You may think of replacing Teflon in your kitchen with granite cookware because it is advertised as being safer and healthier. However, before you make the switch, it’s important to understand how granite cookware is made and is different from Teflon because there are many misconceptions about granite cookware.
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What is granite Cookware?
There are so many people who think that granite cookware is made of stone. Well, that’s not entirely true. It is made of a metal base with enameled coating. The enamel is what gives the cookware the appearance of being made out of granite. The enamel is also what makes the cookware non-stick.
The enamel coating is made of sand, glass, and other minerals. It is then fused to the metal at a high temperature. The enamel coating is what makes the cookware durable and resistant to scratches and chipping.
On the other hand, Teflon cookware is made of a synthetic fluoropolymer called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). This material has been around since the 1950s and it is what makes Teflon cookware non-stick. The main problem with this material is that it can flake off or leach out into food, which can be dangerous if ingested.
So, now that you know what granite cookware is made of, let’s take a look at the pros and cons.
15 Pros and Cons of Granite Cookware
8 Pros of Granite Cookware
1. Free from Chemicals: The first and foremost advantage of granite cookware is that it is free from chemicals. Unlike Teflon, there are no harmful chemicals in the enamel coating of granite cookware. This makes it a safer option, especially if you have kids at home.
And, if you are looking for an eco-friendly option, then granite cookware is a good choice as it doesn’t release any harmful chemicals into the environment.
2. Non-Stick Surface: Another advantage of granite cookware is that it has a non-stick surface. This means that you don’t have to use a lot of oil or butter while cooking. This makes your food healthier as there is less fat in it.
As it has a non-stick surface, it is also very easy to clean. You don’t have to scrub the cookware to remove the food residue.
3. Evenly Heat Distribution: Another advantage of granite cookware is that it distributes heat evenly. The reason for this is that the base of the cookware is made of aluminum which is a good conductor of heat. This ensures that your food is cooked evenly.
4. Lightweight: Another advantage of granite cookware is that it is very lightweight. This makes it easy to use and maneuver. As we mentioned above it isn’t made of rock, it is made of metal with an enamel coating.
Which is why it is lighter than cast iron cookware.
5. Doesn’t rust: Another advantage of granite cookware is that it doesn’t rust. This is because the enamel coating is resistant to rust and corrosion.
So, if you live in an area with high humidity, then granite cookware is a good option as it won’t rust.
6. Non-reactive: This is not aluminum cookware, it is made of enamel-coated aluminum. Which means that it is non-reactive. This means that you can cook acidic food in it without worrying about the acid reacting with the cookware.
7. Appearance: Last but not the least, granite cookware also has a very sleek and stylish appearance. The enamel coating gives it a smooth and glossy finish which adds to the aesthetic appeal of your kitchen.
7 Cons of Granite Cookware
1. Can’t be used on high heat: One of the disadvantages of granite cookware is that it can’t be used on high heat. The enamel coating is not resistant to high temperatures and can start to peel off at around 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
Compared to Granite Hard Anodized is better as it can withstand high temperatures.
2. Not suitable for induction cooktops: Another disadvantage of granite cookware is that it is not suitable for induction cooktops. This is because the base of the cookware is made of aluminum which is not a magnetic material.
So, if you have an induction cooktop, then you will not be able to use granite cookware on it.
So, if you want to use your granite cookware in the dishwasher, then you will have to take extra care to not damage the enamel coating.
3. Can be scratched easily: Another disadvantage of granite cookware is that it can be scratched easily. The enamel coating is not very tough and can be scratched by metal utensils.
So, if you want to use granite cookware, then you will have to be careful not to scratch it.
4. Some brands do not make quality cookware: There are some brands of granite cookware that are not of good quality. These brands use a cheaper type of enamel coating that is more prone to chipping and peeling.
So, if you want to buy granite cookware, then make sure to buy it from a reputable brand.
7. Can be expensive: Some types of granite cookware can be quite expensive. This is because they are made with a higher-quality enamel coating that is more durable and resistant to chipping and peeling.
Conclusion: Should you buy it?
Now that you know all the pros and cons of granite cookware, you can decide for yourself if it is the right choice for you.
Overall, granite cookware has some advantages and disadvantages. The main advantages are that it is very lightweight, doesn’t rust, is non-reactive, and has a sleek appearance.
However, the main disadvantages are that it can’t be used on high heat, is not induction safe, can be scratched easily, and is not as durable as other types of cookware.
If you are looking for an option that can be used on high heat, then granite cookware is not the best option.
However, this issue is common with other nonstick cookware except hard anodized.