Surface Cookware Recommendations; Cookware Material Types - Kenmore Elite Use & Care Manual

Surface Cookware Recommendations

Use Proper Cookware
Cookware should have fl at bottoms that make good contact
with the cooktop grate. Check for fl atness by rotating a
ruler across the bottom of the cookware (See Figure 1). Be
sure to follow the recommendations for using cookware as
shown in Figure 2.
Note: The size and type of cookware used will infl uence the
setting needed for best cooking results.
Note: Always use a utensil for its intended purpose. Follow
manufacturer's instructions. Some utensils were not made to
be used in the oven or on the cooktop.
CORRECT
• Flat bottom and straight
sides.
• Tight fi tting lids.
• Weight of handle does
not tilt pan. Pan is well
balanced.
• Pan sizes match the
amount of food to be
prepared.
• Made of material that
conducts heat well.
• Easy to clean.
* Specialty pans such as lobster pots, griddles and pressure
cookers may be used but must conform to the above
recommended cookware requirements.
Figure 1
INCORRECT
• Curved and warped pan bot-
toms.
• Pan overhangs unit by more
than 2.5 cm (1").
• Heavy handle tilts pan.
• Flame extends beyond unit.
Figure 2

Cookware Material types

The cookware material determines how evenly and quickly
heat is transferred from the surface unit to the pan bottom.
The most popular materials available are:
ALUMINUM - Excellent heat conductor. Some types of food
will cause it to darken (Anodized aluminum cookware resists
staining & pitting).
COPPER - Excellent heat conductor but discolors easily.
STAINLESS STEEL - Slow heat conductor with uneven
cooking results. Is durable, easy to clean and resists staining.
CAST IRON - A poor heat conductor however will retain
heat very well. Cooks evenly once cooking temperature is
reached.
PORCELAIN-ENAMEL on METAL - Heating characteristics
will vary depending on base material.
GLASS - Slow heat conductor.
Using a Wok
(not supplied)
Woks with fl at bottoms suitable for use on your cooktop
are available in most cookshop or hardware stores. Round-
bottomed woks (with a support ring that does not extend
beyond the burner unit) may also be used. The metal ring
was designed to support the wok safely when it is fi lled with
large amounts of liquids (soup making) or fat (frying).
Wire trivets: Do not use wire trivets. Cookware bottoms must
be in direct contact with the grates.
DO NOT use a wok if it is equipped with
a metal ring that extends beyond the
burner unit. Because this ring traps heat,
the surface unit and cooktop surface
could be damaged.
9