make when you have an easy-to-use pan like this one.

Plus it comes with a lifetime warranty. What more could you ask for?

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