Cookware
IMPORTANT: Do not leave empty cookware on a hot surface
cooking area, element, or surface burner.
Ideal cookware should have a flat bottom, straight sides, and a
well-fitting lid, and the material should be of medium-to-heavy
thickness.
Rough finishes may scratch the cooktop. Aluminum and copper
may be used as a core or base in cookware. However, when used
as a base, they can leave permanent marks on the surfaces.
Cookware material is a factor in how quickly and evenly heat is
transferred which affects cooking results. A nonstick finish has the
same characteristics as its base material. For example, aluminum
cookware with a nonstick finish will take on the properties of
aluminum.
Cookware with nonstick surfaces should not be used under the
broiler.
Check for flatness by placing the straight edge of a ruler across
the bottom of the cookware. While you rotate the ruler, no space
or light should be visible between it and the cookware.
Use the following chart as a guide for cookware material
characteristics.
Cookware
Characteristics
Aluminum
Heats quickly and evenly.
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Suitable for all types of cooking.
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Medium or heavy thickness is best for
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most cooking tasks.
May leave aluminum residues which may
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be diminished if cleaned immediately
after cooking.
Cast iron
Heats slowly and evenly.
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Good for browning and frying
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Maintains heat for slow cooking.
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Rough edges or burrs may scratch the
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cooktop.
Ceramic or
Follow manufacturer's instructions.
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ceramic glass
Heats slowly but unevenly.
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Ideal results on low-to-medium heat
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settings.
May scratch the cooktop.
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Copper
Heats very quickly and evenly.
■
May leave copper residues which may be
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diminished if cleaned immediately after
cooking.
Can leave a permanent stain or bond to
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the cooktop if overheated.
Cookware
Characteristics
Earthenware
Follow manufacturer's instructions.
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Use on low heat settings.
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May scratch the cooktop.
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Porcelain
See stainless steel or cast iron.
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enamel on steel
Porcelain enamel bakeware without the
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or cast iron
metal base may bond to the cooktop if
overheated.
Stainless steel
Heats quickly but unevenly.
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A core or base of aluminum or copper on
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stainless steel provides even heating.
Use flat-bottomed cookware for best cooking results and energy
efficiency. The cookware should be about the same size as the
cooking area outlined on the cooktop. Cookware should not
extend more than 1/2" (13 mm) outside the area.
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