What cookware can be used for a glass-ceramic hob? Cookware for a glass-ceramic stove: which one is suitable and how to choose, is needed for a ceramic glass-ceramic stove
The intensive development of technologies for the production of household appliances also implies the introduction of innovative solutions. As a result, the user receives a product with high performance, wide functionality and appropriate ergonomics. At the same time, the improvement of the technical stuffing often makes adjustments to the nature of operation. An example of this is glass-ceramic stoves, the developers of which have significantly improved the operating parameters, but at the same time created the prerequisites for some restrictions on the use of such equipment. The fact is that dishes for glass-ceramic stoves must match the hob in a number of ways. This factor forces housewives to abandon outdated pots and pans, leaving a strictly limited set of kitchen utensils for culinary operations.
Glass-ceramic stoves - what are they?
Glass-ceramic analogues differ from the usual electric stoves in their ideally smooth surface, heating principle and operational capabilities. On the mirror hob, the boundaries of the working space are schematically depicted - they heat up. Burners are also double-circuit - they can regulate the diameter of the working area. For example, for a large pot or a small frying pan. Moreover, the user can give the burner an oval shape if you need to cook in a fish tray or duckling. The main thing is that dishes for glass-ceramic stoves are used, and its non-standard shape does not matter. In addition, the strength of such models can be noted. They withstand quite strong blows, however, you should not intentionally test this potential.
Features of heating dishes
Instant heating of a glass-ceramic stove from a heating element is one of the most important achievements of its developers. The heat sources are under the ceran. This material forms the basis hob. Its features include impact resistance and high thermal conductivity. In addition to heating elements, the device of the panels provides for the presence of halogen burners with heat-emitting lamps. In models with Hi Light technology, a serpentine ribbon made of special alloys participates in the heating process. This device of technology determined which dishes are suitable for glass-ceramic stoves, and which ones are undesirable to use. If we compare the principle of operation of such stoves with traditional models, then cast-iron analogues will come to the fore, in which the function of a heat transmitter is performed by an element with rapid heating. What unites these plates is slow cooling, the so-called residual heat.
Induction models of glass-ceramic cookers
Manufacturers produce plates with glass ceramics not only with conventional heating elements, but also with induction coils. In the first case, restrictions on the use of dishes are imposed for reasons of compatibility of the bottom with the heating surface. But for induction models, only pots and pans with a magnetic bottom are suitable. In order to know exactly which dishes cannot be used on a glass-ceramic stove of this type, it is necessary to bring the magnet to its working surface when buying. For example, magnetic cast iron or stainless steel, provided that the bottom is flat, are suitable for use for such purposes.
But it is important to remember that the walls do not have to be inductive - they can be made of aluminum, heat-resistant glass, and any non-magnetic metal. Such unusual parameters for choosing dishes are due to the principle of operation of "magnetic" glass-ceramic plates. In them, the heating process is provided due to induction currents, the activation of which is possible only when interacting with the magnetic bottom of the dishes. At the same time, in order to understand which cookware is not suitable for induction-type glass-ceramic stoves, one must also refer to the requirements for models with conventional heating elements. That is, the physical characteristics of the bottom surface are also not excluded and remain the primary selection criterion.
Dish Compatibility Issues
Fast and uniform heating through the glass-ceramic surface is possible only if the cookware is in full contact with the coating. The pot or pan should be as close to the surface as possible, thereby achieving high efficiency and reducing the coefficients of wasted energy consumption. In addition, there is a risk of damage to glass ceramics. Despite the strength characteristics of ceran, the outer coating with regular contact with rough and uneven surface can be covered with scratches, and this is reflected not only in the appearance, but also in the working qualities of the equipment. To determine which dishes are needed for a glass-ceramic stove, not only these features should be taken into account. The area of contact with the plate is also important. That is, even if the surface of the cookware is smooth, its small size will not allow it to be used on glass-ceramic stoves.
Characteristics of the "ideal" bottom
For a glass-ceramic surface, a flat and even bottom should be chosen. This is the only way to ensure optimal heat transfer from the heating element to the pan. The presence of technological irregularities, patterns and roughness makes it difficult to transfer heat, making it uneven. This is dangerous not only by reducing the efficiency of the cooking process, but can also lead to overheating of the equipment and a reduction in the service life. In addition, dishes for glass-ceramic stoves must be thick-bottomed. This selection factor is due to the fact that the thin bottom is deformed during intense heating, as a result of which its ability to transfer heat is reduced. There is another subtlety that experts recommend taking into account. Thermal conductivity increases when using dark dishes with a matte bottom.
