While cooking in the kitchen, it is very important to use the proper and best tool for the job. As, that ensures the maximum flavor, taste and the optimal textures. But you will find a gazillion types of cookware out there in the market. Having a confused face in the market while buying cookware is a very common and inevitable event. Figuring out which one is the best and wondering how to compare between the tools is not a piece of cake.
In the market there are two types of which are widely sold. Those are hard anodized and nonstick cookware. The debate between which sort is better has been catching everyone’s eye. Whether, you are a rookie or an expert there are some basic knowledge you should have to practice the art of cooking.
So, knowing the differences will definitely help you in this regard. Scroll down to gather some knowledge and find out about which one is the proper tool for you.
Intro to Nonstick Cookware
Nonstick tools are probably the most common tool for beginner’s cook. You do not need much butter and oil to cook food on nonstick tools. To ensure the best possible outcome from the nonstick tools you need to take proper care of these tools.
For example: If you are making scrambled eggs on your nonstick pan, you should always use silicon or wooden tools to turn it or to place it on the plate form the pan. Delicate dishes such as eggs, pan cakes, grilled cheese and lighter fish such as tilapia are recommended to be cooked on nonstick cookware as these dishes require low heat. As it is the most commonly used cookware in home, you should always check this cookware sets review from the web before making the purchase.
Getting Some Knowledge on Hard Anodized Cookware
Anodized cookware, sometimes called hard anodized cookware, is made of an aluminum or aluminum alloy base. Hard Anodized cookware came into the market in 1968. 1. It is a nonstick cookware which is free from POFA (Perfluorooctanoic acid).
Hard Anodized Cookware vs Nonstick Cookware
Price
Non-stick tools are fairly inexpensive. But hard anodized cookware might be a little expensive than normal nonstick cookware. But, we generally know to get good quality products you need to spend some bucks.
Cleaning
The name nonstick implements that these cookware is made of a coating that prevents food from sticking on to the surface. These are super easy to clean as well because of their nonstick surface. On the other hand, hard anodized products are sort of hard to clean up and is a bit time consuming. Both of the tools are dish wash safe, but it might get damaged by cheap quality dish washers containing harmful substances.
After usage always remember to wash up the tools with mild warm water, bubbly soap and a soft sponge. Also, do quickly dry both sort of tools with paper and towels after washing them. Store the tools carefully in their respective places or else they might get stained or damaged.
Temperature
Like any other cookware nonstick cookware is also controversial at times. But it still has been proven safe by scientists for human usage. The food and drug administration confirmed that the problem of the toxic substance is causing because of cooking on overheat. As long as they are not overheated they are safe.
The overheat might cause in breaking down the coating in a molecular level which cannot be necessarily seen. This might also result in releasing gas and toxic particles. So, be sure to not increase the temperature level above 500ºF. High protein containing food like steak, chicken thighs, burgers or salmons are not ideal for nonstick tools as those require high heat.
On the other hand, Hard Anodized cookware saves energy. It can endure higher temperature than nonstick tools. For this reason, food containing higher amount of protein can be cooked in these tools.
Broiler Use
Never broil or sear meats on nonstick cookware as those require high temperature. But most hard anodized cookware is safe for oven or broiler use. So, you can broil meat anytime you want on hard anodized cookware.
Care instructions
Using nonstick tools safely is not a big deal, as long as you follow some precautions to use it properly. Food that can be cooked on low or medium heat and coats are unlikely to be harmful for the nonstick tools. To be more cautious you can also consider these:
- Never pre heat an empty pan.
- Do not cook on high heat.
- Remember to ventilate your kitchen while cooking. Switch on the exhausted fan to get better results.
- Choose heavy nonstick tools while buying tools as heavy tools take time to heat up causing less damage. So, it is worth it to invest in a heavy weighted nonstick cookware.
On the other hand, coming from the name, hard anodized cookware is hydroelectrically treated which hardens the aluminum and makes it as strong as stainless steel cookware.
It is really hard to find scratches on hard anodized cookware as the aluminum coating is very endurable and strong. It ensures a long lifespan. But that does not mean that these tools need no care. Consider these for taking care of hard anodized cookware:
- Metal utensils such as spoons, whisks or spatulas can be used on hard anodized cookware without any doubt. But it is recommended to avoid sharp objects such as knives, immersion blenders or hand mixers, as these could damage the surface.
- Before cooking refrigerated food on hard anodized cookware, allow it to come to room temperature. The food will cook better and evenly.
- Never store food on your hard anodized cookware. The seals of hard anodized cookware are not airtight. So, there is a high chance of your food getting spoiled. The surface of the cookware might get damaged if a prolonged contact with highly acidic foods such as spaghetti sauce occurs.
Final Thoughts
The cookware you use to cook food is equally important like the food itself. Even the healthiest diet might get diverted into severe health complications containing substance if there is something wrong with the cookware. So, choose wisely and properly.
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- 10 Best Carbon Steel Woks – Perfect Utensils For Asian & Handmade Recipes
- How to Choose the Best Carbon Steel Woks
