Table of Contents
Pure ceramic cookware can be a perfectly safe alternative for different modern utensil categories. However, the market is full of different products and it not always easy to find something that will fit your needs. There is nothing more frustrating than searching a few hours for the ceratin information without being able to find the right or precise answer.
In this blog post, I wanted to cover everything that you need to know about pure ceramic cookware brands in one place, so you don’t need to search around in a circle. Additionally, if you are interested in other healthy cookware materials that would be a great option for slow cooking and similar techniques find more information on the Safetouseit Recommendation page.
Up to now, I am using pure ceramic cookware for years, and I could not imagine preparing some of my favorite dishes without it. To single out the best cookware models in this article I summarised some conclusions from my practical experience, many impressions from other people’s reviews, and the information that I got directly by contacting the companies. (see more details later in the text)
There is one important criterion behind all of the brands presented here, they produce cookware from purely natural clay. Furthermore, all of the chosen companies showed high transparency when it comes to cookware production methods and safety standards, which was also an important selection condition.
Finally, in the upcoming text, I tried to extract some key information about different cookware models into tables, so you can find different information clearly in one place.
But, before going further, it is important to tickle one question. What is exactly pure ceramic cookware?
Solving some confusions
At the beginning of this article, it is important to solve some confusion. On the cookware market, different cookware pieces have the word “ceramics” in their name.
Nevertheless, not all of them are related to this natural material. For instance, there is a lot of non-stick cookware brands that call their vessels “ceramic”, even if their products don’t have anything related to it.
Ceramic non-stick vessels are created from a metal base, coated with a silicone coating. In this context word, “ceramic” is used to attract customers, however, it is not relevant.
In this article, I will make a review about few international pure ceramic cookware brands. I would not focus further on non-stick ceramic cookware or other similar cooking vessels because they are not real ceramics. Furthermore, non-stick ,”ceramic” cookware brings certain safety and functionality issues. If you are more interested in that see additional information in this detailed article that I wrote.
How to choose good quality pure ceramic cookware?
The most ideal case will be if you are able to buy pure ceramic cookware from the local craftsman, in the wild districts apart from big cities and industrialization. Also, it is great if you can find a region that has a long tradition of ceramic production.
I buy my pure ceramic cookware from a local craftsman in one of the villages well known for pure ceramic production in my county. The man from which I purchase ceramics is someone who I personally know.
Moreover, from time to time I go to the mentioned craft shop to learn and try making my own pottery. Because of that, I precisely know which procedures and materials are used there, and I am sure what I am buying. Find the picture from the mentioned craft shop below.
If you are looking for safe good quality cookware, and you have the opportunity to buy from a similar place, don’t miss it.
However, In the cases of most people, it is not easy to find such a supply.
Fortunately, there are some companies that provide quality products from purely natural clay and deliver internationally. I select a few unique brands of pure ceramic cookware that I want to present to you. I find them outstanding because they unique production processes, high production quality standards, and transparency when it comes to product safety testing.
Some of the mentioned producers are small family businesses like Xtrema. Others like Miriamis Earthen Cookware have been created driven by stories from personal life and desire to live a long, healthy life.
The common thing for them is that they have something very important to offer. They provide cookware that will keep you from any health risks and allow you to enjoy the full aroma of your favorite dishes.
In this text, you will find unique steps that these companies go through when producing their cookware, insight into the functionality of the presented products, as well as some drawbacks.
I will provide you with details that I have got by personally contacting these companies as well as some advice from my own experience with similar cookware. Finally, you will find practical info about product use and good maintaining practices. So, let’s start one by one.
1. Miriam’s Earthen cookware(MEC)
Miriam’s Earthen Cookware(MEC) in the USA pure non-glazed clay cookware brand. MEC produces ceramic cookware shaped by hand, using the traditional production method. This is one of the unique examples of an international brand that produces cookware in such a way.
Miriams Earthen Cookware puts a huge focus on the safety and quality of raw material they use. For that, they provide a safety testing certificate.
MEC performs safety tests at the soil testing lab at the University of Massachusetts. This gives them valid proof that the raw material they use doesn’t contain detectable levels of arsenic, lead, and cadmium.
