Copper Pans: Oil-Free Cooking, Good Or Bad?

Copper pans are an investment, with a single pot typically starting at $100. They are beloved by professionals because they heat up fast and cook delicate foods evenly. They are also naturally antimicrobial, so germs and bacteria can't survive on the surface. However, they are high maintenance and require handwashing and frequent polishing to prevent oxidization. Copper Chef pans do not require the use of butter or cooking oil, but if you choose to use oil, it is recommended to use one with a high smoke point, such as refined olive oil, peanut oil, or corn oil.

Copper cookware is an investment, often becoming family heirlooms

Copper cookware is an investment. With proper care, copper cookware can be passed down through the generations, becoming a family heirloom. Copper is a great conductor of heat, warming quickly and staying warm, and providing an even distribution of heat. This means no more burnt spots or scalding.

Copper cookware is also responsive. It cools down as fast as it heats up, which is a highly desirable feature when making delicate sauces. Copper also heats evenly, distributing heat without hot and cold spots, ensuring your foods cook evenly. Copper cookware also recovers heat swiftly, which is necessary for recipes that demand precise timing and excellent temperature control.

However, copper cookware is high maintenance and susceptible to tarnishing when exposed to oxygen and moisture. It is not dishwasher-safe and requires regular maintenance, including cleaning and polishing. Copper cookware is also incompatible with induction cooktops and cannot go under the broiler.

Copper cookware is an investment, but it is a high-maintenance one. It requires care and attention and is not suitable for all types of cooking. But, if you are committed to providing the necessary care and have the budget, then copper cookware can offer precise temperature control and become a family heirloom.

Copper cookware is not dishwasher-safe

The high temperatures and strong detergents in dishwashers can cause copper to tarnish and become darker. Copper is a soft metal that can be easily scratched, so placing it in a dishwasher could lead to clanking against other items and causing damage.

The best way to clean copper cookware is by hand, using hot water, dishwashing liquid, and a soft dishwashing sponge or brush. For stubborn stains, it is recommended to soak the objects in lukewarm water with a small amount of dishwasher detergent. Food particles can usually be wiped away with a kitchen towel.

There are also various household products that can be used to clean copper, such as vinegar, salt, lemon juice, baking soda, and tomato sauce. These products can be combined in different ways to create effective cleaning solutions. For example, a mixture of vinegar and salt, or a paste made from lemon juice and baking soda, can be applied to the copper with a soft cloth and will help to restore its shine.

Overall, while copper cookware has many desirable qualities, such as excellent heat conduction and responsiveness, it does require special care and attention when it comes to cleaning and maintenance.

Copper cookware is incompatible with induction cooktops

There are a few workarounds to this problem, such as using copper induction plates or specialised equipment like the Vollrath Pro Induction Countertop. However, these solutions can be time-consuming and costly, and you won't get the full benefits of either induction cooking or copper cookware.

If you're considering purchasing copper cookware, it's important to keep this incompatibility in mind, especially if you have an induction cooktop. While copper has excellent heat conductivity and responsiveness, it may not be the best choice if you can't utilise its full potential.

In summary, while copper cookware has its advantages, its incompatibility with induction cooktops is a significant drawback that potential buyers should be aware of and consider before making a purchase.

Copper cookware is high maintenance

Copper cookware must be hand-washed and is not dishwasher-safe. The harsh chemicals and long cleaning cycles of a dishwasher can harm copper. To clean copper cookware, scrub away any residue from the cooking surface, and clean the copper body with a microfibre cloth and a copper-friendly cleaning product. Bar Keepers Friend and Wright's Copper Cream are two highly-rated products for cleaning copper. Corrosive cleaners containing bleach should be avoided, as they can cause pitting.

Copper cookware should not be heated dry. Tin, a common lining material for copper cookware, starts to melt at temperatures above 425°F (220°C). Heating a tin-lined copper pan without fat, oil, or liquid can cause the lining to melt, even before adding ingredients. This can be prevented by adding a generous amount of butter or cooking oil before turning on the heat. Copper cookware should also not be left to boil dry.

Copper cookware is incompatible with induction cooktops. Induction cooktops create a magnetic field that energises cookware with iron content, causing it to heat up. Copper cookware, being made of copper rather than iron or steel, is not ferromagnetic and will not heat up on an induction cooktop. While workarounds exist, such as using copper induction plates, the full benefits of neither induction cooking nor copper cookware are realised.

Copper cookware cannot be placed under the broiler. The broiler setting in ovens typically reaches temperatures of 550-600°F (290-315°C), while most copper cookware is oven-safe only up to 450°F (230°C). Using copper cookware under the broiler can cause it to overheat and damage the lining.

Copper cookware heats up quickly

Copper cookware is an excellent choice for cooks seeking precision and control in their cooking. One of its standout features is its ability to heat up quickly and efficiently. Here's why copper cookware is a top choice for serious chefs:

Unmatched Thermal Conductivity

Copper is renowned for its exceptional thermal conductivity, which means it can rapidly transfer heat from the stove to the pan's surface. In fact, copper is about 29 times more effective at conducting heat than stainless steel, roughly seven times better than cast iron and carbon steel, and twice as effective as aluminium. This superior conductivity results in faster heating, saving time and energy.

Even Heat Distribution

Copper cookware ensures even heat distribution across the entire pan, from the centre to the edges. This even heating eliminates hotspots and prevents food from scorching or burning, resulting in consistent cooking and perfectly seared steaks or golden brown pancakes.

Responsiveness to Temperature Changes

Copper cookware is highly responsive to temperature adjustments. It not only heats up quickly but also cools down just as fast. This responsiveness is crucial when preparing delicate sauces, such as béarnaise or hollandaise, as it allows you to prevent the sauce from breaking by quickly lowering the heat.

Thickness Matters

The thickness of copper cookware also plays a role in its performance. Thicker copper pans, typically those with a thickness of 2.5 to 3mm, retain and distribute heat more effectively than thinner ones. The added copper provides more thermal mass, enhancing even heating and improving the overall cooking experience.

Energy Efficiency

The rapid and even heating properties of copper cookware can lead to energy savings. Unlike other materials that may require higher heat settings, copper cookware often performs well at medium or low heat settings, reducing energy consumption and making it a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious cooks.

In summary, copper cookware heats up quickly, evenly, and efficiently, providing chefs with the precision and control they need to create culinary masterpieces. Its responsiveness to temperature changes and energy efficiency further add to its appeal, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a top-notch cooking experience.

Frequently asked questions