Are Enamel Pots Oven Safe? (And Safe For Baking?)
Enamel pots have become one of the popular cookware in recent times. These pots are versatile, and you can use them for cooking whatever cast iron cookware can cook.
Enamel pots are also an excellent conductor of heat and are super easy to clean. But you must understand how your cookware would react when used in the oven or other heat source.
Now the question is, are enamel pots oven-safe? You have to be certain before throwing your enamel pot in the oven.
So, keep reading if you’re using enamel pots and want to know if they can handle the heat inside the oven. Here, we’ll discuss all you need to know about using enamel pots for cooking.
Are Enamel Dishes Oven Safe?
Yes, enamel dishes are oven-safe. Why? The materials used in making enamel dishes make it possible to use enamel in the oven and other heat sources.
Enamel dishes are manufactured using porcelain and heavy steel metal. Thus, they can withstand open flames, ovens, and even stovetops.
A high-quality enamel dish can last for almost a lifetime. But keep in mind that enamel or any dish’s durability depends on how you use and maintain the kitchenware.
When subjected to corrosive substances and high temperatures, your enamel dish could wear out over time.
A Handy Tip: Enamel dishes are perfect for magnetic induction and all types of stovetops. You can even put enamel dishes in the freezer too.
Is Scratched Enamel Cookware Safe?
No, it’s not safe. However, if you have chipped enamelware, check if your warranty is still running and take advantage of it.
Several companies like Le Creuset and Lodge boast amazing warranty coverage. So, you can have your cookware replaced without any hassles.
Many cookware companies don’t favor using chipped enamelware. Why? The reason isn’t because of the cast iron. Instead, there’s a chance the chip might grow bigger as it encounters the hot food.
Now, the issue isn’t the chipped portion getting bigger. It’s the chances of more enamel ending up in your food. It’s a huge health risk.
Is Vintage Enamelware Safe To Use?
No, it’s not safe. Avoid using vintage enamelware for cooking. Why? Antique enamel and vintage cookware pose several health risks you shouldn’t take for granted. When used for cooking, vintage enamelware can leave you poisoned with heavy metals.
The vintage enamel cookware looks adorable. But its heavy metal toxicity levels make the cookware unsafe for cooking. It contains a considerable amount of cadmium and lead.
Additionally, there’s a possibility of heavy metal such as lead in old enamel cookware.
So, what’s the conclusion on this? It’s quite simple.
Vintage enamel pieces of cookware were made several years ago. And while they look appealing, they pose a severe health risk. It would be wise to avoid pots and pans produced before this period. Don’t use such cookware for cooking.
A Handy Tip: Lead regulation was never in place until the 1970s. So there’s a big chance that pots and pans produced before that time had an enormous amount of lead.
So, antique pieces of cookware aren’t ideal for cooking. But you can touch and use them for other purposes except cooking.
Now, how can you determine if your old cookware has lead? It’s simple. Utilize your lead testing kit to decipher the lead content.
Additionally, if you buy modern cookware from a country where FDA guidelines on the lead are effective, rest assured that the cookware is safe for use.
Is Enamel Safe For Baking?
Yes, you use enamel cookware for baking 100%, and you won’t regret using the cookware. Many may worry that toxins may leach into their foods when using enamel for baking, but that won’t be the case.
Enamel is safe for cooking even at high temperatures. By the way, this cookware can withstand high temperatures well.
Just ensure the inside of the cookware is intact. In other words, there should be no scratches on the inside of the cookware. If that’s the case, avoid using the enamel cookware for baking.
Another scenario that can make enamel cookware unsafe or less safe for baking is the presence of lead. If your enamel cookware is old, please keep this in mind: the chances of lead toxicity are high.
We understand FDA regulations on lead coating vary from one country to another. But that aside, it’s important to avoid using old enamel or vintage cookware, given that they may contain high lead.
What Are Enamel Pots Good For?
