Well, have you stuck to the question—can I use induction cookware on a gas stove?
Many think induction cookware is only for induction cookers. But it's not true!
Nowadays, most cookwares usually come with induction compatibility or gas stove compatibility. So you can use induction cookware on a gas stove for cooking purposes. However, there are few more things, such as—
- Difference between induction vs. gas stove cookware
- Benefits of induction cookware
- Suitable induction cookware for using in gas stove
Let's get started.
Induction Cookware Vs. Gas Stove Cookware
There is a big difference between induction-friendly cookware and gas stove cookware. The mechanism of the two cookware is different from each other.
The first one creates a magnetic field that generates internal heat and cooks food. Meanwhile, a gas stove follows the traditional way of creating a flame and cooking with heat.
Can All Induction Cookware Be Used on Gas Cooktops?
As mentioned, induction cookware can be used on the gas stoves. And almost all induction-compatible cookware is suitable for use in the gas stove unless they have the following characteristics.
- The cookware base is made of thin steel
- The outside of the cooker is covered with a non-stick layer or magnetic layer
In these two cases, the fire on gas stoves might release harmful, noxious fumes. Moreover, the coating can also melt due to the high flame.
So, it's better to read the manual before trying out induction cookware on a gas cooktop. If the instruction says not to use your pots and pan on a gas stove, don't try to do it.
Other than these two exceptions, you can safely use the surface in your gas stove if the surface is manufactured with metal.
Advantages of Using Induction Cookware
Some of the significant benefits of using induction cookware on a gas stove include–
Versatile Use
The main advantage of these multiple uses is that you can use a single set for cooking in any environment. So no matter which setup your kitchen has, you can always be ready to cook.
Keep the Food Warm for a Long Time
Typical gas cooktop compatibility pans can't keep the food warm for a long time. But for the unique design, induction cookware can distribute heat everywhere evenly, and the pot stays warm for a long time. These characteristics don't let food get cold easily.
Easy to Clean
Induction cookware usually comes with easy-to-clean features. They also have corrosion resistance and are long-lasting.
Suitable Induction Cookware for Using in Gas Stove
Here is some common induction cookware materials ideal for use in gas stoves.
Stainless Steel
Among all the materials used to make different cookware, stainless steel is surely the best one. As it's a mix of different metals, it becomes ultra-resistant to oxidation or rusting. At the same time, it is durable like iron. Also, they have a shiny finish and are easy to clean.
The top benefit of this type of cookware is they are not rusted even if you soak it underwater for a long time. Another notable feature is stainless steel can hold heat quite well due to the characteristics of the material.
However, stainless steel is not a magnetic metal. But nowadays, a new type of material is manufactured under a special process to make it magnetic and perfect to work as an induction cooker.
Copper Fully Clad by Stainless Steel
These pots are made with a copper layer, and the inner & outer layers are made with stainless steel. It provides more benefits than a usual stainless steel pot as copper can maintain the thermal property efficiently.
Higher thermal capacity means the faster you can finish your cooking. Besides, with the copper inside and the stainless steel outside, the copper doesn't react with the food. And stainless steel is non-reactive, retaining the food quality and keeping you healthy.
Aluminum Clad Fully by Stainless Steel
In this type of cookware, the inner part is made of aluminum, and the outer part is with stainless steel. These designs let you enjoy all the thermal properties of aluminum but without making it react with your food.
Cast Iron
Some people prefer natural materials more than laboratory-made ones. For people like this, cast iron-made cooktops can be used in both induction and gas.
The chemical-free and extremely durable cookware can be a part of your kitchen for many years. Moreover, cast iron holds and distributes heat properly so that you don't have to fear overcooking or undercooking your meal.
One negative thing about this type of cookware is they are very reactive to water and create rust. So, don't leave it in water for too long and wash it as soon as you finish using it.
Besides, they are comparatively heavier than other materials. If you don't have the experience to handle heavy pots, you might find them uncomfortable to use.
Enamelled Cast Iron
Enamel is manufactured with porcelain, which is a glass-like material. Here the iron cast iron is coated with a mixture of porcelain and color particles blend. This dazzling design undoubtedly enhances the beauty of your kitchen cabinet.
On top of that, because of the coating, the iron part can't interact with water and become rusted. You can also cook acidic foods with it too. Besides, the non-sticky ability and consistent heat make it perfect for any cooking and easy to handle.
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel consists of 99% iron and 1% of carbon. It's relatively cheaper than other cookers. However, this type of material needs regular seasoning to avoid rust and save the non-stick property.
One notable feature of these pans is that they are lighter in weight and comfortable to use. Also, carbon steel can withstand all temperatures.
One drawback of it is it can not generate heat evenly. So if you are not a pro cooker, it's easy to make a mistake.
Graniteware
Graniteware cookware is made by combining porcelain and steel at a very high temperature. These pots can be used in both gas stoves and induction cooktops.
Like carbon steel, you can also wash these pots effortlessly, and one remarkable benefit is they are heated up quickly and that too evenly.
Tips to Use Induction Cookware on Gas Stoves
So far, you have seen which type of cookware you can use in both gas stoves and induction cooktops. Although you can use them vise-versa, you should still consider some facts to extend the lifespan of your cookware.
Check out the below points to learn about them.
Don't Leave Your Cookware Empty
The basic rule of any cooking is that you should not leave the cooking pot on the fire without any content in it. So, before turning on the gas stove, add your food item to the induction cookware.
As induction cookware is not flame-resistant, you have to be more careful to prevent damage.
Use the Right Heat Setting
Heat setting is an important factor in cooking food properly. While using your induction-based pot on the gas stove, you should keep the flame low to medium. High heat is not necessary for this type of pot. No matter which food you cook, lower heat can do everything.
Wash Thoroughly Before and After Every Use
Always wash and rinse your pan properly. You may use soapy water to get rid of grease. And remember to dry the pan before placing it on the stove.
Read Cookware Instructions Before Use
Does Scanpan work on induction cooktops? – if you are wondering about questions like this, the instruction manual is the thing that can show you the ways. Whether it's your Scanpan or any other utensils, always check the instruction.
And when it's about using induction-based cookware, you have to be more careful. Using them on the wrong heating surface is highly dangerous. So be aware of it!
The Bottom Line
Hopefully, now you don't have any more questions about this topic— can you use induction cookware on a gas stove?
Most induction-based cookware can be used on multiple surfaces, including gas stoves. However, make sure to check your cookware's compatibility. If your cookware can handle it, an amazing culinary experience is waiting for you!
Happy Cooking!