Copper

• According to Kitchen Emporium, copper cookware is common among chefs because it provides efficiency and control. The advantages of using copper include the beauty of the metal, efficiency of heating and its ability to promptly adjust to temperature changes. On the negative side, it is more expensive than cookware made from other materials, and it is not dishwasher-safe. Additionally, copper can interact with certain foods, dents easily and can tarnish if not regularly polished.

Stainless Steel

• According to the Cookware Consumer Guide, stainless steel is one of the most common cookware materials due to its strength and durability. The lightweight material is easily cared for and doesn't rust or tarnish. It is also dishwasher-safe and well priced. Stainless steel does not conduct heat evenly; however, and it is commonly combined with other metals to enhance its performance. For example, stainless steel cookware with a copper or aluminum core cooks evenly.

Cast Iron

• Cast iron is a good choice for baking, frying or browning due to the cast iron's ability to evenly distribute heat. It is usually reasonably priced and retains heat, keeping foods warm for longer. Some disadvantages of cast iron include the heavy weight and its need to be "seasoned." Unseasoned pans can absorb and transfer cooking flavors. To season a cast iron pan, wash and dry the pan, rub the surface with shortening and bake in a 300 -degree oven for one hour. Afterward, the surface is essentially non-stick and won't retain flavors.

Aluminum

• According to Kitchen Emporium, aluminum is nearly as efficient in conducting heat as copper; however, it is a relatively soft metal which scratches easily. Hard anodized cookware is hardened aluminum. The anodization process hardens the exterior while maintaining an aluminum core to enhance the strength and durability of the cookware.

Combination of Metals

• Clad, also called "bonded," cookware is combined from several metals. The combination of metals enhances the cookware's performance since the benefits of various types of metal are combined in one pot or pan. For example, stainless steel cookware frequently includes a copper core which provides consumers with the benefits of copper (even heating) while still maintaining the easy care of stainless steel.