Stainless steel compatibility
it optimal solution for dishes that are intended for use on a glass-ceramic hob. Stainless steel has a high thermal conductivity and is easy to clean. But then again, there are metals with different magnetic properties, so if the pan is selected for cooking on an induction hob, then this parameter will also have to be evaluated. By the way, on the walls of pots and pans, as a rule, there are pictograms indicating how to use them. Focusing on such designations, you can immediately purchase a whole set of dishes for glass-ceramic stoves of the corresponding type. In addition to working qualities, stainless steel as such has an elegant appearance and is easy to maintain.
Enamel and aluminum utensils
This solution is attractive because it gives you the opportunity to choose textures specifically for a specific kitchen design. With regard to compatibility with glass-ceramic hobs, both varieties are suitable, but problems may arise due to defects. It is necessary to inspect the bottom for scratches, chips and bulges. This is especially true for aluminum pans - in addition, during operation there is a high risk of the formation of such flaws, which in the future will make it impossible to use kitchen utensils. If aluminum disappears due to susceptibility to damage to the bottom, then enamelware can be used as a replacement. On a glass ceramic hob induction panels some varieties of enameled pans show a fairly high heating rate.
heat resistant glass
One of the most technologically advanced and aesthetically pleasing kitchenware options. But, unfortunately, the low thermal conductivity of the glass itself makes such pans ineffective when working on a glass-ceramic hob. This does not mean that there is a fundamental ban on the use of such dishes, but in this case, one should prepare for the high energy consumption that the glass-ceramic stove will consume. What cookware should I use for induction? - such a question is not at all worth it when it comes to glass models. This material does not have magnetic properties, therefore it is useless on induction panels.
Ceramics and Teflon
Glass ceramic works well with Teflon or ceramic coated cookware. Special processing also does not exclude magnetic properties, therefore, depending on the characteristics of a particular model of a frying pan or pan, it is also possible to cook food on induction hob. When choosing, you need to pay attention to the marking again, which will tell you which hobs you can combine this cookware with. If he finds a suitable option, then it makes sense to buy a complete set of dishes for glass-ceramic stoves, which will include, for example, Teflon pans of different sizes, each of which will satisfy the requirements for use with such appliances.
Special cookware for glass-ceramic cookers
It will not be difficult to rid yourself of the risks of buying the “wrong” pot or pan for glass-ceramic tiles if you immediately turn to specialized dishes. These are high-tech models, which provide not only absolute compatibility with hobs (conventional or induction), but also other ergonomic nuances. For example, the handle of the lid does not have a stick, because its material is thermally insulated. Moreover, special cookware for glass-ceramic stoves has a wide functionality in the form of a thermometer, which will automatically monitor the heating parameters and will not allow you to waste energy in vain.
Lids in such models are made of tempered heat-resistant glass, which can withstand up to 260 ºC. The innovative approach in this case is due to the special design of the rim on the lid. Thus, the developers have created a special barrier that excludes excess evaporation - as a result, the loss of food taste properties is minimized. The protection is formed thanks to the water ring, which is formed in the space between the lid and the rims.
How to use glass ceramic cookware?
The right choice of dishes is the key to the safe and rational operation of glass-ceramic panels. However, in order to maximize the use of the entire resource of kitchen appliances, it is important not only to decide what dishes to use on a glass-ceramic stove, but also how to do it.
During cooking, the diameter of the surface of the cookware must match or at least exceed the dimensions of the burner. To do this, you can adjust the diameter of the latter, but in any case, the surface of the pot or pan should not be smaller than the working area of the hob. The bottom of the dishes should also be prepared for the cooking process. Firstly, it must be clean, and secondly, dry. It is important not to forget that the bottom surface can be deformed, so you should take care of it. So, if small errors on the surface of an aluminum pan do not affect its compatibility with traditional electric stoves, then in the case of glass-ceramic models, this drawback can result in problems with technology and high energy costs.
