A classic aluminum pan does not require special care, it weighs little and costs, on average, inexpensively. It is these characteristics that made aluminum utensils incredibly popular. However, the price range for such pans is wide enough. We'll figure out what is the difference between different models, consider the pros and cons of aluminum pans to understand which one to choose.
Aluminum pan ideal for quick food warming
The main advantage of aluminum utensils is affordability, and the main minus is in the burning of food. Such dishes are also difficult to launder from soot.
Among other positive characteristics - a long, compared with other models, service life. But at the same time, opponents of aluminum utensils argue that when heated, the metal gets into food, and then into the human body, which is extremely harmful.
However, there is no scientific evidence for this theory. The release of aluminum microparticles during cooking is very small.
Microdoses are not harmful to humans
Varieties of pans a lot of aluminum: there are dishes with non-stick coating, with ceramic, with a removable handle. We will analyze the main types of coatings - Teflon and ceramics.
Ceramic-coated aluminum pan
Multi-layer ceramic griddle
The lightness and durability of aluminum, coupled with reliable ceramics make this dish unique. Compared to Teflon, ceramics comply with all European standards.
Positive aspects of ceramic coating
- Resistance to high temperatures. Pans with this coating heat up quickly and evenly over the entire surface. The handle while maintaining a neutral temperature, which reduces the possibility of burns.
- Protection against mechanical influences (scratches, chips and other damages).
- Durability, durability of the product.
- Low oil consumption during cooking.
The negative sides of the ceramic coating
- Due to the fragility of ceramics, it is undesirable to wash the dishes in the dishwasher. Suddenly changing temperatures (from cold to hot and vice versa) adversely affect the ceramic layer. Perhaps the formation of subtle cracks, which over time will lead to rapid wear of the pan.
- Use ceramic pans better on electric or gas stoves, but not on ultra-thin hobs. For the latter, special dishes with a magnetic bottom are used.
- High price.
The most famous manufacturers have in their assortment models of ceramic-coated pans. Popular brands include:
- Italian Ballarini
- German Brener
- TVS - Appreciated for Creative Design
- Maestro - a wide range
Non-stick aluminum pan
Non-stick aluminum skillet (Teflon)
These are practical frying pans that are easy to peel off after cooking. The main minus is a short service life, especially if the dishes are treated carelessly.
The material of the non-stick pan becomes thinner over time, in addition, it is subject to any mechanical stress.
We will figure out what aspects to look for when choosing a non-stick aluminum pan:
- A thick bottom is one of the main criteria. This pan is guaranteed to last a long time. Stamped dishes are made of aluminum sheets. Cast pans are considered the best.
- The multilayer non-stick layer is also an important characteristic.Rolling, as a rule, is applied to sheet aluminum - this is a budget option. Plasma-coated pans are considered more durable.
- Preference should be given to dishes of well-known brands, they keep the brand and produce only certified products.
- With a small budget, you should pay attention to Russian, Ukrainian and Belarusian manufacturers. Often they are not inferior to the famous brands.
Pros and Cons of Aluminum Frying Pan
The methods for making aluminum pans are similar - this is the die method and hollow casting. The second is more effective - due to the compacted layer of the bottom and sides.
Benefits of Aluminum Pans
1. Affordable price. Aluminum cookware is as functional as cast iron or steel, but much cheaper.
2. Light weight, but strong coating;
Aluminum pan is indispensable in nature
3. Frying pans are heated evenly over a short period of time.
4. In coated dishes, you can cook without adding oil. An additional plus is easy washing without the use of abrasive detergents.
Disadvantages:
1. The pan is easy to deform even with minimal mechanical impact on the body.
When dropped from a height, dishes may bend
2. The aluminum surface can be easily scratched with a barely pointed object.
It is undesirable to cook food in damaged dishes
3. If you quickly warm the food without stirring, it can "stick" tightly. And even after washing, traces may remain on the surface of the pan.
To increase the service life of the coated aluminum pan, it is important to adhere to the manufacturer's recommendations: use only wooden spatulas and wash dishes after each cooking. Manufacturers are trying to improve the quality of aluminum pans, adding additional metals to the alloy.
A brief overview of models with features
In aluminum pans you can fry, stew, simmer foods and even cook cakes. Each model has its own advantages, but there are basic characteristics that must be taken into account:
- production technology;
- coating material (ceramics, teflon);
- extended warranty period from the manufacturer;
- cost.
Consider the most famous models of coated aluminum cookware.
KUKMARA TRADITION S266A
Durable ceramic coating and affordable price
Country of origin - Russia, the manufacturer guarantees the use of quality materials. The handle is removable, so the pan can be used in the oven. In addition to the basic configuration there are several handles. The diameter of the dishes is optimal, 26 centimeters, the level of the side walls is 6 centimeters. The cover is made of durable glass.
NEVA METAL TABLEWARE
The series "Titan" is highly regarded in the Russian market of kitchen utensils
Cast design with increased reliability. Quality pan with a diameter of 24 centimeters. The St. Petersburg manufacturer has long been producing only this type of pans. According to user reviews, the food is evenly fried, there are no cases of severe burning.
TEFAL 04081100
A popular and famous brand in the global market. The economy class model for frequent use, with maximum preservation of the strength of the non-stick coating. Diameter - 24 centimeters. The pan is convenient to use, there is an ergonomic lid made of heat-resistant glass, a convenient bakelite handle. At production of ware environmentally friendly materials are used. At the bottom there is a heating indication system - a red circle. It is not allowed to use an aluminum pan at temperatures above 200 degrees, as well as at induction cookerscooking surfaces.
Some pans have a heating indicator.
RONDELL FLAMME Rds710
Triple bottom aluminum skillet
German quality at an affordable price. High rating, the model is popular not only in Russia, but also in Europe. Customers appreciated the restrained style and high quality.The technology for the production of dishes is unique: a robust case, a three-layer coating. The disc is made by stamping, and then melted into the bottom. Non-stick coating has improved properties. The handle is silicone coated and does not heat up. You can wash the dishes in the dishwasher, which is an additional advantage of this model.
