If you like to enjoy restaurant style meal at home; then you must have to include revamp your kitchen accordingly. Apart from all the other essentials, a best stir fry pan one is worth a investment.
A stir fry pan is a versatile cookware that can perform under all circumstances and able to prepare variety of foods without a doubt.
Page Contents
Quick Overview of Best Stir Fry Pans
| Product | Features | Buy On |
|---|---|---|
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1. Cooks Standard Non Stick Wok Stir 11- inch pan with flat bottom Heavy gauge aluminum stainless steel handle Oven safe |
Check Price |
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2. T-Chef Wok Stir/Fry Pan 12- inch pan stylish Forged aluminum made 5 layers of Teflon non stick coating Induction and oven safe |
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3. Calphalon Flat Bottom Wok Pan 12- inch pan with flat bottom Brushed stainless steel handle Multi layer non stick coating Dishwasher safe Metal utensil safe |
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4. Rachael Ray Stir Fry Wok Pan 11- inch stir fry pan PFOA free Dishwasher safe Compatible with all cooktops |
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5. Chinese Wok/Stir Fry Pan Made up of Aluminium Marble stone coating PFOA free Silicone Bakelite handle Oven & induction safe |
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6. KYTB Stir Fry Wok Pan With Lid Marble stone coating 12-inch stir frying pan Anti scratch coating Detachable handle Steamer basket Oven & induction safe |
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7. Shineuri Copper Wok Stir Fry Pan 12-inch stir frying pan Ceramic Coating PTFE and PFOA free. Oven safe Dishwasher safe. |
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What Is Stir Fry Pan?
A round, deep pan with a somewhat rounded base and straight sides is normally called as a stir fry pan.
Mostly, stir fry pans are used to sear and prepare quick dishes that are composed of several ingredients mixed well together so that every ingredient cooks evenly such as blend of vegetables, various meats and sauces.
Although fry pans and skillets can also prepare stir fried foods; but stir fry pan is the best tool for preparing meals with less grease without compromising the color and texture of different ingredients.
Stir fry pans are used to prepare numerous dishes on different stovetops and are available in variety of sizes and cookware materials as per your cooking needs.
Stir fry pans distribute heat evenly across the flat surface of the pan while the sloppy makes it easier to toss and turn ingredients without splattering.
Mostly professionals like stainless steel stir fry pans with long handles; ideal to cook food at high temperatures.
A wok is a traditional Asian stir fry pan with sturdy bases and thicker sides that are less deeper with.
Light weighted stir fry pans are considered great as they quite comfy to toss the ingredients by moving the pan upward and around without making the arms ache and ingredients fall.
Stir Fry Pan Vs Wok Pan: What’s The Difference?
Design
A wok is basically a traditional Chinese cookware with a round base and deeper.
It used to serve various purposes; the deeper walls keep the liquid to pool in the center while the walls retain heat more efficiently allows the food to cook quickly.
These days, the woks are considered as outdated cookware; reason being mostly kitchens has flat surface stoves that don’t work well with round bottom woks.
This is the reason why flat bottom woks are introduced which is more versatile and can be used on almost all cooktops.
Stir Fry pans have comparatively large flat bottom with less deeper walls than woks; this particular allows the heat well distributed across the surface in less time.
The flat bottom enables the oils and ingredients to evenly spread on the cooking surface so that they get uniformly cook with less grease instead of pooling in the center.
If you are looking for the best stir fry pan for electric stoves then always select the flat bottom ones.
Material
Although modern cookware industry is utilizing different materials for making the best wok pans that could serve efficiently but woks are usually made of carbon steel, black steel metal or stainless steel.
The reason why cast iron is considered best for wok and is the most widely used cookware material because it is highly light in weight having high heat resistance with organic non stick properties.
For confirming this you should pay a visit to your local cookware store and you probably find the some of the best cast iron woks easily there.
There is no additional material used for woks other than carbon steel and stainless steel.
Almost every wok requires seasoning even before the first use and to keep the organic nonstick properties.
Stir frying pans are actually made of numerous materials; such hard anodized aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron or non stick.
Aluminum is the commonly used which requires an additional cooking surface at the interior for an efficient cooking performance.
It could be Teflon coating any other nonstick coating, ceramic, or some other stone derived surface.
These most brands have introduces their own nonstick coatings that they use in the cookware.
