Steaming Simplified: Induction Cooker Techniques For Perfect Results

Induction cookers have become increasingly popular in residential kitchens, and for good reason. They are more efficient, safer, and easier to clean than their electric and gas counterparts. They also offer precise temperature and power control, and can be installed at a lower or higher setting depending on the height and needs of the family. However, not all cookware works on an induction cooker, so it's important to use the right type of cookware to ensure that your food is cooked effectively.

How to turn on an induction cooker

To turn on an induction cooker, follow these steps:

• Turn on the induction cooker by pushing a power button or turning a knob. Each model will have slightly different directions, so check your owner's manual.
• Place your induction-compatible cookware on the element you wish to use. The cooktop ring will sense the iron content in the cookware and start to heat it up immediately.
• Time your cooking appropriately. Induction cookers are more efficient than their electric and gas counterparts, so your meals will cook faster. Keep a close eye on your cooking station as you get used to this quicker method.
• Make sure your cooktop is off when not in use. As a safety measure, most induction cookers have sensors that shut down automatically when certain actions take place. It may be embedded in your cooktop's system to turn itself off when cooking has exceeded a time limit or when it doesn't detect your cookware after some time. Otherwise, hold down the power button to shut off your appliance.
• Unlike gas or electric cooktops, induction cookers make the cookware itself the heat source. The faster you rub your hands together, the warmer they become. Following the same principle, instead of friction being created in your hands, it is created by the electrons inside the cookware.
• The cookware must be magnetically conductive and ferromagnetic for the induction system to work. The cooking vessel should be flat, smooth, and magnetic. You can test this by placing an ordinary fridge magnet at the base of the cooking vessel. If it sticks, the cookware will work on induction.
• Induction cookers are more energy-efficient than gas or electric cooktops. The heat remains confined to the cookware and the place beneath it, called the heating zone or burner, while the rest of the cooktop remains cool to the touch.
• Induction cookers are also easier to clean since the cooktop itself has a smooth surface and does not get very hot.

How to choose the right cookware for an induction cooker

To choose the right cookware for an induction cooker, you must first understand how induction cooking works. Unlike conventional gas or electric cooking, induction cookers use direct electrical induction heating, creating a magnetic field between the pot and the magnetic coils beneath the cooking surface. This electromagnetic field then heats the contents of the pot.

Therefore, for cookware to work on an induction cooker, it must contain ferromagnetic materials, such as iron or another material with magnetic properties. A simple way to test if your cookware is compatible is to place a magnet on the bottom of the pot or pan. If the magnet sticks, it will work on an induction cooker.

• Materials: As mentioned, cookware must contain magnetic materials. Cast iron, carbon steel, and some stainless steel pans are suitable. If you are unsure, look for the induction-compatible symbol on the cookware or try the magnet test.
• Flat Bottom: Induction cookers require direct contact with the cookware to generate heat. Therefore, choose pots and pans with wide, flat bottoms to ensure even heat distribution.
• Sturdiness: Induction cooking can sometimes cause vibration. Choose cookware with sturdy lids and well-attached, durable handles to reduce noise and prevent accidents.
• Quality: For the best cooking results, opt for high-quality, heavy-gauge cookware. This will ensure even heat distribution and reduce the risk of hot spots or uneven cooking.
• Cost: Induction-compatible cookware can vary in price, but investing in good-quality pieces will save you money in the long run.

Remember, it is essential to choose the right cookware for your induction cooker to ensure efficient and safe cooking. By following these tips, you can make an informed decision when purchasing cookware for your induction cooker.

How to adjust the temperature on an induction cooker

To adjust the temperature on an induction cooker, follow these steps:

• Check the instruction manual that came with your induction cooker. It will tell you which setting to use for specific types of food.
• Turn on the induction cooker. Each model will have slightly different directions, such as pushing a power button or turning a knob.
• Select the desired temperature setting. Most induction cookers have settings ranging from low to high, with some offering custom temperature controls.
• Adjust the temperature as needed during the cooking process.
• If you need to cool down the induction cooker, simply turn off the power switch and wait 30 seconds before turning it back on.

