Many believe achieving that elusive wok hei in Chinese home cooking is a must, but is it really? Let’s explore the truth behind this culinary phenomenon.
Summary
- Wok hei is more of a restaurant feature than a priority in Chinese home cooking.
- Chinese home cooks often don’t focus on wok hei but rather on different cooking techniques.
- Obsession with wok hei is more common in Western cooking culture.
Insightful Comments
Most Chinese home cooking doesn’t revolve around achieving wok hei; it’s more of a restaurant specialty. Some Chinese families may have high-powered burners for special occasions, but it’s not a daily concern.
While wok hei is part of Chinese cuisine, many home cooks don’t prioritize it. Achieving wok hei is not a common practice at home, and dishes may taste different from those in restaurants.
In Singapore, where eating out is prevalent, many don’t bother owning a wok and leave wok hei to food vendors.
Some opinions suggest that chasing wok hei may not be as critical as improving other cooking skills.