Stainless steel is another widely used option for stir frying pans.
It can be used raw as it is safe to cook without causing any issue to the food or can be cladded with other materials.
Mostly that Is aluminum which is used to sandwich the two layers of stainless steel due to its heat distribution efficiency; however in some high end stir fry pans copper is also used.
If you are looking for reasonably priced option then you can get the best cast iron woks or stir fry pans in a much cheaper price with durability ascompared to aluminum, stainless steel and copper cladded pans though they are much heavier.
Types of Cooking & Foods
Stir frying is the primary purpose of Woks. In this cooking technique food is continuously stir around so that it gets cooked without sticking to the surface or getting burned.
In old fashioned kitchen or traditional Chinese kitchens gas burners are used which provide high heat.
The wok is suitable to such heat sources due to its rounded bottom and sturdy heat retention built.
This is why they are considered great for stir frying pasta, rice, diced vegetables and meat.
However, you will require much oil as the ingredients soak u more oil and in order to keep tossing the ingredients you need to grease the wok again.
Apart from stir frying; a wok is also used for steaming, searing, broiling, sautéing, deep frying and smoking food.
Woks are also used for searing large pieces of meat such chicken breasts, fillets or steaks.
Stir frying pans are very different in preparing food to woks. Stir frying pans do need much grease or oil just like woks as they do have flat base that allows the oil, sauces and other ingredients to mix evenly and uniformly cooked.
Stir frying pans are not only excellent for steaks, bacon, burgers but is also good for making pastas, mixed vegetables, and dishes with different sauces.
Modern non stick coatings such as Teflon and ceramic do not much oil and grease the whole surface to prepare the food with less oil.
Non stick stir fry pans tends to release food easily and offers effortless cleanup compared to woks.
Related Articles:
- Stainless Steel vs Nonstick Cookware – Pros & Cons
- All-Clad D3 vs D5: Comparison Guide With Pros & Cons
- GreenLife Vs GreenPan Cookware: Detailed Comparison Guide
How to Care for your Stir Fry Pan
- The first and foremost thing is to read the product manual before start using. You must know how much heat it can take or what kind of heat sources your stir fry pan is compatible to work with.
- Always wash your stir fry pans prior to start using them with a soft sponge and warm water to clean any possible manufacturing residue.
- If the product manual suggests pre seasoning then you are required to do the same; otherwise you may end up compromising the quality of your stir fry pan.
- Some people use cooking sprays to keep their pans non stick but it is not helpful at all; however, it causes a residue to build up on the pan’s surface and will cause to food to stick more and is potentially harmful too.
- Never preheat your stir fry even if you are using stainless steel stir fry pan; without adding oil to it. Pans that are heated without oil are potentially more toxic and risky.
- No matter you are using stainless steel stir fry pan or heavy gauge aluminum nonstick pan always cook on low to medium heat. Cooking on extreme high temperature can warp your stir fry pans and burn your food. Consult the manual of your stir fry pan; the extreme temperature it can withstand would be written there strictly follow it.
- Even if the manufacturer claims they have the best wok pan or stir fry pan that is scratch resistant and metal utensil safe; do not try to challenge it by using metal utensils. Always use wooden or silicone utensils and spatulas.
- Washing your stir fry pan right after cooking is not a good idea. Let it cool down for some while; sudden temperature change may warp your pan and warped cookware does not cook evenly.
- Never use you stir fry pans for storing cooked meals in the refrigerator. They are not made for this; instead use the food storage boxes. Just like they cant withstand extreme hot temperature similarly they can bear the cold temperature as well.
- Try to wash your stir fry pans right after they are cooled down by hand using soft sponge, warm water and dishwashing soap. Dishwashing may be written on the product manual but the daily practice of harsh dishwashing will eventually damage the pan before time.
- Do not use abrasive washing pads or steel wool to clean the hard stains on your stir fry pan. This might help to get rid of the stuck food residue but will leave scratches or the coating may wear off as a result.
- After every wash use soft cloth to dry your cookware never let it air dry; it is a possibility that your cookware material could be rust prone and leaving it wet in the air may not be a good idea.
- Do not stack your stir fry pans along with other pots and pans. It may scratch the surface and cause scratches on the surface. If you have a limited space then you can use a soft cloth in between your cookware while stacking them on to one another.
