Stainless steel is one of the most common materials used today to make cookware, cutlery, utensils, appliances, and many more kitchen items. If you look around your kitchen right now, you’ll probably find several things made of stainless steel.
But why is it so popular? And how is it different (or better) from other materials? Let’s go over everything she wanted to know about stainless steel but he didn’t dare to ask.
1. Information Combat Stainless steel
In short: stainless steel is an alloy that contains at least 10.5% chromium and other elements, usually nickel, carbon, copper, silicon, manganese, molybdenum, nitrogen, and sulfur.
It all started in the 20th century when Harry Brearley discovered that by adding a certain amount of chromium to an alloy, the resulting metal would be highly resistant to corrosion and rust. Improvements and applications began soon after.
The term “stainless steel” actually applies to several different alloys, but there is one non-negotiable characteristic that they all share: a minimum percentage of 10.5% Chromium.
Today, stainless steel is one of the most common materials that we come across in our daily lives. Some of the most common applications include surgical and medical equipment, buildings, bridges, auto parts, aircraft; and of course cooking and cooking applications.
Stainless steel is one of the safest materials in the kitchen along with glass, cast iron, wood, carbon steel, and ceramic.
2. Food-grade stainless steel
Food-grade stainless steel is the type of steel that is safe to cook with and has sufficient heat resistance for this purpose.
Because stainless steel alone is not capable of optimal heating; To make high-quality cookware, chrome, and nickel are added to steel. Chromium is important in preventing acid oxidation in foods; while nickel protects against corrosion.
Steel is generally classified in grades in a two-number format. These grades indicate the amount of nickel and chromium that has been added to the steel to make it food-grade.
For example, one of the most common grades is 18/10: this means 18% chrome and 10% nickel. A higher amount of nickel means better oxidation resistance and will hold the polish longer.
18/8 and 18/10 are the two most common grades of stainless steel used for food and cooking (cookware, cutlery, etc.) and are part of the 300 series. The 400 series has less nickel (so not very resistant to corrosion) and is magnetic. The 200 series is still food-safe, but not as high quality.
High-quality stainless steel cookware is also often equipped with three-layer construction. Layer refers to layers of metal at the bottom of a product (a pot or pan). These layers are usually steel and aluminum.
3. Benefits of using stainless steel cookware
In addition to looking nice and shiny in your kitchen, high-quality stainless steel cookware has many other advantages that justify its wide use in the food and canteen industry.
Durability
So yes, it has been said that stainless steel is indestructible. Cookware will not chip, bend, or warp. You can pass your stainless steel cookware set to the next generation of your family.
Endurance
Highly resistant to corrosion, rust, and acids found in meats, dairy, fruits, and vegetables.
A healthy material
Food-grade stainless steel is safe, non-toxic, does not contain or release hazardous chemicals, and is also easily sanitized.
Leak test
Chromium (the main ingredient in stainless steel) is the hardest metal known to man. Nothing will seep through its hard surface.
Heat distribution
Stainless steel is not exactly a great conductor of heat, especially when compared to other metals. But high-quality cookware made from this material typically includes aluminum or copper core inner layers for quick and even heat distribution.
Low maintenance and easy to clean
A soft sponge and mild solution will do the trick in most cases. In theory, they are also dishwasher-safe (although not recommended). If food sticks (which is one of the few problems with steel cookware), please read our recommendations in point 5.
Maneuverability
Stainless steel cookware is much lighter than other kitchen materials like cast iron for example.
Versatile style
The polished finish is elegant and fits easily into any kitchen, in any decoration, from the most traditional to the most avant-garde; and inspires everyone to feel like a professional chef.
Environmental sustainability
Steel is the most recycled material on the planet. Stainless steel cookware is 100% recyclable, and because stainless steel is indelible, it will retain qualities such as strength, hardness, and malleability after recycling.
A smart investment
Stainless steel cookware comes at all sorts of reasonable prices and because it’s super durable, we’re probably talking about a one-time purchase.
