All cooking enthusiasts know the importance that cookware holds in their culinary lives. Each cookware requires a specific guide to have a longer shelf life. Without proper care, cookware tends to corrode, and its longevity is lost. In most of the Indian kitchen pantries, the common cookware that is used is stainless steel.
Stainless steel cookware is not only incredibly strong and durable but it can be used in a variety of applications. Moreover, stainless steel utensils can be cleaned easily. Although the process of maintaining stainless steel may seem easy, the utensils require specific finesse and understanding to achieve the desired result. Stainless steel utensils may pose a challenge when it comes to cooking, which is sticking on the surface and is not at all beginner's friendly. If you’re someone who is using the stainless-steel cookware for the first time, here are some of the tips you must keep in mind.
- Preheat Properly
One of the most crucial steps while using stainless steel cookware for cooking is preheating the utensil. It is important to properly preheat the cookware to ensure it achieves an even temperature throughout, which is essential for optimal cooking results. Allow the stainless steel to heat gradually over medium heat before adding the ingredients to create a non-stick surface. This step helps to prevent food from sticking to the pan. Preheating allows to gauge the temperature of the cookware preventing overheating and potential damage to the pan.
- Use Right Amount Of Oil
While cooking in stainless steel make sure you use a sufficient amount of oil. As stainless steel possesses some non-stick properties, the addition of some oil or fat can enhance the performance. Moreover, too much oil can lead to excessive smoking and cause the food to become greasy while too little oil may result in sticking the ingredients to the pan. Opt for oil with high smoke points such as canola, grapeseed, or vegetable oil that ensures not burning when cooking at high temperatures while maintaining flavour of the dish.
- Use Wooden Or Silicone Spatula
When cooking with stainless steel, the use of wooden or silicon spatula is highly recommended. Using metal spatula can cause scratching and damage to the cooking surface over time. It is to be noted that wooden or silicon spatula are gentle on stainless steel which prevents scratches and preserves its sleek appearance. Besides, these materials are nonreactive and do not leach out unwanted flavours into the food.
- Avoid Overcrowding
Overcrowding the stainless steel pan with food can impede proper heat distribution, leading to uneven cooking. When too many ingredients are crammed into the cooking surface, it can lead to a steaming effect rather than proper browning of the surface of the cookware. It is important to give ample space to the ingredients to allow proper air circulation and heat exposure. It is advisable to cook in small batches to maintain optimal cooking conditions.
- Be Patient
When it comes to cooking with stainless steel, being patient is one of the criteria. Unlike non-stick cookware, stainless steel cookware requires more time and attention to reach the optimal result. Before adding all the ingredients, be patient and give time to preheat the cookware evenly to ensure even cooking and prevent the food from sticking. Moreover, after adding ingredients like vegetables and meat, resist the urge to constantly stir them or flip them. Allow them to develop a golden crust.
- Use Good Quality Products
When using stainless steel cookware, the quality of the product plays a significant role. Invest in good quality stainless steel that ensures durability, even heat distribution, and resistance to warping and corrosion. High-quality stainless steel pots and pans are made with multiple layers such as aluminium or copper cores which enhance heat conduction and elimination of hot spots, resulting in consistent cooking.
- Store Properly
Proper storage of stainless steel is essential for maintaining its appearance and functionality. Avoid scratching and damage by storing the pots, pans, and utensils with care Do not stack them directly on top of each other without proper protective padding in between. You can place a layer of paper towel or soft cloth between the two utensils as the cloth acts as a cushion and prevents scratches. Moreover, store stainless steel in a dry environment to prevent rust or corrosion. If storing in a cupboard or cabinet, ensure that the area is well-ventilated to prevent moisture buildup.