Cookware

Stainless Steel Cookware Stainless steel would have to be the most common type of cookware materials. You will probably find it in most househoulds. Stainless steel is actually an alloy of metals including steel, carbon and chromium. The reaon stainless steel is called 'stainless' is because of it's ability to resist corrosion. Stainless steel is an excellent choice for cookware BUT because of its inability to conduct heat well it is important that you choose stainless steel cookware that has an aluminum or copper core. Without it you will find that you will get hot spots on the cooking surface and foods will cook unevenly.

Advantages
Relatively inexpensive
Durable
Scratch resistant
Keeps it shiny look for a long time
Doesn't react with foods
Warp resistant

Disadvantages
Not a good conductor of heat

Cast Iron CookwareCast iron is a material that has been used to create cookware for hundreds of years. Those that use cast iron cookware absolutely swear by it for its exceptional cooking ability. Nevertheless, cast iron cookware is not an easy to maintain product. It requires a little effort to keep it working the way it should. It is extremely durable and it is not uncommon to find cast iron cookwarethat has been passed down through the generations.

Advantages
Relatively inexpensive
Extremely durable
Good heat retention

Disadvantages
Reacts with foods unless seasoned
High maintenance; requires regular seasoning
Is heavier than most other types of cookware
Can rust unless seasoned

Aluminum Cookware Aluminum is used in approximately 50% of all cookware manufactured today because of its excellent heat conduction. Aluminum is a soft metal and can scratch and dent easily. It can also react with certain foods which is why it is generally sandwiched between other metals. you will often find stainless steel cookware with a layer of aluminum offering the benefits of both materials. Aluminum is also often treated through a process known as anodization. This process places a layer of aluminum oxide onto the surface making it scratch resistant as well as ensuring that is doesn't react with foods. Aluminum cookware is often finished with a nonstick coating to ensure food remains unburned.

Advantages
Excellent heat conduction
Relatively expensive

Disadvantages
Reacts with acidic foods
Requires regular polishing

Copper CookwareCopper cookware is commonly used amongst professional chefs because of its excellent heat conduction. Copper cookware on its own is generally quite expensive so it is not often seen in many home kitchens. Copper is also often found sandwiched between layers of other materials like stainless steel. Copper cookware is the cookware of chefs and for goods reason. It conducts heat extremely well which means it is heats quickly and adjusts to changes in temperature just as quickly. This allows greater control over your cooking.

Advantages
Excellent heat conduction

Disadvantages
Reacts with acidic foods
Scratches and dents easily