Recommended by experts
Not just cooks and chefs; but also nutritionists, scientists, and environmentalists announce the many benefits and advantages of stainless steel.
4. What to look for when buying stainless steel cookware
Food grade
We recommend a score of 18/10 or higher. As we mentioned before, the number indicates the percentage of chromium; the higher this number, the more durable and resistant it will be. 304-grade stainless steel works great for everyday use in the kitchen.
Coating
Stainless steel cookware that has 3, 5, or even 7 layers of coating (usually including aluminum or copper core) will retain and conduct heat better, and your food will cook evenly.
Weight
The heavier the better: that’s the general rule. Weight generally means higher build quality; but it also contributes to the overall feel of the pot or pan in your hand, giving you a firm grip and preventing it from moving around on the stove.
Resolver
You want handles that don’t get too hot during cooking. The ergonomically designed handles are also a valuable pro.
Versatility
Are you getting all the pieces you need in your kitchen? Are you buying more than you need, when a better product can be more versatile? Or just the opposite, do you get a frying pan when you should be looking for a proper stainless steel cookware set?
Tapa
It’s often overlooked, but we don’t consider it a minor detail. Lids must be included in your purchase. The most common is that you have two options: glass and metal. Glass lids are not as good at handling heat as metal ones. But they allow you to watch your food while it cooks, which is a good possibility.
Price-quality ratio
Stainless steel cookware comes in a wide variety of prices. As long as you pay attention to all the above points; don’t let price be an indicator of which is better than the other. A little tip: sometimes buying the entire stainless steel cookware set can be cheaper than buying each item.
5. How can I make a stainless steel pan non-stick?
One of the most common concerns about stainless steel cookware is that stainless steel does not have the same nonstick properties as other materials. The thought of your morning eggs sticking to your shiny new pan and having to deal with it later can be unsettling.
But there are some things you can do to prevent food from sticking to your pan. And none of them are difficult, expensive, or challenging in any way.
If you follow these recommendations, any pan can be a nonstick pan, even stainless steel:
- Always preheat your skillet over medium heat.
- Add a suitable amount of oil or fat.
- Do not throw the food away until you are sure the pan has reached the desired temperature. You can splash a few drops of water, if they evaporate immediately, then you can add food.
- Dry your proteins well before putting them in the pan.
- Bring food to room temperature before cooking because. The colder they are, the more likely they are to stick.
- The salt should be added just before the pan.
- Cook foods in batches according to the size of the pan. If it is too much, the temperature drops, moisture is released, and the food will stick.
There is also a theory that you can season your stainless steel cookware to make it nonstick cookware. If you’re curious, keep reading!
6. How to season stainless steel cookware
First, we need to clear something up: stainless steel seasoning cookware is completely optional. Unlike cast iron, for example, you can choose to make it; but you don’t necessarily have to.
Still, many chefs and cooks choose to season their stainless steel pots and pans. The reason is that this process can help the stainless steel become somewhat non-stick; though to be fair, this hasn’t been confirmed.
The process is something like this:
- Wash your pan. Then dry completely.
- Grease your skillet over medium heat. Distribute well with the help of a paper towel.
- When the pan heats up, it will smoke. Remove it from the stove at this point.
- Let it cool down and then remove the oil with another towel or cloth.
You can dress your pan as many times as you consider appropriate.
7. How to clean stainless steel cookware
Cleaning your stainless steel cookware is super easy, and you can use things you probably already have, like soap, vinegar, baking soda, and oil. More alternative methods include tomato sauce or even cream of tartar (reportedly the chef’s favorite method).
For a quick cleanup: Boil a cup of vinegar in your pan, then turn it off and add baking soda. It will foam. Let it cool down a bit, but while it’s still hot, rub it with a soft sponge.
The only thing to remember is to never use an abrasive sponge (such as steel wool) or you could damage the surface. The dishwasher can also do a lot of damage.
Extra: How to remove rust from stainless steel
Mix water and baking soda to create a thick paste. Spread over the previously cleaned stainless steel surface. Let it sit for about an hour, and then scrub the rusty area with a toothbrush. Rinse using only water and dry completely.
