The main criteria when purchasing kitchenware are versatility, durability, strength and convenience. Stainless steel pans meet these requirements. They are aesthetically pleasing, last a long time, and are easy to use.
Advantages and disadvantages
Advantages of stainless steel cookware:
- The surface is easy to clean;
- If the housewife prefers metal spoons and spatulas, then they can be used during cooking - metal will not damage stainless steel;
- It is possible to prepare dishes that require the addition of vinegar and other food acids,
- Stainless steel containers retain their original appearance for a long time, temperature changes do not harm aesthetics, and pieces of metal do not break off;
- Thick walls and bottom prevent the food from burning;
- A special highly environmentally friendly alloy is distinguished by antibacterial properties and preserves beneficial microelements contained in products;
- It is possible to reduce the amount of oil needed for cooking.
Difficulties in using stainless steel pans:
- High price relative to dishes made from other materials;
- The need to warm up before starting cooking;
- A large amount of salt and severe overheating leave stains on the inner surface.
How to choose correctly
When choosing a stainless steel pan, it is important to follow a number of recommendations.
- The most durable pans are made of steel marked 18/10.
- The bottom must consist of 2 or more layers of metal, its thickness is at least 3 mm.
- Middle-class cookware should have walls 0.5 mm thick, premium ones - 0.8 mm. Thinner walls quickly deform, thicker ones take a long time to heat up.
- It is necessary to make sure that there are no damages or stains on the surface of the bottom and walls.
- The optimal handles are steel, they do not heat up. Some European brands use silicone grips to prevent the handles from overheating and make them easier to use.
- It is better to give preference to dishes with welded handles.
- The main requirement for the lid is a tight fit and the presence of a steam outlet. It can be made of steel or heat-resistant glass.
Description of brands
A variety of companies producing stainless steel pans allow each buyer to make a choice according to their budget and needs. You can choose products from well-known world brands or buy domestically produced dishes.
BergHOFF
BergHOFF cookware, produced in Belgium, is considered the most popular on the domestic market. Known for quality and affordable price. Designed for induction, gas and electric stoves. The pans are made of chromium-nickel steel: impact-resistant, heat-resistant and environmentally friendly.
They are characterized by a laconic design. The bottom is decorated with a copper plate. The handles are protected by a special system from overheating. Manufacturer's warranty – 1 year.
Blaumann
Blaumann brand cookware is characterized by the ratio of good quality and affordable price. The presence of a multi-layer bottom allows you to cook dishes without allowing them to burn.
The heat-resistant glass lid fits tightly to the walls of the pan, protecting the food being prepared from the ingress of foreign substances. The steel handles are heat resistant and have a measuring scale for convenience.
Crsitel
Premium pots made in France. They are known for their elegant, well-thought-out design and functionality. A distinctive feature is the presence of not only fixed, but also removable handles.
The brand's products can be used on any stove; due to their simple, laconic design, they are easy to clean and wash. The bottom and walls of the cookware are multi-layered, cooking takes less time and there is no risk of burning.
Hoffmann
The key feature of Hoffmann products is their unusual design. The pans have a non-stick coating, which allows you to cook food at high temperatures. They are durable, resistant to rust and deformation.
The lid is equipped with a steam vent; heat-resistant glass makes it possible to control all stages of cooking. Can be washed in an automatic dishwasher. The only drawback noted is the accumulation of dirt at the places where the handles are attached.
Fissler
High quality stainless steel pans made in Germany. Manufactured using advanced technologies and equipped with a glass lid. If the operating rules are followed, the aesthetic qualities are preserved during daily use.
Fissler cookware is suitable for all types of stoves, has non-stick properties, and can be washed in the dishwasher. There are specialized series:
- Original pro collection. Used by professional chefs.
- In addition to useful thermal storage properties, it has an attractive and elegant design.
- Thanks to the built-in sieve, it is well suited for cooking pasta. There is a measuring scale.
- They allow you to retain steam during cooking and, if necessary, release it due to the special features of the lid. Equipped with a device for draining liquid.
Philipiak Milano
Pots from an Italian manufacturer of high strength. Not subject to rust and mechanical damage. The thickened bottom has a high heating rate, which increases the speed of cooking.
A good level of heat retention allows you to keep cooked food hot for several hours. Thanks to the design of the edges of the lid, the container closes hermetically.
Tefal
A world-famous company that produces a variety of cookware lines. Stainless steel pans are known for their durability and long-lasting use. They belong to the middle price segment. They are easy and convenient to clean; the lids are equipped with steel sides with special holes for easy drainage of liquid.
Some pans are equipped with a non-stick coating. The handles are made of silicone, which keeps them cool. You can cook on any stove.
Gourmet
Premium class pots made in Russia. They are distinguished by a completely smooth surface inside. The handles do not heat up and are welded, making them easy to clean. Products do not oxidize and retain their natural taste. The structural features of the multilayer bottom and walls allow you to keep the dish hot for up to 6 hours.
Suitable for cooking on all types of stoves. The absence of plastic parts makes them oven safe.It is possible to cook vegetables in their own juice without adding water. The “Pro” line is suitable for large families, as it includes large-volume pots.
A bountiful harvest
The products of this manufacturer are especially popular among housewives who love to preserve food. A special thick bottom greatly facilitates this process.
Easy to care for and durable. The heat-resistant glass lids fit tightly to the container and are equipped with a device for releasing steam. The handles are ergonomic and do not heat up.
Kitchen utensils are purchased rarely and for a long time, so when purchasing it is important to pay attention to the labeling, opt for a well-known manufacturer and then properly care for your purchase. In this case, the purchased set will last for many years. You should also remember that the kitchen should have pots of different sizes, so it is advisable to purchase a set so that you can quickly boil an egg for breakfast and prepare soup for numerous family members.
