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As beneficial as induction technology is, some people still think its advantages can’t outweigh the hassle of transitioning to it. Let’s face it, many think twice about adopting induction cooking into their daily lives because of the supposed new set of cookware they have to purchase. While this is the case for some homeowners, others might find that their favorite pots and pans are already suitable for induction hobs.

Let’s go over the different types of pots that you can use on an induction cooktop.

Induction-Specific Pots

Why do certain materials work for induction cooktops, while others don’t? A lot of this has to do with how heat generation takes place through induction. An induction cooktop is made up of a ceramic or glass housing and plate.

Just under the plate is a coil that holds an alternating current that creates a constantly shifting magnetic field. When you place certain types of cookware with magnetic properties on top of that magnetic field, a current is produced. The current then transforms into heat inside the pan or pot and cooks the food.

Pots made of the following materials are guaranteed to work perfectly with induction cooktops:

1. Cast Iron

What makes cast iron perfect for induction cooking is its naturally non-stick quality and suitability to high temperatures. While you may consider skillets made of cast iron to be on the heavy side, you can’t doubt how great they are for cooking wholesome meals.

For as long as your cast-iron cookware has a smooth base, you can use it on an induction cooktop. Notwithstanding its heaviness, cast-iron pots and pans have an all-iron composition that makes it extremely compatible with magnetic cooking. Just make sure to be extra careful when using these types of cookware since they can easily scratch the glass top of your induction cooker.

According to thekitcheninspiration.com, there is still so much to learn about how well cast-iron cookware works with induction cooktops.

2. Carbon Steel

Here’s a lighter version of the cast iron that’s also induction-cooking friendly. While carbon steel is mainly used to create pans, pots made up of the material are also available. They can outperform stainless steel and cast iron cookware in some areas and fall short against them in others.

3. Enameled Cast Iron

This is one of the more popular choices for those using induction cooktops for a while now. While it works similarly to normal cast iron, unlike its raw version, it works well with acidic and tomato-based meals. This is mainly due to its porcelain finish that protects the pot.

4. Stainless Steel (Magnetized)

Stainless steel comes in many different forms that don’t all work well for induction cooking. When it comes to this kind of material, you want to pay special attention to what composes the base of the cookware.

If the base contains nickel, then it won’t be compatible with your induction stove. On the other hand, if it contains iron, then there should be no problem.

Higher-quality pots are usually composed of copper or aluminum cores in between stainless steel layers that make them even better conductors. Always check the elements comprising the bases of cookware since they will tell you if the pot is compatible with your induction cooktop or if it will only work well with an electric or gas stove.

5. Graniteware

Graniteware is basically carbon steel enclosed in porcelain enamel, making it excellent for induction cooking. It’s a material that’s easy to clean, heats up in no time, and distributes heat evenly.

Using this material, though, requires you to take extra care because once the enamel on the pan’s interior chips, it may no longer be suitable for food preparation. You also have to make sure the base of your graniteware is flat when using it on glass and induction cooktops.

The Magnet Test

How do you know if your existing cookware is already compatible? Particularly if your pans and pots are stainless steel, you can test if they are induction-cooktop-friendly by placing a magnet at their base. If the magnet attaches itself firmly to the bottom, then the cookware should pose no problems.

Pots and Pans to Steer Clear Of

If you’re using induction cookers at home, make sure to avoid using cookware that doesn’t contain iron compounds in their base. This tends to be the case for aluminum and copper pots, which may or may not work at all with your induction cooktop.

Conclusion

If you’ve just bought a new induction stove, then we hope you have a few pieces in your current cookware collection that are induction-ready. If not, then there are several options to choose from, like cast iron, carbon steel, magnetized stainless steel, and enamel cast iron. You even have the choice to go for the more affordable and induction-effective graniteware. In any case, it’s essential to verify whether pots and pans are compatible with induction cooking before purchasing them.

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