10
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 cooktop or
grates.
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.
Use the following chart as a guide for cookware material
characteristics.
HomeCanning
When canning for long periods, alternate the use of surface
burners between batches. This allows time for the most recently
used areas to cool.
■Center the canner on the grate.
■Do not place canner on 2 surface burners at the same time.
■For more information, contact your local agricultural
department. Companies that manufacture home canning
products can also offer assistance.
COOKWARE CHARACTERISTICS
Aluminum ■Heats quickly and evenly.
■Suitable for all types of cooking.
■Medium or heavy thickness is best for
most cooking tasks.
Cast iron ■Heats slowly and evenly.
■Good for browning and frying.
■Maintains heat for slow cooking.
Ceramic or
Ceramic glass
■Follow manufacturer’s instructions.
■Heats slowly, but unevenly.
■Ideal results on low to medium heat
settings.
Copper ■Heats very quickly and evenly.
Earthenware ■Follow manufacturer’s instructions.
■Use on low heat settings.
Porcelain
enamel-on-
steel or cast
iron
■See stainless steel or cast iron.
Stainless steel ■Heats quickly, but unevenly.
■A core or base of aluminum or copper
on stainless steel provides even
heating.