Thanksgiving Is Coming, Which Cookware Is For You?

Our cookware is used virtually every day of our life.  Having the right cookware to create delicious meals is like having the right wrench to fix the car. The key is knowing how the cookware will work for you.

There are 3 popular types of cookware:  Stainless Steel, Non-Stick, and Ceramic.  I will provide some insight on which cookware may be for you.  Of course these are general statements and you should research the cookware you plan to purchase.   Most cooks will have a combination of two or more types of cookware, based on the usage.  Knowing your cooking style and needs are just the beginning.

Low heat: simmering liquids, warming food and preparing delicate sauces
Medium to medium-high heat: preheating, sauté, searing, frying, stir-frying
High heat: boiling and reducing liquids only

Stainless Steel

• Heat Resistant for oven and the broiler.
• Use appropriate heat level for cooking application. This cookware is intended for low, medium, or high heat. Overheating cookware can cause discoloration. Discoloration (blue-colored tint on exterior surface) will not affect function of cookware.
• Develops a fond, the caramelized bits of goodness at the bottom of the pan, perfect for sauces and gravies.
• Look for flared rims or pour spouts and measure marks inside the pan as an added bonus.
• What is Tri Clad?  18/10 (Steel/Aluminum) Interior layer allows easy release and clean up.  Aluminum Middle Layer conducts heat evenly.  18/0 Exterior is suitable for Gas, Electric or Inducting cooking.
• Dishwasher Safe

Non-Stick

• Heat Resistant up to 400°F, in the oven.  Not suitable for the broiler.
• Cookware is intended to be used on low and medium heat settings and medium-high heat for short intervals.
• Hard anodized aluminum and titanium for strength.
• The next generation of non-stick coating that does not peel or give off noxious fumes.
• Look for pour spouts or flared rims and a flat (not convex) bottom.
• Thicker flat base with thinner walls transfers heat more evenly and is suitable for Gas and Electric cooking.
• Hand Wash only

Ceramic

• Heat Resistant up to 400°F, in the oven.  Not suitable for the broiler
• Preheating of pans on medium heat should not exceed 3 minutes on gas stovetop or 5 minutes on an electric stovetop. Always use a small amount of oil or butter for best release.
• Cookware is intended to be used on low and medium heat settings and medium-high heat for short intervals.
• Easy Release surface for easy clean up
• Budget friendly
• Comes in many colors to match your kitchen décor, dark colors tend to darken food more.
• Thick flat bottom aluminum body to provide even heat, suitable for Gas or Electric.
• Hand Wash only

The Pampered Chef – Leanne Oertel Independent Consultant

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