Finally, MEC uses the clay directly from the US. This classifies them as one of the rare brands that finish the whole production cycle in the United States, from raw material harvesting to the final product.
As I already mentioned MEC ceramic cookware production process is something unique among internationally available cookware brands. The production of each cookware piece lasts from 24-30 days each.
The process starts with clay mechanical blending and homogenizing, after which the raw material rest for 48 hours. After that, the clay is hand-shaped by throwing on the wheel.
This is a traditional technique that ensures a neat finish right from the start. The next step is drying of clay for more than a week, followed by final finishing and coating with fine clay and water instead of glaze. As a final step, the clay is fired In a kiln to about 1750 – 2000 degrees and left for 24h to cool down.
You can see the pictures of the whole process on their website. I need to say that I used to see this traditional process of clay production in small crafts shops across my country Serbia. However, it is very untypical for some international bran to produce their ceramic pieces by devoting so much attention to every piece they make.
Finally, it is important to say that MEC branded cookware is non-glazed. This allows direct contact between the clay and the cookware, which brings some extra benefits like conserving food moisture and aroma. Actually, the benefits of using clay cookware is a whole another topic, so If you are more interested find more information in this post that I wrote.
Best used for
Generally, Miriam’s Earthen Cookware produces two different types of vessels. The first group refers to pot-shaped ceramics. The second group covers MEC ceramic plans, which are actually pot-like vessels that have a wider bottom and low walls. Additionally, they have a special lid that perfectly condensates water steam. Continue reading for more details about that.
MEC pans
Because of described special design MEC pans are ideal for making all kinds of stews, sauces, and braises. Special shape lids designed for condensation, there is less need to steering the stews during a long cook.
It is enough to put the lid on the pot, and the ceramic will allow optimal circulation of water steam. There is no need for frequent mixing or caring about the water level, ceramic walls and the water soaked in them regulate this system themselves. For some great ceramic cookware recipes, look in the recipe chapter in this post.
It is important to highlight the safety benefits of using ceramics compared to other cookware types used for similar purposes. With metal utensils, you need to be careful about cooking food with acidic pH, because of metal leaching.
This is especially expressed when recipes require a longer cooking period. However, the MEC ceramic pans are different. Miriams Earthen Cookware plans offer you unlimited freedom in the choice of ingredients, cooking time and temperatures, without making any negative effects on your health. So, this is a great plus compared to other cookware.
MEC pots
Boiling and simmering recipes ideally combined with MEC cookware. This is especially true when it comes to MEC pots. Preparing dishes by boiling in pure ceramic cookware has a long tradition. Recipes prepared in such a way are very famous in different cultures around the world.
In my country, traditional ceramic cookware dishes are something that everybody adores. Some of the great examples are stuffed cabbage rolls and cooked beans with dry meat prepared in larger ceramic utensils, which are considered a specialty. Generally, food prepared in bare ceramic vessels is served during family gatherings and it is something that people really get excited about.
Some cooking techniques are not perfect for bare ceramics. Even Miriam’s Earthen Cookware states that their ceramic vessels are good for a conventional stir fry or sauteing they are not ideal for these applications. This type of cookware is not so light to move it around during stir fry or sauteing, and it can be easily damaged in this way. Also, the bare ceramic cookware’s non-stick properties are not ideal for this purpose.
Cookware dimensions
To find the cookware that best suits your needs it is always good to know the cookware size. It’s useful to take into account how many people you use certain vessels to prepare food.
Also, also it is good to know in advance do you have enough space for proper storage for some cooking vessel, or does it fit to your oven. Pure ceramic cookware can be gentile so it is good to know if you have enough space to properly store it.
To make things easier, I created the table(look below) which summarises the models of MEC pans and pots, their sizes, and weights. Also, you will find the info about how many people each vessel can serve.
*The biggest pot is 12 inches in diameter so all of the vessels will perfectly fit any conventional size cooktops.
Miriam’s Earthen cookware maintenance
- Like in the case of other pure ceramic cookware its good to avoid exposing the vessels to the preheated oven or hot stovetop. After heating never put it directly on a cold surface(like a cold stovetop), rather put it on the towel, silicon, or wooden board.
