Since their introduction glass top stoves have proven to be the perfect replacement of the old-fashioned traditional stoves. This is so because of their sleek design, easy to maintain and easy to use nature that’s aided by their flat cooking surface. They are an excellent addition to any modern kitchen and are highly recommended for people who like sophisticated kitchen look.
To optimize the functionality of the glass top stove the right cookware must be used. This is because wrong cookware can end up breaking or scratching the stove since they are delicate. Even the sturdy and strong glass top stove break or crack when the wrong cookware is used.
To save you from the expense and hassle that comes with cracked stoves, we have prepared a few helpful glass top stove tips.
Reasons you should buy the right glass top cookware
Some of your kitchen cookware might not be the best for the glass top stove, this is mainly because:
Flat surface of the stove
Glass top stove has a flat cooking surface, to evenly distribute heat to the cookware its surface must also be flat. The old fashioned cookware with curved surfaces inhibits the effective radiation of heat.
In case of the oversized pots their edges go beyond the burner zone making the food in the edges of the pot not to cook properly. The best piece of cookware would have a diameter which is an inch larger or smaller than that of the electric burner.
All materials are not the same
Not all materials are perfect for a glass top stove cookware, and special consideration must be made before buying the cookware. The decision cannot be made based on the price or aesthetics of the cookware alone. The type of material must be put into the play, if the perfect cookware is to be chosen.
Paints damage the stove top
All cookware with paints that melt at the base of the stove must be avoided like a plague. This is because when such a cookware is subjected to high temperature the melting paint will stick on the surface. When this paint accumulates to form a layer the functionality of the stove will be dented.
Glass is a delicate surface
The surface of the glass top stove is delicate and therefore only special type of cookware can be used. Avoid cookware made from materials like cast iron. Although very efficient and durable their base is rough, when used on glass top stove they can scratch its surface. The scratching will negatively impact on the functionality of your stove and reduce its effectiveness.
Best materials for glass top cookware
A lot of contradicting reports have been written on what is secure and insecure when it comes to glass top stove cookware. We’ll highlight the benefits of certain materials and besides, it’s your responsibility to read the manual of the appliances you buy.
Aluminum
Compared to others, cookware made from aluminum is fairly cheap, strong and lightweight. This is an excellent choice for your cookware material since it doesn’t rust or scratch hence poses no danger to the surface of the stove. This material is highly heat responsive and is best for sautéing and frying.
The only downside is its reaction with alkaline and acid foods like tomato-based sauce. This is bad for the health since it can be absorbed by these food when cooking. If you buy aluminum cookware use them responsibly so as to reap maximum benefits. Alternatively go for anodized aluminum cookware.
Titanium
This is a good deal for glass top cookware. It is unreactive, lightweight, nonporous, no allergic and strong. At times titanium cookware are made with antibacterial coating.
Titanium heats up evenly and quickly and last longer due to its scratch-resistant property. If you are looking for a cookware that is nonstick and will not dent or warp, then titanium is the best. This material is also versatile and can be used in your oven.
Lined copper
This material is a bit expensive but give good value for every penny spent. It’s highly heat responsive and distributes the heat evenly, also the material cools down almost instantly. This will guarantee no overcooked or burnt food.
Its downside is that it reacts to a lot of materials forming a films that is poisonous. It’s also warps easily something that can reduce its effectiveness.
Carbon steel
Carbon cookware are super durable and are known to retain a lot of heat. Its lightweight, thinner, and its surface is very smooth.
The only drawback to carbon steel is that when it ages it’s not safe for use.
Stainless steel
This the most famous choice of glass top stove cookware. This is because it’s easy to use, keep its shine, fairly priced and highly durable. This material doesn’t react to any acidic or alkaline food hence safe health-wise.
Its drawback is its ineffectiveness to conduct heat, fortunately nowadays stainless steel pots are made with aluminum or copper base.
Materials to avoid: Porcelain, Enamel, Glass, Ceramic, Stoneware
About Author:
Kanisha is the founder and writer of FortunateKitchen, a blog about everything food related from the basics of food preparation to learning how to make exquisite dishes. Kanisha is a self-taught chef with a curiosity and passion for food blogging. She is on a mission to educate and teach her readers one recipe and kitchen technique at a time, all while she balances her own hectic life as a mom.