Many people wonder how to clean their woks. A wok is a common tool whether you’re making Pad Thai for Friday lunch or copying your favorite Chinese takeout recipe. The round bottom wok may not be something you use every day. You may have questions about how to clean it, especially if it gets rusty.
Cast iron and carbon steel are the most popular types of woks. While they require different cooking and cleaning techniques, both should be treated and maintained in the same way. Here is a quick guide to cleaning a wok.
How do you clean the bottom of a Wok?
Be aware that metal scrubbers and harsh cleaners should not be used on the wok. It is better to use hot water to remove food stains and scrub gently with a sponge or wok brush. You can also damage the surface of the wok by rubbing the patina.
A credit card with a good track record is the best scrubber. First, heat the water in the wok and then use a credit card to scrub the wok. You can use the paper to form the sides of the wok and remove the stuck food.
It will not damage your wok and patina. Dry the wok after cleaning and put it on the stove on low heat until all the moisture is gone. To prevent rust, store 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 the water to the wok and mix in the baking soda. Most likely, you will only need a few spoons. After it boils, reduce the heat. Let the wok soak in the solution for several hours. Use a sponge to scrub the residue from your wok or a brush to remove it.
Although this method takes more time, it will not cause any damage to your wok. Baking soda is also very effective, so this should be considered if you were unsuccessful with the first method.
Cleaning using vinegar
Grease can be removed with vinegar acid. 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 just enough vinegar to completely submerge the bottom of your wok.
- Let it sit for about an hour before using a scrub.
- To remove the grease, use a toothbrush, Dawn, and water.
Cleansing with white wine and salt
Although vinegar is excellent, sometimes you need to use some kind of abrasive like salt.
- For about an hour, soak the wok in white wine.
- Salt the bottom of your wok after this.
- Spray a little Dawn on the scrubby.
- You can scrub the bottom with a brush and add more salt or dish soap as needed.
Cleaning using oven cleaner
Oven cleaner is an excellent way to get rid of grease and other substances from woks. Oven cleaner is safe, although it may make you feel nervous about putting it on your privates. This method works best with particular ceramic and non-stick cookware.
- Place the bottom of your wok in the clean oven.
- Then wait for a few hours.
- To scrub the bottom, use a scrub brush.
- To remove any oven cleaner residue, wash your hands in warm, soapy water.
Use ketchup for cleaning
Although it may seem strange to apply ketchup to the bottom of your wok, it can be used to remove grease and soften it. This hack takes a little longer to set up than some others.
- In ketchup, cover the bottom of your frying pan.
- Let it sit for several hours.
- To scrub, use a scrubbing knife and pinch Dawn.
- Rinse and enjoy.
Cleaning using Bar Keepers Friend
Bar Keepers Friend is another ingredient that can be used to remove oily residue from a wok. It works at the molecular level to break down fat. 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 scrubbing paper.
- To scrape the bottom of your wok, use circular motions.
- Rinse with warm soapy water and wash your hands.
General cleaning of the wok
Refer to the instructions included with your wok. You can usually put aluminum, stainless steel and copper woks in the dishwasher. Cast iron and carbon steel woks require special care to ensure that the seasoning is not 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 it.
- Use a sponge or wok brush to gently remove food particles.
- Avoid using a scouring pad, soap, sanitizers, or any type of washing chemical to clean your wok.
- All dissolved material should be flushed away.
- Use a towel to dry the wok completely.
- To finish drying and evaporating the water, heat the wok over 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.
Stubborn food stains
This simple process is suitable for most food stains. However, there may be some food that has burned on your wok. If this happens, you may need to take more steps to clean your wok.
Start by submerging the wok for a few moments in hot water. The hot water will dissolve the food particles. Next, use a sponge or wok brush to clean the wok.
You may need to use steel wool or a scrubber. While not recommended, these methods can work. You can remove some patina by scrubbing your wok with an abrasive tool. You can also re-stir your wok by doing this.
Conclusion
Now you can clean the bottom of your wok and enjoy being clean. The performance of your wok will improve and its life expectancy extended through regular cleaning. You can avoid food stains or burnt food by cleaning your wok immediately after each use.
