Advertised as a much safer alternative to Teflon, ceramic is a popular option if non-stick cookware is a must for you. Picking the right ceramic cookware set might seem like a huge hassle as ceramic pots get more and more traction as time goes by.
Not to mention that sometimes coated ceramics are sold as “ceramics,” which makes it very confusing. Do your homework, get to know the basics, what pro chefs cook with, and you will be able to make an informed decision at the end of this guide.
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What is Ceramic Cookware and Why Should I Cook with It
Ceramic cookware, as we know it today, has been around for quite a while. People have been cooking in clay and mud pots for ages, evolving from their simplest forms to the high-end, multi-purpose pots we have today.
The ceramic coating keeps potentially toxic fumes at bay, which makes it a great option.
Coated Vs. Pure Ceramic Cookware
You might think they’re the same, but in fact, this is its most important feature. Sometimes labels can be very misleading, so if you’re just not confident, you can either contact the manufacturer or go for another brand.
Ceramic Coated Cookware
Just as the name implies, these pots are made using a metal base like aluminum or cast iron (high-end, sturdy ones last for generations) that are coated with a layer with a ceramic-like appearance. The coating is made of sand, polymers, and other elements that make cookware non-stick. The result, that glossy and glassy coat is the reason why this got branded as ceramic.
Pure Ceramic Cookware
On the other hand, 100% ceramic cookware is built using a patented clay, sand, and minerals formula. A lot more durable and long-lasting than its more affordable counterpart, this type of pots lasts for years without being high-maintenance. You might find it classified as pure or classic ceramic; it’s the same thing.
Coated cookware is the go-to choice if budget is an issue or if you see something you like and want to go for. Pure ceramic cookware is the obvious choice if you plan to use your pots for more than a few years.
Design
Pure ceramic pots have the pot and the handle “molded” as a one-piece for extra durability. They tend to be heavier and chunkier, so you have to be super careful when you handle them, especially if they’re hot.
Ceramic coated cookware built around an aluminum core is lighter and easier to use, having the handle attached with rivets. This allows for more flexibility in design and ergonomics, wood or fancy handles being the norm here.
Intended use
100% ceramic cookware takes more time to heat, but it retains heat quite well. It’s scratch-proof, meaning you can use metal utensils with it without having to worry about leaving a mark. I recommend not making a habit out of it if you want to keep your cooking process as healthy as possible, wood and silicons are great alternatives.
Coated ceramic cookware with an aluminum base heats up pretty quickly, but it doesn’t retain heat. As for utensils, metal is a big no as it will immediately scratch the topcoat.
. Oven
Both types of cookware can be used in the oven, but you have to watch the temperature.
Pure ceramic: 2000 °F
Coated ceramic: 350 °F to 850 °F
To be on the safe side, make sure you double-check the manufacturer’s instructions.
. Induction Stovetop
As you might have guessed, coated ceramic works on induction cookers thanks to the aluminum structure. Unfortunately, this means that classic ceramic pots and pans need an induction plate to work.
. Microwave
Pure ceramic pots can be used in the microwave, but while ceramic cooking cookware doesn’t get the green light for it due to its metallic base, so always make sure you pay extra attention to this.
Number of pieces
Analyze your cooking habits. How often do you cook? How many people are in your household? If you don’t cook that often and space is an issue, go for two pots and two pans of various sizes, and you’re done.
Do you like a particular brand but don’t know for sure if their cookware products are that good? Buy just one piece and test it for several weeks. If you like it, go back and get the full set. If not, keep on testing.
Make sure you go through the product’s description carefully so that you know exactly what you’re paying for. Lids, utensils, recipe books, and instruction manuals can count toward the final number of pieces in a set.
Budget
You might find, especially on sale, sets of 3-5 ceramic coated cookware for less than $100. If you’re looking for something more affordable or don’t cook that often, this is a great alternative.
On the other side of the spectrum, pure ceramic cookware is an investment, and its price truly reflects that. A high-end skillet can easily have a $100 tag. Read reviews, don’t assume that an expensive pot translates into a quality one and chooses wisely.
Warranty
This is a tricky area for most cookware, and I highly recommend avoiding clicking the “add to cart” button before knowing exactly what you get.
A lot of the time, you will see ceramic coated cookware that only has a limited one year warranty. Aim for at least two or three years or buy an extended warranty, if possible, to be on the safe side.
As for classic ceramic pots and pans, you might find them sold with a 10-year warranty and even a lifetime.
Please read the fine print, see what will make the warranty void, each manufacturer has its own rules and conditions.
Choosing a ceramic cookware set should focus both on your needs and available budget. I hope this guide has helped you distinguish between the two types of ceramic pots and choose the right one for you. Good luck, browsing!