- Before first use, it is important to clean your cookware with the water and new sponge and to season it.
- Like for other bare ceramics clan only with water and clean sponge/cleaning wire. If you need a deep cleaning you can use the pasta made from baking soda and vinegar.
- It is good to use a new sponge for the cleaning of the ceramic cookware, and keep it away from the sink. Old sponges always contain certain levels of residues/soaps and it is good to avoid them. Also, when I left your sponge next to the sink somebody can take it and use it for soap(it happens in my house frequently)
- You can use it on electric stovetops. Even pure ceramic cookware is not suitable for induction stovetops, you can use a metal heat diffuser to adjust that.
- Store your cookware in a place with good air circulation, with the cookware that stayed open. That will prevent condensation and the development of microorganisms.
- Through time, the cookware will become a little darker in color, which is something that usually happens to pure ceramics.
MEC – potential drawbacks
Specific maintenance- Like other non-glazed pure ceramic cookware Miriams Earthen vessels require handwashing and gentile care. Before the first use, they need to be seasoned. However, once when you get used to utilizing ceramic cookware it becomes the ritual that you will enjoy while preparing your next tasty meal.
High shipping prices out of the US- Miriams Earthen Cookware brand ships internationally through UPS. This method is in common use for this purpose.
However, this has some drawbacks. Out of the USA, the prices for the shipping of individual ceramic pieces can be pretty high. See the shipping cost table in one of the next chapters. Nevertheless, if you order several pieces of cookware it can be much more reasonable to accept the costs of international shipping.
Soaking of the aromas- The bare ceramic cookware preserves the aromas during cooking. This can further lead to the remaining of some aromas after cooking. This can be a desirable effect depending on your use. However, because of this, it is good to avoid preparing the e.g. fish/seafood in the same cookware as other types of meat.
Finally, because the bare ceramics is good in absorption it is good to take care of staining with wine, dark vinegar of different other colorful liquids. Just be careful when you add these ingredients to the dish and not spill it on the pit outer walls.
MEC ceramic cookware – conclusions
Finding handmade pure clay cookware from certificated and reliable manufacturers is not always an easy task. It is great if you can buy from the local craftsman, that has the supply of clay from the natural non-industrialized areas.
For the number of years in the past I by my ceramic cookware within my local area, from the countryside craft shop. It is ideal when an option like this exists. However, If you are living in a huge city far away from similar resources, this approach is not always feasible.
The existence of an international brand that produces handmade, certified ceramic is something unique. Miriam’s Earthen Cookware deserves huge praise because it has provided access to this kind of cookware to a wide number of people. Because of them, hand-made pure ceramic cookware pieces have become available in several markets around the world.
MEC is trying to show the full potential of the benefits of pure clay utensils on their website, which is a great thing. They have brought high-quality cookware to the market and to society.
However, I would like to mention that on their website they go a little too far with some claims about the benefits of ceramics. Also, they overstate some safety drawbacks of other cookware products.
Certain information on their website is given without valid references or studies behind it which is not appropriate. It is important to link claims with the authority, research sources, or personal experiments so others can, more clearly judge the relevance of provided information.
Pure ceramic cookware benefits(Reality Vs Advertising)?
I will highlight some of these claims, and their validity to draw your attention to what can be relevant and what could not. On the MEC website, they mentioned that the ceramic cookware is producing far infrared waves. According to them, this has a better impact on food transformation while cooking than near-infrared wawes produced with other cookware.
Within my research of I haven’t found any study on the topic of far-infrared production of ceramic cookware. Also, I have found information that other types of cookware selectively produce near-infrared rays. Some studies were investigating the beneficial effects of far-infrared heating produced by specialized devices like”far-infrared radiation gas catalytic plaque heater”. However, I haven’t found anything directly related to ceramic cookware.
Also, I would like to mention the information they provide about metal cookware toxicity. Some of these “facts” seem exaggerated. Metal leaching from cookware can be significant to health in certain cases. But, if you use metal cookware by avoiding certain cooking practices it doesn’t need to affect the health. For more detailed information see my post about the comparison of ceramic cookware with other cooking utensils.