Glass-ceramic hobs are increasingly appearing in our kitchens. And not in vain. After all, they have an aesthetic appearance, are easy to use, quickly heat up, being excellent helpers in cooking. But a logical question arises: - Which pan and frying pan for a glass-ceramic stove is ideal? Let's find out.
Which pans and pots are suitable for glass-ceramic cookers? All metal cookware (cast iron, stainless steel, aluminium, enamelled) is suitable for glass ceramic hobs. Although there are some features that you should pay attention to.
bottom surface
All products must have a flat, even bottom, without roughness and embossed patterns (the flowing bottom is ideal for gas burners). The ideal fit of the bottom to the burner ensures rapid heating of the dishes themselves. This allows the heating elements not to run idle, thereby wearing them out faster. One experiment was even carried out: the burners were turned on without dishes. Idle operation of the heating elements on the stove led to regular overheating, and then to rapid burnout. This implies:
- tight-fitting dishes to the burner save energy;
- a flat bottom allows you to cook the dish faster;
- the correct bottom diameter increases the life of the hob heating elements.
bottom thickness
For a better fit, the thickness of the heating surface of the cookware is important. After all, a thin bottom (less than 3 mm) deforms faster and loses 100% contact with the hob, as it does not become perfectly even. This is especially true for extruded aluminum products. If it “staggers” on the stove, it is better to replace it with a new model, otherwise the uniformity of cooking is disturbed.
Bottom color
An important role is played by the color of the bottom. Light colors with a mirror effect are more reflective, so it is better to buy dark-colored dishes with a matte surface (outside). Although in stores most models are offered with a silver bottom, you still need to take note of this information.
bottom diameter
As mentioned above, glass-ceramic stoves last less if their heating elements are idle. Hence the conclusion: the diameter of the pot or pan should ideally match the size of the burner. Difficulties may arise here with, where the lower part, although flat, can be smaller in size even with the smallest burner in diameter. A negative effect can also be obtained when it exceeds the size of the burner. In this case, the maximum power of the heating element may not be enough to fully heat all the dishes.
bottom shape
There is an opinion that for the best fit of the bottom to the surface of the glass-ceramic stove, its slightly concave shape is suitable. Allegedly, when heated, the material expands and ideally takes a flat shape.
There is even a test where a flat sheet of paper is half applied to the outer surface of the bottom. It is clearly seen how the sheet lies tightly at the edges, and in the middle of the bottom does not come into contact with the surface (the gap is 1 mm).
Although in practice, the version of the shape concave inward has not proven itself. Indeed, the material expands when heated, but it can take on a very different shape.
bottom material
Not suitable for glass-ceramic hobs uncoated aluminum and copper bottoms. The reason is that these metals are quite soft and can leave stains when interacting with heating elements. To prevent this, manufacturers specially paint or clad with steel (specify when buying) the outer surface.
When choosing a cookware, always look for the icon confirming its suitability for a glass-ceramic hob.
The information is taken from manufacturers producing surfaces for glass-ceramic cookers: Shcott is a trademark of "Ceran" and Corning is a trademark of "EuroCera".
Glass-ceramic as a cooktop coating is gaining more and more popularity due to its cost-effectiveness, durability, cooking speed and safety. However, when purchasing such a hob, consumers inevitably face the question: which cookware is suitable for a glass-ceramic hob?
Properties of glass ceramics
The main attractive characteristics of glass-ceramic stoves are a perfectly smooth surface, high strength, heating speed and convenient functionality. The boundaries of the burners are shown schematically on the panel. At the same time, there are models in which the size of the heating area is adjusted depending on the size of the dishes used. You can cook on them in a small saucepan, and in a large frying pan, and even in oval dishes - fish bowls, ducklings.
Thanks to the built-in heating element, the surface is heated very quickly, as is cooling. In addition, only the area of the burner is heated. All this ensures safety and allows you to significantly save on energy.
Among other things, various models such plates can be additionally equipped with all kinds of useful functionality:
- Dishes recognition. This option prevents the hotplate from being switched on if there is no pan on it or if an object whose diameter does not match the diameter of the hotplate is placed on it.
- Auto power off function allows you to set the timer for one or several burners at the same time.
- autofocus– recognizes the size of the dishes and automatically switches on the required surface area for heating.
