The Pros and Cons of Stainless Steel and Aluminium Cookware

by | Dec 13, 2013 | Home And Garden

When you set up house there will be many items you will need for your kitchen. One of the most important elements will be a cook cookware set. If you are looking for cookware sets for your kitchen but are uncertain what one is best there are many things you need to consider. From budget to heat conduction, here is a quick overview of the two most popular types of cookware sets, aluminium and stainless steel and their benefits and downfalls.

Stainless Steel
This is probably the most common kind of cookware sets found in many kitchens. Stainless steel is popular because it wears well and cooks well but only when it contains an aluminium or copper core. Copper is preferred by chefs at it provides the most even heat for ideal heat conduction. Because stainless steel does not conduct heat well, the best sets contain additional materials to make them more heat friendly. The stainless steel is non-corrosive and the cores of copper or aluminium provide even heating for excellent cooking. People love these cookware sets as they are reasonably priced, attractive, durable and scratch resistant. Another benefit as they won’t warp. Warping really affects the cooking capabilities so this is a very good quality. Finally, stainless steel does not react with food which of course is also a very good thing. The only real disadvantage is that if they do not contain a copper or aluminium core they will not provide the even cooking you desire.

Aluminium
Aluminium is also popular and this is mainly due to its ability to conduct heat. Even cooking makes it easier to do everything from sautéing to searing meats. Because aluminium can scratch and dent it has to be treated with a process called anodization which provides the coating to protect it. Anodization also helps stop the aluminium from reacting with certain foods. Acidic foods do not mix well with aluminium cookware sets that have not been anodized. Aluminium cookware with a non-stick coating works very well combining heat conduction with a resistant finish.

As you can see there are benefits to both types of cookware sets. A little shopping will help you make your final decision once you get an idea of what pieces you need and how much money you are willing to spend.

 

 

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