Aluminum is a lightweight metal with very good heat conductivity and is an excellent choice of metal for making cookware. Aluminum cookware does not rust, and it is resistant to corrosion. Because aluminum cookware can react with some acidic foods to change the taste of the food, most aluminum cookware has been coated with a nonstick coating or has been hard anodized. Either process will eliminate the problem of acidic reaction. About half of all the cookware produced is made from aluminum - making it the number one cookware material.
What Type of Aluminum Cookware is Best?
Aluminum cookware can be manufactured using sheet aluminum or cast aluminum. Aluminum cookware that has been made from sheet aluminum is manufactured using a pressing process under heat and pressure. Aluminum cookware that has been made from cast aluminum is made by injecting molten aluminum into a metal mold under substantial pressure. Most aluminum cookware has been pressed as it is a less expensive to press than cast. Cast aluminum cookware is generally thicker and retains heat better than pressed aluminum cookware, but it is considerably more expensive. If the cookware has been manufactured by a casting process, it will be called cast aluminum cookware. Pressed aluminum cookware will simply be called aluminum cookware as the pressing process is not called out. In addition, aluminum cookware may be hard anodized. Hard anodized aluminum cookware is aluminum cookware that has been processed in a series of chemical baths charged with an electric current. The hard anodizing process strengthens the aluminum making it twice as hard as stainless steel. Hard anodized cookware is extremely durable and is one of the most popular types of cookware. Most hard anodized aluminum cookware has been coated with a nonstick interior, and some have the coating on the exterior as well. Higher quality aluminum cookware that will last is either made from casting or has been hard anodized.
Tips on Shopping for Aluminum Cookware
Thicker aluminum cookware gives better heat distribution and cooking performance.
If your budget allows for only one piece of cast aluminum cookware, invest in a well made dutch oven as dutch oven cooking requires even heat.
If you want to be able to brown meats to a dark brown color and then deglaze the pan, chose a pan that does not have a nonstick surface but has been hard anodized.
If you choose a pan with nonstick coating, look for a pan that comes with a life-time warranty.