Most modern kitchens have induction cookers. The principle of their operation is very different from traditional electric and gas counterparts. Therefore, housewives who decide to acquire such a miracle of technology should be prepared for the fact that they will also have to replace the dishes. After reading this article, you will find out which pans for induction cookers can be purchased in modern stores and how to choose them correctly.
What is the reason for the need to buy special dishes?
The basis of the work of such plates is the principle of electromagnetic induction. This means that when magnetic waves act on a closed circuit, an electric current appears in it. Putting your hand on the induction hob, you will not feel the heat, since the stove itself is assigned the role of a source of magnetic waves. The cooking process takes place directly in the dishes. That is why it is so important to choose the right set of pots for the induction cooker. Ordinary cookware does not have the necessary ferromagnetic properties, and thereforecompletely useless for such hobs. If you put a simple ceramic pot on the stove, you won't be able to cook anything in it.
Ferromagnetic properties
The material used to produce the bottom of the pot for the induction cooker must respond well to the magnetic waves emitted by the coil. In other words, it must have ferromagnetic properties. Cookware designed for use on such hobs must have a spiral icon. The presence of such a marking indicates that the product is suitable for induction cookers. Cookware made of stainless steel or cast iron alloys is best suited for use on such hobs. However, most modern manufacturers produce copper, ceramic, aluminum and enamel pots for the induction cooker. Special metals are added to the composition of such dishes, which give it the desired properties.
The structure and thickness of the bottom
Changing dishes is often one of the top concerns once an induction cooker is introduced into the kitchen. A large saucepan suitable for use on a new hob should have a very thick bottom. It is on this that the uniformity of heating the dishes depends. The thicker its bottom, the smaller will be the temperature differences that occur due to a change in the heating mode. Of course, no one will forbid you to use pans, thicknessthe bottom of which is no more than two millimeters. But such dishes can be deformed and make unpleasant noises during cooking. Ideally, induction cooktop pots should have a 5mm bottom. Moreover, it can be not only all-metal, but also consisting of several different materials. It is desirable that a special cast disc be mounted in the bottom of the cookware, which ensures the closest possible fit to the hob and protects it from deformation.
What should be the diameter of the cookware?
When choosing pans for an induction cooker, you need to pay special attention to the diameter of the part that will be in direct contact with the electromagnetic coil. Most modern manufacturers make inserts from magnetic materials in the bottom of large dishes. Quite often, its dimensions turn out to be much smaller than necessary, so certain models of hobs do not respond to such pots and pans.
The diameter of the bottom of cookware made exclusively from magnetic alloy must be at least 12 cm.
If you are used to cooking in a small dish, then it is advisable to purchase a so-called induction disc in the store. It is a kind of adapter that is installed on the surface of the plate. By purchasing such a disc, you can even use ordinary pots.
Advantages and disadvantages of the main materials used for the production of such dishes
Today, cast iron and steel are used to make pots designed for induction cookers. Each of the above materials has its own advantages and disadvantages.
So, induction cooker pots made of stainless steel are resistant to oxidation. Any food cooked in them retains almost all useful properties. Due to the neutral environment, such dishes can be used instead of storage containers. In other words, the dish cooked in it can be sent to the refrigerator without transferring to another container.
Heavy cast iron cookware is still relevant. These bowls are quite durable. They retain heat for a long time and are able to provide uniform heating of food cooked in them. One of the most valuable characteristics of cast iron cookware can be considered its chemical inertness, which makes it indispensable in the organization of a he althy diet.
Enamelled iron pans are also suitable for use on induction cooktops, for the production of which various steel alloys are used. When choosing such dishes, you need to carefully examine the shape of its bottom. Any recesses in the bottom contribute to the amplification of wave vibrations.
Consumers who use such dishes speak positively about them. According to them, food cooked in such pans does not burn or stick to the bottom. The only thing that most consumers recommend is to opt forpans of famous brands.
How to care for induction cookware?
Such products do not require special care. They can be washed in the dishwasher using mild detergents. It is strictly forbidden to use abrasive pastes and powders. To clean cast iron cookware, it is recommended to use a sponge and hot water. So that it does not start to rust, it should be thoroughly dried after each wash. The plaque that has formed on aluminum pans is easily removed with a cotton swab dipped in vinegar.
To prolong the life of enamelware, boil s alted water before using it. To avoid damage to the integrity of the coating, do not turn on the high heat mode too often during cooking using these pans.
