The Best Utensils for Enamel Cookware: Protecting Your Pots and Pans

Using the right utensils when cooking in your Chef Enamel cookware is always important. You may assume that it doesn’t make much difference whether you use metal, wood or silicone utensils. In reality, some utensils can scratch the surface of your pots and pans. Over time, these tiny scratches can lead to wear and tear. Besides protecting your enamel cookware and making sure it lasts you many years, there are a few other things to consider when choosing your utensils.

What Utensils to Use in Enamel Cookware

Generally speaking, cooking utensils come in three materials: metal, wood and silicone. These materials are not interchangeable. This means that there are a few key differences that affect your cooking. Here’s what you need to know about each type of utensil that may be used in your enamel cookware.

Metal

Metal utensils are not a good choice for enamel-coated cast iron pots, pans and skillets. The reason for this is that metal can easily scratch the surface of the enamel. You may not notice the tiny scratches at first. Over time, the surface will start to develop cracks. Using a metal pancake flipper or spatula that does not make much contact with the surface of the cookware will not cause much harm. Using metal spoons that scrape against the surface will shorten the lifespan of your cookware.

Wood

For stirring as you cook, you can never go wrong with wooden utensils. Classic wooden spoons are gentle enough to use without the risk of scratching or wear and tear. You will be able to store food properly without having to try and avoid touching the sides or bottom of the pot. The one downside to wood is that it can stain over time, as wood is porous. On the upside, they don’t conduct heat, which means that they do not alter the temperature of food as you cook.

Silicone

Silicone utensils have an extreme heat tolerance and don’t burn your hands the way that wooden or metal utensil handles might do. They don’t stain or absorb any smells over time, either. They are safe to use, easy to wash and dry and can be used for everything from spoons to spatulas, basting brushes and other accessories. 

Whichever utensils you decide to use, Chef enamel cookware will last you many years, giving you plenty of enjoyment with every meal.