Remember that the dishwasher is one of the main causes of rust and corrosion of stainless steel, it has the fatal combination of “corrosion”: moisture, salt, chemicals, and heat.
8. Stainless Steel Cookware Recommendations
Dalstrong currently offers two series of stainless steel cookware: the Oberon series and the Avalon series.
The Oberon Series features an aluminum core that is lightweight and conductive and allows for more even heating throughout the pan. The Avalon Series, on the other hand, offers a copper core. Copper is even lighter and thinner than aluminum with the same advantages.
Each series offers excellent individual items and its own stainless steel cookware set, covering just about every need. But we managed to pick a non-exclusive selection of both, to begin with.
1. Dalstrong 10″ Oberon Series Skillet and Skillet
Beautiful design and functionality that empowers those who cook in it. This is not just another aluminum pan. Complete cladding with additional layers of food-grade 18/10 stainless steel gives it high resistance to corrosion and high temperatures.
It cooks everything from large portions of protein to the most tender tortillas to perfection. Built to last a lifetime.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Perfect thermal conductivity thanks to 3-layer aluminum. center.
The brushed finish on the bottom makes it suitable for gas, electric, and induction cooktops.
With a thickness of 2.5mm, it will not deform under prolonged heat.
The thick tempered glass lid allows you to see through the entire cooking process. It also has a vent hole to release pressure.
It has a safe, comfortable, and maneuverable handle, as well as an engraved side, handle for better weight distribution.
Dishwasher safe (although not recommended).[/i2pros][i2cons]You can buy a stainless steel pan for less, that’s true. But you could also buy it for more, especially considering the quality.
Some may prefer the standard 12-inch size for a skillet.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
2. Oberon Series Dalstrong 6-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set
The essential cookware set with the right pieces you need every day for frying, sautéing, grilling, steaming, boiling, and more.
The 9″ skillet is ideal for frying up all your guilty pleasures, a 12″ skillet is designed for sauteing all those fancy recipes; and a 5-quart pot is ideal for preparing soups, stews, pasta, and many slower dishes.
High performance, medium weight, and versatility. This cookware set is made of premium non-reactive 18/10 stainless steel; as well as a 3-layer aluminum-clad core that ensures fast heating and even cooking every time you use it.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]All pieces come with their respective perfect-fit caps.
The pots and pans in this stainless steel cookware set can be used on the stovetop, oven, or grill; so you can go from the stovetop to the oven without a problem.
The handles are firm and secure.
Aluminum non-stick rivets won’t loosen, break, or rust.
Made with non-toxic materials.
Beautiful and classic design in silver stainless steel that adapts to all styles.
Dishwasher safe (but we insist, it is better to use a gentler method).[/i2pros][i2cons]You may need some time to get used to the shape of the handles that come on this cookware set (as opposed to a more classic, rounded one).
Speaking of handles – this cookware set comes with stainless steel handles (as preferred by most professional chefs) because they are designed to be versatile and can be used both in the oven and on the stovetop. The downside is that when subjected to high temperatures in the oven, you have to be careful about the heat from the handle.
You might want to go bigger[/i2cons][/i2pc]
3. Oberon Series 12-Quart Dalstrong Stockpot
A large pot with ideal capacity. In addition to being beautiful, strong, and durable, this 18/10 stainless steel stock pot also features a 3-ply aluminum core for efficient and fast heat retention, ensuring optimal results.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Refrigerator-safe – freeze with meals, then reheat in the pan.
Tempered glass top.
Measurement lines inside.
It comes with a silk carry bag for protection during transport.
It’s a great alternative to a saucepan.
Dishwasher safe.[/i2pros][i2cons]It is a large pot that requires some storage space. Consider the space available in your kitchen.
The 2.5mm thickness may seem heavy to some.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
4. Dalstrong 12″ Saute Pan (Silver Hammered Finish) Avalon Series
You need a saute pan in your kitchen and this pan is almost a piece of luxury. Design meets functionality for maximum performance for a lifetime. The 5-layer copper base makes this pan the best of its kind: superior thermal conductivity, fast heating, and even cooking of any recipe.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Suitable for browning, sautéing, stewing, frying, boiling, cooking, and even baking!
