In the contemporary kitchen, induction cooking has surged in popularity, promising efficiency, precision and safety. Yet, as more of us transition to induction hobs, there’s still some confusion around which cookware to use. Our guide explains how induction cooking works and the features to look for in the best induction pots and pans.
The Science Behind Induction Cooking
To appreciate why it’s important to choose the best induction cookware for your hob, it helps to understand the mechanics behind induction cooking. These hobs are made from smooth, ceramic glass and can reach very high temperatures in seconds. Unlike conventional gas or electric stoves that rely on flames or heating elements, induction hobs operate on electromagnetic energy. When a compatible pan is placed on the hob, an alternating electric current flows through the coil beneath the ceramic surface, generating a fluctuating magnetic field. This induces an electric current in the base of the cookware, instantly producing heat.
The Benefits of Induction Cooking:
- Energy efficient: these hobs use most of the energy they produce, with minimal heat loss.
- Speed: Heat is generated instantly and will bring your food to the boil significantly faster than conventional hobs.
- Safety: heat is only generated beneath the base of the magnetic cookware when it’s in contact with the hob. As soon as a pan is removed, the area does not stay hot.
- Convenient: cleaning is quick and easy as the surface stays cool and any spills don’t burn or stick.
Why Material Matters
The foundation of effective induction cooking lies in the cookware’s material – particularly, it’s magnetic properties. The best induction hob pans are made of quality magnetic materials such as stainless steel or cast iron. These materials facilitate the transfer of electromagnetic energy, ensuring efficient heat generation and distribution through food.
Ideal Cookware for Induction Hobs
Navigating the countless cookware options can be daunting. Yet, a couple of key features separate the best induction hob saucepans from the rest:
1. Magnetic Base
Material: Choose cookware with a base crafted from high performance stainless steel or cast iron.
Thickness: Opt for cookware with a thick, flat base, ensuring maximum contact with the hob. This ensures even and efficient heat transfer, along with a prompt response to temperature adjustments.
2. Heat Conductivity
Conduction: Look for induction pots and pans with an encapsulated aluminium base layer. While aluminium isn’t magnetic, it’s an excellent conductor of heat - better than stainless steel. When combined with the magnetism of stainless steel, the result is an ultra-responsive induction pan.
Tips for Induction Cooking:
1. Choose the correct pan size for your induction hob ring for optimal contact and performance
2. Ensure the entire base of the pan is in contact with the hob. If a pan has become warped from overheating, it won’t work effectively
3. Always lift rather than drag pans to avoid scratches on the induction surface
4. Heat pans gradually rather than using the ‘boost’ function
5. Cook over a low to medium heat to avoid any damage to your cookware, and provide the most efficient cooking results.
Stellar Induction Pans
Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or experimenting in the kitchen, our induction pots and pans give you absolute control. Take your skills to the next level with the meticulous design, premium materials and precise functionality of our range. All of our stainless steel and cast iron pans are designed for excellent performance on induction. But our best induction cookware collection stands out for its additional elements that help to hone your home cooking confidence:
1. Consistent
Our induction hob cookware features a thick and flat base which reads induction zones accurately. Made from a premium combination of conductive aluminium encased in stainless steel, the base is designed for ultra efficient heat distribution and ultimate control. Offering maximum compatibility with induction zones, the base is also extremely durable and designed to last. Cookware that stands the test of time empowers you to create culinary masterpieces for years to come.
2. Effortless
Our induction cookware features an excellent non-stick coating that allows for easy cleaning by hand or in the dishwasher. Our best induction frying pan has even been rated an Indy Best Buy by The Independent. Stellar Induction saucepans feature internal measuring guides and vented glass lids, giving you even more convenience while cooking. Easy-pour rimmed pan edges allow for clean pouring from pan to plate.
3. Cooking Comfort
A staple of the Stellar induction pan is its neatly incorporated stay cool handles. These are smooth and anti-slip, providing ultimate comfort and control at the stove.
4. Aesthetic Elegance
Beyond functionality, our induction hob saucepans look the part in the kitchen. Boasting sleek, straight sides in a polished stainless steel finish, these pans are designed to never lose their lustre. They’re a timeless investment for your home. Our commitment to creating smart products for smart kitchens ensure each piece is not only a joy to use but a statement of sophistication and Stellar quality.
5. Lifetime Guarantee
Stellar kitchenware is built for your most adventurous recipes. Take our lifetime guarantee as the only proof you need and pass our pieces from generation to generation. Our best induction pan set, single saucepans and frying pans are all covered.
Our induction compatible cookware is designed with the passionate cook in mind, facilitating energy-efficient cooking, reducing cooking times, and enhancing safety and convenience in the kitchen. Discover our collection to find the best induction pan for your style of cooking.
