Don’t Throw Away Your Rusty Wok!
If you’ve got a carbon steel wok that’s rusty or otherwise a little worse for wear, don’t worry. With a few simple steps, you can revive your wok and have it cooking like new again.
How to Revive a Rusty Wok
Scrubbing
Get some steel wool or a scouring pad and a little dish soap, and give the wok (inside and outside) a good scrub to remove the surface rust. Rinse with hot water as you scrub until the rust is gone, and the surface of the wok feels nice and smooth. You may also be removing burnt and caked-on food residue.
The Rust Isn’t Coming Off?!
If the rust isn’t coming off, try using a heavy-duty scouring pad or a rough side of a green sponge to scrub away the rust.
To Dish Soap, or Not to Soap?
For "cleaner" dishes like stir-fried veggies, steaming setups, and boiling/simmering, dish soap is usually not necessary. You can get away with a quick scrub and rinse under warm water before drying the wok. However, if cooking a particularly oily or saucy dish that leaves behind caked-on food residue, a little bit of dish soap is okay to use.
What’s the Best Cleaning Tool for a Wok?
If your wok is excessively rusty, steel wool or other scouring pad is the way to go. For normal cleaning, you can use any kind of sponge. Avoid using stainless steel scrubbers, which can be too harsh on the pan and your hands.
Re-Seasoning
Heat the wok over medium-low heat, and pour in 1 tablespoon of neutral oil. Swirl the oil around the surface of the wok, then use a paper towel to spread it evenly. Don’t worry if you still see a bit of brown residue on the paper towel – this is normal.
Is Rust Toxic?
If there’s still some minor rust residue, don’t worry – it’s safe to use your wok. As you regularly use the wok, the patina will improve, and the small amount of rust will disappear.
How to Prevent Your Wok from Rusting in Future
To prevent rust in the future, make sure to dry your wok thoroughly over the stove after washing, then let it cool before storing. You can also lightly oil it with an oiled paper towel for extra protection.
Conclusion
We hope this tutorial on how to revive a rusty wok was helpful! With these simple steps, you can breathe new life into your carbon steel wok and enjoy it for many years to come.
FAQs
Q: Can I use my wok with rust impressed?
A: No, it’s better to remove the rust first.
Q: Can I use a stainless steel scrubber on my wok?
A: No, they can be too harsh on the pan and your hands.
Q: Do I need to re-season my wok frequently?
A: No, a good seasoning can last a long time. However, if you notice your wok performing poorly or rusting, re-seasoning is a good idea.
Q: How do I prevent rust from coming back?
A: Make sure to dry your wok thoroughly and store it in a dry place.
Q: Can I use dish soap on my wok?
A: Yes, but only if necessary. Avoid using too much soap, as it can strip the seasoning.