The Induction Base Cookware Set: A Comprehensive Guide To Buying And Using This Versatile Cooking Option From Flipkart

Flipkart offers a wide range of induction base cookware sets, with options available from various brands such as Pigeon, Prestige, Butterfly, and Flipkart SmartBuy. These cookware sets typically include items such as frying pans, kadhais, tawas, and sauce pans, and are made from materials like stainless steel, aluminium, and cast iron. The sets are designed to be durable and to provide uniform cooking results, with features such as non-stick coatings, cool-touch handles, and induction bottoms for compatibility with both gas stoves and induction cooktops. With a variety of sizes, colours, and price ranges to choose from, Flipkart's induction base cookware sets cater to different customer needs and preferences.

Induction and gas stove compatibility

Induction Compatibility:

Induction cooktops use electromagnetic fields to heat cookware directly. Therefore, for a cookware set to be induction compatible, it must have a ferromagnetic base, typically made of cast iron, carbon steel, or stainless steel. Some non-stick aluminium cookware sets may also be compatible if they have a magnetic base. You can test the compatibility by checking for an ""induction compatible" symbol on the cookware or using a magnet to see if it sticks to the base.

Gas Stove Compatibility:

Gas stoves use a flame to heat cookware. Gas stoves are generally compatible with most cookware materials, including stainless steel, cast iron, aluminium, and copper. However, it's important to ensure that the cookware has a flat bottom and is stable on the grates of the gas stove.

Benefits of Induction and Gas Stove Compatibility:

• Flexibility: A cookware set compatible with both induction and gas stoves offers flexibility in cooking over different heat sources. This is especially useful if you have both cooktop types in your kitchen or plan to use the cookware in different locations.
• Efficiency: Induction cooktops are generally more energy-efficient than gas stoves as they transfer heat directly to the cookware, resulting in faster cooking and reduced energy consumption.
• Safety: Induction cooktops are considered safer than gas stoves as they don't involve open flames or direct heat. The cooktop itself remains cool, reducing the risk of burns. Additionally, induction cooktops have built-in safety features, such as automatically cutting power if the element reaches an abnormally high temperature.
• Ease of Cleaning: Induction cooktops have smooth, glass-ceramic surfaces that are easier to clean than gas stoves, which may have crevices and grooves that can be challenging to reach.
• Temperature Control: Induction cooktops offer more precise temperature control, making it easier to maintain specific temperatures for cooking delicate dishes.

Drawbacks of Induction and Gas Stove Compatibility:

• Cost: Induction cooktops and ranges are generally more expensive to purchase and operate than gas stoves, especially in regions where electricity costs are high.
• Learning Curve: Using an induction cooktop may require adjusting your cooking techniques due to the faster heating and cooling of the cookware. Additionally, you need to ensure that the cookware is centred on the induction element for even heating.
• Power Outages: In areas with frequent power outages, an induction cooktop may not be ideal as it relies on electricity to function.
• Cookware Limitations: Induction cooktops require specific cookware with magnetic properties, while gas stoves are compatible with a wider range of cookware materials.

Non-stick coating

The non-stick coating on the Flipkart SmartBuy Induction Bottom Cookware Set is made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon. PTFE is a synthetic chemical made up of carbon and fluorine atoms. It was first created in the 1930s and provides a non-reactive, non-stick, and almost frictionless surface.

The non-stick surface makes Teflon-coated cookware convenient to use and easy to clean. It also requires little oil or butter, making it a low-fat way to cook and fry food.

However, there is some controversy around non-stick coatings, and some sources claim they are harmful and linked to health conditions such as cancer. These concerns are due to a chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), which was previously used to produce non-stick cookware but isn't used today. PFOA has been linked to health conditions including thyroid and kidney disorders, chronic kidney disease, liver disease, and testicular cancer.

Today, all Teflon products are PFOA-free, so the health effects of PFOA exposure are no longer a cause for concern. However, other components of Teflon products, namely PFAS (per- and polyfluoroakyl substances), are not fully understood and may pose a health risk.

