The versatility and aesthetics of glass cookware makes it a draw for many home cooks. It is available in several hues, so those who are looking for cookware to match their kitchen décor often turn to glassware. Additionally, since glass is nonreactive, it can be used with a wider variety of ingredients than many other types of cookware, such as aluminum. In order to assess whether or not glass cookware is right for your needs, however, first review its uses, limitations, price point, and durability.
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Best Uses for Glass Cookware
As mentioned, cookware made from glass is nonreactive, which is good news for those who often use acidic (tomatoes, citrus) or alkaline foods (greens, peppers) in their recipes. Unlike many metal-based cookware products, there is nothing in glass that will leech into the food while it is being cooked. Glass is also a naturally nonstick surface, so it is one of the easiest types of cookware to clean.
Even with all of the diversity that glass affords a home cook, it does have its limitations. While glass absorbs more heat than shiny metal cookware such as aluminum, and it is a good heat retainer, glass isn’t the best at heat distribution. So, when a recipe calls for metal bake ware, but glass bake ware is used instead, it is suggested that the oven be set 25° lower than called for in the instructions.
Glass is used to manufacture everything from stovetop pots and pans to baking dishes. However, since glass is much easier to break and more temperamental toward heat changes than other materials, if you’re cooking on the stove top, only use glass cookware specifically designed for such a purpose. As a rule, glass cookware is not typically suited to work on induction stovetops, but can be used on standard electric and gas stove tops.
Glass cookware should not be used to broil foods because the high temperature can lead to breakage of the glass. Due to the danger associated with such breakage, glass cookware should also be heated up and cooled down slowly as quick variations in temperature can weaken or break glass. Additionally, though the vast majority of glass cookware is microwave safe, you should check the manufacturer’s instructions before using it in the microwave.
Glass Cookware Costs
It is easy to find stove top cookware with glass lids, but it is not as easy to find pots and pans made of glass. They are certainly available, but it make require a bit of effort to locate the exact size, style and color you want, and you may have to opt for a used version. As rare as it seems to be though, the price point of glass cookware is considered to be moderate, not expensive. Glass costs more than aluminum but is less expensive than copper. For example, a used 10-piece mixed bake ware and cookware set will cost about $130, and a comparable new set will cost about $150.
Ideal Consumer for Glass Cookware
Since glass retains heat well and keeps food warmer longer, it is ideal for people who entertain a lot, or for busy families who eat at separate times. Its versatility also means that glass can be moved from the stovetop to the oven to the refrigerator, which is another benefit for those who entertain or families who don’t always eat together. Cooks can use the same glass pot to prepare a meal in advance, store it in the refrigerator, and then cook it at the appropriate time.
In light of the fact that glass does not distribute heat as well as other products, this type of cookware is best suited for preparing foods that require a lot of stirring. This might include soups, stews, gravies, or sauces. Glass cookware is also ideal for home cooks who often prepare ‘one pot’ meals, such as oven or stove top casseroles.
Those who cook a lot of red sauce (tomato, wine) or vegetable-based dishes should consider using glass cookware as well because of its nonreactive nature. Glass won’t affect the taste of the food because there is no metal to leech into it.
The weight of glass (and potential for breakage) makes it a poor choice for anyone with arthritis or other health issues that make it difficult to handle heavy objects. The danger associated with the possibility of the glass breaking is also a key reason why it should not be used when children are helping in the kitchen.
Glass Cookware Durability
When cleaned and used properly, glass cookware can last years. One of the big drawbacks, however, is the danger associated with the glass breaking. This danger is a key reason why glass should not be used when children are helping in the kitchen. It is also an important reason to be diligent about heating up and cooling down glass slowly.
Cleaning Glass Cookware
While most glass cookware is dishwasher safe, it is best washed by hand in warm soapy water for a couple of reasons. The glass will typically come out cleaner when washed by hand (especially with stuck on foods), and the force of the dishwasher jets could weaken or crack the glass. If you wish to clean your glass cookware in the dishwasher, check the manufacturer’s instructions before doing so.
The advantages and disadvantages of glass cookware are certainly a mixed bag. It can be ideal or those who value aesthetics, and those who require food to stay warmer longer.