Ceramic Vs Granite Cookware – What You Need to Know
Ceramic vs granite cookware has been a debate going on for years. And for a good reason – both materials have their pros and cons.
Ceramic cookware is a popular choice for home cooks because it is safer than other materials such as aluminum or copper. But is ceramic better for you? And which material should you choose for your cookware – ceramic or granite?
From cooking performance to safety to price, there are a lot of factors to consider when choosing the right cookware for your kitchen. And without enough knowledge on the subject, it can be hard to decide which is the better option for you.
Fortunately, we’ve done the deep dive for you and compiled all the information you need to know about ceramic vs. granite cookware. Read on to find out which material is the best choice for your kitchen.
What is Ceramic Cookware?
Ceramic cookware comes from clay that has been fired in a kiln. The firing process gives the cookware a hard, non-porous surface. Ceramic cookware is usually coated with a clear, colored, or patterned glaze.
The most popular type of ceramic cookware is known as “stoneware.” Stoneware is made from a type of clay called kaolin. Kaolin is a white clay mined in large quantities in the United States, Brazil, and Australia.
There are two varieties of ceramic cookware you might come across – solid ceramic cookware and ceramic-coated cookware. Solid ceramic cookware is made entirely from ceramic, while ceramic-coated cookware has a metal or aluminum core coated with a layer of ceramic.
Ceramic cookware is safe to use on all stovetops, including gas, electric, and induction (in the oven and microwave). However, it is not recommended for use on the grill or over an open flame.
Ceramic cookware is a good choice for home cooks because it is safe and non-toxic. It is also more durable than other types of cookware, and it can withstand high temperatures.
Advantages of Ceramic Cookware
There are several advantages to using ceramic cookware:
- It is safe and non-toxic: Ceramic cookware is made from natural materials that are safe for humans. The firing process also eliminates any harmful toxins present in the clay.
- It is durable: Ceramic cookware is very strong and can last for years with proper care.
- Oven-safe: Ceramic cookware can withstand high temperatures, making it safe to use in the oven.
- It is easy to clean: Ceramic cookware is non-porous and does not absorb flavors or odors. It is also dishwasher-safe.
- Ceramic is nonstick: Ceramic cookware has a smooth surface that prevents food from sticking.
Disadvantages of Ceramic Cookware
There are also some disadvantages to using ceramic cookware:
- It is breakable: Ceramic cookware is fragile and can break if dropped or mishandled.
- It is expensive: Ceramic cookware is pricier than other types of cookware, such as stainless steel or aluminum.
What is Granite Cookware?
Granite cookware is made from a material called granite. It is an igneous rock formed when magma cools down and solidifies. Granite is a very hard and durable material, making it an excellent choice for cooking pots and pans.
Advantages of Granite Cookware
Granite cookware has several advantages over other types of cookware.
1. Durable
Perhaps the most obvious advantage is that it is very durable. Granite is a very hard material, so it can withstand wear and tear. This makes it an ideal choice for people who do a lot of cooking or entertaining.
2. Easy to clean
Another advantage of granite cookware is that it is very easy to clean. Granite is a non-porous material, so it does not absorb stains or odors. This makes it very easy to keep your granite cookware looking new.
3. Lighter than most cookware
Compared to cast iron’s weight, a granite pan is much lighter, making it easier to maneuver. If you have ever cooked with a cast-iron skillet, you know how heavy they can be. This is not the case with granite cookware.
4. Attractive
Finally, granite cookware is very attractive. The natural beauty of the stone makes it a stylish addition to any kitchen.
Disadvantages of Granite Cookware
There are also some disadvantages to using granite cookware:
1. Not suitable for glass stovetops
If you have a glass stovetop, you should not use granite cookware. The granite can scratch the surface of the stove. Even worse, if the granite pan gets too hot, it can crack the glass.
2. It’s not nonstick
While most manufacturers claim that granite cookware is nonstick, this is not always the case. Food can stick to the surface if you do not season your pan properly.
3. Requires special care
Granite cookware requires special care. It should be washed by hand and never placed in the dishwasher. In addition, it should be seasoned regularly to maintain its nonstick properties.
4. Poor heat retention
Because modern granite comes with a thinner layer of stone, it does not retain heat as well as older granite cookware. This can be a problem if you like to cook with even heat.
READ ALSO: How Much are Ceramic Braces?
Ceramic Vs Granite Cookware: What’s the Difference?
After going over the advantages and disadvantages of ceramic and granite cookware, you may wonder what the difference is.
Here is a quick overview:
Safety
Ceramic cookware is made from natural materials that are safe for humans. The firing process also eliminates any harmful toxins present in the clay.
Granite cookware is also considered to be safe. However, some people worry about chemicals leaching from the granite into food.
Durability
Ceramic cookware is breakable and can chip or crack if dropped. On the other hand, granite cookware is very durable. It can withstand much wear and tear and is unlikely to break.
Weight
Ceramic cookware is usually heavier than granite cookware. This is because it is made from clay, a denser material.
Ease of Cleaning
Both types of cookware are easy to clean. However, granite cookware has the advantage of being non-porous. This means that it is less likely to absorb stains or odors.
Heat Retention
Ceramic cookware retains heat well. This is because clay is a good conductor of heat. Granite cookware does not retain heat as well as ceramic cookware.
Performance
Because ceramic can retain the stove’s heat, it can help you cook food more evenly. On the other hand, Granite cookware does not retain heat as well.
Style
While style is subjective, many people find ceramic cookware more attractive than granite. This is because it comes in a variety of colors and patterns.
At the same time, granite cookware has a more natural look that some people prefer.
Price
Ceramic cookware is usually less expensive than granite cookware. This is because it is mass-produced and does not require as much labor to produce.
Ceramic Vs Granite Cookware: Which One Should You Choose?
So, which one should you choose: ceramic vs granite cookware? The answer depends on your needs and preferences.
If you are looking for safe and easy to clean cookware, ceramic cookware is good. It is also a good choice if you want cookware that retains heat well.
Granite cookware is a good choice if you are looking for durable cookware that is less likely to break. It is also a good choice if you are looking for more stylish cookware.
Ultimately, the decision is up to you. Consider your needs and preferences before making a decision. Ceramic and granite cookware both have their advantages and disadvantages. Choose the one that best suits your needs.
