When it comes to cooking at home, there are many types of cookware to choose from, each with its own list of pros and cons. Deciding which type of cookware to use can seem a bit overwhelming. Well, there’s no need to worry. The following will explore some great options for your kitchen.
1. Cast Iron
Cast iron is one of the most popular types of cookware, and for a good reason. If you take care of it, it can last a long time. It can handle very high temperatures, which is the reason it’s ideal for searing and frying. The material retains heat much better than other materials, and it can be used on the stovetop and inside the oven without any problems. The problem with cast iron is that it’s pretty heavy. It needs special care, and it doesn’t react well to acidic foods, so try to keep that in mind. Still, it’s one of the environmentally friendly options available.
2. Ceramic
Ceramic is another popular cookware option among cooks throughout the nation. This type of cookware looks nice and natural though it isn’t. You should also know that most ceramic cookware is infused with silicone oil, making it nonstick. This is a great thing, especially for those who hate when food sticks. Getting rid of stuck food can require some effort. People love this type of cookware because it isn’t made using PTFE or PFOA, which are normally present in other nonstick pots or pans. The only thing is the silicon gel is questionable as it hasn’t been studied much.
3. Blue Steel
Blue steel cookware is a good option. People like it because it’s versatile and fights rust. This is a problem for many types of cookware, including cast iron. The reason blue steel cookware can resist rust so well is simply that this type of cookware goes through the bluing process. In essence, the process creates a blue-black iron oxide layer that helps protect the steel from rust. This type of steel also comes with natural nonstick properties, which any cook will love. Of course, this type of cookware can withstand high temperatures, just like cast iron, but it’s much lighter. It’s important to avoid using abrasive materials to clean this type of cookware to protect that protective layer.
4. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a great cookware option as well. There are a lot of variations. Some stainless steel cookware is low quality and relatively cheap, but there are high-quality stainless steel options. If you want the best and cookware that’ll last, then go for high-end options. The benefit of stainless steel is that it’s long-lasting and heats up quickly. As long as the entire thing is stainless steel, including the handles, it should be fine in the oven. The problem with stainless steel, especially the lower-end quality options, is that they don’t distribute heat evenly, making it easy for food to get stuck. That will be hard to clean off and will take up your time.
5. Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is another material that’s used for cookware, and it’s pretty good. The material resembles cast iron, except it’s thinner and a little lighter. Carbon steel is mainly made out of iron with a bit of carbon hence the name. The material can retain a lot of heat, which is why many people love using it for grilling and searing. It’s naturally nonstick, the same as cast iron cookware, but you have to maintain it. You can’t cook acidic foods in this because that’ll mess with the natural coating. It has to be seasoned regularly to maintain its integrity and usefulness. This kind of cookware isn’t dishwasher safe, so you’ll have to wash it by hand.
There you have it. These are some of the most popular cookware options and everything there is to know about them. Figure out which one you think you’ll be using more and make your choice. Be sure to check the warranties on the cookware you choose.
Article Submitted By Community Writer
