Simmering and Braising

• Heat diffusers can be used to create slow, even heat for simmering sauces, braising meats or caramelizing vegetables. Once heated, they distribute the heat throughout the bottom of the pan, eliminating the need to adjust the burner, or pan, to maintain the proper temperature. They are also convenient for melting chocolate when making holiday confections. While the diffuser works with both gas and electric stoves, it's especially useful on gas stoves, as the simmer settings on gas burners can be tricky.

Toasting Breads

• Placing flatbread or tortillas directly on the heat diffuser allows you to heat them without scorching the bottom. Because the heat is evenly distributed, you will get an even browning over the surface of the bread. Try the heat diffuser to make toast from homemade bread to mimic the flavor of toast made on the wood stove. Do not place breads spread with butter or fats on the diffuser.

Protecting Your Cookware

• Heat diffusers do more than prevent burning or scorching; they also protect the surface of your cookware. Because your pan does not come in contact with the burner, it eliminates heat stains or soot on the bottom of your pans. Large heat diffusers also prevent the handles from your cookware from getting hot.

Choosing Cookware

• When used with low heat, the heat diffuser allows you to cook with terra cotta or glass as well as with traditional cookware on the stove top and turns any pan into a pan with a heavy bottom. They can be used with Dutch ovens, saucepans and frying pans with ease. A heat diffuser can even be used to keep coffee or other beverages warm.

Washing Heat Diffusers

• Always allow the heat diffuser to cool completely before washing it. Use hot water and dish detergent to remove any stains or food particles. Rinse with hot water to remove all soap and food residue, and dry the diffuser thoroughly before storing it.