How To Choose Cookware for an Induction Stove: The Best Tips

Do you want to know how to choose cookware for an induction stove? Induction stoves are now in almost every home, they are very efficient in cooking, can precisely regulate the temperature, and also have an aesthetic appearance, and are very easy to wash. It sounds very good, it seems everyone dreams of having it in their kitchen. But for everything to work so well, it is important to choose the right cookware. I am here to help you understand how to choose it. So I hope after reading the article you will make a good choice and your cooking will be efficient and convenient. Let’s first understand how an induction stove works.

How does an induction stove work?

Induction stoves work with the help of electromagnetic fields. If a conventional stove first heats the cooking surface and only then transfers the heat to the cookware, the induction stove produces heat immediately in the cookware themselves. When the stove are turned on, an electric current passes through the electromagnetic coils. An electric current creates a magnetic field above the surface of the stove, this current creates heat in the middle of the metal of the cookware. So how to choose cookware for an induction stove? By the way, when heating cookware, the surface of the stove remains almost cool, so you can not worry about incidents in the kitchen.

The main criteria for choosing cookware

1. Choose cookware with a magnetic base. This is the most important rule, the cookware must be magnetic, otherwise it will not work. You can check the cookware with a regular magnet, the magnet should stick to the base of the cookware. A little below we will talk about cookware materials that are better suited for an induction stove.
2. Choose the right size and shape of cookware. Cookware that is too big or too small can lead to uneven heat distribution. Therefore, your choice should be based on the size of your stove.
3. It is better to choose cookware with a smooth and flat base. This will ensure maximum contact with the surface of the stove, which will be more effective.

The material of the cookware for the induction stove

Cast iron cookware will be a great choice. Cast iron retains heat well and distributes it over the surface. Cast iron cookware is ideal for cooking slow dishes, you will get a perfect stew of meat or vegetables. Here are some examples of cast iron cookware for an induction stove:

• Staub
• Le Creuset
• Lodge

Stainless steel cookware. A very popular material that is compatible with an induction stove. Stainless steel is durable and very strong. I offer you several options for such cookware:

• T-fal
• Calphalon
• All-Clad

Cookware made of glass, copper, aluminum (without a magnetic base) are not suitable for induction stove. Any material that does not contain a magnetic alloy will not work with an induction stove. It may also not work well if the pan has an uneven or damaged base. Cookware with a small diameter and cookware with a thin base may not be recognized by the stove. So pay attention to it.

What if your cookware is not compatible with an induction stove?

Some cookware are not compatible with an induction stove. You may ask what if I have my favorite cookware but it’s not compatible with an induction stove?
Don’t worry, there is a solution just in case, you won’t have to throw away your favorite cookware.
You can buy an interface disc, which is a magnetic alloy disc that will replace the magnetic base if your cookware doesn’t have one.

Just put the disk on the stove, and the cookware on top of the disk. The magnetic disc will be hot after cooking, so be careful when removing it from the stove and protect your hands.

Conclusion

Induction stoves have many advantages, they are energy efficient, accurately control the temperature, safer, have a good design, and are quick to wash. At first, it may be unusual and inconvenient, problems may arise due to compatibility with cookware. But there are many alternatives and ways to solve problems. Only by choosing compatible and high-quality cookware, you will be able to see all the advantages of an induction stove. Your cooking will be efficient and pleasant. I hope you found this article useful. Enjoy cooking and delicious meals!