One reason enamel pots are many people’s favorite is their versatility. You can use them on open flames, induction stoves, stovetops, and even ovens. You can also cook anything you want in an enamel pot with ease.
You can deep fry your chicken or anything you want in an enamel pot. You can even simmer, sauté, and boil whatever you want in the cookware.
Consider using enamel pots if you plan to prepare stew or even gravy. Also, enamel pots are a wise choice when cooking foods that boast a long simmering time, as they can get the job done satisfactorily.
Enamel pans make a wise choice for broiling and searing meat. In addition, the pots are ideal for bread and even cake baking.
So, regardless of what you’re cooking on, whether it’s in the oven or on a stovetop, you should feel free when using the enamel cookware.
What’s The Difference Between Enameled And Cast Iron?
What differentiates enameled from cast iron? Let’s discuss them below.
Durability: When it comes to durability, the enameled cookware is a wise option. You can use plenty of soap to wash this cookware without damaging it. And what’s more, it won’t rust.
Enameled cast iron cookware doesn’t retain strong aromas from ingredients like vinegar, onions, and ginger used for cooking. As a result, it performs better in these aspects than cast iron.
However, keep in mind that heating enameled cookware when empty can damage it. And unlike cast iron, enameled cookware isn’t non-stick.
Price point: Let’s face it: enameled cast iron is more expensive than regular cast iron. But then, other less expensive options still exist.
Why is enameled cast iron more expensive? Several factors play a crucial role. One is the brand, while the other reason is the enameling process. As a result, making enameled cookware comes at a higher cost to the manufacturer.
So, if more steps and materials are used in the production process, the higher the price point.
Design variety: The design and style are additional features that separate the enameled and the cast iron cookware.
The enameled cast iron comes in various styles and gorgeous colors. You can even find enameled cookware that has your dream color and perfectly complements other appliances and cookware in the kitchen.
Pros And Cons of Enamel Cookware
Enamel cookware boasts several pros that make it ideal kitchenware, but it also has cons. So it’s important to learn about the pros and cons to make an informed decision. So let’s discuss them in detail.
Pros of Enamel Cookware:
Good heat resistance: Heat resistance is one of the qualities that set enamel cookware apart. You can use this cookware on an open flame, but make sure it’s not empty.
The enamel cookware will stretch to accommodate the underlying metal’s expansion perfectly and won’t crack.
Versatility: Enamel pieces of cookware are adored for their versatility. You can use them for grilling, broiling, sautéing, baking, and preparing all kinds of meals.
Easy cleaning: After cooking, cleaning is always a difficult task and the one reason many people detests cooking. But if you’re using enamel cookware, you will find that cleaning is a breeze.
Firstly, enamel cookware is a breeze to wash, thanks to its smooth surface. Just use warm water and soap to clean your cookware after each use.
On the other hand, enamel cookware is dishwasher safe.
Aesthetically pleasing: You can get enamel cookware in various gorgeous styles and colors to beautify your cooking space.
You will also find beautiful multicolored enamel cookware to make your kitchen the envy of your neighbors and guests.
Cons of Enamel Cookware:
Weight: Enamel pieces of cookware are a bit heavier, but that’s expected since they are cast iron.
Heat tolerance: Enamel can withstand high heat, but there’s a limit. It also can’t handle the amount of heat seasoned cast iron can handle.
Non-stick surface: When cooking with enamel cookware, you might require oil as the surface isn’t as non-stick as cast iron.
Cost: Though brands determine their enamel cookware’s price point, good-quality enamel cookware is generally pricey.
Conclusion: Are enamel pots oven-safe?
Yes, enamel pots are oven-safe. You can also utilize this cookware on an open flame, stovetop, induction stove, etc.
You can prepare any food you want in enamel cookware. You can grill, broil, deep fry, sauté, and cook several foods in enamel cookware.
However, it is not advisable to put enamel cookware on an open flame while the pot is empty. It would crack or cause the cookware to chip.
