Cooking with stainless steel

Stainless steel is non-reactive, non-toxic, and won’t rust or break down. One of the key benefits is that unlike traditional non-stick cookware or enamelled cast iron, you can be a little rough with it without worrying about damage because it is so durable and tough.

While stainless steel isn't inherently non-stick, there are a few easy techniques you can use to ensure food releases easily from the pan. Once you get the hang of it, you'll find that stainless steel becomes one of your most versatile cookware essentials.

First, preheat your pan. Reaching a medium heat before adding any oil or butter enables the metal to expand, and the pores on the surface of the steel to gradually shrink. Once the pores have shrunk, food is less likely to get pinched and stick to the pan. Once the pan is properly preheated, add the oil or butter. Also, it’s important your food is at room temperature before you start cooking, to further reduce the risk of sticking.

To confirm your stainless steel pan is properly preheated, carefully drop a small amount of water on the surface. If the water beads up and glides over the surface, your pan is ready to start cooking.

Things to love about stainless steel

Whether you’re preparing a quick breakfast or family meal, stainless steel cookware boasts trustworthy characteristics and unique benefits. Consider how these features will impact your personal cooking style:

• Efficient heat distribution: Stainless steel conducts heat quickly and efficiently. Quality stainless steel cookware will generally feature an aluminium core within the base, sandwiched between two layers of stainless steel, for even heat dispersion. We recommend you cook on a medium heat, which is all you should need with stainless steel, to prevent warping.
• Safe and non-toxic: Stainless steel will not leach chemicals into food, no matter how high the cooking temperature.
• Strong and durable: Stainless steel is incredibly tough and resistant to dents, scratches, and rust, making it a long lasting choice for your kitchen. Plus it can withstand the use of metal cooking utensils, unlike cookware with non-stick, ceramic or enamelled surfaces, because there’s no risk of removing any coatings from the surface.
• Versatile: Many stainless steel pans are oven safe, so you can sear, simmer and fry on the stovetop, then transfer to the oven seamlessly. They are also compatible with all stovetops including induction, although we always recommend you check the specifications of individual products before use.
• Long lasting: When properly cared for and cleaned, stainless steel cookware will last for many years.
• Easy maintenance: Hand wash stainless steel cookware with warm water and a light detergent, as abrasive scrubbers or harsh cleaning chemicals can damage the surface. Specialised stainless steel cleaners are available at Kitchen Warehouse to perform a deep clean. Learn more about caring for stainless steel cookware here.

Types of stainless steel cookware

At Kitchen Warehouse, we offer a wide range of stainless steel cookware to suit every cooking style. Whether you're frying, roasting, or stewing, we've got the perfect piece for every meal. Some of our top picks include:

• Frypans: A thick, bonded base ensures even heat distribution. Explore small and large frypans depending on your capacity requirements. From the stovetop to the oven, frypans are perfect for searing meats, frying and sauteing vegetables and more.
• Roasting pans: A sleek, stylish stainless steel roasting pan can go straight from the oven to the table, and sets a reliable foundation for a range of roasted meals. After roasting, create a delicious sauce or gravy on the stovetop, directly in the pan.
• Stewpots and saucepans: Strong and reliable, this robust cookware withstands everyday cooking tasks like boiling pasta or vegetables, steaming rice or simmering a curry. Lids ensure moisture and flavour is retained in the process.

Pick and choose loose pieces to suit your needs or go for a set with all the essentials.