If your kitchen appliance is gas, electric or radiant, almost all types of cookware will work. However, you may pay more for a set designed for induction, so check the specifications before purchasing. In addition, radiant heaters have a smooth ceramic surface that can be scratched. Therefore, pay attention to the bottom surface of the pots and do not slide them across the stove. Induction stoves have coils that generate an electromagnetic field that causes the pot to heat up. Therefore, you need to buy magnetic kitchen utensils. So, take a magnet when buying induction-ready or induction-capable cookware, if the magnetic sticks to the bottom of the pan, you chose the right cookware. Also, as I mentioned earlier, induction cookware is generally more expensive.
Another consideration is how many pots and pans do you need? Cookware sets come in various piece sets including 7, 10, 12 and 15 piece sets. Some include tools like spoons, spatulas that are part of the overall game count. So a 12-piece set can include tools that you already have and don’t need. But remember to use plastic or wooden cookware with nonstick coated cookware. Ceramic coating is more forgiving, but will scratch if you use the wrong utensil.
Another thing to consider is will you put pots and pans in the oven? Some cookware is oven safe to 500 degrees F, some to 350 degrees F, and some cannot be put in the oven.
Also consider whether the cookware is covered with a non-stick coating or a ceramic non-stick coating. Ceramic non-stick coating offers much better scratch resistance than non-stick. Also many non-stick coated cookware, both ceramic and non-ceramic, come in colors and are dishwasher safe.
The most durable type of cookware is stainless steel. Top of the line is premium 18/10 stainless steel. Most stainless steel cookware sets are made with a multi-element steel base and aluminum core. Some higher price sets also include copper. This multilayer sandwich produces a more uniform heat eliminating hot spots. One more design upgrade is the riveted handles that are offered by some manufacturers.
One more thing to consider between stainless steel and nonstick coated cookware is that stainless steel sticks more easily than nonstick coated cookware. So if you switch from nonstick to stainless steel, be careful until you learn how to use your new cookware.
The thickness of the pots and pans is another thing to consider. The thicker the material, the longer the pan or pot will last. Thinner material may warp when exposed to high temperatures. The thickness also helps produce a more even heat like that found in stainless steel pots and pans with a multi-layer base.
Shopping for cookware sets can be confusing, but I hope that after reading this article you are more informed and can make a decision that will give you the most enjoyment of cooking and the best value for your money.