It's important to note that at temperatures above 500°F (260°C), Teflon coatings on non-stick cookware start to break down, releasing toxic chemicals into the air. Inhaling these fumes may lead to polymer fume fever, also known as the Teflon flu, which consists of temporary flu-like symptoms.

To minimise your risk when cooking with non-stick cookware, don't preheat an empty pan, avoid cooking on high heat, ventilate your kitchen, use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils, and hand wash your cookware gently with a sponge and soapy, warm water.

Glass lids

Some glass lids feature a steam-release vent, which is useful for preventing pressure build-up and allowing you to control moisture levels during cooking.

When choosing a cookware set with glass lids, it is important to consider the size and number of items included in the set. For example, the Ebun Stainless Steel Induction Base Large Size Cookware Set Combo includes a fry pan, saucepan, and cooking pot, all with glass lids. This set is designed for a family of 6+ members, so it may not be suitable for smaller households.

Another option is the Flipkart SmartBuy Induction Bottom Cookware Set of 3, which includes a pan, tava, and kadhai, with a glass lid for the kadhai. This set may be more suitable for bachelors or small families, as indicated by some reviews.

It is also worth noting that glass lids can add weight to the cookware, which may affect the balance. Additionally, dedicated storage space may be required for larger sets.

Cool-touch handles

The design of cool-touch handles also plays a vital role in their effectiveness. Many cool-touch handles are designed with ergonomic principles in mind, featuring contours that fit the natural shape of the hand. This not only provides a secure grip but also helps distribute heat away from the hand, further enhancing the cool-touch property. Additionally, some handles have a textured surface that improves grip and helps prevent slipping, even when hands are wet or greasy.

The safety benefits of cool-touch handles are significant. By staying cool, these handles reduce the risk of burns when handling cookware during and after cooking. This is especially important for busy cooks who need to work efficiently and safely in the kitchen. Cool-touch handles also eliminate the need for potholders or towels, which can be cumbersome and may not always provide adequate protection against heat.

In addition to safety, cool-touch handles offer convenience and ease of use. Their ergonomic design makes handling the cookware more comfortable, reducing hand fatigue during extended cooking sessions. The secure grip provided by these handles also makes it easier to manage heavier cookware or large portions. This feature is particularly advantageous for one-pot meals or when cooking for a large family.

Material and thickness

The material and thickness of your cookware set are important factors to consider when making a purchase. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Aluminium

Aluminium is a popular choice for cookware due to its excellent heat conductivity, durability, lightweight construction, and affordability. It is also easy to maintain and saves time in the kitchen. However, aluminium is reactive to acidic foods and can discolour or pit when exposed to them. It is prone to warping under extreme heat and drastic temperature changes. The thickness of aluminium cookware can vary, with some pieces being thicker to resist warping.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is a durable, easy-to-clean, and low-maintenance option that is compatible with induction cooktops and safe for dishwashers, ovens, and broilers. It has moderate heat conductivity and retains heat well, making it ideal for slow cooking. Stainless steel is non-reactive, so it won't discolour or affect the taste of acidic foods. However, it can be more expensive and prone to hot spots due to uneven heat distribution. Thinner stainless steel cookware is better for sautéing and frying, while thicker pieces are better for slow cooking.

Cast Iron

Cast iron is a traditional and durable option for cookware. It has excellent heat retention but is slow to heat up and cool down. It requires seasoning to create a non-stick surface and prevent rust. Enameled cast iron is naturally non-stick and non-reactive, but it is more expensive and heavier than regular cast iron. Cast iron is not suitable for cooking acidic foods as they can weaken the seasoning.

Copper

Copper is an excellent heat conductor and provides attractive kitchen-to-table presentation. However, it is expensive, prone to dents, and requires special care. Copper cookware must be lined with a non-toxic material like tin or stainless steel to prevent leaching and discolouration of food. Copper is not compatible with induction cooktops unless a magnetic layer has been incorporated into the design.

Frequently asked questions