Cast Iron Versus Stainless Steel

Set aside the fact that this matchup looks as if it is straight out of a Marvel vs. Capcom videogame. This is a valid matchup considering how some people prefer tradition over innovation or vice versa. Cooking purists have their stories to tell about their cast iron pots and pans.

While the new age of cooks prefer to live in the present and use modern weaponry of culinary excellence. Cast iron and stainless steel are as different as they come. Here's the tale of the tape. The decision is up to you.

• Appearance

This is the first thing that you will notice is the stark contrast of appearance between the two. The cast iron cookware is proud of its rustic appeal while the stainless steel is boisterous with its glimmer. With its tradition running for hundreds of years, cast iron enjoys the advantage of being able to stand the test of time with minimal changes to its properties.

The relatively newer stainless steel is understandably preferred by younger generations who never had the pleasure of cooking with their mom's traditional black cookware. However, it is worthy to note that the cast iron pots and pans are making an advance to gain the nod of the visual crowd. Now available with double enamel, it is providing us with eye candies as well. This choice will all boil down to personal preference.

• Technology

Stainless steel is understandably the beneficiary of the present wonders of technology. One look at it and you'll know that it was developed by advanced technology with the end users in mind. Tri-clad stainless steel/aluminum has become very popular in the last 20 years because of its sleek appearance and cooking reliability. However, don't scoff at its older cousin. Sure, it's produced with 1800's technology, but it's proven to be effective time and again.

• Maintenance

Traditional black cast iron pans need to be seasoned every now and then to prevent them from rusting and to preserve their non stick qualities. But this effort is all worth it. It protects and delivers results. Seasoning provides non stick qualities that some say is second to none. Colorful enameled cast iron does not need to be pre-seasoned. On the other hand, a stainless steel pan's appearance depends on its shine. Using a non abrasive cleaner can do wonders to maintain its shine and remove any stains. Hot soapy water is the best for stainless steel. To prevent water spots dry with a soft dish towel. But, traditional cast iron should be washed with hot water and very little detergent, and then dried on the stove at a low heat.

• Results

There is a reason why cast iron is still here even with the advent of futuristic cookware. It has provided families with results. There is also a reason why the stainless steel is very popular. Both have the ability to conduct heat evenly. Both have the flexibility to deliver results for almost any type of demand. Although the non stick properties of a seasoned cast iron pans can do wonders, the versatility of the stainless steel cookware cannot be ignored.

In your perfect kitchen world, you should have both.

Each type of cookware has their cooking specialties. Each of your recipes specifies how the ingredients should be cooked -- stove top or oven or a combination of both. A variety of pots and pans - cast iron, stainless steel, copper, or ceramic - is really the best. Select the best product for the specific application. However, just like in any other decisions, it will still come down to your preferences and needs.

It's also advisable to shop around and hold it in your hands. Sometimes, sparks do fly between you and that pan that's destined for you. But also, remember the shopping and buying are different activities. Once the choice is made then look for the better place to obtain it.To learn more :316 stainless steel sheet

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