The Ultimate Guide to Stainless Steel Cookware

When it comes to outfitting your kitchen with the best tools, stainless steel cookware stands out as the best choice. Known for its durability, safety, and sleek appearance, stainless steel cookware is a staple in both home kitchens and professional settings alike.

Stainless steel cookware is made by layering three different metals to make it great for cooking. The inside layer, where your food touches, is usually made of surgical-grade stainless steel with chromium (18%) and nickel (8%). This makes it safe and doesn't react with your food. Between the inner and outer layers is aluminum, which spreads heat well. The outside layer is also stainless steel, which makes the cookware work on induction stoves and makes it stronger.

Stainless steel cookware has many benefits:

• Safety: It doesn't release harmful chemicals into your food like some other materials might, so it's safe to use.
• Durability: Good stainless steel cookware can last for decades, even with some scratches. These won’t affect how safe or well it cooks.
• Versatility: Professional chefs like it because it can go from stove to oven and handle high temperatures. It works on gas, electric, and induction stoves.

To keep your stainless steel cookware in good shape:

• Use low to medium heat to avoid food sticking.
• Clean gently with baking soda and water or mild cleaners like Barkeeper’s Friend.
• Most stainless steel cookware is safe to put in the dishwasher.

Cooking tips:

• Heat your pan slowly over medium heat before adding oil or food to prevent sticking.
• Let ingredients come to room temperature before cooking to keep the pan’s heat even.
• Use wooden or heat-resistant silicone utensils to avoid scratching the surface.

Stainless steel cookware isn’t just for cooking, it's a smart choice for quality, safety, and great cooking results. Whether you're a professional chef or cooking at home, stainless steel can improve your cooking experience for years.