Woks should be made with a very conductive metal, and preferably one that’s also lightweight. Carbon steel is a popular ...

Some come with a nonstick coating and heatproof handle, while others are made from heavy-duty cast iron. Before selecting a wok, first determine what type of cooking projects you plan to use it for.

Sometimes cast-iron pans can feel heavy. Carbon-steel pans, however, are much lighter — and otherwise behave similarly. (This is the material most woks are made out of, too, much more practical ...