Clad Cookware: Stove Compatibility

Clad pots and pans are compatible with induction cooktops. Induction cooking works by creating a magnetic field between the pot and the magnetic coils beneath the cooking surface. To determine whether your pots and pans will work on an induction stove, you can hold a magnet to the bottom of the cookware. If the magnet clings to the underside, the cookware will work on an induction cooktop.

Induction cooktops

How Induction Cooktops Work

Benefits of Induction Cooktops

• Energy Efficiency: Induction cooktops are more energy-efficient than conventional electric or gas stoves, making them environmentally friendly.
• Safety: Induction cooktops have a built-in safety feature. The heat is generated within the cookware, and when the pot or pan is removed, the heating stops. This reduces the risk of burns and makes the cooktop easier to clean.
• Precision and Control: Induction cooktops offer responsive temperature control and precision. They heat up the entire bottom surface of the pan quickly and respond swiftly to temperature adjustments.
• Easy Cleanup: The surface of an induction cooktop doesn't get as hot as traditional stoves, making it easier to clean. Spills and stains are less likely to bake onto the surface, and the cooler surface reduces the chance of burnt-on grease.

Drawbacks and Considerations

• Cookware Compatibility: Induction cooktops require compatible cookware made of materials like cast iron or steel. Some cookware may need to be replaced to work with induction.
• Learning Curve: Induction cooking may take some time to master due to its high responsiveness and rapid temperature changes.
• Unfamiliar Sounds: Induction cooktops may produce buzzing or humming sounds at higher settings due to the fan cooling the electronics. Using heavy, flat-bottomed pans can help reduce these noises.
• Cost: Induction cooktops and ranges are typically more expensive than conventional electric models, and converting from gas to electric can be costly.

In summary, induction cooktops offer a range of benefits, including energy efficiency, precision cooking, and easy cleanup. However, there are also some considerations, such as cookware compatibility and potential conversion costs. Induction cooking may require some adjustments for those used to cooking with gas or traditional electric stoves.

Cast iron

While cast iron is an excellent heat retainer, it does not heat evenly. To achieve even heating, it is recommended to preheat the pan for at least 10 minutes, rotating it occasionally. Cast iron also has a high emissivity rating, which means it expels a lot of heat energy, making it ideal for cooking a large volume of food or for dishes that require a thorough cook, such as chicken and roasted vegetables.

Stainless steel

Heat Distribution and Compatibility:

Durability and Maintenance:

Performance:

Design and Handling:

The All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel Set, a popular choice, features longer handles for improved stability and comfort during cooking. The handles are rounded and indent-free, providing a comfortable grip. The set also includes pieces with flared pouring rims to minimise spills. The weightiness of the pieces gives a sense of security when handling.

Cost:

While stainless steel sets can be expensive, with the All-Clad D3 set typically priced around $700, they are considered an "investment" due to their long-lasting durability. More affordable options are available, such as the Cuisinart Chef's Classic set, without compromising on performance.

In summary, stainless steel cookware offers a combination of superior cooking capabilities, ease of care, and durability. It is a popular choice for both professional chefs and home cooks, providing even heat distribution, compatibility with various stove types, and efficient performance in a range of cooking tasks.

Non-stick

When shopping for non-stick cookware, it is important to consider how you intend to use the pots or pans. Non-stick skillets are essential tools for delicate ingredients like eggs or fish, pancakes or crepes, and for fast cleanup of easy meals like grilled cheese sandwiches.

Best Overall: Calphalon Signature Nonstick 10-Piece Cookware Set

This sturdy set is made of hard-anodized aluminium, which means it's extremely durable. The 10-piece set comes with everything you'd need, including an 8-quart stockpot and tempered glass lids. It heats up quickly, distributes heat evenly, and retains heat well. It is also dishwasher-safe.

Most Durable: Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick Pro Cookware Set

This simple, durable, classic-looking set from Le Creuset offers great temperature consistency and very minimal sticking. The clean design features nice, thick material made from heavy-gauge, hard-anodized aluminium with a triple-reinforced, scratch-resistant non-stick coating. The set performed well with even temperature distribution, thanks to the aluminium core. It is also dishwasher-safe.

Best Budget: Farberware Nonstick Cookware Set

Although this set is inexpensive, it offers great temperature consistency, fantastic non-stick performance, and a good assortment of equipment. Omelets rolled out of the pans easily, sauces did not stick or scorch, and rice pilaf didn't stick or burn at all. The design of this set is balanced and lightweight. The whole set is dishwasher-safe, but cleaning by hand is recommended.

Best High End: Made In 7-Piece The Non Stick Set

Designed with input from professional chefs, Made In has created this 7-piece non-stick set to withstand heavy use. These hefty pieces are crafted with 5-ply stainless steel and aluminium with a tough non-stick coating, and feature riveted handles for secure transport on and off the stove. They distribute heat effectively, preventing hot spots and turning out evenly cooked eggs and uniformly browned onions. The pieces are definitely heavy, perhaps making them a challenging option for anyone with limited strength or mobility. They are also dishwasher-safe.

Best Ceramic: Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set

This beautiful set is made of an aluminium core with a mineral-based ceramic coating that's free of PTFE/Teflon, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. The set has been given perfect scores by Lab testers, at-home testers, long-term testers, and editors, cooking each dish without any burning, sticking, or scorching. The handles do tend to get hot during use, but that's nothing an oven mitt or kitchen towel can't fix. The set is dishwasher-safe, but hand-washing is recommended.

Aluminium

> "It may be this centralized inductive build-up of heat due to the excessive eddy currents in the aluminium layer that is causing temperatures to exceed 1220 degrees Fahrenheit and the eventual catastrophic failure of the cooking vessel."

To test whether your aluminium cookware is compatible with an induction cooktop, you can try the magnet test. Hold a magnet to the bottom of the cookware. If the magnet clings to the underside, it will work on an induction cooktop. If the magnet grabs the pan softly, you may not have much success. If there is no pull on the magnet, the cookware does not contain the right metals and will not generate heat.

Frequently asked questions