Finally, they mention that PFOA from the non-stick utensil can present a huge problem for the customer’s health. This kind of information is a little outdated because the PFOA has been removed from cookware manufacturing since 2013 through PFOA stewardship program led by Environmental Protection Agency. However, It is true that in modern non-stick cookware producers use some equally harmful PFOA alternatives.
I would like to highlight all this info in order to give a direction on what is relevant and what is not with the claims they make. However, I think that there is no need for them to give “exaggerated” information. Miriam’s Earthen Cookware is a great brand that offers something unique. MEC provides hand-made pure ceramic cookware produced under the highest safety standards. In summary, it is one of the best options to support your desire for healthy cooking and making delicious recipes.
Miriams Earthen Cookware shipping
Miriam’s Earthen Cookware brand ships its products across the US for relatively affordable prices. On the other side international shipping is not so cheap. See more details in the table that I summarised below.
*The prices on the dow side of the range refers to the smallest cookware paces 1.5quart while the high range refers to 6quart cookware
2. Romertopf
Romertopf is one of the leading pure ceramic cookware brands in Europe and the USA markets.
It is started by a German company that works more than 50 years in the production of well-designed and high-quality cooking vessels.
Romertopf production is based in West Germany area Westerwald which, is well known for the manufacturing of pottery and different ceramic products for centuries. This region is rich with clay deposits which have been used in local craftsman production since the 15th century. Using high-quality natural clay is something Romertopf is well known for.
Cookware safety standards
Like In the case of other companies that I present in this post this brand produces cookware under strict safety standards. Romertopf tests all of its clay samples and glaze samples in Research Institute for Inorganic Materials -Glass / Ceramics- GmbH.
Under my request, they provide me with the glaze testing results which you can see below. On a regular basis, they test their product for both lead and cadmium. Furthermore, as they stated in their mail, they are very proud that in the 51-year history of the Römertopf no product sample has ever been detected for the presence of mentioned substances.
On the table below you can see that all of the tested samples have cadmium and lead under a detectable limit of 0.05mg/L. The test includes checking of heavy metals leaching to the liquid in direct contact with the clay. Because of this the measured concentrations are expressed per liters.
*Blei stands for Lead
Romertopf produces its pure ceramic cookware by using an automated and precise process finalized with hand made finish. Like other brands that I presented in this article, this company is very transparent with the production process. You can see the whole manufacturing procedure if you go on this video.
The company doesn’t just keep their production quality and safety on a high level, but it also puts a huge effort into the design of their products. Ceramic cookware looks great by its self but Romertopf products really stand out compared to the other brands. The brand has created specially designed series including Classic, Modern, Rustico, Swing, Anniversary ones, and even more. You can see different available models presented together in the next section. Such a variety of cookware designs fits any taste and makes excellent impressions when it is served on the dining table.
Best used for
Most Romertopf products are specially designed for the use in oven/microwave and they should not be used on stovetops or open flame. On the other hand, the brand produces a Dutch oven cookware series that can be used on BBQ, grills, fire pit, stovetop, or in the oven.
In this text, I would highlight Romertopf cookware produced for baking and roasting, because their products are specially for this purpose.
Like already mentioned Romertopf cookware has a glazed inner side and non-glazed outer part and lid. This is the only international company that produces such kinds of pure ceramic cookware.
But let me explain why this is important. Roasting and baking are dry heating methods. During this process, some of the dishes like large cuts of meat, start to release certain amounts of juice.
The glazed interior of the Romertopf cookware keeps this small but precious amount of liquid from soaking in clay on the bottom.
On the other side, a non-glazed cookware lid serves as the perfect conservation of moisture and steam circulation. This keeps roasted dishes tender inside with the forming of the delicious crust on the other parts. With Romertopf your favorite dishes from the oven will become something even more special.
Romertopf cookware series
In the table below I wanted to highlight and summarise some important info about the Romertopf series. There you can find the data about cookware volume and the number of people they can be used. Furthermore, under the table, you will be able to see the different designs of the Romertopf brand products so you can compare them.
Bellow find the comparison on different Reomertopf brand models. For the latest prices and customer impressions, you can click on each of the vessels.
