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How to Purchase Cookware
Today's cookware comes in a
wide variety of materials and finishes. When cooking for a crowd, you will
want cookware that is low maintenance, easy clean, has good heat conduction
and...did I say easy clean?
There are certain things you need to consider when choosing
these kitchen vessels. We will look at stainless steel, aluminum, cast iron, copper and
anodized types of cookware.
What
to Look For
-
How Well Does It Conduct Heat?
Some metals are better heat conductors than others.
The better the heat conduction the better and more evenly your food will cook.
-
Is It Durable?
Stainless steel is considered to be one of the
most durable materials. You will actually get a better return of
your investment if you purchase a long-lasting product
-
Maintenance –
Copper cookware generally requires quite a bit of work to keep it looking
shiny and bright, while stainless steel is almost as easy to clean as
non-stick cookware.
-
Price – The amount you pay for your
cookware will most likely be a determining factor in what you
eventually buy.
Think about what pieces of cookware you need before you buy. Even though
buying a cookware set can be less expensive than buying piece by piece; if
you don't use it you will be paying more in the end! Be
realistic. The bottom line, as with anything...buy the best you can
afford.
In
my experience: I like stainless steel cookware because it allows the
formation of frond. This is the beautiful charred bits of sugar and fat
that come about when you saute foods over relatively high heat. With a
deglazing of wine, juice, broth or even water, you can create a wonderful sauce
or moistness for your foods. Plus, stainless steel is easy to clean,
heavy-weight and the price is
right!
Use this chart as a
starting guide before you purchase. Hope it helps!
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Heat Conduction
|
Durability |
Maintenance |
Price |
Other
Info |
|
Stainless Steel |
Ok, not as good as others
|
Very
|
Almost as easy as non-stick to clean
|
Relatively inexpensive
|
Does not react
with foods
|
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Aluminum |
Excellent
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Scratches and dents easily
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Easily burns and sticks; will rust
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Relatively inexpensive
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Reacts with acidic foods
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Cast Iron |
Good
|
Extremely
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Relatively high, must be seasoned often
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Relatively inexpensive
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Reacts with food if not seasoned; heavy-weight
|
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Copper |
Excellent
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Good
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Lots of polishing; tarnishes
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Expensive
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Reacts with acidic foods; often put between
layers of stainless steel pans
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| Anodized |
Excellent
|
Good
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Non-stick ease
|
Some can be expensive
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Made by "electrifying"
aluminum
(anodization), creating a durable non-stick surface
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Questions? Contact us
for more information
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