- Automatic boil, defrost, pause heating– functions that also make the cooking process more convenient.
In the production of glass ceramics, a special heavy-duty material with high thermal conductivity is used. However, heavy-duty does not mean eternal. Reasonable thrift is always needed.
Heating elements for such panels can be different:
- halogen;
- rapid;
- tape.
They heat up first. work zone, which then transfers heat to the bottom of the dish.
In addition, there is a special type of glass-ceramic hobs - induction. In them, the bottom of the cookware heats up immediately upon contact with the surface of the burner due to the effect of electromagnetic induction. A magnetic field arises between the surface of the burner and the ferromagnetic coating of the bottom of the pan or any other utensil. And if, in general, the main requirement for cookware for a glass-ceramic stove is that the bottom diameter matches the diameter of the burner, then for induction one more thing is added: the presence of a coating with magnetic properties.
Tableware Requirements
Most likely, housewives will have to spend money on the purchase of pots for electric glass-ceramic stoves. Why are regular dishes not suitable for them? There are many reasons for this. And they are connected, first of all, with the requirements for the bottom of pots and pans.
- For efficient and long-term operation of such hobs, the bottom must be perfectly flat in order to be in close contact with the heating surface. At the bottom of long-serving dishes, there are often chips or deposits that prevent this. In addition, with prolonged use of ordinary dishes, due to uneven heating, the bottom is often deformed: bulges and dents form on it. As a result, the thermal conductivity of the stove deteriorates, which leads not only to longer cooking, but also to faster wear of the heating elements.
- The same thing happens if the bottom has engravings, stamps or is ribbed.
- In addition, irregularities will sooner or later leave scratches on the hob. This also leads to a decrease in the efficiency and life of the stove. The same will happen if the diameter of the vessel is significantly larger diameter burners (if the bottom is smaller than the burner, the stove will not turn on).
- Low-melting metal utensils also leave marks on glass ceramics that cannot be removed. The result will be the same. What materials are prone to melting? Of course, aluminum, copper, and also brass.
- Cookware with low thermal conductivity increases cooking time and energy consumption. This, for example, heat-resistant glass or glass-ceramic utensils.
- The bottom for an induction cooker must have magnetic properties that not all metals and alloys possess, and glass and ceramics do not possess at all.
What utensils can fit?
It is already clear that not all dishes can be used for cooking on glass-ceramic hobs. But if you buy special sets of pots or pans, it can hurt a limited family budget. In this case, you need to conduct a thorough audit of the kitchen utensils already in the household. Perhaps there is a suitable option. What can he be?
- Enamelware, which was used for a short time, the bottom of which remained flat, without damage and soot.
- Stainless steel utensils. It heats up quickly and is easy to clean. The condition is the same: a flat bottom.
- Cookware with Teflon or glass-ceramic coating.
- Cast iron frying pans, ducklings and other utensils - provided that they are light and undamaged.
- In extreme cases, heat-resistant glass may also be suitable. Only in this case, it should be borne in mind that it reduces the efficiency of the stove and increases the cooking time. Here it must also be taken into account that glass is useless for induction models, since it does not create a magnetic field.
For induction hobs, stainless steel, aluminum alloys with a Teflon or ceramic coating may be suitable. It is only necessary that their bottom has ferromagnetic properties (that is, it can be magnetized). Checking at home is quite simple - just bring any magnet to it. Even a souvenir fridge magnet will do.
By the way, if you decide to buy cookware for induction, take the magnet with you to the store. It will not take up much space in your purse, but it can help a lot when choosing dishes.
How to choose cookware for glass-ceramic stoves when buying?
So, the ideal option for glass-ceramic electric stoves is the selection of dishes specially designed for them. What should I pay attention to when choosing it in the store? Important points here are a few:
- We pay attention to the bottom. As already mentioned, it should be perfectly even, without embossed marks or concavities. The bottom for induction should have a magnetic coating. Even if there is a corresponding marking on the wall of the vessel, it may not correspond to reality. Better to double check.
- We look at the thickness of the bottom. It should be large so that it does not deform during use - this, as already mentioned, will reduce heat transfer. Usually, a special bottom for glass ceramics is made multi-layered, with a layer of rapidly heating aluminum to improve thermal conductivity and a coating of practical stainless steel. By the way, there is another trick that allows you to cook in such dishes faster. You need to choose models with a matte finish on the bottom of a dark color. They have much higher heat absorption.