* From the Top left to right( or from the top to down on mobile view): Romertopf Trend series, Romertopf Classic series, Tan series. Second row: Reomertopf Anniversary series, Rustico series and Romertopf BBQ Dutch Oven series
Romertopf ceramic cookware maintenance
- Like in the case of other pure ceramic cookware avoid exposing the cookware to the preheated oven or hot stovetop. After heating never put it directly on a cold surface(like a cold stovetop), rather put it on the towel, silicon, or wooden board.
- Romertopf’s cookware bottom is glazed so there is no need for seasoning before first use. Instead, soak your Romertopf cookware overnight, and clean it with a nylon brush and water before the first use.
- Like in the case of MEC cookware use a new sponge for cleaning the ceramic cookware, and keep it away from the sink. Old sponge always contains certain levels of residues/soaps and it is good to avoid them.
- Before preparing the dish soak your Romertopf ceramic cookware in the water for several minutes. For this, it is ideal to have a new plastic bucket sufficient in size.
- Use Romertopf only for oven and microwave. BBQ and Dutch oven series are different, they can be used with different heating sources including BBQ and Different stovetops.
- Even the manufacturer states that you can use little soap for cleaning the Romertopf cookware, it is better to avoid it and use baking soda instead. Romertopf is not fully glazed so the porous part can absorb the soap.
- If you need a deep cleaning you can use the pasta made from baking soda and vinegar
- According to the manufacturer, it will be good to boil your Romertopf cookware for 30 min after 100 uses. This will again open the pores in the clay, which is important for keeping the cookware properties like moist regulation and conserving of food aroma during cooking.
- Storage your cookware in a place with good air circulation and with the lid turned upside down.
*After several uses, the cookware will become a little darker in color, which is something that normally happens to non-glazed ceramics(or partially non-glazed in this case)
Romertopf – potential drawbacks
Specific maintenance– Romertopf has specific maintenance which includes the soaking of cookware every time before using it. It is not suitable for dishwashers and is maintained best by handwashing.
Specifically designed just for baking and roasting– Most Romertopf cookware models are specifically designed for oven and microwave, however, they cant de be used for their approaches. The exception of this is the Dutch oven and BBQ lines which can be used for multiple purposes like mentioned earlier.
Color change and food staining– Liquids like wine, tomato, beef broth are frequently added while roasting some delicious cuts of meat or baking the fish. Clay is a porous material, so non-glazed inner parts of cookware can absorb a part of that color.
To overcome this be careful when you adding some of the mentioned ingredients to avoid exposing the non-glazed parts. Don’t worry about the inners side of the cookware, it is glazed so it is not going to b affected by the food color.
Romertopf ceramic cookware – conclusions
Ceramic cookware, in general, has some specificities like maintenance, which can take a little more time compared with some other utensils. However, after getting used to it you will start to enjoy healthy ceramic cookware recipes for you and your loved ones.
I found Romertopf as a great ceramic cookware brand because it communicates very transparent about their production and cookware safety. When I contacted them to get more information about their cookware safety and some other topics they openly respond and send me all of the documents/certificates that I asked for.
As I already mention, Romertopg specifically designed their cookware with a glazed inner side and non-glazed outside and lid. This makes their cookware an outstanding option for different baking and roasting recipes.
Finally, one great thing about Romertopf is its availability in different markets. They offer products through Amazon and very affordable European shipping services. This makes them a great choice for families, cooking enthusiasts, and people who care about their healthy lifestyle around the globe. In the chapter below you can find more precise info about the shipping options they offer. 🙂
Romertopf – shipping
Romertopf ceramic cookware is one of the brands with the best shipping web around the US, Europe, and further. They are originated in Germany. Because of this, they are offering free shipping within this country for all purchases above 100e.
For the orders of less value within Germany, transportation fees are 6.9 e, while for all other countries of the EU shipment costs only 11.9e.
For many years Romertopf is part of the Amazon program so their ceramic cookware products are available under Amazon shipping conditions around the world.
3. Xtrema
When it comes to Xtrema one thing is for sure. It is the cookware brand that makes its products under the highest safety standards. It provides product testing certificates monthly, proving that they pass all FDA and California Proposition 65 standards.
Xtrema is a brand of a small family business that exists for almost 15 years now. The name of the company that produces Xtrema is Ceramicor. It Is started by people who wanted to create something unique for the market, after 40 years of experience working in the ceramics and glass industry.
