How to Cook with Enamelware

Enamelware can be used in the oven or on the stove top.

Enamelware refers to metal cookware coated with an enamel to make it nonstick and easier to clean. This enamel does not have the same durability as the cast iron or aluminum beneath it, and improper cooking techniques or cleaning will crack the enamel, inviting bacteria into the cracks. Use your enamelware correctly to ensure its longevity.

Things You'll Need

• Enamelware
• Cooking spray or vegetable oil
• Silicone or plastic cooking utensils

Instructions

1. Set the enamelware pot on top of a stove burner closest in size to the pot.

2. Add vegetable oil or cooking spray to the pan to coat the inside.

3. Put your food inside the pan and turn the stove to low or medium heat. Never heat an empty cooking pot coated with enamel.

4. Use lower-heat applications for stove-top cooking, such as simmering or braising. Avoid sauteing or frying in an enamelware pot. Stir food with non-metal utensils to avoid scratching the enamel.

5. Coat the enamelware pot with cooking oil, fill it with food and place the entire pot into a preheated oven for baking. Bake according to your recipe, but only use temperatures lower than 400 degrees Fahrenheit as the handles on some brands will become damaged from higher temperatures.

6. Wait for the pot to completely cool before hand washing in warm, soapy water using a soft sponge. Dry the pot completely before storing.

Tips & Warnings

• Never microwave an enamelware pot or use over an open flame on a grill. It is safe to use enamelware on gas stove flames, according to cookware manufacturer Lodge Cast Iron.

References

• Lodge: Enamelware Use and Care
• Recipe Tips: Cookware Types