La Gourmet Nitrigan Cast Iron Wok

• Construction: Press-cast iron
• Cooking Surface: Nitriding-treated, coating-free surface
• Handle Options: Bakelite or natural wood
• Colour: Black
• Stovetop Compatibility: Induction, ceramic, gas and electric
• Oven-Safe: No; the Bakelite and wooden handles are not designed for oven use
• Dishwasher-Safe: No; hand wash only
• Lid Included: No
• Warranty: 1 year against manufacturing defects

Before First Use

• Remove all packaging, labels and protective materials.
• Wash the cookware with warm water, mild dishwashing detergent and a soft sponge.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately.
• Complete the seasoning or “Kai Guo” process below before cooking for the first time.

Initial Seasoning / “Kai Guo” 开锅

“Kai Guo” prepares the iron cooking surface by creating an initial protective layer of oil. This helps reduce sticking, supports the development of a natural patina and provides additional protection against moisture.

1. Wash the cookware thoroughly with warm water, mild detergent and a soft sponge to remove manufacturing residue.
2. Rinse well and wipe completely dry.
3. Place the empty cookware on the stovetop over low heat for one to two minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture. Do not overheat it.
4. Turn off the heat or keep it at its lowest setting.
5. Add a small amount of high-smoke-point cooking oil, such as canola, sunflower, rice bran or vegetable oil.
6. Using folded kitchen paper held with tongs, spread an extremely thin layer of oil across the entire interior cooking surface and up the sides.
7. Continue heating gently until the surface is warm and the oil begins to bond with the iron. Avoid allowing thick pools of oil to form.
8. Turn off the heat and allow the cookware to cool naturally.
9. Wipe away all visible excess oil. The surface should feel dry and smooth rather than greasy or sticky.
10. Repeat the thin-oil heating process two or three times for a stronger initial seasoning layer.

After seasoning, allow the cookware to cool fully before storage or use. Slight variations in colour are normal and will become more even as the patina develops.

During Cooking

• Preheat gradually over low to medium heat before adding oil or food.
• Avoid prolonged high heat and never leave empty cookware heating unattended.
• Use a cooking zone that closely matches the diameter of the cookware base.
• Add a small amount of cooking oil before food to support release and maintain the patina.
• Begin with foods containing some natural fat or oil while the seasoning is still developing.
• Wooden, silicone or heat-resistant nylon utensils are recommended.
• Avoid knives, sharp objects and forceful scraping against the cooking surface.
• Lift the cookware when moving it across glass or ceramic stovetops; do not drag it.
• Handles and side handles may become hot during cooking. Use suitable hand protection when necessary.
• Products with Bakelite or wooden handles should not be placed in the oven unless the individual product is specifically identified as oven-safe.

Cleaning

• Allow the cookware to cool naturally before washing.
• Do not place hot cookware into cold water, as sudden temperature changes may cause warping or damage.
• Hand wash promptly using warm water and a soft sponge.
• For stubborn residue, add warm water and soak briefly before loosening it gently with a non-abrasive sponge.
• Do not leave the cookware soaking for extended periods.
• Do not use steel wool, harsh chemicals, oven cleaner or abrasive cleaning pads.
• Dishwasher use is not recommended.
• Dry immediately and thoroughly after washing. Do not leave the cookware to air-dry.
• Warm it briefly over low heat after washing to ensure all moisture has evaporated.

Maintaining the Seasoning and Patina

• The coating-free Nitrigan surface develops a natural patina through seasoning and regular use.
• If food begins to stick or the surface appears dry or uneven, repeat the seasoning process.
• Regular cooking with oil will help the surface become increasingly easy-release over time.
• Avoid prolonged cooking or storage of highly acidic foods, such as tomatoes, vinegar or citrus-based dishes, particularly while the patina is still developing.
• The nitriding treatment improves surface hardness and rust resistance, but the cookware should still be kept clean, dry and lightly oiled.

Removing Light Rust

• Gently scrub the affected area with a non-abrasive pad and warm water.
• Rinse and dry the cookware immediately.
• Repeat the complete “Kai Guo” seasoning process before the next use.

Storage

• Store only when completely clean and dry.
• Apply an extremely thin protective layer of oil before extended storage.
• Place a pan protector, cloth or paper towel between pieces when stacking.
• Store in a dry, well-ventilated area.
• Avoid placing heavy or sharp objects directly against the cooking surface.