Handles are an inseparable part of pots and pans and sometimes bakeware. Their contribution to a smooth cooking experience can often be overlooked. However, they have a significant role in the overall cooking process. The kitchenware handles' design, material, and ergonomics significantly contribute to one's cooking experience. That's why choosing the kitchenware with the right type of handles matters for home cooks and professional chefs alike.
This article lists the factors underlying the significance of cookware handles and the common materials used. Scroll down to discover why cookware handles are important and how to use them.
Below, you will find the essential factors you should consider for evaluating cookware handles:
- Safety:
Safety is the top priority when judging the handles of any cookware. Cooking is typically a heat-intensive process, and for that reason, safety is of the utmost importance. The handles of cookware should be heat-resistant to prevent burns. The other important feature is the weight-holding capacity. Handles should be durable enough to hold the total weight of the cookware with food inside. Failure to do so may result in serious injuries.
- Comfort:
Handles with a comfortable grip can ease the cooking process. An easy and comfortable grip can lift some of the workload, especially with panhandles, since cooking in pans sometimes requires tossing and flipping. Thin or small handles may cause difficulties.
- Control:
Effectively controlling cookware handles is crucial for a smooth cooking experience. You can achieve adequate control with optimally designed handles. A well-designed handle is heat-resistant, easy to use, and balanced.
Cookware handles are made with various materials. Here are the most common types and their essential characteristics:
- Metal:
Metal cookware handles are mainly stainless steel, cast iron, and aluminum. In most cases, the handle attached is the same as the cookware's material. A cast iron pot often has cast iron handles, whereas a stainless steel pan likely has handles from the same material. However, sometimes, there can be mixes and matches regarding cookware and handles.
Metal cookware handles are durable, and most of them are heat resistant. This means you can safely hold a hot pan's handle, although sometimes, heat resistance can be hard to achieve with cast iron.
- Plastic:
Cookware handles are made with special plastics that are light, offer a good grip, and don't conduct heat. Although these handles can endure high temperatures, it is always a good idea to ensure they aren't exposed directly to the heat source.
- Bakelite:
Bakelite is a thermosetting phenol formaldehyde resin. It is also a type of plastic, but it's renowned in the world of cookware, so it deserves an individual mention. Bakelite is a poor heat conductor, offering a safe hold with hot utensils. The only downside of bakelite is that, over time, its color can change due to exposure to heat.
- Silicone:
Silicone can also be classified under the category of plastic. However, its unique chemical composure is mainly described as a hybrid because of silica. The ingredient silicon comes from silica, which is derived from sand. Silicone cookware handles are poor heat conductors and offer a soft grip.
- Wooden:
Wood, a poor heat conductor, is sometimes used in cookware handles. It’s safe because it does not transmit heat. However, cookware with wooden handles should be used with extra care to avoid burns on the material.
Regarding how to properly use cookware handles, there are a few significant points to consider:
- Some cookware, especially pan sets, has detachable handles. These provide optimal storage. However, when improperly attached, safety risks can arise. Be careful about detachable handles on cookware sets, and ensure you attach them safely.
- Avoid using cookware with wooden handles in the oven. However, you can use other cookware handle types with precaution. Using oven methods is a solution. You can also cover the handles with aluminum foil. The aluminum foil protects them from getting overheated and allows a safe hold.
- When using on stovetops, turn the panhandles inward. This safety precaution prevents many kitchen accidents, such as spills and burns.
- Be aware of your cookware's weight limitations and avoid overloading. Overloading can make it hard to control the cookware, leading to accidents. This is especially important for cast iron cookware, which is already heavy. Overloading a heavy pan can make it difficult to carry and control.
Cookware handles are important for cooking safely, comfortably, and controllably. We recommend purchasing cookware with optimally designed and sturdy handles for safe usage. Overall, well-designed cookware handles significantly contribute to a safer and more enjoyable cooking experience.