Copper's warm glow and undeniable beauty have captivated cooks for millennia. Beyond its captivating aesthetics, copper cookware offers a unique and functional experience in the kitchen. In this article, we try to take you through the history of copper cookware, its benefits and some actionable tips to beautifully use copper cookware for cooking which puts your culinary game on a different level.
The History of Copper Cookware
Copper, a naturally occurring reddish metal, boasts a rich history intertwined with the art of cooking. Evidence suggests its use in tools dates back a 10,000 years, with one of the oldest pieces, a vessel from Northern Iraq, estimated to be around 8700 B.C.
Fast forward to the centuries around the Roman Empire, and copper cookware became a prized possession in wealthy households. Skilled coppersmiths emerged, crafting ever more intricate and functional pots for the elite. The durability and heat conductivity of copper made it a perfect material for preparing elaborate meals.
By the 19th century, France took center stage in the copper cookware narrative. Mauviel, established in Normandy in 1830, remains a leading name in European copper cookware to this day. Their dedication to quality and craftsmanship ensured copper's continued reign in professional kitchens. Following World War II, the story goes that Chuck Williams of Williams-Sonoma stumbled upon Dehillerin, a beloved Parisian cookware shop, and became entranced by their vast collection of gleaming copper pots and pans. This encounter, according to some accounts, sparked a renewed interest in copper cookware in the United States, bringing its unique qualities to home cooks across the Atlantic.
How Does Copper Cookware Work?
Now, let's explore what makes copper cookware so special when it comes to cooking. The secret lies in its exceptional heat conductivity. Copper conducts heat exceptionally well, surpassing even stainless steel. This translates to even heat distribution across the entire pan surface, eliminating hot spots and ensuring perfectly cooked food.
- Copper's exceptional heat conductivity allows for precise temperature control. You can easily adjust heat settings to achieve the desired results, whether it's a gentle simmer or a high sear.
- Even heat distribution combined with copper's fast responsiveness to temperature changes creates ideal conditions for caramelization. This translates to beautifully browned meats, perfectly caramelized onions, and richer flavors in your dishes.
Health Benefits of Copper Cookware
Copper is an essential mineral that plays a role in several bodily functions, including iron absorption, energy production, and enzyme function.
Copper has a fascinating property – it exhibits some level of natural antimicrobial activity. This means copper surfaces may have the ability to reduce the growth of certain bacteria and fungi.
What does this mean for copper cookware? The antimicrobial properties of copper could potentially offer a slight advantage in terms of hygiene in the kitchen. However, it's important to remember several key points:
- Cooking Temperatures. The antimicrobial properties of copper are most effective at cooler temperatures. During cooking, high heat can negate this effect.
- Limited Surface Area. The contact between food and the copper surface in cookware is relatively minimal, especially when considering utensils and stirring.
- Cleaning Remains Crucial. Maintaining proper hygiene practices like washing hands, utensils, and surfaces is still essential for safe food handling.
Copper Cookware Care
Copper cookware requires a bit more care than other types of cookware, but the extra effort is rewarded with a lifetime of beautiful and functional pots and pans.
- Cleaning. Use warm, soapy water and a soft sponge for everyday cleaning. Avoid abrasive scrubbers or harsh detergents, as they can damage the copper surface. For stubborn stains, a paste of white vinegar and salt can be used.
- Polishing. Regular polishing helps maintain the beautiful shine of your copper cookware. Several copper polishes are available, or you can create a homemade solution with lemon juice and salt.
- Tin Lining. Many copper pots and pans have a tin lining. Tin is a softer metal that reacts with acidic foods. Over time, the tin lining can wear down and need to be re-tinned. It's essential to have your tin lining inspected and reapplied periodically by a professional tinsmith.
Tips for Using Copper Cookware
- Preheat Properly. Copper heats up quickly, so preheating for a short time is sufficient.
- Use the Right Utensils. Avoid metal utensils that can scratch the copper surface. Opt for wooden or silicone utensils instead.
- Acidic Foods. While some copper cookware has a tin lining that protects against acidic foods, it's always best to avoid cooking highly acidic foods (like tomatoes) for extended periods to preserve the tin lining.
Conclusion 🥘
In addition to visually appealing, copper cookware is also exceptional in the kitchen owing to the fact that there are some distinct culinary benefits associated with it. Copper ensures there is an even distribution of heat leading to accurate temperature control which has made it most preferable among chefs and other people who love cooking at home as well. Proper care however needs to be taken when handling copper although it may not be as hard as it may sound for its usability and beauty are preserved for long if carefully looked after.
