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Best Oil For Seasoning Carbon Steel Wok (2024 Updated)

If you’re looking for an easy way to season your carbon steel wok, oil can be your answer! However, not all oils are created equal, and choosing the right one for your wok can be a daunting task. Here are a few factors you should consider before purchasing an oil for seasoning your carbon steel wok.

First, pay attention to the smoke point of the oil. The smoke point is the temperature at which the oil starts to smoke and burn, and it can affect the flavor and the quality of the seasoning. You want to choose an oil with a smoke point higher than the temperature you are using to season your wok. Additionally, consider the flavor of the oil. Some oils, like sesame oil, have a distinct flavor that can influence the taste of the food you are cooking in the wok.

If you’re unsure about which oil is the right one for your wok, you might have a few questions. What is the difference between vegetable oil and canola oil? Is coconut oil a good option? What about grapeseed oil? As a bonus, some oils, like flaxseed oil, have additional health benefits. By finding the right oil for your carbon steel wok, you’ll have an easy time seasoning it and cooking delicious meals.

10 Best Oil For Seasoning Carbon Steel Wok

# Product Image Product Name Product Notes Check Price
1
The product is ideal for seasoning and maintaining cast iron and carbon steel cookware to prevent rust and improve non-stick performance.
2
The product is ideal for frying and sautéing food due to its carbon steel construction that heats up quickly and evenly.
3
It is ideal for seasoning and protecting carbon steel kitchen cookware.
4
Ideal for stir frying and other Asian-style cooking, with carbon steel construction and bamboo handle.
5
Ideal for cooking stir fry and other dishes with less oil on a stove-top.
6
Ideal for cooking stir-fry dishes and other Asian cuisine with a gas stove or open fire.
7
The product is ideal for cooking Chinese-style dishes on a round bottom wok with additional cookware accessories.
8
The product is ideal for cooking with a wok and having a set of high-quality knives in a convenient roll.
9
Ideal for maintaining cast iron and carbon cookware.
10
Ideal for stir-frying, deep frying, sauteing, boiling and steaming a variety of Asian dishes.
The product is ideal for seasoning and maintaining cast iron and carbon steel cookware to prevent rust and improve non-stick performance.
The product is ideal for frying and sautéing food due to its carbon steel construction that heats up quickly and evenly.
Ideal for stir frying and other Asian-style cooking, with carbon steel construction and bamboo handle.
Ideal for cooking stir fry and other dishes with less oil on a stove-top.
Ideal for cooking stir-fry dishes and other Asian cuisine with a gas stove or open fire.
The product is ideal for cooking Chinese-style dishes on a round bottom wok with additional cookware accessories.
The product is ideal for cooking with a wok and having a set of high-quality knives in a convenient roll.
Ideal for stir-frying, deep frying, sauteing, boiling and steaming a variety of Asian dishes.

1. Clean & Restore: Vegan Cast Iron Oil

CLARK'S PREMIUM CAST IRON OIL is the perfect choice for those who want to ensure the longevity of their cast iron or carbon steel pots, pans, skillets, woks, griddles, and dutch ovens. Made from highly refined Food-Grade Coconut Oil, it is a vegan plant-originated oil that provides the best-cast iron cleaner possible.

Prevent moisture damage to your cast iron cookware with this specially formulated cast iron cleaning kit oil. It repels unwanted liquids and moisture, keeping your cooking surfaces rust-free. Unlike mineral oil, this product does not contain any harmful ingredients that can affect the quality of your food.

CLARK'S PREMIUM CAST IRON OIL does not go rancid, unlike other oils such as grapeseed, flaxseed, canola or palm oil. It is a reliable and long-lasting product that does not need to be refrigerated.

This cast iron oil provides a superior finish that helps restore, build, and maintain the natural seasoning of your cookware. Properly seasoned kitchenware is easier to clean and cook with due to its nonstick surface.

Say goodbye to the hassle of seasoning your cookware in the oven. With CLARK'S cast iron oil, there is no need to use the oven to season. Simply apply the oil on a regular basis after cleaning and drying your cookware to save time and money. For better results, wash before applying oil.