- Material. As already mentioned, glass (including heat-resistant) and glass-ceramics, copper, brass, and aluminum will be useless for this type of hobs. But this applies only to the bottom of the dish. What its walls are made of is not important.
- We select the desired diameter. If the stove has adjustable burner sizes, you can pick up a set of dishes of several different diameters. If not, you need a specific size.
- Marking. From trusted manufacturers, the product always has special pictograms explaining which types of plates it is suitable for.
- Price. High-quality utensils for special hobs cannot be too cheap. There is a high risk of buying the wrong product, and then looking for more expensive options again.
Glass-ceramic stoves are a convenient, modern, high-tech, economical and safe technique. And to make it more durable will help the selection of suitable dishes. Therefore, it is better to purchase it on purpose, giving preference to proven brands and not saving too much. As you know, a miser pays twice.
Which cookware is suitable for glass-ceramic cookers? - Almost every housewife faces such a question by installing this equipment in her kitchen. When a shiny new glass-ceramic hob flaunts on your work surface, it seems that sorting through the huge range of cookware will not work at all.
No panic!
This article will help you choose the right type of cookware for a glass-ceramic hob that will not damage the stove, and explain why old cookware for an electric stove is not at all suitable for such a kitchen appliance.
What are glass ceramic hobs?
The appearance of the glass-ceramic surface indicates that with our old stove they are quite distant cousins. flat, smooth, durable surface with an improved principle of operation - such a hob causes only delight.
For the production of the hob of such kitchen equipment, a certain material is used - ceran. This choice is explained by its excellent characteristics: impact resistance, wear resistance, good thermal conductivity.
Important! Even if you drop a saucepan full of borscht on a delicate, at first glance, tseran panel, the surface will not break. But still, you should not experiment and introduce such behavior into a habit so that the stove lasts a really long time.
The burner heats up in a matter of seconds, thanks to the built-in heating element. Moreover, the burner will take the same amount of time to cool completely.
Important! A feature of such hobs is that only the hotplate is heated. The rest of the hob remains cool and safe while you cook.
Types of glass-ceramic plates
These stoves are available with various heating elements:
- In models with Hi-Light technology, a serpentine tape is additionally installed. It is for this reason that special cookware for the ceramic hob is used. Compared to other types of stoves, such a device contributes to the slow cooling of the pan, which allows you to keep food warm for a long time.
- In induction glass ceramics, heating occurs due to the built-in induction coil. For such a panel, you will need special dishes with a magnetic bottom. As a rule, it is made of magnetic cast iron or stainless steel. Such a criterion for choosing kitchen utensils is explained by the principle of operation of the induction surface: the heating of the working areas occurs when the burner comes into contact with the magnetic bottom.
Important! The bottom of this type of cookware must be even, and the walls of the appliances can be made of any non-magnetic material such as aluminum or heat-resistant glass.
- In some models of glass-ceramic hobs, developers install a sensor that determines the correctness of the selected dishes.
Possibilities of modern stoves
Plates made of such material, in addition to their beauty, bring great convenience to the house:
- Depending on which pot or pan you are using in terms of volume, you can adjust the diameter of the burner in the stove. That is, use one heating circuit or two at once.
- It is possible with the help of small manipulations to give the burner the shape of an oval. This technique will be needed if a vessel of a non-standard round shape is used. This will make cooking easier, faster and more enjoyable.
- Glass ceramics, dishes for it have high strength and impact resistance, so it can be used kitchen utensils large volumes.
Important! Special cookware for the glass ceramic hob is one of the important factors contributing to the long-term proper operation of the stove.
Problems that can arise when choosing the wrong dishes:
- If the bottom of the cookware is not in contact with the cooking surface, it can lead to a significant increase in the amount of electricity consumed. These pots and pans take longer to heat up. Therefore, special dishes for glass-ceramic stoves are needed.
- An uneven, rough bottom of kitchen utensils leads to mechanical damage to the surface of the stove and affects the performance electrical appliance. So, before you start operating the unit, you need to be puzzled by what dishes are suitable for glass-ceramic stoves and buy it.
