Tips to help your cookware last longer
Kitchenware is often considered a ‘once in a blue moon’ investment for many Indian households. Sure, many festivals throughout the year involve buying kitchenware or cookware accessories, but people seldom seek this opportunity to revamp their cookware collection.
Hence, prolonging the lifespan of their kitchenware becomes one of the biggest challenges and concerns for everyone.
While many companies stamp their kitchenware with the label that says ‘long-lasting,’ the customer actually dictates the lifespan of any kitchenware they use.
The usage and care given to the kitchenware determine how long it will last. Want your cookware collection to last long too? Keep reading to know how.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel utensils are the most commonly found ones in kitchens around the world, and for a good reason. They are durable, rust-resistant, and cost-effective—the whole package. In addition, they are great conductors of heat and hence, are great for everyday cooking. However, this makes it all the most important for you to take special care in maintaining your stainless steel cookware!
2. Wash your stainless steel cookware only when it’s completely cooled down. Otherwise, the surface might develop cracks, also known as warping.
3. To avoid food sticking to your cookware surface, add oil after the cookware is heated. This will also save you the trouble of cleaning the residue later and help keep the surface as good as new for longer.
4. Always salt the water in your stainless steel pots after it’s come to a boil to avoid any build-up of rust, also known as pitting.
5. Although stainless steel is sturdy and durable, it is always better to avoid steel scrubbers on its surface. These scrubbers are abrasive and can damage the surface of your stainless steel cookware easily. Use plastic scrubbers, brushes, or cloth for cleaning.
Cast Iron
Cast Iron cookware, unlike most stainless steel kitchen utensils, comes with detailed instructions. You will most likely be able to make the most out of your non-stick cookware if you follow the given instructions for maintenance. However, there are always a few extra measures that you can take to help your cast iron pan or pot last longer.
1. Cast iron cookware can handle high temperatures, but not more than stainless steel. Make sure never to overheat your non-stick cookware; keep the temperatures less than or close to 204°C.2. Always clean your cast iron cookware with warm soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Even though it may be tedious, for perfect results, hand wash them.
3. Use a paper towel or tissue soaked in oil and lightly lubricate your cookware surface; this is called pre-seasoning. Pouring butter or oil on the surface will cause the food to absorb the extra fats.
4. Cast iron cookware is usually compatible with low to medium heat as high flames can damage their non-stick coating. This causes the cooking time to increase significantly, helping you bring in even more flavor to your dish.
5. Avoid cooking acidic foods such as tomatoes, berries, lemons, etc., in your cast iron cookware. Even though it is a slow process, the acid erodes the cookware coating.
Copper
Copper utensils are often purchased all together as a kitchenware set for infrequent uses on special occasions. While they have nutritional benefits, add a beautiful glow to the kitchenware cabinet, and give the dining table a festive feel, it requires quite a bit of maintenance.
1. Don’t heat your copper cookware when dry. Ensure to apply some fat, such as oil, butter, or ghee, before placing it on the cooktop.2. Make sure to wash the cookware before you polish the surface thoroughly. Any contamination when mixed with the polish can cause your copper cookware to erode.
3. Polish your cookware regularly, preferably every 5-6 months. There are many DIY polishes you can cook up at home—baking soda & lemon juice, vinegar & salt, and lemon & salt work quite well. Then, simply scrub the cookware with a non-abrasive scrubber dipped in these solutions, rinse, and dry.
4. It is ideal to hand-wash your copper cookware since the dishwasher detergent can erode the surface easily.
With better stainless steel cookware in India which is now available at Avias, you can breathe a sigh of relief as they are more durable and easier to clean. However, make sure to give your kitchenware periodic cleaning and maintenance for them to stay in ideal condition.
