How to Season a Wok

Step by step instructions on how to season a wok. You will learn both how to season a carbon steel wok and as well as how to season a cast iron wok.

Course none

Cuisine none

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 30

Total Time 35

Servings seasoned wok

Wash it with a mild soap and water before starting.
Towel dry the wok thoroughly and wrap the wooden handles with foil.
Set the wok on a gas burner over HIGH heat (as high as it goes).
As it gets hotter, the carbon steel will smoke and start to turn bluish in color. Using a pot holder, carefully tilt the wok so every surface area gets time over the heat and turns a bluish color.
Once the whole wok is blue, turn off the heat and let the wok cool to the touch.
Wash again with mild soap and water and lightly dry.
Return to the heat, this time heating over medium-low heat until completely dry.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and swirl around CAREFULLY until the wok is coated with oil.
Remove from heat and use a folded paper towel to wipe off the oil and make sure a thin layer coats the whole wok.
Place the wok back over high heat and heat until it is smoking again. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Wash the wok lightly with just water and dry over medium heat on the stove.
Repeat the oiling process 1-2 more times and you will see a nice patina already beginning to form.
Coat the wok with a very light layer of vegetable oil to store.