Caraway Pan Handles: Do They Get Hot?

Caraway is a direct-to-consumer cookware brand that has gained popularity for its stylish and functional pots and pans. The brand's tagline, Quality Cookware, Without Chemicals, reflects its commitment to creating a healthier and more environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional non-stick cookware. Caraway's products are made with a ceramic non-stick coating, which is free of toxic chemicals like PTFE (Teflon) and PFOA. While the ceramic coating offers a sleek and non-stick surface, some users have noted that the handles of Caraway pans can get hot during use. In this article, we will explore the features, benefits, and potential drawbacks of Caraway cookware, specifically addressing the question of whether the pan handles get hot during use.

Caraway pan handles can get hot, so be sure to have oven mitts or pot holders to hand

The Caraway website recommends keeping a kitchen towel or oven mitt nearby when handling the pans. This is especially important when using the Dutch oven, which has two handles on either side of the pan. It's also a good idea to keep oven mitts or pot holders nearby when handling the lids, which have long stainless steel handles.

The Caraway frying pan has a bump on the underside of the handle to warn you to keep your hands away from the hottest part. However, some users have reported that the handles can get "really hot", so it's important to be cautious when handling Caraway pans, especially when they have been on the heat.

Caraway cookware is not dishwasher-safe and should be hand-washed only

To hand-wash Caraway cookware, use warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth. For stubborn burnt pieces, a paste of baking soda and water left on for at least 30 minutes usually does the trick. Dry with a soft, non-abrasive dish towel to avoid scratching.

The coating is also susceptible to damage from metal utensils, so stick to wooden, silicone, plastic, or nylon products.

The non-stick coating on Caraway pans is prone to chipping over time, especially if used on a gas stovetop with metal grates

Caraway cookware is made with a heavy-gauge aluminium core free of lead, cadmium, and other toxic metals. Its interior and exterior are coated in a proprietary, mineral-based ceramic coating, which gives it its non-stick quality. The cookware is also compatible with induction cooking, as it features a stainless steel plate on the bottom.

While Caraway cookware is marketed as a safer and more environmentally-friendly alternative to traditional non-stick cookware, it is important to note that its non-stick coating is prone to chipping, especially when used on a gas stovetop with metal grates.

To prevent the non-stick coating from chipping, it is recommended to use the cookware on low to medium heat only. Overheating can wear away the non-stick coating. Additionally, metal utensils with rough edges may damage the coating, so it is best to use wooden, silicone, plastic, or nylon products instead. When placing the pans on and off stovetops, it is important to be careful as sliding them across metal stovetops may damage the steel base.

To clean and maintain the cookware, hand washing with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth is recommended. For stubborn stains, a stronger sponge or detergent can be used. It is important to avoid using the dishwasher as it can affect the longevity of the cookware.

While Caraway cookware offers many benefits, such as even heat distribution and easy cleaning, it is important to be mindful of the potential for the non-stick coating to chip, especially when used on gas stovetops with metal grates. Proper care and maintenance can help prolong the lifespan of the cookware and maintain its non-stick properties.

Caraway cookware is made from a ceramic non-stick coating, which is a safer alternative to traditional non-stick coatings

Caraway cookware is made from a ceramic non-stick coating, which is marketed as a safer alternative to traditional non-stick coatings. The ceramic coating is naturally slick and free of toxic chemicals, whereas traditional non-stick coatings can contain synthetic chemicals such as polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), also known as Teflon, which can break down and release toxic fumes if overheated.

Caraway's ceramic coating is free of PTFE, PFOA, PFAS, lead, cadmium, and other toxic metals. This means that, unlike PTFE-coated pans, there is no risk of ingesting toxic chemicals if the coating gets scratched, or of the coating breaking down and releasing fumes if overheated.

Ceramic coatings also have other benefits over traditional non-stick coatings. They have higher conductivity, which means that the surface heats up more evenly with no cold spots. They are also less prone to chipping, which can further hamper the non-stick properties of traditional non-stick coatings.

Caraway cookware is more expensive than other non-stick sets, but its quality justifies the price

The cookware set stands out for its even heat distribution, with users reporting that food cooks evenly and efficiently. The set is also versatile, as it is compatible with all cooktops, including induction stovetops, and is oven-safe up to 550°F. The handles are designed to disperse heat, but some users have noted that they can still get hot during cooking.

The Caraway cookware set is well-designed and aesthetically pleasing, with a range of modern colour options available. The set also includes convenient storage solutions, such as magnetic pan racks and a canvas lid holder.

While the set is more expensive than some competitors, the quality and performance of the cookware make it a worthwhile investment. The non-stick coating, even heating, and ease of cleaning make it a convenient and reliable choice for both beginners and experienced cooks.

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