When choosing cookware for an induction cooker, you need to have at least a general idea of the principle of operation of such a surface.
Content
What to look for when choosing
The induction surface is highly energy efficient, only the bottom heats up during operation, not the ceramic surface and the air around it. Many buyers are alarmed by the fact that not all dishes are suitable for cooking on an induction hob.
The main property of every pot and frying pan is the ability to pass an electric current. You can check it simply - attach a magnet to the bottom.
Most of the "old" enamelled pans can be left as they will serve on a new induction hob. Products manufactured in recent years have a corresponding badge on the back. Therefore, models made of glass, ceramics, aluminum, copper, brass are not suitable for induction surfaces if they do not have a special coating.
Kitchen utensils must meet several requirements:
- The bottom of the container must be flat and not exceed the heating zone, and the minimum diameter must be at least 12 cm, and must have ferromagnetic properties.
- The thicker the bottom (min. 2-6 mm), the more uniform and faster heating occurs.
On each such product, at the bottom there is a disc that contributes to the gradual distribution of heat. The pan must weigh at least 0.5 kg. You should take a closer look at the handle: the larger the connection surface, the better. The handle heats up at the molded product, but the Bakelite (thermosetting plastic) or removable handle does not.
For quick frying at elevated temperatures, use a grill pan, wok, pancake - during this process, more vitamins are stored.
Materials
Typically, induction cookware is made of stainless steel or cast iron. Aluminum samples have a ferromagnetic bottom or non-stick coating. Each material has its own pros and cons.
- Stainless steel. Food in such a container retains all useful qualities. Stainless steel does not oxidize, food can be stored in the refrigerator without compromising quality. The disadvantages include the fact that the alloy may contain nickel, which causes allergies. Another "disadvantage" is that food can burn.
- Cast iron products are durable, retain heat for a long time. The surface does not emit any harmful substances. At the same time, the heavy, porous cast iron surface absorbs odors. It is not recommended to cook sour dishes in it. Cast iron is a brittle metal and should be handled with care.
- Enamelled containers are suitable for use, provided that the bottom surface is flat, without recesses, otherwise, during cooking, noise may occur due to increased wave oscillation.
- Ferromagnetic coated aluminum specimens are lightweight, with good thermal conductivity.Among the disadvantages: appearance is quickly lost, acidic foods cannot be stored. There is still no definitive answer: is it possible to store food in such a container.
- Cookware with a non-stick coating requires constant care in order not to lose its main property.
A little about functionality
Does the material used to make the kitchen utensils affect the cooking process? A stainless steel or enameled pan is equally suitable for cooking, boiling. Carbon steel heats up faster, so if you boil the pasta in such a saucepan and don't stir it occasionally, it can stick to the bottom.
After turning off the stove in a pan made of enamel, the water will immediately stop boiling, and in a stainless steel container, the process continues for some time. For stewing, the best option is dishes with a three-layer bottom (stainless steel, aluminum, stainless steel), warming up occurs gradually and evenly, and the food does not cool down for a long time.
Cast iron, ceramics, carbon steel have weak heat distribution properties. During operation, induction affects the bottom, therefore, the heating of the entire volume occurs due to the rise in temperature inside the container. Heat loss will occur through the walls, so it is preferable to choose thicker dishes, from a material that cools down more slowly (indicated above).
For the frying process, pans without a special coating, cast iron or stainless steel, are used, it is only necessary to select by volume. On sale there are usually specimens made of aluminum that do not have an induction surface. You need to choose a model made of stainless steel with a non-stick coating or aluminum with an induction bottom.
You can often see the 18/10 markings on the back. The first number means the% chromium content, it must be at least 10.5%, the higher the value, the thicker the protective layer. The second figure is the percentage of nickel, 8 is enough for high-quality dishes. The marking of steel 18/10 is an indicator of quality and resistance to corrosion.
Tableware manufacturers
Sets of cookware, separate containers for induction cookers are produced in Russia and other countries.
Among the expensive brands of Zepter, the composition of the material is titanium and molybdenum, which makes the dishes expensive. The price justifies the high quality: resistance to corrosion, hypoallergenic, products in such dishes can be cooked without oil.
The most famous is the French company Tefal, which produces kitchen appliances and several series of low-cost tableware. Another manufacturer in this segment, the Czech Tescoma, produces stainless steel cookware.
Several German companies produce premium class cookware:
- Woll presents handmade kitchen utensils. This is a cast cookware with a non-stick coating and a titanium and ceramic bottom of at least 1 cm. This cookware is for those who are not used to saving on quality.
- BergHOFF pots have a 6-layer bottom with a copper insert, the cheaper version is a classic three-layer one. Each piece contains convenient removable suction cups for lids with a thermal sensor.
