Nordic Ware Pans: Safe To Broil?

Nordic Ware offers a range of broiling pans that are safe to use in the oven. The Naturals® Classic Broiler Pan is a versatile set that includes a durable ribbed broiling rack and a multi-purpose baking/drip pan. This set is ideal for broiling meats and vegetables, allowing you to achieve the perfect sear and grill marks while keeping the juices locked in for maximum flavour. The broiling rack elevates the food, ensuring even cooking and preventing sticking.

The Naturals® Compact Ovenware 2 Piece Broiler Set is another option, which includes a Natural Aluminum Baking Sheet and a nonstick Broiling Rack insert. This set is also safe for broiling and provides perfect, versatile cooking.

Nordic Ware broiler pan care and maintenance

Before First Use

Before using your Nordic Ware broiler pan for the first time, hand wash it with warm, soapy water. Before each use, season the pan with unsalted vegetable shortening.

During Cooking

Use moderate heat when cooking with a gas or electric stovetop. Overheating will cause the nonstick performance to deteriorate and the pan to discolour. Always use proper ventilation when broiling.

Utensils

Avoid using metal utensils, scouring pads, and abrasive cleaners on nonstick surfaces. Instead, opt for nylon, wood, or silicone utensils.

Cleaning

Hand wash the broiler pan with warm, soapy water after each use. Avoid using a dishwasher as this may cause discolouration due to the cleaning agents in automatic dishwasher detergent.

Food

Aluminum pans are reactive to acidic ingredients such as vinegar and tomato products. These foods may corrode the pan over time, so it is best to avoid them.

Broiling with non-stick coatings

It is also important to note that some older non-stick pans may be coated with perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which has been a cause for concern by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA has requested that manufacturers phase out the use of PFOA by 2015, so newer non-stick pans should not contain this substance.

When broiling with non-stick coatings, it is recommended to use a stove's exhaust fan and to match the size of the stove burner to the pan bottom. It is also important to avoid preheating non-stick pans on high heat without food in them and to avoid using metal utensils, scouring pads, and abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the coating.

Some non-stick pans are oven-safe, but it is important to check the manufacturer's instructions to be sure. Even if a pan is oven-safe, it may not be suitable for broiling, as broiling temperatures can exceed those of a standard oven.

In summary, while it is possible to broil with non-stick coatings, it is important to take the necessary precautions to avoid damaging the coating and releasing toxic chemicals.

Broiling with natural aluminum

Choosing the Right Cookware

It is essential to select the appropriate cookware for broiling. Natural aluminum broiler pans, such as those offered by Nordic Ware, are a popular choice. These pans often feature a durable ribbed broiling rack and a multi-purpose baking/drip pan, which allows for even cooking and prevents food from sticking. The set is ideal for broiling meats and vegetables, as it helps achieve perfect sear marks while keeping the juices locked in for maximum flavor.

Precautions for Natural Aluminum

When using natural aluminum cookware, it is important to take certain precautions to ensure its longevity and maintain its performance. Here are some recommendations:

• Hand wash with warm, soapy water before initial use and after each subsequent use. Avoid using the dishwasher, as the cleaning agents can cause discoloration, affecting the pan's appearance.
• Use nylon, wood, or silicone utensils. Metal utensils and scouring pads may scratch the natural aluminum pans, even though it won't affect their baking performance.
• Avoid cooking highly acidic ingredients such as vinegar and tomato products for prolonged periods. Aluminum reacts to these acidic ingredients, which may cause the pan to darken, pit, or corrode over time.

Broiling Techniques

To get the best results when broiling with natural aluminum, follow these tips:

• Always use proper ventilation when broiling to avoid any smoke or odor buildup in your kitchen.
• Follow the oven instructions for operating the oven in broil mode. Different foods may require adjustments between \"high\" or \"low\" heat settings.
• Never leave broiling food unattended in the oven. Stay close by to monitor the cooking process and prevent overcooking or burning.
• Consider lining your broiler pan with aluminum foil to catch fat drippings and make cleanup easier, especially when cooking meat.

Food Options for Broiling

Broiling is an excellent cooking method for various foods, including:

• Meats: Broiling is perfect for meats like steaks, as the high heat can char the outside while leaving the inside less cooked.
• Vegetables: Broiling vegetables like potatoes or onions can give them a browned, crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.
• Fish: Fish fillets, such as tilapia, can be seasoned, wrapped in foil packets, and broiled for a flavorful and healthy option.

In conclusion, broiling with natural aluminum can be a convenient and effective way to cook a variety of foods. By choosing the right cookware, following the necessary precautions, and employing the right techniques, you can achieve delicious results and maintain the quality of your cookware for years to come.

Broiling with other metals

Broiling is a great way to add flavour to your food, but it's important to use the right cookware. Broiling pans are typically made of metal and can withstand high temperatures. If you don't have a broiling pan, you can use a shallow metal baking pan or a cast iron skillet.

It is important to avoid using glass cookware when broiling as the intense heat can cause it to crack or even shatter. If you're using a metal baking pan, it's important to ensure it's built to handle high temperatures without flexing.

You can also use a baking rack to hold your food above the pan and make clean-up easier. Just be sure to adjust your oven racks to the correct height before preheating your broiler.

So, while there are some considerations to keep in mind, broiling with metal cookware is a safe and effective way to cook your food.

Broiling with acidic ingredients

Firstly, it is important to note that aluminium, the material used in Nordic Ware pans, is reactive to acidic ingredients such as vinegar and tomato products. Prolonged exposure to these ingredients may cause the pan to darken, pit, or corrode over time. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid using acidic ingredients when broiling with Nordic Ware pans to prolong their lifespan.

If you do choose to use acidic ingredients when broiling, there are a few precautions you can take to minimise any potential damage to your cookware. Firstly, try to limit the amount of time the acidic ingredients come into direct contact with the pan. This can be achieved by using a rack or foil to elevate the food and prevent it from sitting directly in the pan. Additionally, ensure that you thoroughly clean your pan after each use to remove any residual acid. Hand washing with warm, soapy water is recommended, as dishwasher use may cause discolouration due to the cleaning agents used.

When broiling with acidic ingredients, it is important to monitor the temperature of your pan. Nordic Ware pans are oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C), but non-stick coatings can start to break down at temperatures as low as 570°F. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid overheating your pan, especially when using acidic ingredients that can further degrade the coating.

In summary, while it may be possible to broil with acidic ingredients in your Nordic Ware pan, it is not recommended due to the potential for damage and degradation of the cookware. If you do choose to broil with acidic ingredients, take the necessary precautions to minimise any potential harm to your pan and always follow the manufacturer's instructions for care and usage.

Frequently asked questions