1. Glass Cookware
Glass cookware is a unique product, with some types being actual cooking pots, while others are purely decorative or food containers. In theory, only borosilicate glass cookware (high-temperature resistant glass) should be used on gas stoves. Other types of glass, such as soda-lime glass or tempered glass, may shatter when exposed to the heat of a gas stove.
However, experience shows that even borosilicate glass cookware is not entirely safe. If the manufacturing process does not ensure quality (for example, uneven thickness), the glass can still shatter when exposed to flame. Therefore, the safest approach is to use glass cookware as a food container rather than for cooking.
If you insist on using glass cookware on a gas stove, opt for high-end products from reputable brands, despite the potentially high cost.
2. Copper Pots
Some people question whether copper pots can be exposed to direct flame. Initially, I found this hard to believe, as copper pots are commonly used and can hold burning charcoal without any issues. However, after experimenting, I realized that placing copper pots directly on gas stoves is unsafe.
The reason lies in the temperature difference; gas stoves can reach temperatures of up to 800°C, while copper pots are only safe for use with charcoal, which burns at around 400°C. The high temperatures of gas stoves can cause copper pots to deform and crack.
Moreover, copper pots are typically used in restaurants, where they can be frequently replaced. In a home setting, we cannot continuously replace pots, so copper pots are not suitable for household use.
3. Clay Pots
Clay pots have evolved significantly from their traditional counterparts. In the past, clay pots had a rough, grayish-black surface and lacked aesthetic appeal. Nowadays, new clay pot products are available, including those with slow heat conduction and excellent heat retention, making them perfect substitutes for traditional clay pots.
However, when purchasing clay pots, consumers should opt for those with simple designs and a white interior. Clay pots with decorative patterns, especially those with intricate designs on the inside, are not recommended for use on gas stoves.
This is because the process of creating intricate patterns may involve the use of heavy metal additives such as lead and chromium. When the pot is heated, these metals can leach into the food, posing health risks. Therefore, to ensure safety, choose clay pots with smooth surfaces and a white interior.
4. Enamel-Coated Pots
Despite their popularity, enamel-coated pots are not ideal for cooking. I purchased two enamel-coated pots, and both were damaged from use on a gas stove. This reinforced my belief that enamel-coated pots should not be exposed to direct flame.
The first pot I owned developed a large crack in its enamel coating. It is challenging to assess the quality of these coatings, and if they do not meet standards, they can easily crack or peel when exposed to flame.
My second pot encountered issues with carbon buildup. The smooth and flat surface of enamel-coated pots facilitates carbon accumulation. After a short period of use, the bottom of the pot developed a thick black layer that became challenging to clean over time. Therefore, exercise caution when using enamel-coated pots, especially on gas stoves.
5. Induction Cookware
When choosing cookware for an induction cooktop, consumers should only use pots specifically designed for induction cooking. If the price of induction cookware is unusually low, it reflects the poor quality of the pot, often due to thin material.
Induction cooktops operate at lower temperatures, so the requirements for cookware are less stringent. However, using this cookware on a gas stove will likely result in issues such as coating peeling, pot deformation, or a melted pot bottom.
6. Rice Cooker Inner Pots
Electric rice cookers and pressure cookers typically have a crucial component: a metal inner pot. When these appliances break, some people wonder if they can use the inner pot on a gas stove like a regular pot. The answer is no.
All inner pots share a common feature: the pot bottom conducts heat well (due to suitable material or thickness), while the pot walls conduct heat poorly (usually thicker and may be equipped with insulation). This structure is ideal for electric pots but inefficient for gas stoves. The pot bottom can easily burn or even puncture, while the food in the upper portion of the pot remains undercooked.
The Ultimate Guide to Buying Cookware: Avoiding the “4 Don’t Buys”
Here’s my personal take on choosing the perfect pots and pans for your kitchen.
The Glass Pot Lives On: Reviving Your Glass Cookware for Induction Stoves
Introducing the versatile and efficient solution for your kitchen – the glass pot! While it may not work directly on an induction cooktop, it’s not a problem if you have one in your kitchen. Simply use an induction cooker mat made of stainless steel, also known as an induction heat diffuser, and you’re all set to cook up a storm. It’s the perfect blend of functionality and style, ensuring you can create delicious meals with ease.