List of Top 7 Best Stir Fry Pan
Cooks Standard Non Stick Wok Stir
This 5-quart hard anodized non stick stir fry pan from Cooks quickly and efficiently distributes heat incorporating along with its heavy gauge aluminum construction.
The durable nonstick coating of 11-inch stir fry pan offers exceptional non stick performance for tossing, turning and releasing food even with less oil and makes cleaning a breeze.
The heavy gauge aluminum is sturdier than any stainless steel and withstand temperature up to 450F without chipping, peeling or flaking.
The tempered glass lid is quite elegant and offers a clear view to your food without having to life over and over again so to keep the flavor and steam intact.
The dual riveted long stainless steel handle adds strength to your handling with its durability and comfy grip without straining.
The durable and flat bottom pan is the best stir fry pan for electric stove, gas, oven, and ceramic except for induction and supports multipurpose cooking styles like stirring, sautéing, frying, steaming and many more.
Although the chip and warp resistant body is dishwasher safe; however, hand wash is recommended.
T-Chef Wok Stir/Fry Pan
This 12-inch stylish wok stir fry pan is made from heavy-gauge aluminum ensuring high level of durability and longevity.
The patented design with forged aluminum thin walls and heavy duty stainless steel base helps to spread the heat quickly and evenly across the surface.
The heavy yet sturdy base is compatible to almost all heat sources including oven induction.
Designed with a five highly efficient nonstick layers that are made from PFOA free Teflon nonstick helps to cook less greasy food without making it difficult to release and clean.
The rivet less steel cool touch handles offer a comfy grip and strong handling. The rivet less feature ensures no food decaying left.
The stir frying doesn’t have any lid; however if you want one you have it to purchase it separately.
The stunning Aubergine Purple exterior looks attractive imprinted by the innovative Teflon Print Design Technology that is safe from toxins and harmful chemicals.
Calphalon Flat Bottom Wok Pan
This flat bottom Calphalon wok has all the qualities of a best stir fry pan. This high class wok is the perfect choice for house cooks and professional chefs with its stylish yet modern design and brilliant everyday performance.
This 12-inch stir fry pan is made with heavy gauge hard anodized aluminum ensuring quick and even distribution of heat while the multi layer non stick coating makes stir frying, sautéing, steaming and searing experience a breeze.
The manufacturer chooses convenient design over modern looks and feels which enhances its cooking efficiency and liked by many of its consumers along with the affordable price.
The long lasting 3-layer non stick coating releases food easily without using additional grease or oil and is sturdy enough to withstand the metal utensils, spoons or whisks.
The flat bottom is compatible to almost all stove tops including oven and can withstand temperature up to 450F.
The dual riveted brushed stainless steel handles stay cool on the heat source as well and offers a strong grip for easy tossing and turning.
The versatile flared design considered supportive to various cooking techniques. If you like to wash by hand, all you need is warm water and a soft sponge; however, you easily throw it in the dishwasher without doubting a bit.
Rachael Ray Stir Fry Wok Pan
Rachael Ray 87644 Cucina is a perfect choice for the health enthusiasts who were searching for an ideal non-stick pan that is free from unwanted substances like the PFOA, Lead and Cadmium.
Crafted with hard anodized aluminum this Rachael Ray 11-inch non-stick stir fry pan is ideal for quick and even cooking than any other similar products available in the market.
The long lasting PFOA free non stick coating makes sure that the food cook evenly and keeps safe from getting stuck to the pan even with less grease.
The intelligently designed build and performance oriented design are the two basic reasons behind the faster cooking results.
This multipurpose pan is suitable for almost all cooktops except induction and can withstand temperature up to 400F.
The maintenance is quite easier you can comfortably put it in to the dishwasher and clean it by hand the slick and greasy coating helps you to clean the grease and food debris with just a gentle sweep.
The dual riveted stainless steel handle covered in a silicone grip offers durable handling and maneuvering.
Chinese Wok/Stir Fry Pan
If you are looking for a traditional Chinese wok then this COOK LOVER’s wok stir fry pan is worthy product to buy from every aspect.
Constructed with durable die-cast aluminum, this wok is a perfect is an essential workhorse for every kitchen.
The sturdy die cast reinforced aluminum body quickly and evenly distributes heat with the help of 4-4.5 mm thick bottom that responsibly ensures a stable heat circulation.
