Drop that pot and listen to what I have to say. All silver-colored pots are not made of stainless steel. Some are aluminum while others are glass. In other words, color is not the only pointer to the make of a particular cookware.
There are 5 major factors you should always consider before you make your choice. These 5 factors are what I call the Stainless steel pros and cons.
Let’s see them.
Pro: Stainless steel is eco-friendly and does not emit harmful toxins.
Pro: Stainless steel is a strong material and does not wear and tear easily.
Pro: Stainless steel is easy to clean and maintain.
Pro: Stainless steel can be resistant to corrosion.
Con: Stainless steel can be prone to dents and can rust over time.
Read below for more understanding of Stainless steel’s pros and cons;
WHAT IS STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE MADE OF?
Before you go ahead to tie that apron and commence your cooking, pause and ask yourself this question, what is my stainless steel cookware made of?
Are you aware that you could be the reason why your cookware does not last as long as they ought to? Most times, knowing the material used in the production of your cookware will help you understand the best approaches to take in maintenance to ensure durability.
A typical stainless steel pan or pot is made with a combination of highly corrosive metals like nickel and chromium mixed with steel. The result is usually a shimmery silver cookware that is to a good extent, heat resistant but generally corrosive.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE
When it comes to cookware, a lot of attention is spiked especially when the discussion is centered around best cookware brands and how to use them. But do you know that talking about the materials used in the production of these cookware is even more important than their use?
Yes, talking about the materials used in the production of our cookware is more important than anything else because we get to know the hazards associated with overuse or mal-use as well as the benefits from the features of the materials used in their production.
Stainless steel cookware is made from shimmery metals like steel, nickel, and chromium. These materials are safe, eco-friendly, and heat resistant however, researchers will warn against the use of stainless steel cookware to cook highly acidic food because of the risk of leaching.
Benefits of cooking with stainless steel cookware include durability, pocket friendly, ecofriendly, heat resistant, dishwasher, microwave, and oven safe, and suitable for various stoves, like an electric stove top, gas stove top, firewood, and African kerosene stove top.
IS STAINLESS STEEL GOOD FOR EVERYDAY COOKING?
Most everyday cooking is done with stainless steel cookware because the taste of food cooked in stainless steel cookware is usually not distorted.
Foods cooked in stainless steel cookware are tastier than the rest because stainless steel does not contain any toxic chemicals that might leach into food and manipulate the taste of food.
STAINLESS STEEL PROS AND CONS
The secret behind that heavenly taste that no other eatery has except that particular one you usually frequent may not just be about their special recipe. Their choice of cookware could also be a contributory factor.
Stainless steel cookware is the most preferred cookware for the following reasons:
They are very affordable. Unlike other cookware types like ceramics, glass, or even granite, stainless steel cookware sets are usually affordable and can be obtained by any average income earner.
Water Stored in a stainless steel bottle is usually more chilled than water stored in a plastic container.
The maintenance of stainless steel cookware is easier than other sophisticated cookware types.
Stainless steel cookware can accommodate all types of heat surfaces ranging from naked fire to artificial heat.
We won’t focus on just the pros of stainless steel cookware. Let’s see some factors you should also consider before going ahead to get a set of stainless steel cookware.
They are classified according to the quantity of materials used in their production. An example is the 304 grade stainless steel which is usually tagged 18/8 or 18/10. The 18/10 or 18/8 as the case may be is an indication of the total percentage of chromium and nickel available in stainless steel cookware.
Not all stainless steel cookware is non-stick. The sticky stainless steel cooking pans are usually a hassle and require extra layering of oil to reduce the risk of burnt or sticky foods.
Stainless steel cookware should not be used by someone who is allergic to nickel. Using this cookware without any precautionary measures might lead to serious health damage.
Stainless steel is a poor conductor of heat.
Also, there is usually an uneven distribution of the color brown if used over some time.
It is not advisable to scrape a stainless steel pot with a metal spoon. Aside from the fact that the sound that comes from this process can cause goosebumps, scratches made from metal spoons on stainless pots can increase the risk of burnt food.