Pros

  • Made from highly refined Food-Grade Coconut Oil
  • Specially formulated to repel unwanted liquids and moisture
  • Does not go rancid and does not need to be refrigerated
  • Helps restore, build, and maintain the natural seasoning of your cookware
  • No need to use the oven to season, saving time and money

2. Matfer Bourgeat Black Carbon Steel Fry Pan (11)

The carbon steel pan recommended by America's Test Kitchen is a versatile tool that can be used for a wide range of dishes, including searing meats, browning omelets, grilling fish, and even making desserts. Made of black carbon steel, a natural mineral material, this pan is PTFE and PFOA free and free of any harsh chemicals or coatings, making it a healthy choice for cooking. Once seasoned, it becomes exceedingly non-stick, allowing for easy food release and quick cleanup.

The pan's durable construction includes a steel handle that is welded to the pan's body for extra strength and security. It is free of rivets, ensuring sanitary use, and its angled design makes it ideal for easily sauteeing, stirring, and mixing your dishes. Additionally, this steel pan can withstand and maintain exceedingly high temperatures, and can be used on all hob and stove types, including induction.

Made in France, this pan meets high standards for durability, performance, and hygiene, making it suitable for both commercial and residential use.

Pros

  • Natural non-stick material made of black carbon steel
  • Free of harsh chemicals or coatings, PTFE and PFOA free
  • Durable construction with welded steel handle and angled design
  • Versatile and compatible with all hob and stove types, including induction
  • Meets high standards for durability, performance, and hygiene

3. Made In Cookware – Carbon Steel Seasoning Wax (6 Oz) – Made In Usa – Blend Of Oils & Beeswax

The Made In Cookware Simplified Seasoning – Made In Carbon Steel Seasoning Wax is a must-have for anyone looking to get the most out of their Carbon Steel or Cast Iron Cookware. This seasoning wax takes the confusion out of seasoning your cookware, making it an easy and hassle-free process. The perfect blend of high-smoke point oils, canola and grapeseed, combined with beeswax, easily seals the surface of your cookware, ensuring an even polymerization that keeps food from sticking and rust from developing.

With a smoke point of 400F and 420F, respectively, canola oil and grapeseed oil are the ideal combination for perfect seasoning. The high smoke point of these oils ensures an even polymerization that keeps your cookware from rusting, while also preventing food from sticking to the surface. The beeswax in this seasoning wax adds an extra layer of protection, helping to seal the surface of your cookware and ensuring that it stays in top condition for years to come.

This Made In Cookware Simplified Seasoning – Made In Carbon Steel Seasoning Wax is also incredibly easy to use. It can be used for daily upkeep on your Carbon Steel and Cast Iron Cookware to prevent rusty or dried-out cookware. Simply apply a small amount of wax to your clean and dry cookware, then use a clean cloth to rub it in. This will help to keep your cookware in top condition and ensure that it lasts for years to come.

Pros

  • Easy to use and hassle-free seasoning process
  • Combines two high-smoke point oils, canola and grapeseed, with beeswax for the perfect blend
  • Prevents rust and keeps food from sticking to the surface of your cookware
  • Ideal for daily upkeep to ensure your cookware stays in top condition

4. Helen’s Asian Kitchen 97004 Wok, Carbon Steel And Bamboo, 14-Inches, 14 Inch, Silver

The Helen's Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok is a versatile kitchen tool for stir frying, stewing, sauteing, steaming, braising, frying, and deep frying favorite Asian recipes and more. It is made from 1.8-millimeter carbon steel, which distributes heat quickly and evenly, resulting in perfectly cooked food. The cooking surface collects a natural patina over time for non-stick cooking performance. This wok has a sturdy riveted design and a 2-tone heat-resistant bamboo handle with a helper handle that allows for easy handling and hanging for storage. The flat bottom design sits securely on any stovetop and works with gas, electric, and induction. This product is recyclable, and the bamboo handle is sustainable. Carbon steel is easily seasoned and maintained to help prevent rust, and full instructions are included. Furthermore, this product has a lifetime warranty against manufacturer’s defects.