When it comes to functionality it is important to mention the Xtrema ceramic cookware is glazed, which brings some advantages. Unlike bare ceramics, it doesn’t soak aromas. Furthermore, you can use the same cooking vessels for all different kinds of dishes.
Xtrema is dishwasher safe and it is easier for cleaning. Finally, it can be used for a variety of applications, from stir and sauté to preparing stews.
Even I would propose using bare ceramics for achieving the best results with baking, stewing, and boiling recipes, some people will prefer to use Xtrema because of its easier maintenance.
It is not explicitly stated on their website, but Xtrema cookware is made from natural clay. I got this info directly by contacting them because I consider it a very important factor for producing safe and high-quality ceramic cookware.
What makes Xtrema even more unique?
Ceramicor company nurture some important values. They support people and society in different ways. Ceramicor donates money to Cure International every month to help them build hospitals in developing countries around the world.
And, what Xtrema do when customers return the cookware? They donate it to Goodwill American nonprofit 501 organization which distributes them to people.
Finally, this brand really builds a special relationship with its customers. Their transparency in all fields of their work is something unique. From the first time you go to the Xtrema webpage, you will be able to experience their very kind and efficient customer service. By using the website chat box you can get all the answers you need in a matter of minutes, with 24/7 availability.
I personally have a very good experience with this. In some cases, the customer service operator hasn’t been able to answer some specific questions. However, I would receive my answer very quickly. They would contact the specialist in the company who will send me all the answers in my mail within 24h.
Good and efficient customer help is just more on paper than in reality in many companies. However, Xtrema’s customer service is one of the great impressions that you will heave, after making the first steps with products from this company.
Best used for
Unlike bare ceramic cookware, Xtrema is suitable for a variety of cooking techniques. This includes stir fry, deep fry, sauteing, boiling, steaming, stewing, baking, and much more.
Nevertheless, when it comes to braising, stewing, roasting large cuts of meat, making broths and sups I will recommend using bare ceramics. It allows you to get a unique food taste and aroma especially when it comes to long cooking methods. (Find more on using ceramic cookware for different cooking techniques in this post.)
I won’t recommend Xtrema as the first option for the mentioned cooking methods. However, this brand offers some models with unique functionality among other ceramic cooking vessels. The one that I will highlight is Xtrema pure ceramic skillet. It is suitable for frying and similar techniques for which other ceramic cookware is not designed for.
Xtrema 10 inch skillet is a well-shaped, relatively light piece of ceramics. It is a perfectly safe alternative for frequently used non-stick and metal pans.
As I dhow earlier Xtrema produces cookware under the highest safety standards. Nevertheless, this is not the case when it comes to other pans. Compared to non-stick pans, ceramic cookware is fully resistant to scratches. So, using a different type of utensils won’t affect the performance of your ceramic cookware, and for sure it won’t disrupt its safety.
Finally, the Ceramic doesn’t release toxic fumes or anything similar when it comes to heating, like the PTFE(Teflon) cookware does. It doesn’t contain metals and it is certificated under the FDA and California Proposition 65 regulations.
And why I present just Xtrema 10 inch skillet out of other pan models from this brand? A ten-inch skillet is enough large so it gives you the freedom to prepare different dishes. Other skillets from the Xtrema series are relatively small in size, which can make their use very limiting. For that reason, I wouldn’t recommend them.
The 10-inch skillet has relatively deep walls so it can be used for much more than a single frying pan. It can be also great for preparing different sauces and dishes that have a certain amount of liquid. Furthermore, it can be used as a baking utensil for a variety of delicious recipes.
Xtrema cookware is perfectly compatible with the oven regardless of the temperature. It is only important to avoid putting it in the preheated oven.
It is important to have something in mind when it comes to pure ceramics. Using a ceramic skillet is not ideal for making frying eggs and pancakes. This kind of cookware is not non-stick like people sometimes think. Also, it is good to be aware that this kind of utensils needs more time to be heated up compared to conventional pans.
However, If you want a product that is perfectly safe for your health regardless of the temperatures or utensils that you apply Xtrema skillet is something that you should have.
