Commercial Oriental Cookware brings authentic Asian cuisine to life in UK restaurants, takeaways, and hotels. These kitchen essentials—from robust carbon steel woks to bamboo steamers—are designed specifically for high-volume cooking environments. With traditional designs reimagined for commercial durability, they handle the intense heat and constant use of busy restaurant kitchens. After 50 years outfitting professional kitchens, we've seen how the right wok or steamer transforms a menu—complementing commercial rice cookers and induction hobs for a complete setup. Perfect for chefs wanting to deliver authentic Asian flavours under pressure!
Traditional round-bottom or flat-bottom woks suit different cooktop types.
Hand-hammered textures help food grip the surface for controlled tossing.
Sizing and Kitchen Compatibility
Wok sizes range from 30-90cm—match to your burner size.
Consider storage space for larger pieces like steamers and wok sets.
Check compatibility with gas rings or induction wok hobs.
How Commercial Oriental Cookware Works
Oriental cookware is all about heat control and cooking technique. Commercial woks, with their distinctive curved shape, create a natural heat gradient—screaming hot at the centre and cooler at the edges. This design lets chefs toss ingredients quickly at the bottom while keeping others warming gently up the sides. Carbon steel conducts heat brilliantly, responding instantly to flame adjustments for that perfect wok hei (breath of the wok). Meanwhile, bamboo steamers stack cleverly, allowing multiple dishes to cook simultaneously using just one heat source—brilliant for busy service!
Trusted Insights from Priya Sharma
Asian Cuisine Consultant
9 years experience
"When it comes to commercial Oriental cookware, don’t skimp on your wok – a good carbon steel one heats fast and handles high flames like a pro. Pair it with a sturdy bamboo steamer and you’re halfway to wok-heaven!"
Mind the Heat Woks retain extreme temperatures—use proper protection.
Secure Positioning Ensure round-bottom woks are stable in wok rings.
Oil Caution Add oil carefully to hot woks—prevents dangerous splatter.
Handle Awareness Position handles away from flames and traffic areas.
Heat Management Never leave extremely hot woks unattended.
Steam Hazards Open steamers away from face—prevents steam burns.
Top Tips for Using Commercial Oriental Cookware
To get the most from your oriental cookware, season new carbon steel woks properly before first use—scrub with hot water, heat until smoking, then rub with oil. Never clean seasoned woks with detergent; instead, rinse with hot water and a bamboo brush. Keep wooden handles dry between uses, and store bamboo steamers in ventilated areas to prevent mould. For maximum wok life, always heat before adding oil, and avoid acidic ingredients on newly seasoned surfaces.
Speed & Efficiency Cooks rapidly—perfect for fast-paced restaurant service.
Long-Term Value Quality woks improve with age—lasting decades with proper care.
Did You Know?
Ancient Origins Woks have been used in Chinese cooking for over 2,000 years.
Self-Improvement A well-used wok develops a natural non-stick surface called patina.
Heat Mastery Professional wok cooking can reach temperatures of 200°C in seconds.
Energy Efficiency Wok cooking uses 40% less energy than flat-pan methods.
Expert Insights on Commercial Oriental Cookware
After equipping Asian restaurants for five decades, we've learned what makes oriental cookware tick. 'A proper commercial wok isn't just cookware—it's the heart of Asian cooking,' explains Lee, our equipment specialist. 'The difference between domestic and commercial versions isn't just size, it's how they respond to intense heat and constant use.'
Pros: Authentic cooking results, impressive durability, develops better with use.
Cons: Requires specific care routines, needs proper seasoning before peak performance.
Who Needs Commercial Oriental Cookware?
Asian Restaurants Essential for authentic Chinese, Thai and Malaysian cooking techniques.
Hotels Perfect for dedicated Asian stations in buffets and live cooking demonstrations.
Takeaways Handles high-volume wok cooking for busy delivery and collection services.
Cooking Schools Teaches traditional techniques with proper commercial-grade equipment.
Real-World Success with Commercial Oriental Cookware
Golden Dragon, a bustling Chinese restaurant in Birmingham, transformed their kitchen efficiency after upgrading to proper commercial woks and steamers. They'd been struggling with domestic-grade equipment that couldn't handle their 200+ covers on busy weekends. 'It was night and day,' says owner Mr. Chan. 'Our new carbon steel woks paired with proper gas burners and bamboo steamers doubled our cooking speed. We're saving on gas too, since the heat transfer is so much better—brilliant investment!'
FAQs
How do I season a commercial carbon steel wok?Clean thoroughly, heat until smoking, rub with oil, and repeat 2-3 times for a natural non-stick finish.
Can I use commercial oriental cookware on induction?Flat-bottomed versions work with standard induction, while round-bottomed need specialised wok induction hobs.
How long do bamboo steamers typically last in commercial kitchens?With proper care, quality steamers last 1-2 years in heavy use—store dry to prevent warping.
Are professional wok sets worth the investment for small restaurants?Absolutely—they deliver authentic results and outlast cheaper alternatives by years.
How often should commercial woks be re-seasoned?Light re-seasoning monthly maintains optimal performance in high-volume kitchens.
What's the ideal thickness for a commercial wok?1.5-2mm carbon steel balances heat responsiveness with durability for restaurant use.
Looking for Equipment by Business Type?
Not sure where to start? Whether you're running a bustling café, opening a pizzeria, or managing a school canteen, we've made it easy to shop by business type. Explore handpicked equipment bundles and essentials tailored to your industry—saving you time and making sure you get exactly what you need.
We’ve selected some closely related categories that might be essential for your setup. Whether you’re expanding your kitchen or just making sure you’ve got everything covered, these links will help you explore more equipment that fits your needs.
'These commercial woks handle the punishment of our busy kitchen brilliantly—proper job!'
LLiamHead Chef, Lotus Garden, Glasgow
'The bamboo steamers are top quality—far better than the flimsy ones we had before.'
MMingRestaurant Owner, Jade Palace, Bristol
Why Choose EasyEquipment for Commercial Oriental Cookware?
Trusted Supplier 50 years serving Asian restaurants—we know what works.
Fast Delivery Next-day options available nationwide—get cooking quickly.
Best Price Promise We'll match any like-for-like quote—honest value guaranteed.
Expert Guidance Speak with specialists who understand oriental cooking techniques.
Ready to Explore Commercial Oriental Cookware?
Browse our comprehensive range of professional oriental cookware—from traditional carbon steel woks to bamboo steamers and accessories. With fast UK delivery and trusted expertise, we'll help you equip your kitchen for authentic Asian cuisine excellence!