Emilie Meyer
Induction cooktops use electromagnetic coils to generate heat from electric currents, which are transferred directly to your cookware. For this reason, not all cookware is compatible with induction cooktops. To be compatible, cookware must be made of a magnetic-based material, such as cast iron or magnetic stainless steel, and have a flat bottom. To check if your cookware is compatible, you can perform the 'induction magnet test' by holding a magnet to the bottom of the cookware – if it sticks, it's compatible.
Characteristics of Pans for Induction Cooktops
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Cast iron, enameled cast iron, carbon steel, stainless steel, aluminium, copper, glass |
| Magnetic | Yes |
| Flat bottom | Yes |
| Sturdy lids | Quieter and stay on better at high power |
| Well-attached handles | Reduces the risk of noise at higher power |
| Heavy gauge | Better cooking results |
What You'll Learn
Cast iron pans
However, there are a few things to keep in mind when using cast iron pans on induction cooktops. Firstly, preheat your cookware slowly with oil to avoid thermal shock, which can occur if the temperature of the iron becomes imbalanced. Secondly, choose a piece of cookware that is similar in size to the burner you are using to ensure even heating. Additionally, while it is not necessary for your cookware to be in full contact with the induction burner, using a burner that matches the width of your pan will help ensure even heating. Finally, to avoid scratching the glass on your cooktop, gently pick up and set down your cast iron pan when moving it to another burner, rather than sliding it across the surface.
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Stainless steel pans
Stainless steel cookware is a popular choice for induction cooktops, but not all stainless steel is compatible with induction. To be compatible, the cookware must contain ferromagnetic materials, such as iron, or have a layer with magnetic properties.
To determine if a stainless steel pan is compatible with induction, you can perform the "magnet test". Simply hold a magnet to the bottom of the pan. If the magnet clings strongly to the underside, the cookware will work on an induction cooktop. If the magnet only grabs the pan softly, the cookware may not perform well on an induction cooktop. If there is no pull on the magnet at all, the pan will not work on an induction cooktop.
When shopping for stainless steel cookware for induction cooktops, look for products that specify "induction-compatible" or "induction-ready" in their descriptions. Some manufacturers also include an "induction compatible" symbol on the bottom of their cookware, which often looks like a horizontal zig-zag or a coil.
It is important to note that not all stainless steel cookware is created equal. Stainless steel is an alloy that comes in different grades, and the composition of the alloy can affect its compatibility with induction. High-quality, multi-clad stainless steel cookware typically includes an aluminium or copper core sandwiched between steel layers to aid in heat conduction. However, if the nickel content in the stainless steel is too high, it can block the magnetic field and render the cookware incompatible with induction.
- Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Set
- Cuisinart MultiClad Pro 12-Piece Set
- All-Clad D5 Stainless Brushed 5-Ply Bonded Cookware Set
- Kitchen Academy Induction Cookware Sets - 12-Piece Set
- BEZIA Induction Cookware Set 15-Piece
- Martha Stewart Castelle 10-Piece Set
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Non-stick pans
Induction stoves heat cookware through electrical induction, which uses a magnetic field to send electric currents from the stove to your pot or pan. Therefore, any cookware used on an induction stove must have a magnetic base. This means that non-stick pans made with an aluminium or ceramic base will likely not be compatible with an induction stove. However, non-stick pans made from stainless steel, cast iron, or carbon steel typically are.
To check if your non-stick pan is induction-compatible, look for an "induction compatible" symbol on the packaging or the bottom of the pan. This symbol looks like a coil of wire with four loops. Alternatively, simply hold a magnet to the bottom of the pan. If it sticks, your pan is induction-compatible.
- Tramontina Tri-Ply Base 10-Inch Nonstick Fry Pan: This heavy-bottomed pan is ideal for induction cooktops as it heats up quickly and evenly. It has a smooth, hollow stainless steel handle that stays cool and is comfortable to hold.
- All-Clad HA1: The All-Clad HA1 collection features a thick (4mm) hard-anodized aluminium body and a multi-layer PFOA-free non-stick coating. It also has a steel induction plate that makes it compatible with all cooktops.
- Caraway: Caraway uses a 100% ceramic non-stick coating derived from sand, making it a healthier option. However, the ceramic coating may not last as long as other options.
- Misen: Misen offers a durable multi-layer PTFE non-stick coating and a thick aluminium base with a steel induction plate. It is also affordable, making it a great option for those on a budget.
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Carbon steel pans
Carbon steel is a good conductor of heat and works well for high-heat cooking. It heats up quickly and evenly due to the way induction cooktops transfer heat. It is also naturally non-stick and responsive, making it a favourite material for induction cooking.
When using carbon steel on an induction cooktop, it is important to preheat the pan slowly to avoid warping and thermal shock. Additionally, induction cooktops require direct contact with the pan, so the pan will lose heat quickly if it is not on the stove.
Overall, carbon steel pans are a good choice for induction cooking as they are compatible with the technology, efficient conductors of heat, and offer the added benefits of being non-stick and responsive.
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Glass, aluminium, and copper pans
Many manufacturers have started adding a magnetic layer to the bottom of glass, aluminium, and copper pans, but older, non-magnetic pans simply will not work. This is because induction cooking works by creating a magnetic field between the pot and the magnetic coils beneath the cooking surface. The energy created in the electromagnetic field heats the contents of the pot. Therefore, for cookware to work on an induction cooktop, it must contain ferromagnetic materials.
Aluminium and copper require much higher frequencies to generate the heat needed to cook food. However, some manufacturers offer aluminium or copper pans with magnetized bases that are specifically designed for induction cooktops.
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Frequently asked questions
To be compatible with an induction cooktop, a pan must have a ferromagnetic base. You can test if your pan is compatible by holding a magnet to its underside. If the magnet clings to the bottom, the pan is induction-compatible.
Pans made of cast iron, enameled cast iron, and many types of stainless steel are compatible with induction cooktops. Pans made of aluminium, copper, or glass are not induction-compatible unless they have a layer on the bottom with magnetic properties.
Induction cooktops are safer, more energy-efficient, and easier to clean than gas or electric cooktops. They also heat food more quickly and are more responsive to changes in temperature control.
You should avoid using pans with a rough surface on an induction cooktop, as these could scratch the surface.
