Efficiency and longevity are what is most important to consider when shopping for cookware. If you are an experienced cook, cook regularly, or are just a starter, owning both stainless steel cookware and non-stick cookware is essential for serving your kitchen needs.
Non-stick cookware may seem ideal for specific dishes that stainless steel pans can’t be used for and vice versa. Hence, it's essential to learn how you’ll use and take care of these types of cookware.
If you are an ardent cook, then probably you understand that both types of cookware are essential in any kitchen. Read out the article carefully to understand which cookware is best for which purpose. Unfortunately, both the cookware have their downsides too. Hence, reading these pros and cons details beforehand will help you in your buying decision.
Advantages of Non Stick Cookware
- Non stick cookware is one of the cheapest options as they are commonly made of aluminum, which is less expensive than stainless steel and other options.
- The non stick coating doesn't let the food stick to the pan. Therefore, chances of food burning are less. In a nutshell, you get a better meal with minimum oil.
- Cooking in non stick cookware is easy and fast.
- It requires less cooking oil or fat to prevent sticking. This cookware is best for health-conscious people.
- This type of cookware is great for amateur cooks.
- After cooking, cleaning is a big mess. But cleaning non stick cookware is comparatively easy.
Disadvantages of Non Stick Cookware
- These types of cookware contain a nonstick layer that tends to damage easily if used with metal spoons, forks or knives, or scouring pads. You should buy silicone utensils along with non stick cookware to avoid scraping the shell whenever you're cooking.
- One of the biggest drawbacks of non stick is that it cannot be used at high temperatures. A high flame (350°C and above) can melt the non-stick layer.
- They are meant for gas stove tops or induction only. You can't use them in the oven.
- Non stick may not be dishwasher safe, means cleaning time and effort are more.
Also Read: Best Non Stick Cookware in India
Few Considerations While Using a Non Stick Pan Are Following:
- Never heat an empty pan on the gas.
- Keep your burner medium or low flame.
- Discard the pan or pot if its layer is starting to chip.
Advantages of Stainless Steel Cookware
- There is no surprise why Indians are big fans of stainless steel cookware. It is the best cookware option for non-toxic and long-lasting material and durable for boiling, sauteing, and baking. Plus, they are more suitable for a variety of Indian cooking. They won't crack, stain, or rust like other cookware ranges.
- The next main advantage of stainless steel cookware is that they are easy to clean and maintain. They are ideal for beginner cooks. Just scrub down with hot soapy water after every use to remove any layers of oil.
- Stainless steel cookware with copper or aluminum bottoms distributes heat very uniformly and helps to make a quick meal.
- These pans are also hard, more polished, and durable, so can be considered a versatile cookware investment.
- They are typically dishwasher-safe.
Disadvantages of Stainless Steel Cookware
- Stainless steel pans without a copper or aluminum bottom do not conduct heat very well.
- This cookware may leach metals into food if cooking acidic food stuffs for a long time.
- Low amounts of nickel or manganese in the stainless steel pans or pots may make them prone to deterioration.
- Depending on the quality, stainless steel cookware may be expensive.
- You may need a decent amount of fat in a stainless steel pan to prevent your food from sticking.
Also Read: Best Stainless Steel Cookware in India
Final Verdict
Both cookware has their own merits and demerits and the choice of best cookware selection depends on what you intend to use it for. Stainless steel cookware is best for anything! Plus, this cookware is particularly useful for acidic foods such as tomato sauces or anything containing wine or vinegar. Overall, stainless steel is a fantastic all-rounder. Non-stick cookware is suitable for specific foods that require low to medium heat or less fat or oil like fried eggs, delicate fish pancakes, etc. Non-stick cookware is more suitable if you're a novice chef or a student living away from your home. Non-stick utensils are probably better off for beginner cooks as it's easier to use and is easy to clean.