It can be overwhelming at times, to be forced to become an expert in every aspect of your daily life, cooking being one of them. To stay true to the title’s promise, I will simplify the numerous choices into the simplest of options.
The Main Types of Cookware Materials
Some of the main materials in cookware are stainless steel, non-stick, cast iron, and copper.
Stainless steel is best for people who want to have good quality and long lasting cookware, unlike non-stick cookware which requires care because of its coating. High temperatures aren’t an issue with stainless steel, but it does lack the ability to maintain heat independently.
The downsides however is that people should be willing to clean up after use. It requires some effort compared to other materials to clean well.
Non-stick pans mainly have their convenience as their primary benefit. They require less oil than other types of materials, but the non-stick coating can wear out over time. Non-stick pans used to have PFOA, but in 2016 they were phased out in the United States. So non-stick pans have no inherent risks mentioned thereof. But their limitations are that they do well on medium heat settings and that they do not have the durability and quality of other cookware.
(sorry for your inconvenience, the cast iron picture couldn’t get uploaded)
Cast iron is best for people who want a lifetime of use. Though they are prone to rusting, if cared for properly, their simple and durable design allows it to be tough and reliable. They require seasoning, which is applying a layer of oil with heat to prevent rusting and to create a non-stick layer. Being heavy, it retains heat well, and its sturdiness allows it to be versatile in any setting.
Copper is one of the more aesthetically pleasing types. Its high conductivity and color makes it special cookware for anyone who is actively interested in their cookware. It can be expensive at times, though anyone who has further interest should look into the details of copper cookware. It can not work on an induction stove unless it has a special base. It is less durable than stainless steel, as it requires care. Though, its high conductivity may be a value for those who are very nuanced.
So choosing the right type of cookware is really based on your personal situation. Though, I encourage people to look into buying long lasting and reliable cookware like stainless steel or cast iron, since it can offer a simpler and cost-effective toll on your pocketbook.
References:
https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/cooking-tools/cookware-reviews/a43974972/best-cookware-material/
https://www.allrecipes.com/longform/best-cookware-sets/#:~:text=The%20most%20popular%20materials%20are,with%20any%20type%20of%20cooktop.
Image:
https://www.amazon.com/Pro-Smart-Stainless-Cookware-Heavy-Duty-Compatible/dp/B0B8F55R6X?th=1
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Tramontina-9-Piece-Non-stick-Cookware-Set-Red/52636894
https://www.amazon.com/Cast-Iron-Skillet-Versatile-Pre-Seasoned/dp/B078K7JSVJ
https://www.seriouseats.com/buying-copper-cookware
Stainless steel is best for people who want to have good quality and long lasting cookware, unlike non-stick cookware which requires care because of its coating. High temperatures aren’t an issue with stainless steel, but it does lack the ability to maintain heat independently.
The downsides however is that people should be willing to clean up after use. It requires some effort compared to other materials to clean well.
Non-stick pans mainly have their convenience as their primary benefit. They require less oil than other types of materials, but the non-stick coating can wear out over time. Non-stick pans used to have PFOA, but in 2016 they were phased out in the United States. So non-stick pans have no inherent risks mentioned thereof. But their limitations are that they do well on medium heat settings and that they do not have the durability and quality of other cookware.
(sorry for your inconvenience, the cast iron picture couldn’t get uploaded)
Cast iron is best for people who want a lifetime of use. Though they are prone to rusting, if cared for properly, their simple and durable design allows it to be tough and reliable. They require seasoning, which is applying a layer of oil with heat to prevent rusting and to create a non-stick layer. Being heavy, it retains heat well, and its sturdiness allows it to be versatile in any setting.