IS IT HEALTHIER TO COOK WITH STAINLESS STEEL?
It is healthier to cook with stainless steel than to cook with other sophisticated cookware made with highly toxic chemicals.
The leaching percentage of stainless steel is very minimal and highly insignificant. Hence, it is safer to consume foods that have a very insignificant amount of chromium than to consume foods with high lead or PFOA content.
IS STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE SAFE?
Are you hovering a stainless steel cup over your mouth while reading this article and wondering if you should go ahead to drink from the cup or not?
Have no ounce of doubt about this, stainless steel cookware is safe to use and will remain safe for years to come.
Indeed, there is usually the presence of heavy irons like nickel and chromium in stainless steel cookware. However, it is also true that these metals even though they can leach, leach in very little amounts and cannot contribute to any health damages.
ADVANTAGES OF STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE
Easy to wash: A stainless steel cookware is easier to wash than a glassware. This is because it is less fragile and the risk of breaking while washing is very minimal.
Durable: The material is a strong metal that can last longer than other sophisticated cookware types. Its inability to break is a major advantage.
Lightweight: Stainless steel cookware is lighter than other cookware types and does not pose a challenge when it comes to lifting.
Ecofriendly: They are said to be eco-friendly and do not release any harmful substances when heated.
Resilient: A stainless steel pan will fall a thousand and one times without a scratch. All you will need to do is pick it up, clean off the dirt, and continue what you are doing. That’s how resilient the cookware can be.
Affordable: Stainless steel cookware is your go-to in times of emergency as one would not necessarily have to save up over some time to be able to purchase them.
BEST STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE?
Have you ever used a non-stick stainless steel pan? It is heavenly and is what I call, a smooth kitchen ride.
Don’t listen to the sugary mouth of a seller, rather consider, temperature control, durability, and versatility when you are trying to make your best pick.
So let’s get down to it. There are several high-quality stainless steel cookware that are on sale out there but the best 5 from my findings are:
1. ALL-CLAD D3 STAINLESS STEEL
Since 1971 till date, they have remained the best stainless steel cookware brand and have evolved smoothly with technological changes.
The 3-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set, All-Clad D3. This ten-piece set, which was painstakingly and passionately crafted, is the pinnacle of culinary art. Get ready to take your culinary adventures to the next level, regardless of your level of experience.
These pots and pans have an aluminum core, and a stainless steel lining, and are made with All-Clad’s well-known 3-ply bonded construction. With its tri-layered structure, heat is distributed quickly and evenly, removing hot spots and ensuring perfect cooking every time.
Each item of this set is induction-compatible, making it suitable for all cooking surfaces, including gas, electric, and induction stovetops. its versatile design makes it ideal for a variety of settings.
You can also easily switch from cooktop to oven with its 600°F oven and broiler-safe functionality, opening you to a world of culinary possibilities.
You can unleash your creativity in the kitchen with the All-Clad D3 cookware set, which allows you to sear meats and sauté veggies. With each serving, accuracy, and control are guaranteed by the ergonomic handles’ safe and pleasant grip and the drip-free pouring made possible by the flared edges.
This 10-piece set will come in convenient whether you’re cooking a simple weekday supper or throwing a lavish dinner party.
You’ll have the ideal instrument for each cooking chore if you have an extensive collection of pots and pans, which includes stockpots, saucepans, and sauté pans, among others.
With the All-Clad D3 3-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set, savor the elegance of professional-grade cookware. Enhance your cooking inventiveness and experience cooking like never before.
2. CUISINART CHEF’S CLASSIC STAINLESS
The cookware set comes with varying cookware that makes it easy to prepare a variety of dishes without hassle.
The Cuisinart 11-Piece Cookware Set, part of the Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Collection, offers durability and versatility in the kitchen.
With a polished stainless steel exterior and aluminum encapsulated base, it ensures even heat distribution for consistent cooking results.
The set includes essential pieces like saucepans, a sauté pan, stockpot, and versatile skillets, all with tight-fitting lids to lock in flavor and nutrients.
