Copper Cookware - Classic Kitchen Equipment

By David Faulkner

Copper has been used for cooking for hundreds of years. It is highly favored for its excellent heat conductivity. However, it also has its share of downsides, but manufacturers have found a solution to the shortcomings of this valued metal.

Copper cookware boasts of being more conductive than others by up to ten times – ranking higher than glass or stainless steel in this respect. When using them, cooking time should be considerably reduced and high heat employed at a minimum.

But because copper is easily scratched and is naturally soft, it is combined with other metals to make more durable cookware. Usually it is sandwiched between layers of stainless steel, tin, or nickel.

The problem, however, is that the latter two metals are not as strong as stainless steel. Tin becomes unstable at temperatures of 45o degrees Fahrenheit or higher, while nickel, although ductile and hard, may be reactive.

Copper cookware is also prone to tarnishing, especially when acidic foods, such as tomato-based dishes, are cooked in it. Copper can likewise leach into foods and impart an objectionable taste. There is also the possibility that illnesses may arise from this leaching.

Copper cookware doesn't have to be as shiny as they were the day you bought them. In fact, some homeowners prefer these items to be slightly bruised and scratched to achieve that well-worn and antique look.

On the other hand, if you want your copper cookware collection to keep looking new, you can opt for the models that come with a "brushed" texture. This gives your kitchen a touch of class and saves on polishing. Copper cookware can be quite expensive – there are some collections costing several hundred dollars apiece!

If you're investing on copper cookware, make sure the pieces match in terms of design and texture. You could also stock up on different copper cookware varieties according to function, such as frying pans, stockpots, preserving pans, and zabaglione pans.

Despite the downsides of copper cookware, it is still the cookware of choice of many gourmet chefs. You can't go wrong with copper cookware when it comes to speed in cooking, versatility, and stylishness.

You can also find more info on Nonstick Cookware and Titanium Cookware. Cookware-help.com is a comprehensive resource to know about Cook Ware and its Varities Like Glass, Nonstick, and Titanium Cook Ware.