- Incorrectly selected volume of dishes affects the distribution of heat inside it and contributes to the deterioration of the quality of the hob.
Characteristics of the ideal cookware bottom for a glass ceramic hob:
- Smooth, flat bottom for maximum heat transfer.
Important! Cooking utensils with a round bottom are not suitable for use on such hobs due to their small surface area. Therefore, fans of wok pans will have to look for appliances with a flatter base.
- The thick bottom prevents deformation of the bottom when exposed to high temperatures.
- Dark cookware with a matte bottom has a high thermal conductivity, which greatly contributes to quick cooking food.
Important! Cookware with embossed patterns and a rough bottom is not recommended for use on these stoves. This leads to poor heat transfer, increases the cooking process, and also leads to overheating of the appliance.
What cookware can be used on a glass ceramic hob?
The material from which pots and pans are made is very important when choosing cookware for ceran surfaces.
Stainless steel
Kitchen utensils made from this material are perfect for use on a glass-ceramic surface.
Advantages:
- Easy to operate.
- It has high thermal conductivity.
- Has an exquisite appearance.
- Does not require effort when cleaning from pollution.
Important! Keep in mind that different metals have different magnetic fields, consider this fact when buying dishes. This is especially true for induction panels.
Teflon or ceramic coated aluminum
This material is one of the best options for cookware for glass-ceramic panels.
Advantages:
- Crockery is equally suitable for different types glass-ceramic stoves, including induction. One has only to take into account the presence of a magnetic bottom.
- The pots and pans are not heavy, so they are easy to work with.
Enamel and aluminum utensils
Kitchen appliances from this type of raw material are also a good option.
Advantages:
- Exists huge selection similar dishes, which makes it possible to choose kitchen utensils for every taste.
Important! The disadvantage of this choice is the softness of aluminum as a metal. This leads to the rapid appearance of chips and irregularities. Therefore, instruments made of hardened anodized aluminum with a steel bottom will be the most the best option.
heat resistant glass
Heat-resistant glassware is well suited for glass-ceramic stoves, but there are certain limitations. Kitchen utensils made of such material will organically fit into the design of any kitchen. But to a great disappointment, the low thermal conductivity of glass leads to a large expenditure of electricity and an increase in cooking time.
Such dishes are more suitable for use in ovens or microwave ovens. Heat-resistant glass is not suitable for induction cookers at all, since glass is a non-magnetic material.
Important! It is not recommended to use devices with a copper and aluminum bottom without a special coating. Such dishes in daily use, when interacting with the stove, may leave marks on the hob, which may affect its performance.
Crockery for glass-ceramic stoves. How to choose right?
When the range of cookware in the store presents a huge selection of shapes, colors and materials, the purchase becomes really difficult, because it is necessary to choose not only beautiful kitchen utensils, but also suitable ones for the stove. What should you pay special attention to?
Important! In the product you like, always pay attention to its labeling. So you get a product that is best suited for the type of your hob, taking into account all the nuances of its design.
Bottom
The bottom should be even and smooth. With the full contact of the bottom of the cookware with the hob, the cooking time and the amount of electricity consumed are significantly reduced. Choose dishes with a thick bottom, such dishes can withstand high temperatures for a long time and will not deform.
The bottom of the dishes has two varieties:
- Three-layer - consists of two layers of stainless steel and one layer of aluminum.
- Five-layer - is a combination of three layers of aluminum and two layers of stainless steel.
The thicker the bottom, the better the heat distribution inside the tank.
Important! The bottom of pots and pans should be treated with a special solution that reduces the possibility of scratches on electric glass-ceramic appliances.
If you purchased an induction glass-ceramic hob, then the bottom of the kitchen utensils you choose must be ferromagnetic. To select these pans and pots, take a magnet with you to the store. It will help determine what the bottom of the goods is.
The utensils themselves can be made from other metals, such as aluminum, non-magnetic steel, or heat-resistant glass.
Thermal conductivity
For better heat conduction, choose cookware with a dark matte bottom. Cookware with such a bottom has the highest coefficient of thermal conductivity, which means that heating occurs faster.
Important! Light colors reflect heat more, so you should refrain from them.