Compatible with all stoves, including induction.
Does not alter the nutritional value, taste, smell, or color of food.
PFOA and PTFE-free (non-toxic)
lifetime warranty
Dishwasher safe (although not recommended)[/i2pros][i2cons]It has a stainless steel lid, not transparent. Some like to see their food. She comes with a vented hole and a handsome Dalstrong-badged knob.
Depending on what you normally cook and how you like to cook, it can be scary to use nonstick cookware from the start.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
5. Dalstrong Avalon Series 6-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set
I am a fan of the Avalon series looks. It’s hard to innovate aesthetic design when it comes to stainless steel cutlery, but Dalstrong managed to do it gracefully, and this stainless steel cookware set is the proof.
But you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover, of course not. Judge it on the smart choice of materials, quality build, maximum thermal conductivity, and lifetime durability.
[i2pc show_title=”false” title=”Pros & Cons” show_button=”false” pros_title=”Pros” cons_title=”Cons” ][i2pros]Beautiful, solid, and easy to clean.
Construction with a copper core base, 18/10 stainless steel, and aluminum to provide 5 times better heat distribution than iron cookware and 20 times better than stainless steel cookware.
Environmentally friendly: you need less gas or energy to reach high temperatures in less time.
The added aluminum will protect against staining and the possibility of food sticking.
The stainless steel cookware set has a beautiful hammered design that adds luxury and elegance to your kitchen.[/i2pros][i2cons]The price of the stainless steel cookware set may be the only drawback. When you look at quality, you understand; but still, it can exceed some budgets.
Depending on the type of cook you are or want to be; may seem like a lot for an entry-level cookware set.
Some may argue that this cookware set does not cover all your needs. Fortunately, there is a 12-piece cookware set in the same series.[/i2cons][/i2pc]
9. FAQ
Can you make eggs in a stainless steel skillet?
Absolutely. Just be careful with a medium temperature before adding the eggs (not too hot, not too cold) and enough fat on the surface.
What is the healthiest stainless steel cookware?
316 and 304 are recognized as the safest grades of stainless steel for food and cooking.
Does stainless steel rust?
In the kitchen, factors such as moisture, dish detergents, food acids, extreme temperatures, frequent dishwasher use, salt, and chrome damage can cause stainless steel cookware to crack. rust.
What is the best oil for the season in a stainless steel pan?
Peanut oil, vegetable oil, and grapeseed oil are great choices because they have a high smoke point. Avoid coconut oil, canola oil, and olive oil.
What is the difference between stainless steel and nonstick cookware?
Nonstick cookware has a coating that prevents food from sticking and is easy to clean up afterward. However, there are concerns about the chemicals and toxicity of nonstick surfaces. Also, stainless steel pans work much better for searing and browning.
What is the difference between stainless steel and cast iron cookware?
Both offer similar benefits; but cast iron is considerably heavy and requires extra effort in terms of moving, cleaning, and storing.
What is the difference between stainless steel and ceramic cookware?
Stainless steel can withstand higher temperatures than ceramic. Stainless steel also has a longer shelf life and is easier to maintain.
Do you need a stainless steel cookware set?
If you are thinking of getting a set of kitchen utensils, stainless steel is a great option. A good stainless steel cookware set is likely to be cheaper than other materials and still offers the same quality, efficiency, and appearance.
What is the best Dalstrong stainless steel cookware set?
Dalstrong offers four options for a stainless steel cookware set and they all offer great features and benefits.
Should you buy a stainless steel saucepan too?
Stainless steel pans are invaluable. Another area where stainless steel reigns supreme is the making of gravy and bread, an essential part of some dishes. If you are making a lot of sauces, a saucepan would be a great purchase.
Can a dutch oven be stainless steel?
A classic Dutch oven is made of cast iron, but some manufacturers also use stainless steel.
