Copper pans are often used by professional chefs because they are excellent conductors of heat, and therefore deliver a precision that isn't matched by other types of pans. With a little bit of care, copper pans can just as easily be used by the home chef. Copper pans differ from other types of pans in the way they cook food and also in their care instructions. As long as these pans are used properly and are well maintained, they can be an excellent addition to any kitchen. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Instructions
1. Take a look at the copper pan. If it appears to be unlined copper without a stainless steel interior, do not prepare foods with high acidity (such as tomatoes or citrus fruits) in the pan. Highly acidic foods oxidize copper at a faster pace than do other types of foods, meaning that more of the metal gets into the final product. When consumed in high enough doses, copper can cause serious illness.
2. Put the food in the pan before placing the pan on the hot stove. Because copper conducts heat so efficiently, if does not need to preheat. If copper pans are preheated, the soft metal can be damaged.
3. Stir the food with a wooden utensil, since this type of utensil will not scratch the surface of the pan.
4. Keep an eye on the pan at all times, particularly if adjusting the heat. Because copper heats so quickly and thoroughly, foods finish cooking faster than in other types of pans. This means that the food also burns more quickly; keep an eye on the food at all times to prevent this.
5. Transfer the completed dish to a food storage container immediately. Food should never be stored or allowed to sit for long periods of time in copper pans, because that gives the food more time to absorb the copper.
6. Wash the pot by hand immediately after use to avoid marring the surface of the metal. Use a soft sponge or cloth when washing the pan, since steel wool and other types of abrasive scrubbers will scratch the pan. Never put copper pans in the dishwasher.
7. Polish the pan after each use. Make a paste of salt and lemon juice and rub it into the pan until it shines. Rinse the pan clean with warm water and dry it with a soft, clean towel to prevent water spots.
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