Stainless steel cookware is a popular choice for many home cooks and professional chefs alike. Not only is it durable and long-lasting, but it also looks sleek and stylish in any kitchen. However, using stainless steel cookware can be a bit intimidating if you are not familiar with its properties and characteristics. In this article, we will discuss how to use stainless steel cookware properly to get the best results in your cooking.

1. Preheat the pan. Stainless steel cookware is not known for its non-stick properties, so it is important to preheat the pan before adding any food. This will help prevent the food from sticking to the pan and make it easier to clean. To preheat the pan, place it over medium-high heat for a few minutes before adding any oil or food.

2. Use the right amount of oil. Stainless steel cookware requires a bit more oil than non-stick cookware to prevent sticking. Use a high smoke point oil such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil, and add just enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Avoid using too much oil as it can create a greasy mess and affect the flavor of the food.

3. Monitor the heat. Stainless steel cookware does not distribute heat as evenly as some other materials, so it is important to monitor the heat and adjust it as necessary. If the pan is too hot, the food can burn and stick to the pan. If the pan is not hot enough, the food will not cook properly. To test the temperature, sprinkle a few drops of water into the pan. If the water sizzles and evaporates immediately, the pan is ready.

4. Use the right utensils. Stainless steel cookware is durable, but it can be scratched by metal utensils. To prevent damage, use wooden or silicone utensils instead. This will also help prevent any unwanted metal flavors from transferring to the food. A special hybrid stainless pan like Nexware is different because it is metal safe, and will not be scratched with metal utensils. You might want to consider this when choosing your stainless cookware.

5. Clean and maintain the cookware properly. Stainless steel cookware is easy to clean, but it requires a bit of care to maintain its shine and durability. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or steel wool as they can scratch the surface of the cookware. Instead, use a soft sponge or cloth and mild dish soap to clean the pan. After washing, dry the pan thoroughly to prevent water spots and rust.

Using stainless steel cookware requires a bit of practice and patience, but with the right techniques, it can provide excellent results in your cooking. By preheating the pan, using the right amount of oil, monitoring the heat, using the right utensils, and cleaning and maintaining the cookware properly, you can enjoy the benefits of stainless steel cookware for years to come.