I'm moving to a house that has electric power for cooking. I like to cook on gas, especially when I'm using a wok so I can get it really hot. Is there any other way I can heat the wok when only electric power is available? Also, is the quality of steel used in a wok important?

Try a flat-bottom wok. If the burner can get really hot, these work well. Get the largest one you can find and look for one that has a long, wooden handle that makes it easier to maneuver.

If you really want to go for broke, you could use an independent propane gas unit as your heat source (you can find these at restaurant supply houses).

If you're prepared to pay the cost equivalent of a modest used car, you can actually get a freestanding wok stove that's powered by propane. They're incredible.

A traditional wok is made from rolled steel. While it's not terribly thick, it does have some substance to it.

Remember: You have to season a steel wok.

-Lynne

Lynne Rossetto Kasper
Lynne Rossetto Kasper has won numerous awards as host of The Splendid Table, including two James Beard Foundation Awards (1998, 2008) for Best National Radio Show on Food, five Clarion Awards (2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2014) from Women in Communication, and a Gracie Allen Award in 2000 for Best Syndicated Talk Show.