The Helen's Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok is perfect for those who love to cook Asian-style dishes. The wok heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection. The natural patina that forms over time on the cooking surface provides a non-stick cooking performance, making it easy to clean. The sturdy riveted design and the 2-tone heat-resistant bamboo handle with a helper handle make it easy to handle and store. The wok's flat bottom design allows it to sit securely on any stovetop, making it suitable for use with gas, electric, and induction cooktops. The carbon steel material is recyclable, and the bamboo handle is sustainable, making it an eco-friendly option. The wok is easily seasoned and maintained to help prevent rust, and full instructions are included. Lastly, the lifetime warranty against manufacturer’s defects ensures that customers can use this product with confidence.

If you're looking for a high-quality wok that is perfect for Asian-style cooking, the Helen's Asian Kitchen Carbon Steel Wok is an excellent choice. The wok is made from 1.8-millimeter carbon steel, which ensures quick and even heat distribution. The cooking surface collects a natural patina over time, providing a non-stick cooking performance, and the sturdy riveted design and 2-tone heat-resistant bamboo handle with a helper handle make it easy to handle and hang for storage. The wok's flat bottom design ensures that it sits securely on any stovetop, and it is compatible with gas, electric, and induction cooktops. Carbon steel is recyclable, and the bamboo handle is sustainable, making it an eco-friendly option. The wok is easily seasoned and maintained to help prevent rust, and full instructions are included. Lastly, the lifetime warranty against manufacturer’s defects ensures that customers can use this product with confidence.

Pros

  • Distributes heat quickly and evenly
  • Collects a natural patina over time for non-stick cooking performance
  • Sturdy riveted design
  • 2-tone heat-resistant bamboo handle with helper handle for easy handling and hanging for storage
  • Flat bottom design sits securely on any stovetop and works with gas, electric, and induction cooktops
  • Carbon steel is recyclable and bamboo handle is sustainable
  • Easily seasoned and maintained to help prevent rust
  • Lifetime warranty against manufacturer’s defects

5. Zhensanhuan Iron Woks: Non-Stick And Oil-Free.

Experience the finest quality of woks with our heirloom quality woks. With 12 processes and 36,000 times of hand-hammering, our woks are crafted to perfection. The mirror-like surface of the wok allows ingredients to effortlessly slide inside it. The iron used in the wok is reactive and forms a protective layer of iron oxide that makes it more nonstick with every use. Our woks have no coating or painting, ensuring you never have to worry about the nonstick coating falling off.

Our woks are designed with the classic concaveness, which is not too shallow or too deep, making it perfect for heat conductivity and stir-frying. The wok requires seasoning before use, and the blue-black variant is pre-seasoned but still needs to be fully seasoned. We provide a detailed tutorial video to help you season the wok and turn it into a piece of art.

With a lifetime guarantee, our woks are built to last. In case of any damage, contact us to receive a new one for free.

Pros

  • Heirloom quality wok crafted to perfection
  • Mirror-like surface for effortless ingredient movement
  • No coating or painting, ensuring long-lasting use
  • Classic concaveness design for perfect heat conductivity and stir-frying
  • Detailed tutorial video for seasoning the wok
  • Lifetime guarantee for worry-free use

6. Classic Wok Set With Accessories

This traditional hand hammered wok is made of premium 15 gauge carbon steel, which is heavy and strong, and transfers heat more efficiently. It has a non-chemical coating, making it safe for health and safety. Each Chinese wok pan is carefully hammered by a professional, making it the perfect choice for professional Chinese chefs. The wok set comes with a round bottom wok pan, a wooden handle and a steel helper handle, as well as a wok brush, wok ring, drain oil rack, chopstick, wok spatula, slotted spatula, slotted turner, and soup ladle. With this multifunctional all-in-one wok, it will easily help you make better Asian food. The 13.4" carbon steel wok has a large enough capacity to serve at least 4-6 people of food portions, making it the perfect choice for family gatherings. The wok pan can meet your various traditional cooking needs, like pan-frying, stir-frying, deep-frying, braising, and steaming, etc. However, it is not suitable for flat electric or flat induction stoves. The wok pan has a steel helper handle and a non-slip heat-resistant wooden handle, which is helpful for hanging the wok for storage and safe and comfortable to use. Please refer to the manual for installation when assembling the wooden handle. Please refer to the user manual before use and season the wok. With multiple correct seasonings, you can increase the life and non-stick of the wok pan. Daily maintenance of the wok includes cleaning it in time and keeping it dry after cooking to prevent the wok pan from rusting.