The induction compatible bottom retains heat for longer period of time and is suitable for gas, electric, halogen and ceramic cooktops except for oven.
Coated with high performance marble non stick coating both on the interior and exterior that is 100% safe and PFOA free requires less or no grease for a healthy cooking experience and can withstand high temperature without flaking or peeling.
The soft touch made of silicone Bakelite handles and knobs has a beautiful wooden texture; are highly resistant and strong for a nice and comfy grip.
The premium class transparent glass lid helps view your food without having to lift the lid each time and can bear the temperature up to 280F.
KYTB Stir Fry Wok Pan With Lid
This stone-derived stir fry pan is the best wok pan that is coated with durable healthy non-stick coating and is 100% safe from APEO&PFOA.
Using the anti scratch technology it keeps the elegance and finish of marble stone coating from any unwanted scratches and stains.
The induction compatible bottom conducts heat pretty well across the surface and is also considered the best stir fry pan for electric stove tops, gas, ceramic and oven.
Transparent glass lids are super sturdy; help keep an eye over your food without burning while keeping the steam and flavor locked inside.
The steamer basket is quite helpful when you want to steam dumplings, lobsters and other foods.
The detachable wooden is quite easy to detach without needing to use any tools so that if you want to cook on high heat or in oven you can easily remove them.
The anti scald feature keeps it cool on stovetop and the hanging rings helps it to hang and dry without securing much space.
Shineuri Copper Wok Stir Fry Pan
It is the product by one of the renowned copper cookware brand. This 12-inch stir fry pan is highly durable comes with a long lasting PTFE and PFOA free ceramic non stick coating.
We already know that copper is extremely efficient at distribution of even heat so with this pan you can be relaxed and cook without doubting for a second.
If you are concerned about the cleaning then you can put it in the dishwasher and it can be cleaned easily using warm water and dishwashing soap with a soft sponge or cloth.
However, the durable coating is not scratch resistant so will need to use wooden or silicone utensils and avoid abrasive washing pads and metal utensils.
This 2-piece set copper stir fry pan and lid set is the great kitchen utensil with the perfect size.
With this versatile copper stir pan you can try almost anything from sautéing to baking, frying, searing to steaming.
It is compatible to almost all heat sources including gas, electric, oven, ceramic, induction and oven.
The double riveted stainless steel handles are claimed to be tough and cool while on the stove.
Frequently Asked Question
What is Difference between Stir Fry Pan and Wok Pan?
The primary difference is that the stir fry pan has large flat bottom – a couple of inches more bigger compared to the older flat bottom woks along with a depth of 3-4 inches than the standard sauté pan.
Stir fry pans are mostly used to make quick dishes by mixing and searing various ingredients together such as vegetables and meats blended with different sauces.
The difference is mainly in the little details they both have and is that the wok can cook almost anything; it can be used for boiling, frying, steaming, or even for tossing salads.
What is Best Stir Fry Pan?
As per the reviews of the users, Cooks Standard Nonstick Stir Fry Pan [Buy On Amazon] is so far the best stir fry pan in performance.
What is Best Stir Fry Pan for Gas Stove?
The best stir fry pan for gas stove [Buy On Amazon] should be the one with round bottom; however, if any particular then Rachael Ray Stir Fry Wok Pan works well with gas stove.
Is Stir Fry Pan Compatible With Induction Cooktop?
Any round bottom wok will not going to perform well on induction cooktop.
Induction cooktops need a good contact with the metallic base of any saucepan, stir fry pan or wok, so in case you have a wok with rounded bottom, you will find difficulty in cooking with your induction hob.
Induction cooktops are compatible for stir frying. Always ensure that the cookware you are buying is suitable for induction cooking, like it must include ferromagnetic material.
Some of the best cast iron woks and good stainless steel pans available in the market are good for induction cooking.
What foods are suitable for stir frying?
Stir-frying is a quick approach towards cooking; all you need is bite sized pieces of ingredients to toss and turn with some oil over high heat and your meal gets prepare within 5 minutes or less.
With stir frying vegetables emerge as bright and crispy; meats are well seared, tender, and full of flavor.
Mostly, we use small pieces of chicken, seafood, beef or pork; for aroma garlic, green onions and ginger are used while you can put almost any vegetable to stir fry in your stir frypan.