Technically speaking, induction cookware can be used on any type of stove, not just an induction cooktop. On the other hand, induction cooktops only work with cookware that is suitable for use on induction cooktops. To work on an induction stove, the cookware must have a magnetically conductive base. Although the use of induction-safe cookware is not limited exclusively to induction cooktops, it is important to have some useful information in mind before placing an induction-safe pan on a non-induction cooktop. Especially if you have spent money on high-quality induction-compatible cookware.
Although induction-compatible cookware is not limited exclusively to induction cooktops, it is important to have some useful information in mind before placing an induction-safe pan on a non-induction cooktop. Especially if you have spent money on high-quality induction-compatible cookware.
How does an induction stove work?
An induction cooker works very differently than a conventional electric cooker. There are no classic radiators under the burner like on an electric stove. Instead, induction cooktops have coils of copper wire beneath the glass surface. These coils create an electromagnetic field that interacts directly with the cooking vessel placed on the heating zone, generating the heat required for cooking. This means that cookware becomes a heating element while the rest of the stove surface remains cold.
What are the requirements for induction cookware?
Since an induction cooktop works on the principle of a magnetic field, induction cookware must be made from ferromagnetic materials that interact with a magnet. By default, induction cookware is made of cast iron, carbon steel, or magnetic stainless steel.
Other types of cookware, such as copper, aluminum, glass, or ceramic, will not work on an induction stove unless there is a layer of ferromagnetic metal in the bottom of the pan. However, not all ferromagnetic metal cookware is ideal for use on an induction hob. For example, some cast iron cookware pieces may be too heavy and may damage the glass surface if dropped.
The flat base is another factor that determines the quality of induction cookware. The flat base ensures good contact with the stove surface as only the area of the pan that touches the surface gets hot. In addition, slipping the pan with a rough bottom can damage the glass top.
To ensure efficient heat transfer, the diameter of the cookware base should correspond to the actual size of a heating zone. Placing a large pan on a small heating zone can result in inefficient heat transfer. If a pot is too small, the induction element may not activate.
Can you use induction cookware on an electric stove?
You can safely use induction cookware on an electric stove. Induction cookware has a flat base. Flat-bottomed pans can achieve better contact with the electric stove burner. Using induction cookware on an electric stove will not harm the cookware, but there are some things you should keep in mind.
Things to keep in mind:
Cookware designed for an induction stove may take longer to heat up on an electric stove than on an induction stove. This means that meals take longer to cook.
Handles that are meant to stay cool on an induction stove can become hot if you use the pan on an electric stove. Therefore, you need to protect your hands from burns by using silicone grip covers or pot holders.
Can you use induction cookware on a glass stove?
Yes. Since induction cookware has a flat and smooth base, it fits perfectly on the glass cooktop surface.
Care should only be taken with heavy cast iron cookware as this could damage the glass surface. However, the same precautions apply when using cast iron cookware on an induction stove.
Can induction cookware be used on gas stoves??
The gas stove uses a flame to heat the burner, which heats the cookware. You can use different types of cookware on the gas stove, including induction cookware. Almost any induction cookware can be used on a gas stove.
Please note the following:
Utensils with a thin steel base may deform over time due to the high temperature of a gas stove. If the bottom of the pan is not completely smooth, it will not rest properly on the glass surface and heat transfer efficiency may be compromised.
Also, keep in mind that the high flame of the gas stove can overheat or even burn handles made of plastic or other materials that cannot withstand high temperatures.
Can an induction pan be put in the oven?
The terms “suitable for induction” and “suitable for the oven” have no connection. To be oven-safe, an induction pan must meet the same criteria as any conventional pan. It should be able to withstand the heat of an oven without melting, burning, or releasing harmful fumes. Baking homemade bread or pizza requires a temperature of 450 to 500 F.
As with any pan, handles and knobs made of a material other than metal can be a limiting factor. Bakelite and silicone handles, for example, can withstand heat up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
If the pan has a nonstick coating, it may be vulnerable to high oven heat. Look for an oven safety label or read the instruction manual to find out what oven temperature your pan can tolerate.
Takeaway
Cookware designed for induction cookers is versatile and can also be used on other types of cookers. However, a thin-bottomed pan may warp with prolonged use due to the high temperature, making the pan less efficient for use on an induction stove. It is also important to ensure that non-heat-resistant parts such as handles and buttons are not exposed to high heat or open flames.
Also, remember that induction cookware reaches its optimal efficiency when used on an induction stove. When used on other heat sources, the cookware may take longer to get hot and the heat distribution may be more uneven. This can affect the cooking process and energy saving.
