Many people wonder how to clean their woks. A wok is a common tool whether making Pad Thai for Friday dinner or copying your favourite Chinese takeout recipe. The round-bottomed wok may not be something you use every day. You might have questions about how to clean it, especially if it becomes rusty.
Cast iron and carbon steel are the most popular types of woks. While they require different cooking techniques and cleaning, both should be treated and maintained in the same manner. Here’s a quick guide to cleaning a wok.
How to clean a Wok’s Bottom?
Be aware that metal scrubbers and harsh cleaners should not be used on the wok. It’s better to use hot water to remove food stains and gently scrub with a sponge or a wok brush. You could also damage the wok’s surface by rubbing the patina.
A credit card with a good track record is the best scrubber. First, heat water in the wok and then use a credit card to scrub the wok. You can use the card to mould to the wok’s sides and remove stuck-on food.
It won’t damage your wok and patina. Dry the wok after cleaning and put it on the stove on low heat until all moisture is gone. To prevent rusting, store when cool and dry.
Cleaning using baking soda
Baking soda is a natural way to clean your wok. Baking soda is a great option, and you probably already have it at home.
Heat the wok on the stove. Add water to the wok and mix in the baking soda. Most likely, you will need only a couple of tablespoons. After boiling, reduce the heat. Allow the wok to soak in the solution for several hours. Use a sponge to rub the residue off your wok or a brush to remove it.
Although this method is more time-consuming, it won’t cause any damage to your wok. Baking soda is also very effective, so this should be considered if you have failed to succeed with the first method.
Cleaning using vinegar
Grease can be removed with the acid of vinegar. This is a quick and easy way to remove grease from woks and this hack is great for all types of woks.
- You should fill the sink with enough straight vinegar to completely submerge your wok’s bottom.
- Let it sit for about an hour before you use a scrub.
- To remove the grease, use a toothbrush, Dawn, and water.
Cleaning with white wine and salt
Although vinegar soak is excellent, sometimes you need to use some type of an abrasive like salt.
- For about an hour, soak the wok in white wine.
- Salt the bottom of your wok after that.
- Sprinkle some Dawn on the scrubby.
- You can scrub the bottom with a brush and add more salt or dish soap as necessary.
Cleaning using oven cleaners
Oven cleaner is an excellent way to get rid of grease and other substances from woks. Oven cleaner is safe, even though it might make you feel nervous about putting it on your cookware. This method works best with ceramic and non-stick cookware.
- Place the bottom of your wok in the oven cleaner.
- Then wait for a couple of hours.
- To scrub the bottom, use a scrubbing brush.
- To remove any oven cleaner residues, wash your hands in warm soapy water.
Using ketchup for cleaning
Although it might seem strange to apply ketchup to the bottom of your woks, it can be used to remove grease and soften it. This hack takes a little longer to set than some others.
- In ketchup, cover the bottom of your frying pan.
- Let it sit for several hours.
- To scrub, use a scouring knife and a pinch Dawn.
- Rinse and enjoy.
Cleaning using Bar Keepers Friend
Bar Keepers Friend is another ingredient that can be used to remove greasy residue from a wok. It works at the molecular level to break down grease. It is excellent for woks and stainless steel skillets.
- Bar Keepers Friend will need enough water to make a paste.
- This can be done by using scouring paper.
- To scrub the bottom of your wok, use circular motions.
- Rinse with hot soapy water and wash your hands.
General cleaning of the wok
Refer to the instructions included with your wok. You can usually place aluminium, stainless steel, and copper woks in the dishwasher. Cast iron and carbon steel woks need special care to ensure that seasoning isn’t removed in cleaning. These are the steps to clean your wok:
- Use warm or hot water to rinse the wok.
- You can wash it with pure boiling water if you have to.
- Use a sponge or a wok brush to remove food particles gently.
- Avoid using scoring pad, soaps, sanitizers, or any kind of washing chemical to clean your wok.
- All loosened material should be rinsed.
- Use a towel to dry the wok completely.
- To finish drying and evaporating water, heat the wok on a medium-high heat.
- To preserve the wok’s natural patina, apply a thin layer of oil or butter if you don’t plan to use it for more than a week.
Food stains that are stubborn
This simple process is suitable for most food stains. However, there may be some food that has been burned on your wok. If this happens, you may need to take further steps to clean your wok.
Begin by soaking the wok for a few moments in hot water. Hot water will loosen food particles. Next, use a sponge or a wok brush to clean the wok.
You might need to use a steel wool or a scrubber. While not recommended, these methods may work. You can remove some patina by rubbing your wok with an abrasive instrument. You can also reseason your wok by doing this.
Conclusion
You can now clean your wok’s bottom and enjoy it being clean. Your wok’s performance will be enhanced and its life expectancy extended by regular cleaning. You can avoid food stains or burnt foods by cleaning your wok promptly after every use.
