When handed down through the generations, metal kitchenware can come with fond memories in addition to its cooking flexibility and long term value. If the day ever comes when it’s seen its last flame, metal is easily recycled.
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Made in USA Metal Kitchenware Brands
(✓=Made in USA. ✓* = Most products made here, some not.)
Here are six American kitchenware brands that you can find on Amazon, each offering high quality products that are made in the USA (manufactured here):
- Lodge Cast Iron ✓ – We use the frying pan featured in the image. Lodge has been producing cast iron cookware in the USA since 1896. Renowned for its durable and pre-seasoned cast iron skillets, dutch ovens, and griddles, Lodge Cast Iron is a favorite among both professional chefs and home cooks.
- All-Clad Metalcrafters ✓*- All-Clad is known for its high-quality stainless steel cookware, which is crafted in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. Their extensive product line includes pots, pans, and kitchen accessories designed with a patented technology that ensures even heat distribution and exceptional cooking performance. * We use the measuring cups. They are excellent quality but not made in the USA unfortunately.
- Nordic Ware ✓- Based in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Nordic Ware is famous for its aluminum bakeware, including the iconic Bundt pan. The company manufactures a wide range of kitchen products, from baking sheets to grilling accessories, all designed with a focus on durability and functionality. Nordic Ware’s commitment to producing the majority of their products in the USA is reflected in the quality and innovation of their kitchenware.
- USA Pan ✓ – Specializing in heavy-duty bakeware, USA Pan has been producing professional-grade pans in the United States for over 50 years. Their bakeware features a unique silicone coating that is PTFE, PFOA, and BPA-free, offering a non-stick surface that ensures easy release and clean-up. From muffin tins to loaf pans and sheet pans, USA Pan offers a variety of bakeware that caters to all baking needs.
- Viking Culinary ✓ – Viking is recognized for its professional-grade kitchen appliances and has also made a mark with its high-quality cookware. Their American-made products, including stainless steel cookware sets and non-stick skillets, are engineered for efficiency and durability, embodying the professional standards of the Viking brand.
- Calphalon ✓* – Although not all Calphalon products are made in the USA, they do have a selection of items that are American-made, particularly in their premier stainless steel and non-stick cookware lines.
Benefits of Metal Kitchenware
Durability and Longevity Metal kitchenware, known for its robustness, can withstand the rigors of daily use without succumbing to the wear and tear that affects it non-metal kitchenware. This resilience means that a well-made metal pot or pan will often last for decades. This longevity not only makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run but also contributes to sustainability by reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Heat Conductivity for Even Cooking Metals like copper and aluminum distribute heat more uniformly across the surface of the cookware, eliminating hot spots that can cause uneven cooking or burning. Whether you’re searing, simmering, or sautéing, the results are consistently excellent. Even heat distribution is especially crucial in dishes requiring precise temperature control, making metal kitchenware a preferred choice.
Cooking Versatility Metal’s compatibility with different heat sources, including induction cooktops, gas stoves, and electric ranges, provides flexibility in the kitchen. This versatility extends to the oven, where metal cookware can transition seamlessly from stovetop to oven, and vice versa.
Safety and Health Materials like stainless steel and cast iron are not only durable but also safe for cooking, as they do not leach harmful chemicals into food. Cast iron has the added benefit of enhancing iron content in food, an essential mineral for health. On the other hand, it’s important to select metal cookware with safe, non-toxic coatings that do not degrade under high heat, ensuring that your cooking remains healthy.
Ease of Maintenance and Cleaning The maintenance of metal kitchenware is straightforward. It is heavy though, and more physically demanding to handle than non-metal products. Stainless steel is resistant to rust and discoloration, and its smooth surface makes it easy to clean. Cast iron, while requiring a bit more care to maintain its seasoning, offers a non-stick surface that improves with use. Properly cared-for metal kitchenware not only stands the test of time but also retains its aesthetic appeal, making it a worthy investment for both its functional and visual benefits.
Types of Metal Used
Stainless Steel Cookware Stainless steel is a cornerstone of the kitchen for good reason. Stainless steel pots and pans do not alter the taste or color of acidic foods like tomatoes or lemons, ensuring that the flavors of your ingredients remain true. Its ability to withstand high temperatures without warping makes it suitable for all kinds of cooking methods, from frying and boiling to baking.
Cast Iron The heft of cast iron cookware is matched by its cooking prowess, especially when it comes to heat retention and distribution. A preheated cast iron skillet provides a perfect sear for meats, locking in flavors and juices. Over time, a well-seasoned cast iron skillet develops a natural non-stick surface, reducing the need for excessive oil and making it a healthier option for cooking. The slow and even heating of cast iron is also ideal for baking, producing perfectly browned breads and pies.
Copper Pots and Pans Copper’s superior heat conductivity makes it a metal of choice for precision cooking. It responds quickly to changes in temperature, giving chefs and home cooks greater control over the cooking process. This responsiveness is particularly beneficial for delicate sauces and chocolates, which require precise temperatures to prevent scorching. While copper cookware is often lined with tin or stainless steel to prevent reactions with acidic foods, its thermal properties remain unmatched.
Aluminum Baking Tools Aluminum’s light weight and excellent heat conductivity make it a favorite for baking. It heats up quickly and evenly, ensuring that baked goods cook uniformly without hot spots. From baking sheets for cookies to cake pans and pie plates, aluminum kitchenware helps achieve consistent browning and prevents undercooked or overly browned edges. Its efficiency and effectiveness in the oven make it a staple for bakers.
More Made in USA products.