Stone-coated pans appeared on the windows of the economic departments not so long ago, but immediately became popular with Russian housewives and even replaced some cast-iron and teflon variants. The non-stick qualities of stone-coated cookware were immediately appreciated, but this is not the only advantage of such pans.
Features
Stone-coated pans are reliable strong and durable containers, which, despite the high price, are only gaining popularity. The housewives are attracted by the interesting design of the dishes, its environmental friendliness and safety. The stone steadily tolerates falls, it does not form scratches for a long time, the material does not deform and has non-stick properties.
Mineral coating contributes to an even distribution of heat throughout the container, due to which the dishes are more tender and juicy.
The case of such a pan is made of aluminum coated with granite or marble stone spraying. This is the most popular option. A more expensive instance is made with a layer of stone ceramics, it is heavy and more often used for stewing than for frying, but it is considered more resistant and durable. All-stone talchochlorite pans are even more durable.
Advantages and disadvantages
Those who can’t decide to buy stone-coated dishes, We recommend that you familiarize yourself with the main advantages of such a pan.
- The coating includes only natural raw materials, so when heated, the material does not produce toxic components that could harm the human body.
- This ware is very durable, it is resistant to cracks, deformations, and easily endures harsh operating conditions.
- A stone-coated frying pan can be used in preparing healthy foods, as cooking can do without oil. These foods contain less fat, cholesterol and carcinogens.
- The even distribution of heat helps preserve vitamins and other elements that benefit the person in the products.
- The dishes quickly heat up, which means that dishes are prepared much faster.
- These are universal pans that are suitable for any type of cooker. In addition, they are easy to care for. For example, most of them are dishwasher safe.
- Aesthetic appearance improves the emotional mood of the hostess, which undoubtedly affects the quality and taste of the prepared dishes.
Before buying a stone-coated pan, it is important to study the disadvantages of this product. So, the main disadvantage is the high price, although it is due to the excellent performance. And the disadvantages include heavy weight: this complicates the cooking process.
If this is a vessel with granite, then it is not recommended to wash it with abrasive products, and it is also undesirable to use for baking in the oven.
How to choose
Going to the store for stone-coated dishes, pay attention to certain criteria.
- Weight. A quality stone skillet is always distinguished by its heavy weight and thick sides. The greater the mass, the more evenly the vessel will distribute heat, and the less likely it is that the dish will burn. Choose specimens with a bottom thickness of at least 6 mm and a side thickness of 3.5 mm or more.
- A variety. The most high-quality frying pan is considered to be a container made of talchochlorite, however this is a very expensive product made entirely of stone. As a more affordable alternative, an instance of stone ceramics is suitable. The cheapest option is a cast aluminum alloy product. The quality of roasting in such a vessel does not suffer, but it will serve less than other options.
- Pens. Give preference to handles made of copper alloy: they are safe because they do not react with the coating and do not affect the quality of the products. Copper handles are typical of talchlorite. Aluminum specimens are usually offered with rubberized handles. This is very convenient, since such holders do not slip out of your hands and do not heat up. It is recommended to choose removable handles.
- The size. The most popular are samples with a diameter of 20, 22, 24, 28 cm. When choosing a size, start from the number of family members. And also keep in mind the dishes that are most often going to be cooked in this pan. For example, if these are pancakes, then choose small compact copies, but if households prefer stuffed pancakes, then buy a crepe maker with a wider circle. If the dishes are needed for preparing semi-liquid dishes, then pay attention to the high stewpans.
- Cap. Experienced housewives recommend choosing glass covers, because through them you can clearly see how the dish is prepared. If the house already has lids of a suitable diameter, then there is no point in overpaying for this accessory if it comes with a frying pan. In this case, it is better to choose a separate frying pan without a lid.
Manufacturers rating
Of great importance is the manufacturer of dishes. Stone-coated products are produced both by foreign companies and domestic manufacturers, and in terms of quality such specimens are in no way inferior to each other. Based on customer reviews, you can make a rating of the most popular manufacturers that have both pros and cons.
- Stoneline. The company produces universal dishes, which are perfect for frying, stewing, making sauces. These are very aesthetic pans, as stone spraying has a fine structure. However, according to the observations of the hostesses, after six months of use, the dishes lose their non-stick properties, and the products begin to burn.
- Fissman. In this case, the hostesses like the color variety of products. Among the pans of different colors, you can pick up a copy that fits perfectly into a specific kitchen interior. Stone chips are marble. The case is made of aluminum, so it is not too heavy products. Among the pluses, equipment with removable handles is noted.
- Fissler. This manufacturer offers models with high sides, which allow you to cook semi-liquid dishes, broths, stews, sauces. The height of the walls is from 5 cm. The dishes themselves have a very nice design, including a noble matte finish in black, white or red. Among the minuses there is a lot of weight.
- Gipfel. This manufacturer produces aluminum pans with high walls: from 5 cm. The range includes a crepe maker, designed for specific purposes. This dishwasher can be washed. Of the shortcomings are called non-removable handles, which sometimes causes inconvenience during cooking.
How to care
When using stone pans, refuse to use iron shovels and forks, use only wooden appliances. This will maximize the service life of the dishes. Most products are dishwasher safe. but still it is recommended to give preference to manual washing: this will make the pan more durable.
Avoid sudden changes in temperature. For example, do not heat food from the refrigerator immediately on the stove, wait until the dish in the pan reaches room temperature, and only then put it on gas. It’s even easier to transfer a serving to a separate container. And also do not put a red-hot vessel under cold water: a sharp change in temperature threatens to form cracks and other damage.
Immediately after the purchase, grease the bottom and walls of the whole-stone pan with oil and carefully bake on low heat.
See the video below for the pros and cons of stone-coated cookware.