How does induction cooking actually work?

It starts with very powerful electromagnetic energy. An alternating current is created by the induction coil underneath the glass top, in turn, creating a magnetic field that transfers to the cookware which excites the metal molecules creating heat.

In short, only the cookware heats up. Take an egg, for example: when the frying pan is in contact with the induction zone, the egg cooks. But the egg will not cook on the glass surface, which remains cold.

Induction cooktops can be used for all types of cooking methods: boiling, frying, saute'ing, simmering and melting chocolate. By merely pressing the control panel, you can choose power levels starting at 50W.

The range of power and control is the same as with gas, but unlike with most gas cooktops, you can simmer chocolate all day because it will always maintain a constant temperature.

A number of reasons make induction cooking a great choice

• It cooks faster, is more energy efficient and is portable.
  
• Induction cooking is more energy efficient than either gas or electric cooking because the heat energy it provides goes directly into the pan to cook the food. A good part of the heat in gas or electric cooking escapes into the air around the pan.
  
• With more variables of heat control, it can cook and maintain foods from a very low simmer to a fast boil. The more wattage it has, the faster it brings up the heat.
  
• It is safer than gas and electricity because it does not get hot or have open flames, nice features if small, curious children are present.
  
• It offers cleaner cooking and easy clean-up thanks to the cool, smooth ceramic surface.

Drawbacks of Induction

• Only certain kinds of metal pans will work for induction cooking including most, but not all, stainless steel pans and cast iron pans. Glass, clay, copper, ceramic and aluminum pans are not suitable for induction cooking.
  
• While it is good for braising, tempering chocolate, making gravies, sauces and soups, it's not good for everything. You can't grill on it.

Labels: cooktop, induction