The Enamel Cookware Set: A Vibrant Addition To Any Indian Kitchen

Enamel cookware is a popular choice in India due to its durability, ease of cleaning, and ability to cook and store acidic foods safely. With proper care, enamel cookware can serve you for a long time. It is made by coating a steel sheet with heat-resistant enamel, a thin glass-ceramic layer applied at high temperatures. While choosing enamel cookware, ensure that its surface is smooth, crack-free, and has a uniform density. Additionally, avoid bright and contrasting colours on the inner surface as these might contain toxic chemicals. Enamel cookware sets in India are available in various price ranges and can be purchased from online platforms such as Amazon, Etsy, and local sellers.

Enamel cookware sets are easy to clean

Enamel cookware is easy to clean and maintain. It is made of a steel sheet coated with heat-resistant enamel, which is a thin glass-ceramic layer. This enamel layer is applied at a very high temperature, making it one of the most reliable and safe types of cookware. Here are some tips to clean and care for your enamel cookware:

Daily Care and Cleaning

• For daily care, use a soft sponge and mild detergent without abrasives or corrosive chemicals.
• Avoid heating the cookware empty, and do not expose it to rapid temperature changes.
• Do not wash the cookware immediately after cooking.
• Use wooden, silicone, or nylon utensils to stir and flip food, protecting the enamel finish.
• Wash the cookware with warm soapy water using a non-abrasive sponge or dishcloth.
• Dry the cookware completely with a microfiber cloth before storing it in a cool, dry place.

Removing Crust and Residues

• To remove burnt-on food and residues, mix detergent with water, heat it for a few minutes, then wash with a sponge.
• For salt deposits, rub the surface with dry table salt, or add a bit of baking soda to the water when washing.
• To remove dark vegetable stains, pour pickle brine or boil sour apple skins in the cookware.
• For limescale removal, add citric acid and water or boil a vinegar solution.

Removing Stubborn Stains

• For stubborn stains, create a paste with baking soda and water and apply it with a soft sponge.
• Alternatively, use hydrogen peroxide, a mild bleach that lightens stains.
• Soaking in chlorine bleach mixed with water can also help remove stubborn stains.

What Not to Do

• Do not use steel wool or other harsh materials to remove burnt-on food.
• Avoid sudden temperature changes by not washing cookware immediately or pouring cold water into hot cookware.
• Do not bang the cookware on sharp edges or against other pans, as this can chip the enamel.
• Always allow the cookware to cool completely before cleaning to avoid cracking.
• Avoid using steel wool or metal scrapers, as they can cause scratches and make food stick.
• Do not air-dry the cookware; dry it thoroughly with a towel before storing.
• Avoid using the dishwasher; handwashing is recommended to preserve the finish and patina.

Enamel cookware is environmentally friendly

Enamel cookware is a great eco-friendly alternative to many other non-stick options such as Teflon or silicone. The production of enamel doesn't differ significantly from the production of glass. Enameled cookware is environmentally friendly, hygienic, and easy to clean. Enamel cookware is created from a steel sheet and then coated with heat-resistant enamel, which is a very thin glass-ceramic layer. The enamel layer is applied at a very high temperature of 800-850°C (1472-1562 °F). The enamel cookware is one of the most reliable and safe types of cookware. It is considered one of the cheapest cookware, it is easy to clean, and you can cook and store acidic food in it.

The enamel surface does not absorb smells and can serve you for a long time with proper care. However, you should not use your enamel cookware if the enamel surface is damaged. When heated food is exposed to the bare metal, toxic substances may create a specific metallic food taste. You need to stop the usage of your enamel cookware immediately if you find a crack or any other damage on the inner surface of your item.

To extend the life of enamel cookware, use only a soft sponge and detergents containing no abrasives or corrosive chemicals. Heat cookware gradually and avoid heating it empty. In case of overheating, do not cool enameled cookware under cold water, instead, let it cool down by itself.

Enamel cookware is safe for cooking acidic foods

Enamel cookware is also a great alternative to non-stick Teflon pans, which may release toxic fumes if overheated. Enamel cookware is highly resistant to wear and can be heated to high temperatures without breaking down.

However, it is important to note that enamel cookware can chip, and if the enamel surface is damaged, it is best to stop using the cookware as this may cause toxic substances to leach into your food. To avoid damaging the enamel surface, do not subject the cookware to rapid changes in temperature, and do not use metal utensils that may scratch the surface.

Enamel cookware is stylish and sophisticated

Enamel cookware has a rich history, with its origins dating back to the mid-18th century in Germany. The technique of fusing glass to metal kitchen pots was developed, offering the benefits of better-tasting food and an easy-to-clean coating. Enamel cookware became mass-produced in the USA at the end of the 18th century and quickly gained popularity worldwide due to its qualities. Today, enamel cookware is widely available and continues to be a popular choice for those seeking stylish and functional cookware.

When choosing enamel cookware, it is important to inspect the surface for any cracks or uneven density. It is also crucial to pay attention to the colours and designs used, as some bright and contrasting chemical dyes may be hazardous to health. Safe colours for the inner surface of enamel cookware include white, black, beige, grey-blue, and navy. Red, yellow, and brown dyes should only be used on the outer surface, as they contain toxic metals such as manganese and cadmium.

Enamel cookware is a stylish and sophisticated option that offers both functionality and aesthetics. With its smooth surfaces, vibrant colours, and glossy finishes, it adds a touch of elegance to any kitchen. Enamel cookware is not just about looks, but also about durability, ease of use, and safety, making it a popular choice for those seeking a sophisticated cooking experience.

Enamel cookware is suitable for induction cooktops

Enamel cookware is a great option for those looking for a durable, safe, and stylish set of pots and pans. But what if you have an induction cooktop? Is enamel cookware suitable for induction cooking? The answer is yes! Enamel cookware, which is made from cast iron with an enamel coating, is compatible with induction cooktops because it contains ferromagnetic materials – specifically, iron. This means that the cookware will be attracted to a magnet.

Induction cooking is very different from conventional gas or electric cooking. It creates a magnetic field between the pot and the magnetic coils beneath the cooking surface, which heats up the contents of the pot. This makes induction cooking more energy-efficient, faster, safer, and more responsive to temperature changes.

When it comes to cookware, not all materials are compatible with induction cooktops. Aluminium, all-copper, or glass cookware will not work on their own unless they have a layer on the bottom with magnetic properties. Stainless steel can be a bit tricky as it can be made with a variety of metals; if the nickel content is too high, it will block the magnetic field. Cast iron, enameled cast iron, and many types of stainless steel are all induction-compatible.

While enamel cookware is suitable for induction cooktops, it is important to note that not all cookware is created equal. Some lower-quality enamel cookware may have a painted or enamel bottom, which is not recommended for induction cooking as it may fuse to the glass during cooking and lead to chipping. It is also important to use a pan with a flat bottom that matches the element size of the cooktop. Additionally, make sure the enamel layer is smooth, has no cracks, and has a uniform density.

To test if your enamel cookware is induction-compatible, simply hold a magnet to the bottom. If the magnet clings to the underside, your cookware will work on an induction cooktop. If the magnet only grabs the pan softly, you may have some success but it may not be ideal. And if there is no pull on the magnet at all, your cookware will not generate heat on an induction cooktop.

In conclusion, enamel cookware is suitable for induction cooktops as long as it has the right properties and is of good quality. Enamel cookware is a great option for those looking for durable, stylish, and induction-compatible pots and pans.

Frequently asked questions