Do not forget another important factor: in order for the stove to last longer and retain its beautiful appearance, always use clean, dry wiped kitchen utensils. The presence of burnt residues and roughness can damage the burner, increase energy consumption and lead to costly repairs. By following all the recommendations for the selection and use of cookware for glass-ceramic stoves, your “assistant” will last for many years.
Glass-ceramic plates are in great demand - due to their elegant look and due to the fact that they greatly facilitate the process of cooking. In order for a new hob to enjoy its working qualities and a smooth, shiny surface for longer, it is important to use cookware that is suitable for this type of hob.
It is worth checking the cabinet and placing separately those pots and pans that are not suitable for glass ceramics, so as not to accidentally use them on a new stove.
Why is only special cookware suitable?
Glass-ceramic cookware has certain characteristics that ordinary pans and pots do not always have. To understand which product is suitable and which one cannot be put on a new stove, you should pay attention to the following points:
- 1. Perfectly flat bottom. If there are chips, scuffs, uneven spots or large scratches on its surface, then the pan for the glass-ceramic surface will not work. The presence of these flaws not only leads to damage to the plate, but also negatively affects the quality of cooked dishes.
- 2. required wall thickness. This indicator should be at least 5 mm: pans, even those made of steel or cast iron, with thinner walls are noisy when heated and can damage the surface of the appliance.
- 3. Sufficient bottom thickness. Pots with a bottom at least 7 mm thick should be used, which will prevent the dishes from deforming during heating.
- 4. Correspondence of the diameters of the dishes and burners. By complying with this requirement, the glass-ceramic will not overheat, which means that the device will not fail prematurely.
- 5. The presence of a special designation on the dishes. You should only buy pots and pans that have an icon indicating that the product is approved for use on a glass-ceramic surface. It is important to note that options that are designed for electric stoves cannot be used for glass ceramics, although the latter is a type of electric stoves.
The third icon from the left - the product can be used for glass ceramics
Choice of pots and pans depending on the type of stove
Another factor that determines the choice of cookware for a glass-ceramic stove is the type of heating element. There are two large groups of heaters:
- 1. Standard heating elements:
- with spiral heater;
- Hi Light;
- galvanic.
- 2. Induction appliances.
The type of heating element must be indicated in the manual for the electric stove, so before you go for pots, you should carefully read the instructions.
If the appliance is equipped with a standard heating element, then any cookware that meets the requirements described in the previous section will do. For electric cooker with induction heating element the choice is not so wide - pans and pots must have a magnetic bottom. For this type of hob, you can purchase utensils made of stainless steel or cast iron.
What material is suitable?
Saucepans, pots and pans for a glass-ceramic stove must be made of a certain material - then they will not damage the surface of the stove, and food will cook correctly. The following types of dishes are suitable:
- 1. From stainless steel. Counts the best option for use on metal ceramic hob. Such dishes have high thermal conductivity and allow you to use the properties of glass ceramics as efficiently as possible.
- 2. From aluminium. It is also possible to cook on glass ceramic in aluminum pans, but this comes with some risks. Due to the softness of this material, the bottom of the cookware is often deformed, and this leads to damage to the panel and a decrease in the quality of cooking. Therefore, you should check the bottom of the dishes from time to time, and if any flaws appear there, replace the utensils with a new one. A more practical way out of the situation is to buy aluminum cookware with a steel bottom, it will last much longer.
- 3. Enamelware made of steel or aluminium. Before buying, you should inspect the bottom: it must be absolutely flat and without chips.
- 4. From cast iron. A thick-walled cast iron skillet can be used on any cooking surface.
- 5. Teflon-coated or ceramic-coated aluminium. It is the best option for glass-ceramic panels, as well as stainless steel cookware. It provides maximum heating and has sufficient strength. To find out if a particular model is suitable for induction cookers, you need to pay attention to the markings on the bottom of the pan or pan.
Heat-resistant glassware can only be used on glass-ceramic cooktops in theory. This material has high strength, but low thermal conductivity. Heating takes longer than with steel or aluminium, and energy costs increase.
For a glass-ceramic panel, you can use those pots and pans that are already on the farm, if they meet the listed parameters, or buy new ones. It is important to properly care for the cookware and regularly inspect the bottom for chips and deformations in order to prevent damage to the surface of the appliance.