A large wok can handle many kitchen tasks: searing, steaming, deep-frying, braising and keeping food warm. When buying a WMF Wok Set 36 cm Induction, many people first look at the brand and the range of accessories. In practice, however, other points are decisive: Does the wok fit your hob? Is the base area suitable for induction? Can the lid and inserts be used effectively and cleaned easily?
This buying guide shows which features you should check before purchasing and which accessories suit different cooking habits.
A wok with a 36 cm diameter offers plenty of space, but the usable heating surface depends on the base and the hob. With the WMF Macao Wok, the base area is designed for hobs with approximately 22 cm diameter, according to the product specifications. This is more important than the rim size alone, because with induction the ferromagnetic base needs to sit as precisely as possible on the active zone.
On small induction hobs, a large wok may therefore heat less evenly. Before buying, you should check whether your hob has a sufficiently large zone or a flexible zone that can be combined.
A 4-piece wok set sounds versatile at first. But what really matters is whether the individual components actually suit your preferred cooking style. A frying rack, for example, is practical for draining and keeping food warm. A steamer insert, on the other hand, is suitable for vegetables, fish, dumplings or other foods that should be cooked with steam.
If a suitable insert is missing, accessories often have to be bought separately. Diameter, height and resting surface can all differ. A coordinated set reduces this compatibility risk.
With a stainless steel wok pan, you should consider the material, base construction and temperature limits together. Stainless steel is uncoated and can be used at high heat, but it requires the right preheating and oil method to prevent delicate foods from sticking.
With the WMF Macao Wok, the body is made from Cromargan 18/10 stainless steel according to the product description. The TransTherm universal base is designed for induction, gas, electric and ceramic hobs. These are concrete specifications that are easier to compare than general terms like "premium" or "particularly durable".
An uncoated stainless steel wok is interesting for users who prefer high temperatures and a robust surface. Metal utensils are generally less problematic than with delicate non-stick coatings. However, stainless steel can cause more sticking if the temperature is not managed correctly.
Coated models are often easier to clean and require less oil for certain dishes. However, they should not be overheated when empty and should be used with suitable kitchen utensils. If you frequently cook at high temperatures, you should pay attention to the manufacturer's heat resistance guidelines.
A wok with a glass lid makes it easier to monitor the cooking process without having to lift the lid constantly. With the WMF set, the wok is heat-resistant up to 250 °C without the lid and up to 180 °C with the lid, according to the specifications. These limits should be taken into account during use.
When opening a hot lid, steam can escape. The lid should therefore be lifted away from your body. Handles and the wok rim can also become hot; heat-resistant gloves or kitchen utensils are advisable.
A 36 cm outer diameter and a capacity of 4.5 litres are suitable for larger portions and family meals. At the same time, such a wok requires more space in the cupboard and on the hob. For a one- or two-person household, a more compact model may be more practical.
Before buying, it's worth doing a quick check:
A dishwasher-safe wok reduces cleaning effort. With the WMF Macao Wok, the wok, lid and accessories are dishwasher-safe according to the product information. However, hand washing with mild washing-up liquid and a soft sponge can still be advisable to maintain an even stainless steel appearance.
The following selection organises products according to specific usage situations. The key factors are size, material, accessories and stated hob compatibility.
Why this product suits the profile: The collapsible steamer insert is an addition for users who want to use their existing cookware first and expand their functionality in a targeted way.
The compact design helps avoid unnecessary individual parts. Before buying, you need to check the diameter and resting surface against your existing pot or wok.
Large capacity when opened and space-saving storage; suitable for gentle steaming of vegetables according to the product specifications.
Why this product suits the profile: The set combines a 36 cm wok made from Cromargan 18/10 stainless steel with a glass lid, frying rack and steamer insert. It is specified for induction, gas, electric and ceramic hobs.
The coordinated components reduce the risk that the steamer insert or lid won't fit the wok. The stated temperature limits should be observed.
4.5 litre capacity, TransTherm universal base and dishwasher-safe components according to the manufacturer's specifications.
Why this product suits the profile: Two steaming levels allow you to prepare several components at the same time, such as vegetables and dumplings. The accessory is used over a suitable pot or wok.
The fixed diameter of 25 cm makes pre-selection easier. Since bamboo is not recommended for the dishwasher, you should factor in the cleaning effort before buying.
Two levels and a lid made from bamboo; suitable for dim sum, baozi and steamed vegetables according to the product description.
We have put together a complete, regularly updated list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the safety regulations in force in the EU.
For even results, the wok should first be preheated on a medium to high setting. Then add the oil and ingredients. Small portions are usually easier to control than a completely full wok pan. If you add too many cold ingredients at once, the temperature will drop significantly.
With an uncoated stainless steel wok, the following steps help:
According to the product specifications, the wok is suitable for induction, gas, electric and ceramic hobs. With induction, you should also check whether the active cooking zone matches the base area.
According to the manufacturer's information, the wok, glass lid and accessories are dishwasher-safe. For the gentlest cleaning, a mild programme is recommended. Stainless steel can be dried immediately after washing to reduce water marks.
The frying rack can be used for draining or keeping fried and seared ingredients warm. The perforated steamer insert is designed for cooking with steam. Both accessories extend the wok's capabilities beyond classic stir-frying.