Enamelware household goods have quickly become a household favourite over the recent years. And for good reason: the list of admirable qualities is long.
Enamel's history goes way back: the first pieces of enamel found buried in Mycenae, Greece, are 3500 years old. Porcelain enamel has been popular in many cultures for jewelry and arts and crafts. For example: the famous Fabergé eggs are decorated with porcelain enamel. During the Industrial Revolution it became technically possible to bind elements of glass and iron firmly together. This development inspired more functional uses of enameling, as users became aware of the durable, heat-resistant and long-lasting qualities of the coating. Since then, enamel cookware has been a popular and reliable choice in homes and with chefs.
But, what is enamel exactly? What is enamel cookware made of?
To put it simply: enamel cookware is metal base, usually steel, cast iron or aluminium, with a glass coating. This glass coating is made of porcelain: a ceramic material made from a type of white clay called kaolin plus other types of rocks. Enamel is made by fusing powdered porcelain to a substrate under high temperatures (850 degrees celsius). The powder melts, flows and then hardens to a seamless, durable coating thats bonds to the iron material.
Why is enamel so populair? What are the benefits of using enamel in the kitchen?
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Durable
Scratch resistant and unbreakable. The non-reactive enamel glaze prevents the pan's iron from rusting or discolouring, lengthening it's life-span. Drop it and the porcelain layer may chip, but it will not break. If cared for properly, enamel cookware will last for many years and can be passed on to next generations. -
Concious choice
Apart from being high quality and durable, which makes them last for many years, the raw materials used to produce both the enamel and the steel base are fully recyclable. They do not contain polluting substances, making enamel products an environment-friendly choice. -
Versatile
Suitable for all heat sources and any type of stovetop. Enamel pots and pans can be heated to high temperatures without being damaged provided it is not empty, which makes it a popular choice Oven, dishwasher, refrigerator and freezer safe, whilst it also can be used as a serving dish. -
Easy to use and clean
The smooth, non porous surface ensures a perfect level of hygiene when cooking, baking and conserving food. It's non-stick qualities requires less oil or butter with cooking, making it a good companion for healthier eating whilst also making it easier not to burn food onto the inside of the enamelware. -
Low maintenance
Enamel glazed surface does not need any kind of seasoning, so it requires very little maintenance. On top of that: the enamel glaze also prevents rusting. -
Attractive
Today the timeless design of enamel cookware has acquired a certain fashionability, meaning people enjoy its visual appeal not only for cooking, but for the presentation of their food as well.
Take a look at our amazing enamelware collection here.
Tips to take care of your enamelware:
- Cleaning your enamel will be a short and sweet process, but please keep in mind to let it cool down before starting the cleaning process. A drastic temperature change can cause the enamel to crack.
- Be wary of keeping your pot submerged in water, as this can cause water to become trapped inside potential small cracks. Trapped water creates a perfect storm for rusting.
- Wash your pan using a little bit of soap and water, or put it in the dishwasher. Please make sure to clean your cookware of food residues right away, before putting it in the dishwasher.
- Avoid using steel wool scrubbers or other abrasive cleaning items.
- Using wooden tools is advised.
- If your enamel gets stains from potent foods like beets, brush quarter-sized amount of baking soda in your pan before rinsing it off.
- As enamel is part metal, it is unfortunately not microwave safe.
- In case your enamel does get chipped, please make sure to dry the bare spot carefully each time you wash it to keep it from rusting.
In case you have more questions about enamel or one of our enamel products, feel free to reach out to hello@ezustudio.com.