Pros

  • Made of premium 15 gauge carbon steel
  • Has a non-chemical coating, making it safe for health and safety
  • Comes with a variety of cookware
  • Large enough capacity to serve at least 4-6 people of food portions
  • Can meet various traditional cooking needs
  • Has a steel helper handle and a non-slip heat-resistant wooden handle
  • Easy to use and store
  • Multiple correct seasonings can increase the life and non-stick of the wok pan
  • Daily maintenance includes cleaning it in time and keeping it dry after cooking to prevent the wok pan from rusting

Cons

  • – Not suitable for flat electric or flat induction stoves

7. Babish Carbon Steel Wok, 14-Inch & German High-Carbon 1.4116 Steel Cutlery, 3-Piece W/knife Roll

Introducing the Babish 14 Inch Carbon Steel Wok (6" Flat Bottom), the perfect addition to any kitchen. Made from heavy-gauge, carbon steel, this wok ensures rapid and even heat distribution, making it perfect for frying and stir-frying. The riveted wooden handles provide strength and stay cool to the touch, ensuring a safe and comfortable cooking experience. The wok is designed to efficiently absorb oil to build a naturally nonstick capability for easy food release and cleanup, making it a perfect tool for healthy cooking.

The set includes 8” chef’s knife, 8” bread knife, 3.5” paring knife, and 3-slot canvas knife roll that are forged from a single piece of high-carbon 1.4116 German steel. Tempered, ground, and polished for maximum sharpness, these knives are perfect for any culinary task. The full-tang handles provide a balanced, comfortable grip and are designed to last for years to come.

Pros

  • Heavy-gauge carbon steel ensures rapid and even heat distribution
  • Riveted wooden handles provide strength and stay cool to the touch
  • Efficiently absorbs oil to build a naturally nonstick capability
  • Includes knives forged from a single piece of high-carbon 1.4116 German steel
  • Full-tang handles provide a balanced, comfortable grip

8. Buffing Pads And Cast Iron Oil By Clark's | Maintain All Cast Iron And Carbon Cookware

Clark's Premium Cast Iron Oil is a must-have for anyone who loves to cook with cast iron or carbon steel pots, pans, skillets, woks, griddles, and dutch ovens. This oil is made from highly refined food-grade coconut oil, which ensures that you get the best seasoning possible on your cookware. The oil does not go rancid, unlike grapeseed, flaxseed, canola or palm oil, and does not need to be refrigerated. This makes it an ideal choice for both home cooks and professional chefs.

One of the best things about Clark's Premium Cast Iron Oil is the expert support that the company provides. They respond to every customer email and are committed to ensuring that your experience matches the quality of their products. So if you have any questions or concerns, you can rest assured that you will receive a prompt and helpful response.

Pros

  • Made from highly refined food-grade coconut oil
  • Ensures the best seasoning possible on cookware
  • Does not go rancid and does not need to be refrigerated
  • Ideal for both home cooks and professional chefs
  • Expert support provided by the company

9. 13" Super Lightweight Cast Iron Chinese Wok

Introducing the pre-seasoned cast iron pan, perfect for any kitchen! This cast iron pan is 50% lighter than traditional cast iron pans, making it effortless to handle and use. The pan comes pre-seasoned, meaning no need for any additional seasoning before use. Not only is this pan perfect for stove-top cooking, it is also safe to use in the oven, making it versatile for any cooking needs.

The pre-seasoned cast iron pan is a must-have for any home cook. The pan's lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, while still providing the durability and heat retention of traditional cast iron. Its pre-seasoned surface saves time and effort, and its oven-safe feature adds even more versatility to its use.

Pros

  • 50% lighter than traditional cast iron pans
  • Pre-seasoned, no need for additional seasoning
  • Oven-safe

Best Oil For Seasoning Carbon Steel Wok FAQs

Can any type of oil be used to season a carbon steel wok?

Yes, any type of oil can be used to season a carbon steel wok. However, some oils are better than others. For example, oils with a high smoke point such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil are ideal for seasoning a carbon steel wok. These oils can withstand high heat without burning and creating a smoky mess in your kitchen.

