There has been a lot of debate on the subject is granite cookware safe? I have scoured the Internet for information on this subject and found that most of it was guesswork based on very little factual evidence. As with anything else, there is no one size fits all answer to this question.
Introduction
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to use this type of cookware is yours. I am simply going to present you with the facts and let you decide what’s right for you.
It is important that we first understand how granite forms before we get into any discussion about its longevity. Granite is formed when magma cools slowly under the earth’s surface. The molten rock, which is under intense pressure, cools at a temperature of about 1°C to 2°C every 100 years. The resulting stone has an extremely high melting point with an extremely low water absorption rate that can be anywhere from 0% up to .04%.
The metamorphic process involves the recrystallization of rock under heat and pressure. The rocks are first broken down by the heat to form clay-like fragments that are then pushed into new formations through compression, which results in granite being formed.
When heated, it forms a glassy, vitreous substance known as Corundum (you may be familiar with this substance if you have ever worn a pair of sapphire earrings.) This process is known as tempering and is useful for strengthening the granite cookware and preventing it from cracking during use.
The whole point here is that these stone pots and pans are formed through very intense heat, then cooled down slowly over several years, not because they have been baked in a large oven.
Physical Properties of Granite Cookware
The physical properties of granite cookware are what makes them so sought after by chefs worldwide. The pots and pans are extremely hard, yet lightweight and resistant to heat transfer. In fact, they are harder than any metal that is being used for cookware, including cast iron and stainless steel.
The thermal conductivity or conduction of heat through the pot or pan is almost non-existent. This prevents food from burning on one side while being undercooked on the other. The use of granite cookware eliminates hot spots and allows you to cook with even heat that will give your food a nice, even golden crust without overcooking the center.
The pots and pans are also highly resistant to scratching or chipping. You can use a metal spoon in them without any damage happening to them. This is very important as you want your cookware to last for many years, not just a few months while you wait out the warranty.
Since these pots and pans absorb very little water, they are not affected by acidic or alkaline foods. You don’t have to worry about the food reacting with the cookware and changing its flavor because of this.
There is a myth out there that granite pots and pans release heavy metals into your food that can be harmful to you. This is utter nonsense! Rest assured that these pots and pans are safe to use in your kitchen area, and the amount of heavy metals released into your food is well within safety limits.
The most important thing to keep in mind when buying granite cookware is that it is not like traditional pots and pans with a copper bottom or stainless steel lid; it’s a completely different material altogether. Its longevity is based on the way it is designed and not on the way you are supposed to use it.
I strongly recommend that you only hand wash your granite cookware. Do not use metal utensils on the surface as they will cause scratching and damage to your cookware. You must also remember never to put this type of cookware in a microwave.
The reputable companies out there, such as Cooks Standard, Mauviel, Staub, and Demeyere, all make a wide range of cookware using this material. You can get pots and pans with black phenolic resin insulation covers, stainless steel handles, glass lids, or ceramic enamel tops to add beauty to your kitchen area. High-quality materials such as copper or stainless steel are also being used on the base of some models for maximum heat conductivity.
If you are looking for a safe alternative to traditional pots and pans, or maybe an extra set of cookware for your home catering business, granite is the way to go. They will be sturdy enough for commercial use as well as being just as suitable in a kitchen area at home. I highly recommend them because of their performance and durability.
What are the Pros and Cons of granite cookware?
There are some pros and cons of using granite cookware.
Let’s look at the Pros first:
• Cooks evenly, due to its heavyweight.
• Doesn’t get scratched easily because it is resistant to heat.
• Can withstand higher temperatures than metal pots and pans, saving energy costs.
Now let’s look at the Cons:
• The pots and pans scratch easily due to their hardness.
• Harder to clean than non-stick cookware. You have to use the soft side of a sponge or cloth as harsh cleaning materials will cause the granite to deteriorate.
• Granite loses some of its heat transfer properties when cold, and therefore requires a longer pre-heating time and longer cooking times to cook your food the same as metal.
Is Granite Cookware Safe – Conclusion
There is one main conclusion you should come to Granite cookware is a superb product that will make your cooking sessions very enjoyable. It is great for preparing all kinds of food in the kitchen area and for seeing to it that they are evenly cooked. This means no hot spots or burnt areas on the food you prepare, so everything turns out the way you want it to. If you are looking for something that will last long, I recommend going with this type of cookware. It is not cheap but should last for many years. Your children’s children can use them!
After reading this article, you now have enough information about using granite cookware. You know what they are made from, you know the benefits of using them, and you also have some information about their weaknesses.