Copper Utensils Benefits: Advantages of Cooking with Copper

People have used copper for a long time to make pots and pans. Today, copper remains popular because it has great benefits compared to other metals. In this blog post, we’ll look at the main reasons why cooking with copper pots and pans is so good. We’ll also talk about some things to think about when using copper.

Why Copper Cookware Heats So Evenly

Copper moves heat very fast from the stove burner into the pan. This makes the whole pan heat up evenly. Food cooks evenly without any hot or cold spots. With pans made of other metals like stainless steel, some areas heat up first. This can burn the food in one place before the rest is cooked. Copper prevents this problem.

You also get amazing control over temperature with copper pots and pans. The copper reacts immediately if you turn the stove heat up or down. You can go from a simmer to a high sear instantly. This temperature control means you can use more cooking methods. Delicate foods like fish or chocolate cook properly more easily.

Other Benefits of Copper Pots and Pans

Built to Last a Long Time

Copper is very strong and durable. Copper pans won’t warp or dent as easily as softer pans. Solid copper can literally be used for generations if cared for properly. Copper gets a lovely patina over many years of use.

Looks Great

Copper just looks nice! It adds a warm, beautiful shine to your kitchen. Polished copper pots hanging from the rack look impressive. Many people like the way copper looks as much as how it cooks.

Stays Clean

Copper has natural antimicrobial properties. Studies show copper kills bacteria and viruses well. This means copper pans stay cleaner and are less likely to spread sickness.

Potential Downsides of Copper Cookware

Costs More Money

The biggest downside of copper is it costs a lot more than stainless steel or aluminum pans. Solid copper pans are expensive. Copper coatings on other metals cost a bit less. But real solid copper is pricey.

Requires Special Cleaning

You need to clean copper more gently to prevent scratches. Copper can become dull and oxidized over time. This requires regular polishing to keep the copper shiny. The extra care is worth it, but it does take more work.

Best Types of Copper Cookware

Lined Copper Pans

The safest choice is copper pans lined with tin, silver, or stainless steel. The lining prevents contact between copper and food. This lets you cook anything without metallic flavors or copper leaching.

Tin lining even works best for heating. But it can scratch easily. Stainless steel is more durable for high-heat cooking and rough foods. Silver also kills germs but is very pricey.

Solid Copper Pans

All-copper pans provide the most benefits. They deliver the best heating ability. Solid copper needs frequent polishing and care. Use bare copper pans for non-acidic foods cooked briefly.

Copper Core Pans

Many brands make pans with a copper core between stainless layers. It uses copper for heating but adds durability and ease of use. Copper-core pans are a good compromise.

Hammered Copper

You can find beautiful hammered copper pots and pans. Hammering work hardens and strengthens the copper. It also improves heating. But hammered copper costs more than smooth.

Caring for Your Copper Cookware

To keep copper in good condition:

• Hand wash gently with mild soap and soft sponges. Avoid harsh scrubbing.
• Dry right after washing to prevent water spots.
• Use copper polish regularly to remove tarnish and restore shine.
• Coat the inside lightly with oil after washing.
• Never put copper in the dishwasher or let it soak.
• Don’t cook very acidic foods like lemon juice in bare copper pans.
• With some simple care, your copper can stay bright for many years. It’s worth the small effort.

Is Copper Cookware Safe?

Bare copper touching food can cause some safety concerns:

Acidic foods may take on a metallic flavor.
Copper can build up in the body over time if eaten.
But properly lined copper pans are completely safe for all kinds of cooking. Many people also safely use unlined copper for non-acidic foods cooked briefly.

So, while pure copper needs some care, lined copper cookware is safe and performs incredibly well.

Should You Make a Copper Switch?

Copper utensils provide many real cooking benefits. From quick, even heating to germ resistance, copper outshines other metals. Copper costs more and requires special care. But it rewards dedicated cooks with amazing versatility and durability.

If you love cooking and want high-quality pans, copper is an excellent choice. Start with one good copper pan to try it out. Then, you can gradually get more pieces. With the right pans and care, copper can help you cook like a pro!