This pan is not conventional and you will need a few tries to get used to it. However, when you go through that once, you will able to experience all of the benefits of this kind of cookware. You will enjoy preparing food free of any cookware-derived contaminants and enjoy a variety of healthy dishes.
Xtrema ceramic cookware maintenance
- Like in the case of other pure ceramic cookware avoid exposing the cookware to the preheated oven or hot stovetop. After heating never put it directly on a cold stovetop. Instead placed it on some kind of bord.
- Unlike most ceramic cookware Xtrema ceramic cookware is perfectly suitable for dishwasher machines. Because it is fully glazed it doesn’t soak soaps or other substances.
- there is no need for seasoning before the first use
- It can be used on glass, electric, and gas stovetops. For the glass one, try not to move the cookware too much because it can scratch the stove surface. Additionally, you can use a metal heat diffuser to adjust that. It also allows you to use Xtrema brand cookware on the induction stovetops.
- When cleaning Xtrema be free to use metal wire if food sticks, ceramic cookware are prone to scratching. This makes them so easier sometimes.
- Because of great resistance to scratches different utensils can be used without damaging the cookware. Note: Even it doesn’t damage the cookware the metal utensils can leave a metal trace, which will need more intensive cleaning to be removed.
- Ceramic cookware is fragile so it is necessary to properly store them. Avoid storing one cookware on another. Additionally, before buying be aware do you have enough available space for proper storage of this cookware.
Xtrema- potential drawbacks
Like every cookware, Xtrema ceramic cookware has some drawbacks.
When it comes to safety there is no rethinking when it comes to Xtrema. On the other side, in terms of performance, it is important to have certain things in mind.
Non-sticking performance– Xtrema cookware is non-stick and should not be compared to non-stick pans, or cast iron. People who switch from this kind of utensils to Xtrema alternatives have high expectations about non-sticking performance. Eventually, the ceramic pieces that they get break their expectations.
Because of that, it is important to be aware that Xtrema is not non-stick. It behaves more like stainless steel or enameled cast iron when it comes to sticking properties. However, all that can be optimized through good cooking practices.
After spending some time with Xterema pure ceramics you will find some good methods for using it.
Shipping- In the terms of shipping Xtrema covers only 3 countries including the UK, Australia, and Canada. The transportation costs of Xtrema out of the US really high.
Maybe, in the future, this will be solved better. However, up to now, the purchases out of the USA stay limited to mentioned countries and it is quite pricy. (Se more in shipping chapter)
Not consistent supply during the year. For me, It was surprising that Xrema has a lot of cookware modes that are out of stock. Some pieces can be ordered only in advance.
When I recently asked them about that, they said that Christmas and New year’s sale emptied their depot. However, in the future, the consistent product supply can make their service even better.
Xtrema ceramic cookware – conclusions
I personally use stainless steel for frying. Because of that, I am limited to avoiding dishes that have acidic Ph. That prevents the high leaching of metals like nickel to my food. However, if I have better accessibility to this brand, the Xtrema 10-inch skillet will definitely be my choice for frying.
In the past, I have tried to get one of these pieces earlier. Unfortunately, I live in Europe far away from the UK where this brand delivers its cookware. Also, the shipping costs of Xtrema out of the US, and maybe Canada, are pretty unfavorable as I presented. This is especially true if you are not ordering the cookware set.
However, for US citizens, Xtrema offers truly great possibilities. For everyone who has access to it, it is one of the best choices to replace conventional cookware that can trigger different health concerns, especially frying pans.
Xtrema- other cookware models
Apart from using Xtrema for frying, stir fry, and sauteing it can be used for a variety of cooking techniques.
As I already present I will primarily propose non-glazed or bottom glazed ceramic cookware braising, stewing, roasting large cuts of meat, making broths and sups. Bare ceramic cookware really gives special notes and performance to these cooking methods.
However, bare ceramics have their maintenance specificities. This includes using only hand wash for this cookware without soap and pre-seasoning. Also it good to prepare different kinds of food like fish in separate cookware to avoid aromas mixing.
Xtrema overcomes all these specifies. So, even bare ceramic cookware really suits best to certain recipes and cooking methods, some will rather choose Xtrema because it’s less specific and easier for maintenance.