- Fissler models are distinguished by their sophistication and excellent quality and high value. Assortment: pots, pans, ladles, braziers, wok-pans.
The best cast iron cookware is produced by the Finnish company Hackman, which has a long history. The budget version of the tableware is produced by the Chinese company Appetite. Products made of stainless steel and aluminum are resistant to mechanical damage, have a long service life, and are resistant to alkaline environments.
The Lodge company (USA) produces ordinary and double-sided cast-iron grill pans. The Swiss Diamond produces excellent quality crepe makers. They have a non-stick nanocomposite coating with diamond crystals. It is very durable, does not flake off and can withstand high temperatures. The manufacturer guarantees long-term use even when exposed to metal, i.e. it is not necessary to use a wooden spatula.
Few manufacturers can offer customers a frying pan with separate cells. Such a proposal is made by the Italian Risoli, iduction series. The model has a non-stick titanium coating and a bottom thickness of 8 mm. The same company produces high-quality aluminum cookware for the budget segment.
For the induction hob, a wok with a special flat bottom has even been developed, and there are also built-in wok-burners.
The classic wok should be made in China, with a grill, Tefal - Titanium pro and Swiss Diamond with diamond crystals.
French Cristel offers ceramic samples with a price of 7300 rubles.
Cookware sets
Berndes Vario Click Induction White - stylish for the kitchen
The set consists of 7 items: 3 pans, tempered glass lids (16mm, 20mm, 24mm) and a saucepan. All containers are made of high quality aluminum coated with ceramics, temperature resistant up to 400̊ and scratch resistant. The bottom is 6 mm high, the handles are cast, all this allows you to use the pots in the oven.
Producer Berndes (Germany) gives a 2-year warranty.
Price: from 11 400 rubles.
Advantages:
- Premium product;
- Stylish white design.
Disadvantages:
- Cost;
- Small volume.
Rainstahl 1818-08RS \ CWRed - budget and beautiful
Three pots with a volume of 2.5 L, 3.4 L, 4.9 L and a 1.8 L ladle have an interesting red design. Material - stainless steel, glass lids with metal rim. The capsule bottom allows the entire container to gradually warm up and keep warm for a long time.
According to reviews, it is not advisable to wash the pan in the dishwasher - this can damage the red coating. There is no such recommendation in the instructions.
Manufacturer: Rainstahl (China).
Price: 4700 rubles.
Advantages:
- Beautiful design;
- Quality material;
- Multi-layer bottom;
- Ergonomic handles;
- Price.
Disadvantages:
- Wash with care.
Bekker Jumbo - convenient, profitable, high quality
The pots (2.9 l, 3.9 l, 6.5 l) are made of high quality 18/10 steel. Matt surface with a mirrored strip. All pots have a special bend for convenient draining of liquid, a multilayer, encapsulated bottom. Tempered glass lids to keep track of the cooking process.
Country: Germany.
Price: 4190 rubles.
Advantages:
- German quality;
- Dishwasher safe;
- Affordable price.
Disadvantages:
- Not found.
The best casseroles
Rondell Flamme 2.3 l - proven quality
Pan of German company with stainless steel body. The unique technology allows you to use very little oil or fat for cooking, while preserving vitamins and minerals. The 5 mm multi-layer bottom contributes to an even distribution of heat throughout the entire container.
A small spout at the top is provided for draining. The pan has silicone handles and a glass lid with a metal rim and a hole for steam release. Thanks to mirror and satin polish, the pan has an attractive appearance.
Country of origin: Germany.
Cost: up to 3700 rubles.
Advantages:
- high quality steel;
- convenient spout for draining;
- interesting design.
Disadvantages:
- high price.
Regent Inox Apple - for everyday use
The 2.7 L Chinese-made pot is made of steel with a matte surface. The bottom is 3-layer, heat-accumulating, thanks to a special design, heat gradually spreads throughout the entire container, and heating occurs quickly.
Bakelite handles are protected from heat, heat-resistant glass lid and a hole for steam. The pan is easy to clean, as noted in the reviews.
Country: China.
Cost: from 2600 rubles.
Advantages:
- Lid with a hole for steam;
- The handles do not heat up;
- Dishwasher safe.
Disadvantages:
- Not in sets.
Nadoba Maruska - double function
An interesting design and functionality is offered by a Czech manufacturer. The pan is made of stainless steel, the bottom is capsule, multilayer of 5 mm aluminum, several holes are made in the glass lid on metal inserts, which allows it to be used as a colander.
The handles are foldable, which is convenient for cooking and storage. Casserole with a volume of 3L, inside there is a measuring scale, it is suitable for any stove.
Country: Czech Republic.
Price: from 1600 rubles.