Whether you’re searing, simmering, or sautéing, this set is designed to meet your culinary needs with style and performance.
3. FARBERWARE STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE
Cookware made of stainless steel from Farberware is renowned for its consistent heat distribution, longevity, and adaptability.
Both expert chefs and home cooks like this Farberware. Farberware offers a wide range of stainless steel cookware sets and individual pieces, including saucepans, stockpots, frying pans, and more.
It is easy to clean and resistant to rust and corrosion due to its stainless steel structure. Numerous Farberware cookware sets made of stainless steel have lids and are dishwasher- and oven-safe, and work with all types of stovetops, including induction.
Whether you’re sautéing, boiling, or frying, Farberware stainless steel cookware provides reliable performance for all your cooking needs.
This cookware set is one of the best
4. TRAMONTINA COOKWARE SET:
This set is the perfect partner for any culinary journey. this set, which is made with durability and accuracy, has a modern style that enhances any kitchen.
with a wide range of necessary cookware components, such as stockpots, sauté pans, saucepans, and flexible utensils, this set gives you all you need to quickly prepare delectable meals.
cooking and cleaning up are made easy by the nonstick coating, which guarantees smooth food release and hassle-free cleanup.
because each piece is made of durable metal, which distributes heat evenly, cooking results are consistently consistent. during cooking, safety is improved by the ergonomic handles, which offer a comfortable grip and remain cool to the touch.
The Tramontina Primaware 15-piece nonstick cookware set allows you to unleash your creativity in the kitchen and transform every dish into a masterpiece, regardless of your level of culinary experience. with this outstanding cookware set, you may enjoy the ideal fusion of design, usability, and longevity.
It is made up of kitchenware that can be used for a variety of purposes, from chopping boards for chopping vegetables and fruits, to pans for frying and kettles for boiling.
5. HEXCLAD HYBRID COOKWARE SET: utilizes tri-ply construction and comprises two layers of steel. Hexclad cookware designs are very unique and can come in varying sets.
READ ALSO: GRANITE COOKWARE VS STAINLESS STEEL
IS STAINLESS STEEL SAFER THAN NON-STICK?
Nonstick coatings are safe provided that the porcelain coating is undamaged but stainless steel pans are considered safer because there are no additional coatings that might pose any health challenges to the user in the long run.
Truth be told, some chefs would prefer nonstick cookware over stainless steel because of the non-stick property that minimizes food burn, steaky food, and oil overuse.
STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE MADE IN USA
Here are 3 top companies that manufacture quality stainless steel cookware in the USA.
Gotham Steel: is a brand that produces a wide variety of kitchenware ranging from frying pans, and stainless trays to cooking pots. Their products are non-stick, anti-scratch, and heat resistant with an even heat distribution. They are rated top in the USA market.
Heritage Steel clad: Owned by a family in Clarksville, Trinidad, the company which has existed for more than 40 years is known for their reliable stainless cookware.
Heritage Steel is a cookware brand known for its high-quality clad stainless steel cookware. Clad cookware typically consists of multiple layers of metal, often including stainless steel, aluminum, and sometimes copper, bonded together to take advantage of the different properties of each metal.
This construction allows for even heat distribution and excellent heat retention, making it popular among professional chefs and home cooks.
Henckels RealClad Cookware set:
This is another high-rated brand in the US market and it comes in various sets. There is a 10-piece set made up of pots and pans of different sizes.
This set, which is made of premium stainless steel, elevates your cooking experience to new heights by fusing elegance and endurance.
This set’s innovative clad construction guarantees uniform heat distribution, enabling accurate cooking every time. With every dish, the HENCKELS Clad H3 set produces amazing results, whether you’re searing meats, sautéing veggies, or simmering sauces.
This adaptable set is ideal for any kitchen, as it is made to work with both conventional gas and electric stoves and induction cooktops. The ergonomic handles ensure safe handling while cooking by offering a comfortable grip and remaining cool to the touch.
