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Stainless steel, constructed from a steel alloy that combines chromium with nickel, is a popular cookware choice. It creates a strong, non-corrosive surface that does not react with food.
Cooking enthusiasts can use them in all cooking methods from boiling and simmering to sautéing and browning. Need a pot for that dish that goes from the stove top to the oven? No problem, you can choose from https://www.shopvalet.com.au/product-retailer/anolon/.
The following guide introduces you to the X factor of stainless steel pans, including how to use them correctly and what to do when troublesome stains appear.
Why Choose Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is a hard-wearing metal that’s suitable for the oven, induction hobs and its long lasting. You can put them into the dishwasher, however, stainless steel pot manufacturers advise against this as the harsh detergents may strip the metal down. Furthermore, continued washing in the dishwasher may also sharpen the pots and pans’ edges.
Stainless steel is non-reactive, therefore cooks can use them for preparing high acid foods, like cooking their favourite tomato based pasta or enchilada sauces. You can use your Anolon stainless steel & non-stick pans for lemony braises or baked beans without concern of discolouration or food absorbing that metallic taste.
Additionally, you can use your set of stainless steel pots for curries, stews, soups, or any food with a high solid to liquid ratio.
Stainless steel is an excellent choice for cookware because of the following factors:
Stainless steel is Durable
Stainless steel cookware is known for its versatility and durability. With proper care, your Anolon stainless steel & non-stick pans can last long enough to pass on to your grandkids!
Neutral cooking surface
Other cookware materials like aluminium or cast iron may react with acidic foods like tomatoes or lemons. You can cook alkaline foods like asparagus, kale or spinach without worrying they may absorb the metallic taste of the aluminium or cast iron cookware.
All-purpose Stainless Steel
From searing and sautéing to gentle simmering and rapid boiling, cooks can adapt stainless steel cookware to various cooking methods.
How to Prepare Your Stainless Steel Cookware for Catering
Before you start preparing your favourite foods, there are a few steps to follow to enjoy the best cooking experience with your Anolon stainless steel & nonstick pans.
Unlike nonstick surfaces, stainless steel relies on suitable heat management and the correct cooking fat for optimal use.
Prepare your stainless steel cookware by first preheating it. Preheating your pan prevents food from sticking and ensures an even sear.
Preheating your stainless steel cookware:
- Place the empty cookware on the burner over medium to medium-high heat.
- Warm gradually for two to three minutes.
- To test its readiness, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the pan. If the water beads up and glides around the pan, it’s ready.
Choosing the Correct Fat
Cooks can use any fat, like olive oil, butter, or even clarified butter prevent the food from sticking to the stainless steel pan. Here’s a cheat sheet when cooking:
If sautéing or frying, you should use high smoking point oils, like vegetable oil, canola oil or avocado oil. You can use butter; however, it burns quickly at high temperatures. Therefore, add some oil for flavourful results.
For foods like eggs, fish or other delicate ingredients, maintaining an even temperature and ensuring the fat evenly coats the surface prevents the food from sticking.
Common Cooking Mistakes with Stainless Steel Cookware
While Anolon stainless steel & nonstick pans are low maintenance, cooks make some common cooking mistakes that may impact their cooking results.
Pan Overheating
Excessive heat may cause your food to burn or stick to the pan. One benefit of using stainless steel cookware is that you don’t need to cook on high heat throughout the cooking process. You should start with medium or medium to high heat then lower it as required.
Manage the Fat
Cooks may find some stainless steel pans non-stick. In these cases, it’s important to add enough fat to prevent sticking or burning, especially if preparing foods like eggs or fish. You only need a thin layer of fat to prevent sticking and aiding in cooking process.
Temperature Control
Stainless steel cookware reacts quickly to temperature differences. Therefore, cooks should avoid adjusting the temperature from high heat to low heat too quickly. Instead, let the pan heat gently before increasing the heat.
Tackling Stains and Extending Stainless Steel Longevity
Stainless steel cookware is durable and long lasting. However, it may develop burned residue, discolouration and stubborn stains affecting its appearance more than its performance. Fortunately, there are solutions and cures for these issues.
For burnt food stuck to the surface, deglazing is a simple, chef-approved method. It involves adding water to the still warm pan and gently heating it to loosen the residue. You can wipe off the burnt residue with a soft cloth.
Tackle burned build-up by making a baking soda and water paste. Apply the paste to the pot, giving it time to dry. You can wash it away with warm water and a non-abrasive sponge when the paste dries.
Heat discolouration spots, appearing as rainbow stains, need an acidic solution. To clean rainbow stains, apply baking soda to a cut lemon. Scrub the lemon piece to the stained surface. The acid from the lemon combined with the baking soda creates a chemical reaction that lifts the stains from the pot.
Those preferring natural household cleaning agents to harsher chemicals, baking soda and lemon mixture effectively tackles moderate stains. It offers a fresh scent and an eco-friendly cleaning option. However, it may require some elbow grease!
Cookware That Combines Durability and Convenience
Stainless steel cookware offers versatility, durability, effective heat resistance, leading to tastier and healthier meals.
Ranges like Anolon stainless steel & nonstick pans gives not only superior cookware but also effortless cooking, easy maintenance and reliable performance for every recipe. Whether you’re searing, simmering, or sautéing, investing in quality stainless steel and nonstick pans ensures you equip your kitchen with the best cookware, making every meal more enjoyable and stress-free.