Advantages:
- Durable material;
- Interesting design;
- Convenient folding handles;
- Multi-layer bottom.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
Frying pans for induction hobs
Frying pan Tefal Hard Titanium - an old friend
Material - forged aluminum, wall height - 50 mm, thickness - 4.5 mm. There is a circle in the center - a heating indicator. Titanium, rough finish. Non-removable carbolite handle. With proper use (wash when it cools down, use only a wooden or silicone spatula), the product will last more than one year.
Brand manufacturer: France.
Price: from 2700 rubles.
Advantages:
- Titanium coated;
- Indicator circle;
- Comfortable handle.
Disadvantages:
- The cover must be purchased additionally
Frybest Bordo-F28I - high quality
The aluminum pan is covered with a ceramic non-stick XTREMA layer - the latest nanotechnology using natural materials: stone and sand. The non-stick property is 2 times that of the previous generation, and the heat resistance is increased 9.3 times. Bottom: 4.5 mm, wall height: 55 mm.
Country: South Korea.
Cost: from 6000 rubles.
Advantages:
- High quality;
- Ceramic coating;
- Thick bottom.
Disadvantages:
- High price.
Nadoba Mineralica 728416 - reliable coverage
The frying pan of the Czech manufacturer is made of cast aluminum with a non-stick 5-layer Pfluon granite-based coating, which does not contain any harmful substances, is durable, wear-resistant.
The coating is located on the outside and inside, it is able to prevent the formation of carbon deposits. A metal spatula can be used. The handle of the frying pan is bakelite, does not heat up.
Country: Czech Republic (there is a Chinese version).
Price: from 2800 rubles.
Advantages:
- Durable coating;
- Thick bottom;
- Comfortable handle.
Disadvantages:
- No cover.
Rondell Urban RDA-882 - for stove and oven
Excellent frying pan of a German company. It is made of die-cast aluminum with a coating: bottom - 5 mm, walls - 2 mm. You should pay attention to an interesting handle with a magnetic closer and a button with which the handle can be detached, and the pan can be placed in the oven for baking.
Country: Germany.
Price: 28 mm from 2690 rubles.
Advantages:
- Quality;
- Durable coating;
- Price.
Disadvantages:
- There is no cover in the set.
Frying pan "Ferra Induction", Ø28 - Russian quality
The Russian company Neva Metal Cookware (NMP) produces pans of excellent quality, including those for an induction cooker. The product is made of die-cast aluminum, has a dead-ceramic coating. Thanks to the use of "Full Induction" technology, the entire surface of the pan is magnetically conductive, as a result the surface heats up in 70 seconds. The pan is equipped with a removable handle.
Country Russia.
Price: 4250 rub.
Advantages:
- High quality;
- Removable handle;
- Thick bottom 6 mm;
- 3 year warranty.
Disadvantages:
- No cover;
- Cost.
The best stewpan
Mayer & Boch MB14 cm - irreplaceable for babies
The stewpan is made of high quality stainless steel. The capsule bottom promotes gradual heating inside. Food can be cooked with minimal use of fat. The dishes are convenient for small volumes and are popular with young mothers. Steel handle, does not heat up. The set includes a heat-resistant glass cover.
Brand country: Germany, manufacturer: China.
Price from 740 rubles.
Advantages:
- convenient size;
- positive reviews;
- price.
Disadvantages:
- not
Kamskaya utensils S18-1U6060 26 cm - functionality
Cast iron cookware made by chill casting technology. The material is environmentally friendly, accumulates heat and retains it for a long time. The dishes are resistant to high temperatures, not afraid of mechanical stress (metal knives, forks).
It must be remembered that cast iron is a brittle metal and can crack if dropped from a height. Before the first use, be sure to take into account the recommendations for use given in the instructions. If the initial preparation is not correct, rust may appear. Buyers only give positive feedback.
Country: Russia, brand: Kamskaya utensils.
Price: 1490 rubles.
Advantages:
- quality;
- environmental friendliness;
- affordable price.
Disadvantages:
- not identified.
Nadoba Dara 28 cm 729115 - quality assurance
The pan is made of cast aluminum with a 5-layer Pfluon non-stick coating, reinforced with minerals. The handles are equipped with silicone pads. Glass lid with silicone rim for a snug fit.
The saucepan is dishwasher safe. The manufacturer gives a 5-year warranty.
Country: Czech Republic.
Price: 4000 rubles.
Advantages:
- convenient volume (4 l);
- durable coating (metal blades can be used);
- manufacturer's warranty.
Disadvantages:
- price;
- There is no steam hole in the lid.
When choosing cookware for an induction cooker, you need to take a closer look not only at famous brands, but also to get acquainted with the latest novelties. With proper care and respect, the dishes will last a long time. We hope that our article will help you learn something new and make your choice.