In this post, I presented the Xtrema skillet as a good option for frying and similar techniques. The reason is it really stands out from other ceramic cookware that can be used for that purpose.
However, in one of the upcoming texts, I will also evaluate other Xtrema cookware pieces. I will go through different Xtrema models, their advantages, drawbacks, comparison to the other cookware, and functionality. So, you will be able to see other possibilities that Xtrema offer, more in detail.
Xtrema shipping
Xtrema ships to 3 countries apart from the USA including Canada, UK, and Australia. I will also mention that the shipping rates are pretty high for International orders. Purchase separated pieces of cookware is not the best option in this case. To give you a better picture of it look at the table below where you can find shipping times and fees.
Fees are presented in ranges. Down values present the costs of shipping for the smallest utensils. (1-quart vessels) The upper range counts shipping for the largest pots and dutch ovens. In 48 USA lower states shipping is free for all of the orders above 150$. For the order that is less than 150$, there is a flat shipping rate of 9.95$
Ceramic cookware final words
Nowadays, the cookware market is full of different claims and labels. Manufacturers frequently put the marks like “Healthy” or “ Made from natural materials” on their cookware. However, claims like this are frequently stated without any valid proof behind them. As a consequence, it is not easy to find which cookware is safe and what best fits your cooking practices.
In this text, I wanted to present you the pure ceramic cookware. The type of utensils that bring a lot of benefits to cooking and to your health.
It is hard to speak generally is a certain type of cookware safe or not and it good quality. Because of that, I wanted to present you with some important directions when it comes to choosing among different pure ceramic cookware.
In this article, I give you a summary of that topic. Hot to find good quality ceramic cookware that can fit your cooking needs. Furthermore, I have presented three unique ceramic cookware brands that make their products from natural clay under the highest safety standards.
Finally, I wanted to present to you the functionality side of ceramic cookware as well as potential drawbacks, so you can decide what is best for you and what is not.
I want to know what are the brand that you use for your everyday cooking.. thanks!
Hi! Of course
During Christmas, I turned back home and have had a chance to use a lot my craftsman ceramic cookware pieces that I have talked about at the beginning of the post. Additionally, I am frequently cooking with Misen Carbon streel pan and enameled cookware from the producer Metalac, which originates from my country. Finally, I am waiting these days to receive the Sardel stainless steel skillet that I am looking forward to test.
Thank you for bringing Carbon Steel to my attention. As a person that always cringes at anything with chemicals that can leach it’s hard to find truly healthy cookware. I don’t want aluminum either….it’s deadly!!! And almost every pan on the market has aluminum.
I’m excited to try the Misen Carbon Steel 10” pan
Dear Bonnie,
I am glad that the information was valuable to you. I fully agree that the leaking of metals can be a significant problem with certain cooking practices. Carbon steel is a great option for sauteing, searing, and different other types of frying. On the other side, if you are someone who enjoys preparing different sauces based on tomatoes, paprika, fruits..or in general you love to cook with the addition of lemon/vinegar, I would recommend you to take a look at the enameled cast iron.
P.S. In one to two weeks I will publish the in-depth video review about Misen Carbon steel pan and the different aspects of using it after some months of intensive testinsg, so possibly you will find some useful info also there:) I will put the link in the reply to your comment and possibly soon make a part of the website where I would publish future video reviews about presented cookware.
Let me know if you have any other questions and I would be happy if I can help you with them!
Dear Bonnie,
After a lot of delays, the In-depth testing video of Misen Carbon Steel pan is finally there! In case it will be still helpful for you, you can take a look at the page about Misen Carbon steel pan https://safetouseit.com/product/finest-carbon-steel-pan-from-misen/
It took me some time since I really wanted to go deeply into different aspects of using this awesome skillet.
Finally, I am looking forward to publishing upcoming video insights about testing different other cookware pieces presented in Safetouseit Recommendations 🙂
Hello there, I’m confused on the 2nd ceramic cookware brand you wrote about in this article, it says that they are free of heavy metals, lead cadmium and such. But the chart says 0.05%. Can you explain this to me I’m new to this and looking for non toxic cookware for my family. Thank you 😌