It is important to note that the type of oil used for seasoning a carbon steel wok will affect the flavor of your food. Therefore, it is recommended to use a neutral-flavored oil such as vegetable oil or grapeseed oil.

To season a carbon steel wok with oil, first, clean the wok thoroughly with hot water and soap. Then, dry it completely and heat the wok over medium-high heat. Add a thin layer of oil and use a paper towel to spread it over the surface of the wok. Heat the wok for about 10 minutes or until the oil begins to smoke. Turn off the heat and let the wok cool down. Repeat this process several times until the wok develops a dark, non-stick coating.

Can seasoning a carbon steel wok with oil help prevent rusting?

Yes, seasoning a carbon steel wok with oil can certainly help prevent rusting. Carbon steel woks are prone to rusting due to their composition, but seasoning can create a protective layer on the surface that prevents rust formation. The process involves heating the wok on high heat, adding oil and then wiping it off. This is repeated several times until a dark coating is formed. This coating not only prevents rust, but also creates a non-stick surface that makes cooking easier. It is important to note that seasoning is not a one-time process and needs to be repeated periodically to maintain the protective layer. In addition to seasoning, proper care and maintenance are essential to prolong the life of a carbon steel wok. It is important to dry the wok thoroughly after washing and avoid using abrasive cleaners that can damage the seasoning. With proper care and seasoning, a carbon steel wok can be a durable and versatile kitchen tool.

How long does it take to season a carbon steel wok with oil?

Seasoning a carbon steel wok with oil is an essential process to ensure that the wok lasts a long time and cooks food evenly. The time it takes to season a carbon steel wok with oil depends on several factors, such as the type of oil used and the temperature at which it is heated.

Typically, it takes around 30 to 45 minutes to season a carbon steel wok with oil. The first step is to wash the wok thoroughly with warm water and soap to remove any residue, then dry it completely. Next, heat the wok over medium-high heat until it is hot, then add a thin layer of oil and use a paper towel or cloth to rub it all over the wok.

Continue heating the wok and rubbing oil over it until it starts to turn black, which means that the carbonization process has begun. Repeat this process several times until the wok has a dark, glossy coating that protects it from rusting and helps to distribute heat evenly.

Overall, the time it takes to season a carbon steel wok with oil may vary depending on your experience and the type of oil you use. However, with practice and patience, you can ensure that your wok is well-seasoned and ready to use for cooking delicious meals.

How many times should a carbon steel wok be seasoned with oil?

A carbon steel wok is a versatile and durable kitchen tool that is used for stir-frying, sautéing, and deep frying. One of the most important steps in preparing a carbon steel wok is seasoning it with oil. Seasoning helps to create a non-stick surface that prevents food from sticking to the wok and also protects the wok from rusting.

The number of times a carbon steel wok should be seasoned with oil depends on the manufacturer's instructions. However, most manufacturers recommend seasoning the wok at least three to four times before use. The seasoning process involves applying a thin layer of oil to the wok and heating it until it becomes hot. This process helps to polymerize the oil on the wok's surface, creating a non-stick layer.

After seasoning the wok, it's important to maintain the seasoning by avoiding washing it with soap and water. Instead, simply rinse it with hot water and use a soft brush or sponge to remove any food particles. With proper care and maintenance, a well-seasoned carbon steel wok can last for many years and provide excellent cooking results.

What is the best oil to use for seasoning a carbon steel wok?

When it comes to seasoning a carbon steel wok, the best oil to use is one with a high smoke point, such as peanut oil, grapeseed oil, or vegetable oil. These oils can withstand the high heat required for seasoning a wok without burning, which can create an unpleasant taste and smell.

To start, heat your wok over high heat until it's very hot. Add a small amount of your chosen oil and swirl it around the surface of the wok, using a paper towel or cloth to spread it evenly. Be careful not to use too much oil, as this can create a sticky or gummy surface.

Next, heat the wok until the oil starts to smoke. This indicates that the oil has bonded with the metal surface, creating a non-stick coating that will improve with each use. Repeat this process several times, adding more oil as needed, until the wok is fully seasoned.

Remember to always clean your wok with hot water and a soft sponge, avoiding soap or abrasive cleaners that can damage the seasoning. With proper care, a well-seasoned carbon steel wok can last for many years and provide delicious, authentic stir-fry dishes.

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