Copper pots and pans

Copper pots and pans are not only a favorite among chefs but are a beautiful accent to any kitchen. Copper adds a certain elegance and timeless appeal. Mostly seen in western cooking copper has many advantages. Often times copper teapots and pot racks make a bold decorative statement in the décor of the kitchen
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Copper is excellent at conducting, distributing, and retaining heat. This makes the material preferred by cooks and chefs alike. Copper reacts chemically with certain acidic foods and the reaction can be toxic so all pots and pans will be lined with tin or the more durable stainless steel.

Copper cookware should be heavy. The nature of the metal itself lends the weight. If a piece of cookware made of copper is lighter than some other common pieces made of aluminum or stainless steel then the buyer should be ware it could be a cheap imitation or a thinly plated piece.

Pots and pans made of the gorgeous metal come in all the standard shapes and sizes. Copper cookware can be frying pans, sauce pans, large pots, sauté pans and many other shapes. A great gift idea- copper is the traditional gift for the seventh anniversary, so a set of seven pans and pots is a charming notion
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When cooking with copper keep in mind that copper is efficient and will heat and cool quicker than other metals. So use lower heat settings. Medium to medium-high is the recommended setting for sautéing and frying. Also allow cold foods to come to room temperature because there is no non-stick surface on the pans cold foods will stick. Adding butter or oil will also help with this problem.

Copper is soft and can be dented easily so it’s important to take very good care of the pans. To clean the cookware just use a sponge with warm water and dish detergent. When the exterior becomes discolored there are a few options to remove tarnish including a polish.

A paste can be made from one quarter cup of white vinegar and two tablespoons of coarse salt to remove tarnish and stuck on food. Lemon juice and salt are also good cleaners and the other half of the lemon can be used as a “scrub brush.” Tomato juice is also an effective natural cleaner.

For the best results with the care of the cookware, clean as soon as possible after cooking. Never use abrasive cleaners or scrubbers as they can remove the tin or stainless steel layer.

Once a cook starts using copper they notice a difference in the cooking right away. Such an efficient tool in the kitchen is worth the money spent. Also if cookware is exposed in the kitchen, such as in glass cabinets or on pot racks, copper is a more attractive, more displayable option compared to the other metals. The decorative touches can be functional or non-functional. Consider the use of an old teapot filled with flowers as a beautiful centerpiece.

One thing’s for sure, with proper care, copper is a beautiful investment that can last for years to come!

 

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