The stainless steel design of the set makes cleaning up after cooking a breeze. Pots and pans can be restored to their original beauty by simply washing them with soap and water to get rid of tough stains and residue.
The HENCKELS Clad H3 10-piece Induction Pot and Pan Set will inspire your inner chef with its combination of performance, durability, and ease of use. Upgrade your culinary arsenal with this set.
IS 18/10 STAINLESS STEEL SAFE?
Yes, 18/10 stainless steel is safe. The number does not indicate the presence of harmful lead rather it shows us the presence of nickel and chromium which do not contaminate our foods.
In other words, the absence of lead in 18/10 stainless steel indicates that is a healthy choice for cookware.
IS STAINLESS STEEL MAGNETIC
For an item to be classified as stainless steel, it means that the item has iron properties. Iron is a magnetic metal which means that stainless steel usually comprised of iron, is also magnetic.
You might ask if being magnetic is a danger of some sort. Well, since most stainless steel cookware are magnetic, they do not resist corrosion which means that they can rust with age.
HOW TO CLEAN STAINLESS STEEL
If you are cleaning cookware, let’s say you are trying to clean a stainless steel pot, here are steps to follow,
1. Boil water in a kettle for 3 minutes
2. Soak the pot in the boiled water
3. Add soap to the water, preferably liquid soap
4. Allow the pot to soak for 10 minutes
5. Get a microfiber cleaning cloth, a soft sponge, or a towel
6. Scrub gently till all food particles are removed
7. Rinse in cold running water
8. Dry with a towel
IS STAINLESS STEEL TOXIC TO HUMANS?
Apart from the claims that chromium which is a material used in the production of stainless steel can leach into food if the cookware is used for highly acidic foods, stainless steel in general is not toxic to humans.
Apart from it being the most affordable cookware in your kitchen cabinet, stainless steel is the safest cookware you could ever use for both your household cooking and outdoor cooking because it has been researched that the material does not emit any harmful toxins.
WHY DO CHEFS PREFER STAINLESS STEEL?
Chefs prefer stainless steel cookware for a lot of reasons. However, the most important reason why chefs prefer stainless steel is taste retention.
Since, stainless steel does not contain lead that can leach into food and mingle with the taste of the food, the confidence of chefs is usually boosted because they are constantly assured that there are no aliens that would mess with their recipe and distort the desired taste.
Other reasons include general safety, cost of procurement, durability, versatility, and weight.
HOW TO SEASON STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE
Here’s how to season your stainless steel cookware to minimize the occurrences of food sticking to your pots or pans.
Wash thoroughly using the steps I explained above.
Heat your pot on your stovetop. Heat till all traces of water dry from your pot and your pot begins to emit smoke
Add some oil, vegetable oil, or coconut oil, and shake your pot so that the oil circulates evenly.
Allow the oil to heat up properly
Bring down your pot and allow it to cool for a few minutes
Sieve out the oil
Viola! Your stainless steel pot will not only glimmer but will serve as a good substitute for a non-stick.
Repeat this process once you notice that your pot is beginning to burn your food.
DISADVANTAGES OF STAINLESS STEEL COOKWARE
We’ve explained a lot of reasons why stainless steel cookware is good but there are still reasons why some people won’t use them even if they were the only cookware in the market.
Uneven heat distribution: Most stainless steel pots are plain at the bottom and do not contain extra features or coatings that aid heat distribution.
Food burn: Burnt food is very common with stainless steel pots because of the absence of a special nonstick coating that reduces burns and steaky foods.
Oil wastage: In a bid to lubricate your pots and pans to avoid burns, you might use up larger quantities of oil than you would use if you were cooking with a non-stick pan.
Browning: Your stainless steel pots may still be shiny because they are still new. But in a matter of time, some parts of your pots might begin to retain a brown color from too much exposure to heat which might be difficult to wash off.
Pulp: This is common with pans. The pulps can appear and give the pan a distorted surface. You might see some parts of the pan appear bumpy. These bumps will normally make annoying pulp sounds while frying and can develop leakages later on.
READ ALSO: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF STONE COOKWARE