If you are considering upgrading your kitchen appliances, an induction stove is worth considering. They have a sleek design, good power output, and are very fast at cooking.
But you will have to get rid of most of your cookware. This article will dive into what pans work on induction stoves to give you a better idea when choosing to buy new cookware.
Why Choosing Induction Compatible Cookware Is Important?
Even if you are not in the market to get an induction stove soon, it is always good to have future-proof supplements. So far induction cooking technology seems to be on its way to being mainstream.
If you are upgrading or buying new cookware it will be in your best interest to get cookware that is compatible with induction stoves.
Induction Cooking
Induction stoves make use of electromagnetic fields to do their work. This is a completely new technology in the cooking space and kitchen.
Unlike gas stoves where you can put anything that has heat transfer qualities, induction stoves are a bit more refined. It does not work with every type of cookware.
The cookware itself needs to be compatible with induction technology for it to work. The cookware here acts as the heating element instead of a coil or burning flames. The surface still stays cool to the touch.
Importance of Cookware with Magnetic Properties
The key factor in making a pan work on an induction stove is whether it has magnetic properties.
Without any iron in the material used to make the cookware, it will not work on an induction cooktop.
The cookware interacts with the electromagnetic field because of its magnetic properties. You place the pan over the coil of an induction stove. The magnetic properties on the bottom of the pan create vibration which heats it.
There are ways to make non-compatible pans work on induction by adding in the magnetic properties with a dispenser but that is a hassle on its own.
How to Know Which Cookware is Induction-Compatible?
Finding pans that work on an induction stove is tricky. But you can easily do it if you own a kitchen magnet.
Here are the steps:
- Check for magnetic properties: A pan will only work on induction if the bottom is made of a magnetic metal. It is also known as Ferrous metal, meaning a metal that contains iron. Stick a magnet on the bottom and see if it sticks. As long as the magnet sticks it is good to go on the induction stove.
- Look for Labels: There should be a sticker on the bottom that has all the information on where you can use the cookware. See if it has anything related to induction.
- Read the Manufacturers’ Descriptions: Most new cookware should be ready for induction stoves. As technology shifts towards it, more and more manufacturers are making cookware that can be used on induction hobs.
Pans that Work on Induction Stove:
Investing in an induction-compatible cookware set or checking the magnetic properties of your existing pans will ensure you get the best performance out of your induction stove.
Here are the pans that work best on an induction stove:
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel cookware is the most popular choice for induction cooking. This is an alloy made mostly of iron. However, they do not have the best heat distribution quality.
That is why they are mixed with multiple layers of chromium, nickel, aluminum, copper, and other metals. There are multiple grades of stainless steel pans like 18/10, 18/8 up to 18/0. These numbers represent the chromium-to-nickel ratio inside the material.
They are versatile and you can even use them on gas stoves. These are available in multiple shapes and sizes that meet your unique needs. You can’t go wrong with stainless steel pans.
- Here is a stainless steel pan recommendation for induction stoves: Cuisinart 10 Inch
Cast Iron
Another great pan material for induction stoves is cast iron. They are very good at retaining and distributing heat. But what makes them good for induction stoves is that they are naturally magnetic.
Cast iron pans can handle the high vibration forces and heat from the induction stove. They are good for searing or frying. They will do a great job of cooking at high or low temperatures.
There is another material enameled cast iron which has a coating on top of cast iron. The only problem with this is that it scratches the glass-ceramic surface of your stove.
Be sure to check which material the pan is made of. Another good thing about cast iron pans is that they cost under $30.
- Recommendation for cast iron pans: Lodge 10.25 Inch
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel pans are made up of carbon and iron. Since iron is abundant in it, they work on induction stoves.
They need to be seasoned for them to build up a non-stick patina. These pans are light but very durable and can last a lifetime. You will have to be a bit careful when washing them to not ruin the seasoning.
These pans are very common in professional kitchens and are good for stir-frying and sautéing. You only need to preheat the pan enough and use wooden or silicone handles to avoid scratching off the seasoning.
- Recommendation for Carbon Steel Pans: Lodge CRS12
Steel Clad Pans
Now comes the most fun pans out there. Steel-clad pans are inherently stainless steel with a twist of aluminum in them. These are the most premium pans you can find on the market.
They make these pans with the process of bonded construction or cladding, hence the name. The core material is typically aluminum. The core is sandwiched between layers of stainless steel.
These pans are very elegant in design and compatible with all sorts of stoves. But like premium stuff, they tend to cost a bit more than the regular ones.
- Recommendation for steel-clad pans: All-Clad 12 Inch
Cookware Not Compatible with Induction Stoves
While it is great to know which pans work on an induction stove, you also need to be aware of cookware that is not compatible.
You do not want to start cooking on a non-compatible pan only to find that your food is not ready.
These are some cookware to avoid using on an induction cooktop:
- Aluminum Pans: Pure Aluminum is a non-magnetic metal and will not work on an induction stovetop. Avoid using aluminum pans unless they have a magnetic bottom.
- Copper Pans: The same goes for a copper pan. These are not suitable for an induction stove unless use magnetize the bottom.
- Ceramic Pans: Ceramic pans have absolutely zero electricity conducting capabilities so no magnetization. These cookware only work inside microwave ovens.
- Most Non-Brand Non-Stick Pans: Some non-stick pans work on induction stoves because their core material is iron or carbon steel. If you do not see any sign that says induction compatible, then avoid using them on your induction stove.
What Pans Work On Induction Stove – (FAQs)
What happens if I use the wrong pan on my induction stove?
The stove just simply will not turn on. You will not have to deal with any damage to the stove or the pan. The stove will not heat the pan and that is all.
Which stove cooks faster induction or electric?
Induction cooks way faster than regular old electric stoves. There is minimal energy loss and your utility bills are also lower because it takes less power to cook your food.
Why do chefs not make use of induction stoves full-time?
Part of it goes to not being familiar enough with the technology. But the main reason why chefs do not ditch other stoves is because you can’t use techniques that need an open flame to perform.
What is the best cookware material for induction stoves?
The best cookware material for induction stoves is stainless steel. These are light, have good heat distribution, and are not prone to corrosion.
References:
https://forums.egullet.org/topic/165713-induction-friendly-complete-pan-selection
https://heartlandowners.org/threads/induction-cooktop-special-brand-of-pans-needed.59107
https://www.discusscooking.com/threads/induction-cookware-question.104817
https://cheftalk.com/threads/need-advice-on-induction-saucepan-set.60385
