Should I Season Stainless Steel Cookware?

Stainless steel cookware has long been the shining star in kitchens worldwide, known for its durability, sleek appearance, and resistance to rust and corrosion. Even the most seasoned chefs swear by their stainless steel pots and pans for their versatility and easy usability. But there is always a question that looms over the world of cooking- Should I season my stainless steel cookware sets? Or Should all types of cookware be seasoned before using them? 

Well, most kitchen cookware cannot be used to cook straight out of the box. They need to be seasoned, often more than once, as they lack a non-stick coating or metals like cast iron and carbon steel pots and pans are designed in such a way that have to be seasoned before they can be used to cook. Well, stainless steel kitchen utensils, in this case, are not most cookware. They can be used without having to be seasoned. However, if you’re keen on multiplying its non-stick properties, this article shall take you through everything you need to know! 

At its core, seasoning is a chemical process between heat, oil, and metal. When executed with precision, this culinary exercise creates a protective layer that enhances non-stick properties, facilitates even heat distribution, and guards the stainless steel against the tests of time.

Before we get into the HOWs of seasoning your best stainless steel cookware, it is critical to understand the WHYs. Why should we season stainless steel pots and pans despite this process being optional? Let's get that out of the way first.

Contrary to popular belief, seasoning isn't reserved solely for non-stick pans. When done right, seasoning your stainless steel cookware sets creates a thin layer of polymerized oil on the surface, offering improved non-stick properties. This means a smoother cooking experience and less food sticking to the pan – a game-changer for your kitchen adventures.

Imagine your stainless steel pan has an in-built regulator that evenly distributes the perfect symphony of heat. Seasoning your stainless steel cookware helps in achieving better heat distribution, preventing hot spots, and ensuring that your food cooks evenly. No more undercooked surprises or burnt mishaps – just pure cooking harmony.

Stainless steel, while resilient, can fall victim to stains and tarnishing over time. Seasoning acts as a protective shield, creating a barrier between the metal and the elements. Bid farewell to stubborn stains and stay acquainted with the best stainless steel cookware in India that stands the test of time.

How to Season Stainless Steel Cookware?
Now that the WHYs have been answered, let's delve into the HOWs. Seasoning stainless steel cookware is a straightforward process that requires a bit of time and patience. 

However, there are two ways you can efficiently season your stainless kitchen cookware set, depending on your choice of comfort. You could either use a gas stove or use your oven as well. While both can get the job done, ovens tend to provide even seasoning in comparison to gas stoves. Here's a step-by-step guide to get you started:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools:

• High-smoke-point oil (such as sunflower, peanut, or coconut oil)
• Paper towels
• Oven mitts/ Thick Napkins
• A well-ventilated kitchen

Step 2: Clean and Dry:

• Wash your stainless steel cookware sets with warm, soapy water to remove any residues.
• Dry the cookware thoroughly to prevent water spots.

Step 3: Preheat Your Oven (Skip if you’re using the stove)

• Set your oven to a temperature between 400°F and 450°F (204°C to 232°C). 
• This ensures the oil reaches its smoke point, which is crucial for the seasoning process.

Step 4: Apply a Thin Layer of Oil:

• Use a paper towel to apply a thin layer of oil to the entire surface of the cookware, including the exterior.
• Wipe off any excess oil – the goal is a barely visible sheen.

Step 5: Heat and Repeat:

• Place the oiled steel cookware on the stove or upside down on the oven rack.
• Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours if you are using the oven, or allow it to sit on the stove for 15 minutes or so, allowing the oil to polymerize and form a protective layer.
• Repeat the process if desired for a more robust seasoning.

Step 6: Cool and Wipe:

• Allow the cookware to cool completely before handling.
• Wipe off any remaining residue with a clean, dry paper towel.

Why Stainless Steel Cookware?
With the plethora of options from different brands, materials, and designs, kitchens across the world adorn themselves with premium stainless steel kitchenware & cookware sets for a variety of reasons, which include:

Easy Maintenance
One of the defining features that set stainless steel cookware apart is its ease of maintenance. Unlike other types of cookware, which requires meticulous care to avoid rust, or non-stick pans that demand delicate handling, stainless steel kitchenware is the epitome of low-maintenance culinary excellence.

No Specialized Cleaning
Stainless steel cookware is not finicky about cleaning agents or utensils. You can scrub away with confidence, knowing that your cookware can withstand the rigors of your kitchen without losing its shine.

Resistance to Staining and Odor Absorption 
Stainless steel's non-porous surface ensures that it resists staining and doesn't absorb odors from your culinary adventures. This feature is particularly beneficial in Indian kitchens, where there is a regular transition between savory and sweet dishes.

Retains Aesthetic Appeal 
The sleek, polished surface of stainless steel cookware doesn't just contribute to uniform heat distribution; it adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen. Unlike other materials that fade or chip, Avias’ stainless steel utensils retain their aesthetic appeal, turning every cooking session into a visual delight.

In the dynamic world of cooking and cuisines, seasoning stainless steel cookware sets emerges as a trend that's more than just a passing fad. It's a technique that transforms your everyday cookware into a seasoned masterpiece, ready to elevate your delightful creations. 

So, should you season your stainless steel cookware? If your kitchen is filled with reliable and premium stainless cookware from Avias, it is not a necessity, but it does no harm to season them every year or so. 

Either way, every time you ask your family if they want more food, the answer would be a sizzling “yes”. Happy Cooking!