It is important to note that induction cooking uses magnetic fields to heat the cookware directly, so the temperature settings may vary depending on the type of cookware being used. Additionally, induction cooking is known for its rapid and consistent heating capabilities, with some models heating up in as little as 15 seconds. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor the cooking process closely, especially when adjusting the temperature.

How to clean an induction cooker

Induction cookers are generally easy to clean because they have a smooth surface and don't get very hot. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to clean an induction cooker:

Step 1: Scrape the cooktop surface

Use a safe induction cooktop scraping tool to remove leftover residues. Keep the scraper flat against the surface to prevent scratching and damaging your cooktop. It is best to wait for your cooktop to cool down until it is warm, but not hot to the touch, as this makes cleaning up residues easier as they break down faster.

Step 2: Clean your cooktop surface

Once your cooktop is no longer warm, add a safe cleaning solution to the surface, such as a specialised cooktop cleaner, or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar. Let the solution sit for at least 10 minutes, or according to the product instructions, before wiping down your cooktop surface with a cloth or sponge.

Step 3: Polish your induction cooktop

Use a non-abrasive scrubbing pad or soft, dry cloth to wipe away any remaining cleaner. Finish this step by buffing your cooktop with a dry towel or microfiber cloth.

Step 4: Repeat the cleaning process

If there are still some remaining bits of burnt-on residue, simply repeat the above steps until your cooktop is clean.

Tips for keeping your induction cooktop clean:

• Avoid dragging pans over the surface to minimise marks.
• Clean down the surface after each use to avoid food sticking to the induction hob.
• Use hot soapy water and a cloth after cooking to avoid having to deep clean.
• White vinegar can be applied for extra sheen and sparkle.
• Do not use cleaning tools that feature wire wool or other abrasive materials, such as scouring pads. Also, avoid using scrapers unless they are specifically created for use with ceramics.
• Assess the dirt and grime on your induction hob and use different tools or techniques accordingly.

What not to use to clean an induction cooktop:

• Avoid using abrasive scrubbing pads like steel wool.
• Do not use abrasive powder cleansers.
• Avoid hard water, abrasive cleaning agents, steel wool, and hard scrubbing tools as these can damage your cooktop.

It is important to refer to your owner's manual for more details on what is safe to use on your induction cooktop, and to always follow the directions on cleaning products before use.

How to use an induction cooker for canning

An induction cooker uses a high-frequency induction coil below the cooker's smooth surface to heat up cookware with a magnetic field, rather than using an open flame or heated coils. This is the only cooking method that directly uses the cookware as part of the cooking system.

Not all cookware works on an induction cooker, so to create the magnetic field required to heat up the pot or pan, the bottom must be made of iron. The best way to check is by using a magnet; if it sticks to the bottom of the cookware, it's good to go.

How to Use an Induction Cooker:

• Turn on the induction cooker. Each model will have slightly different directions, such as pushing a power button or turning a knob, so check your owner's manual.
• Place your induction-compatible cookware on the element. The cooker ring will sense the iron content in the cookware and start to heat it up immediately.
• Time your cooking appropriately. Induction cookers are more efficient than other types, so your meals will cook faster. Keep a close eye on your cooking as you get used to this quicker method.
• Make sure your cooker is off when not in use. As a safety measure, most induction cookers have sensors that shut down automatically when certain actions take place. Alternatively, hold down the power button to switch off the appliance.

Benefits of Induction Cooking:

• There is no heat loss as all the heat is created in the pan, and the cooktop surface can cool down quickly.
• Induction cookers can heat up and be powered off quickly.
• Induction cookers are more responsive to changes in temperature control.
• Energy efficiency is high, with 90% of power being transferred to the food.

Frequently asked questions