CHARACTERISTICS OF WATERLESS COOKWARE

We are often asked by potential customers how our brand of cookware compares to other brands. This is difficult to answer because I do not know the in-and-outs of their product like I know mine. I do know, however, that not all stainless steel waterless cookware is quality cookware and for cookware to be categorized as waterless, four requirements must be present:

• A high-grade stainless steel must be used. Waterless cookware must be a minimum of 5-ply. You will often see advertisements for products with 7-ply or 9-ply or possibly more. More plies means more layers. However, beyond a certain point, the actual number of plies is more a marketing tool and a cooking requirement. When you have a good grade of stainless steel, the cookware is easy to clean. Further, surgical stainless steel is one of the most sterile environments in which to cook. You never have to worry about coating from other metals leeching into your foods, as can happen with Teflon or aluminum. To some degree, the layering is important. Stainless steel is a great material for waterless cooking, but stainless steel is not known for fast heat transfer. Thus, the addition of a layer of aluminum in. The center of the stainless steel provides for the fast and even distribution of heat.
• A Flat-bottomed pan is needed for efficient heat transfer. The bottom of a waterless cooking pan needs to be flat to provide for even heat distribution.
• A thicker bottom plate is necessary to evenly distribute the heat. The special design of the encapsulated bottom of each stainless steel pot provides strength and rigidity that prevents warping. It also eliminates hot spots that may burn food. Heat is distributed evenly in all directions.
• A special lid is used to keep the steam from escaping. Waterless cooking will not work if a proper seal cannot be formed. When a seal is created, it locks in the natural moisture that escapes from the food during the cooking process. Thus, foods are cooked in their own natural juices, retaining vital vitamins and minerals. This is really the key to waterless cooking—a vapor seal must be created. To get this vapor seal, simply start cooking your food over medium heat until the steam control valve whistles in the open position. Then, turn down the heat to a low simmer and close the valve. At this point, the lid will form an air-tight seal. Note: If steam is escaping around the lid, reduce heat to a lower setting.

While I cannot speak for other brands, I can tell you that our Waterless Cookware sets meet the criteria above. Maxam Cookware has over 50 years of experience and research going into the production of its products. It also offers a Lifetime warranty on all of its products.

We hope you found this information helpful. Check out our site http://www.thegourmetscookware.com/ for great deals on waterless cookware as well as cooking tips and recipes! We have included some great waterless cooking recipes on our site http://www.thegourmetscookware.com/healthywaterlessrecipes.html This month we are featuring a fantastic Father’s Day Menu.