There is an abundance of options when it comes to cookware. You will find stainless steel, aluminum, non-stick and cast iron, and even restaurant-quality cookware for home cooks, such as this review by BrandRated. So, it can sometimes be a challenge to know which cookware is the best for your needs.
It’s important not to make the wrong choice because this can result in meals sticking to the pan during the cooking process or worse, you end up having to throw the pan away completely.
This begs the question: what is the best way to go? Luckily we have the answers so keep reading to learn some mistakes you might be making with your cookware.
You’re not Using the right cookware for the job
You cannot just go into a store and select any cookware. You have to ensure that the pots and pans you choose are oven-proof, non-stick as well as durable.
Stainless steel is by far one of the best choices you can use because it is durable, easy to take care of, it does not react with the foods you cook and it provides quick heating among many other advantages. The only downside to stainless steel is the fact that it is tougher to clean at times.
Non-stick cookware is also essential in any kitchen because it allows the food to brown without sticking to the cookware.
You also need less oil during the cooking process and it is extremely easy to clean. Certain cookware is also much safer for your health than others and some of the healthier options are cast iron, copper, stainless steel, and aluminum.
Avoid cookware that is coated with Teflon because the chemicals used to make the pots and pans non-stick are incredibly harmful to your health.
You’re not Cleaning Your Cookware Properly
Everybody dreads having to wash pots and pans however, you need to ensure that these items are cleaned correctly if you want them to last and perform optimally.
One common mistake that most people make is to let cookware soak to loosen stuck food particles. However, this should be avoided because when you soak your cast iron, for example, you end up removing the seasoning from the cast iron.
You must also avoid the mistake of cleaning your non-stick, ceramic, and enamel-based cookware with sharp and abrasive materials such as sponges or steel pools. This might scratch the surface and cause the exterior to begin pitting and peeling which will result in it getting tossed in the bin.
Also do not put your cookware in the dishwasher and simply just clean your cookware with hot water and soap. For cast –iron, you need to wipe it down with a small amount of vegetable oil and then place it in the oven.
You’re Using the Wrong Cooking Methods
When cooking with ceramic or non-stick cookware, you need to only use low and medium heat because high temperatures cause the coating to deteriorate over time.
When you expose non-stick pans to high heat, you also allow noxious fumes to be released which can cause flu symptoms, an illness called “Teflon Flu” and it can also poison birds.
Also never simmer anything acidic in cast-iron or aluminum because this will alter the flavor and can cause potential health issues.
You’re not Storing Your Cookware Correctly
Cookware can be easily damaged by rattling, scraping, and rolling against each other so to prevent this, you can layer paper towels or a kitchen towel between each pan when you store them in the cupboard.
You also must ensure your cookware is stored in a place that is always dry to prevent rusting from occurring.
You’re Using Damaged Cookware
If your cookware scratches somehow or if your non-stick coating begins to tear away and starts to lift, you must immediately throw it away, or else you will end up with parts of the pan in your food which is a health hazard.
Many people don’t think too much about their pots and pans outside of when it’s time to cook however if you want to make sure your cookware lasts and your health is preserved, you need to familiarize yourself with the types of cookware that is best, how to clean it, how to properly cook with it and how to store it correctly.
