At Halo Middle East, we believe that the heart of a healthier home starts in the kitchen. Cooking practices and the cookware you use can significantly impact both your well-being and the environment.
With the help of Ingrid Behrends, we create this guide to choosing and maintaining the right cookware to make your cooking experience not only a pleasure but a healthy experience as well.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Cookware
Choosing the right materials for your cookware is crucial for both the longevity of your pots and pans and your health. Stainless steel saucepans and non-stick frying pans are staples in modern kitchens, but knowing how to select and maintain them can make all the difference.
Choosing Cookware for Health and Safety
- Material Matters
- Opt for cookware made from safe, durable materials like cast iron, ceramic, or advanced Tefal coatings that do not contain harmful chemicals such as PFOA, PTFE, and PFOS. These materials ensure that no toxic substances leach into your food, especially under high heat.
- Oven Safety
- Be cautious with cookware handles and lids that may not withstand normal oven temperatures. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to avoid damage and potential hazards while baking or roasting.
- Seasoning Your Cookware
- Properly seasoning your frying pans, especially cast iron, ensures a naturally non-stick surface and significantly extends the life of your cookware. After washing and drying new pans, rub them with a little oil and heat slowly to season.
- Utensil Compatibility
- Use wooden or silicone utensils to prevent scratching non-stick surfaces. Avoid metal or abrasive tools that can wear down coatings and compromise both the pan’s effectiveness and safety.
Sustainable Cooking Practices
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Preventing Stains and Damage
- When cooking with stainless steel saucepans, avoid adding salt to cold water. Salt can cause pitting corrosion which appears as small dots on the surface. Instead, add salt to boiling water before incorporating your ingredients. This simple practice helps keep your saucepans in pristine condition without staining the bottom.
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Thermal Shock Prevention
- Never pour cold water into a hot frying pan. Sudden temperature changes can warp the metal, compromising the pan’s structure. Allow pans to cool before cleaning to maintain their shape and functionality.
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Energy Efficiency
- Always cook with a lid unless the recipe specifically requires otherwise. This not only speeds up cooking times but also conserves energy. Match the pan size to the burner to maximize heat efficiency and prevent energy wastage.
Cleaning Tips for Sustainable Cookware Maintenance
- Cast Iron Care: When cleaning your cast iron cookware, less water is better. Avoid leaving them in water to soak as this can cause damage. This tip does not apply to coated versions which are more resistant to water.
- Reviving Stainless Steel: From time to time, your stainless steel cookware may benefit from a thorough cleaning to restore its shine. For severely burnt pans, try soaking them with water and ENJO Orange Blossom Real Soap for a day or two, then gently scrape with a blade, such as the one used for induction cooktops.
- Using ENJO Marble Paste on Stainless Steel: To bring back the natural luster of your stainless steel wares, cleaning them with marble paste can be highly effective. This method helps remove tarnish and restores the original shine without harsh chemicals.
Ingrid’s ENJO Favourites for Cleaning your Pots and Pans
Bonus Tip: Cooking Oil – Avoid using olive oil for high-heat cooking such as frying. Olive oil burns at lower temperatures, releasing harmful free radicals. Opt for oils with higher smoke points like avocado oil or grapeseed oil for healthier cooking.
Making Sustainable Choices in the Kitchen
Embracing sustainable cooking practices is not just about choosing the right ingredients; it’s also about selecting and maintaining quality cookware that doesn’t compromise your health or the environment. We hope these guidelines ensure that your cooking habits support a healthier lifestyle and contribute to a sustainable future.
At Halo Middle East, we’re committed to helping you make informed choices that enhance your quality of life and care for the planet. Explore our range of eco-friendly products and discover more ways to create a healthy, sustainable home.
