If you’re a person who cooks daily, then you would know that having the right cookware can make a huge difference. Even if you’re on your way to being a chef or you simply love to cook, it would be great to invest in high-quality cookware to improve your cooking skills as well as the flavor of your dishes.
Looking for cookware can be overwhelming in the beginning, so we created this guide for you and for anyone who needs help in understanding the types of cookware and considering the materials.
Understanding cookware types
When cooking, the cookware you use comes in different types and is designed for specific cooking procedures. The most common types you’ll encounter (or probably have encountered) are frying pans and skillets, saucepans, stockpots, Dutch ovens, and baking sheets and pans.
- Frying Pans and Skillets: These are used for sautéing vegetables, frying eggs, and searing meats. They’re easy to remember because they have a flat bottom and the sides are slightly raised. When selecting a frying pan, consider alternatives like non-stick surfaces so the food is easy to release and easy to clean up.
- Saucepans: As the name suggests, this cookware is ideal for making sauces. It’s also used for making pasta or cooking grains. When you’re looking for a saucepan, look for a lid that’s snug to keep moisture and heat.
- Stockpots: They’re usually just called pots, but their proper term is stockpots. They are large and used for making soups, stocks, and stews. Their size is capable of cooking large batches, which makes it useful for preparing big meals.
- Dutch Ovens: These are made to be flexible and can be used on the stovetop or in the oven. They are very good for braising, baking, and slow cooking because of how they were built and their ability to preserve heat.
- Baking Sheets and Pans: The baking sheets are needed for baking cookies and roasting vegetables. Meanwhile, the cake pans and loaf pans are for baking cakes and breads. So, look for options that are made from materials that elevate heat distribution.
Choosing the Right Materials
Your cooking performance and durability will be affected by the material of your cookware. So, you need to choose the right materials. If you’re not sure what to look for exactly, below is a list of some popular cookware materials:
- Stainless Steel: These are durable, non-reactive, and resistant to rust and staining. It’s also very good for browning and deglazing; however, it may need some oil to prevent sticking. What you should look for is cookware with an aluminum or copper core for better heat potential.
- Cast Iron: Cast iron cookware is known for preserving heat, especially in cooking. It’s perfectly useful for frying, baking, and slow cooking. When you season the cast iron pan, it will produce a natural non-stick surface, but it needs special care to keep its seasoning.
- Non-Stick: These are coated with materials that lessen the sticking, which makes them perfect for cooking intricate foods like eggs or pancakes. Even if it’s convenient, their surfaces will become worn over time and need to be cleaned gently.
- Copper: These cookwares are superior in heat conductivity and responsiveness, which makes them ideal for accurate cooking. Copper cookware needs to be polished regularly to keep its appearance. It can also respond with acidic foods, so it’s usually paired up with stainless steel.
- Ceramic: These are non-toxic cookware with a non-stick surface. This is a good choice for health-conscious cooks. Additionally, it can resist high temperatures, and it’s easy to clean. However, it might not be as long-lasting as other materials.
Top cookware recommendations
We listed some options that are dubbed to be the best cookware available taking into account their performance as cookware, durability, and reviews from their users.
- All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Cookware Set: A professional-grade stainless steel set that has frying pans, saucepans, and a stockpot. Its tri-ply construction makes sure the heat is evenly distributed. This set is a favorite among chefs and for those who cook at home.
- Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven: They’re known for their colorful and durable cast iron cookware. This is also very good for slow-cooking, baking, and braising, which features an enamel finish that stops it from rusting and makes it easy to clean.
- T-fal Non-Stick Cookware Set: This set is budget-friendly and features distinctive Thermo-Spot technology that specifies when the pan is preheated. Additionally, this is great for cooking beginners too.
- Calphalon Classic Ceramic Nonstick Bakeware: If you’re into baking, then this set is perfect for you as it gives heat conduction and non-stick properties. This can be used for baking cakes to casseroles.
- Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware Set: This set is very good for all stovetop cooking methods. It looks sleek because of its polished stainless steel exterior; it would also look professional in any kitchen. Additionally, you can check out Slingo for other options.
Overall, investing in cookware that’s high-quality is needed to improve your cooking experience. Regardless of whether you favor stainless steel, cast iron, or non-stick options, the best cookware will be based on your style of cooking and preferences.
Once you understand the various types and materials that are available, you’ll be able to make up your mind in choosing the right set of cookware that will last for years.
