After Teflon’s rise to popularity, ceramic cookware became the go-to choice for many health-conscious home cooks. Ceramic cookware is made from an inert material, meaning it doesn’t leach any potentially harmful chemicals into food – a major benefit.
Like other cookware, ceramic has its own pros and cons that you should know about before making a decision to buy it.
But Before going to talk about ceramic cookware’s pros and cons, one should know about what ceramic cookware is made of and as well as its types.
What Ceramic cookware is made of?
There are two main types of ceramic cookware: glazed and unglazed.
100% Ceramic Cookware
100% Ceramic Cookware is made from a clay body that has been fired in a kiln and then glazed. The glaze is usually a clear or opaque glass-like coating that is applied to the outside of the cookware and fused to the clay body during firing.
Ceramic Coated Cookware
Ceramic cookware that is only partially ceramic (usually just the bottom of the pan) is made from a steel or aluminum base that is then coated with a thin layer of ceramic. This type of cookware is usually less expensive and not as durable as 100% ceramic cookware.
Remember, when we talk about ceramic throughout this article, we are referring to ceramic-coated cookware.
Ceramic cookware pros and cons
Now that we know what ceramic cookware is made of, let’s take a look at its pros and cons.
Pros of Ceramic Cookware
1. Non-Toxic: One of the main reasons why people choose ceramic cookware is because it is non-toxic and safe to use.
Nontoxic means it is free from PFOA, PFOS, lead, and cadmium. These are chemicals that can be released into food when cooking at high temperatures.
Unlike other types of cookware that can release toxins into your food, ceramic cookware is made from natural materials and is free of chemicals.
2. Non-stick surface: Another great thing about ceramic cookware is that it has a non-stick surface. This means that you won’t have to use as much oil or butter when cooking.
The non-stick surface also makes it easy to clean. You won’t have to scrub the pan as much because food won’t stick to it.
3. Heats evenly: Ceramic cookware is also known for heating evenly. This means that your food will be cooked evenly throughout, so you won’t have to worry about hot spots.
The reason for even heating is that ceramic cookware has an aluminum base which is a good conductor of heat, so it helps to distribute the heat evenly.
4. Affordable: Ceramic cookware is also very affordable as compared to other types of cookware such as stainless steel.
So, if you’re on a budget or are just starting out with cooking, then ceramic cookware would be a great option for you.
5. Easy to use: You may know that stainless steel is the favorite choice of professional chefs and since not every home cook is a professional chef, they might not feel comfortable using it.
But ceramic cookware is very easy to use and even beginner cooks can use it without any problems.
6. Colors: Ceramic cookware also comes in a variety of colors which makes it fun to use and adds a pop of color to your kitchen. Those who want their kitchens to look good will love the variety of colors that ceramic cookware comes in.
7. Lightweight: Ceramic cookware is also very lightweight which makes it easy to handle. If you have trouble lifting heavy pots and pans, then ceramic cookware would be a great option for you.
8. No seasoning required: Seasoning is the process of coating the cookware with oil or fat to create a non-stick surface.
This is usually required with cast iron cookware, but ceramic cookware doesn’t require seasoning.
So, if you don’t want to worry about seasoning your cookware, then ceramic would be a great choice for you.
9. Easy cleanup: As we mentioned before, ceramic cookware has a non-stick surface which makes cleanup very easy.
You won’t have to scrub the pan as much because food won’t stick to it. Just a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that’s needed.
Cons of Ceramic Cookware
1. Not suitable for high-heat cooking: One downside of ceramic cookware is that it’s not suitable for high heat cooking. So, if you like to cook your food on high heat, then this might not be the best option for you.
2. Not as durable: Another downside of ceramic cookware is that it’s not as durable as other types of cookware such as stainless steel.
It’s made from a thin layer of ceramic which can chip or crack if not used properly.
3. Can’t be used on the stovetop: If you want to use ceramic cookware on the cooktop, then you will either need to buy a special type of ceramic cookware that’s made for the stovetop or have to use an induction converter plate.
But not every second ceramic cookware that you find won’t be suitable for the induction stovetop.
4. Can’t be used in the oven: Ceramic cookware can’t be used in the oven because it will crack or break if exposed to high temperatures.
5. Not dishwasher safe: Those who like to put their cookware in the dishwasher will be disappointed to know that ceramic cookware is not dishwasher safe.
You will need to wash it by hand but as we said earlier cleaning with ceramic is not a big deal but it will take a few minutes.
Conclusion: Should you buy ceramic cookware?
It depends on your cooking routine and the types of food you are cooking. If you are looking for attractive, lightweight, and cheap cookware then ceramic is the right choice for you.
But if you are looking for something that is durable and that can be used for high-heat cooking then ceramic might not be the best option for you.
You should also keep in mind that ceramic cookware is not dishwasher safe and can’t be used in the oven or on the stovetop.
So, it really depends on your needs and what you’re looking for in cookware. We hope that this article helped you make a decision about whether or not ceramic cookware is right for you.
