What Pots & Pans Can You Use on an Induction Hob?

Induction hobs are revolutionising how we cook, offering faster heating times, greater energy efficiency, and precise temperature control. However, to take full advantage of these benefits, using the right cookware is crucial. Induction cooking relies on electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly in the pan, so not all materials are suitable. Let's explore which types of pans are suitable for use on an induction hob and the reasons why.

To understand why induction hobs need specific cookware, it’s essential to grasp the basic principles of how induction cooking works. Induction hobs use electromagnetic fields to generate heat directly in the cookware, necessitating materials with ferrous (magnetic) properties. Non-magnetic materials will not respond to the magnetic field and therefore won’t heat up. The base of the cookware needs to be flat and in good contact with the induction hob to ensure efficient heat transfer. Warped or uneven pan bottoms can cause irregular heat flow within the cookware, or the hob may not work at all.

• Energy Efficiency - Induction hobs are highly energy-efficient as they transfer heat directly to the cookware, reducing energy loss. Therefore, less energy is wasted.
• Fast Heating - Because the heat is generated directly in the pan, induction hobs can heat cookware and its contents quicker than traditional methods, reducing cooking time.
• Precise Temperature Control - Induction hobs offer precise and instant control over cooking temperatures, allowing for more accurate cooking and better results.
• Even Cooking - Induction cooking provides even heat distribution across the cookware, preventing hotspots and ensuring consistent cooking results.
• Safety - Induction hobs are safer to use as the surface remains relatively cool to the touch, reducing the risk of burns, as well as automatically switching off after cookware is removed.

You can learn more about induction hobs in our dedicated buyer's guide.

Given the requirements of induction cooking, the types of materials that work best for induction hob cookware include:

• Stainless steel
• Cast iron
• Carbon steel
• Enamel cast iron

Stainless Steel Pots & Pans

Stainless steel is an excellent option for induction cooking, but not all stainless steel cookware is suitable. For induction compatibility, the base of the pan must be magnetic - many high-quality stainless steel pans have a layer of magnetic material in their base to ensure they work with induction hobs. These pans offer the benefits of durability, resistance to rust, and non-reactivity with acidic foods. Smeg’s non-stick, luxury cookware uses induction hob-compatible stainless steel, so why not check out the latest range?

Cast Iron Pots & Pans

Cast iron cookware is a top choice for induction cooking. Their dense, heavy construction heats evenly and retains that heat exceptionally well. Cast iron works efficiently with induction hobs because it is highly magnetic, as well as being particularly versatile and durable - perfect for searing, frying, and slow cooking.

Carbon Steel Pots & Pans

Similar to cast iron, carbon steel pans are highly magnetic and work well on induction hobs. They are lighter than cast iron but still offer excellent heat retention and distribution. Carbon steel is particularly favoured by professional chefs for tasks like frying and sautéing, due to its responsiveness to temperature changes.

Enamel Cast Iron Pots & Pans

Enamel-coated cast iron cookware combines the benefits of cast iron with a non-reactive, easy-to-clean surface. The enamel coating does not affect the magnetic properties of the underlying cast iron, making these pans a great choice for induction cooking. They are available in various sizes and styles and are ideal for everything from stovetop cooking to oven baking.

Certain materials are not suitable for induction hobs because they lack the necessary magnetic properties. These include:

Aluminium or Copper

Unless specifically designed with a magnetic base, pure aluminium and copper cookware are not compatible with induction hobs.

Glass and Ceramic

These materials do not conduct electromagnetic fields and therefore will not work on induction hobs.

Non-Magnetic Stainless Steel

Some stainless steel cookware, particularly those without a magnetic core, will not work with induction hobs.

Fortunately, using the wrong type of pan on an induction hob doesn’t have costly consequences for your hob or cookware. The induction hob simply won’t work, meaning your cookware won’t heat up, since the magnetic field can't activate. This safety feature ensures the efficiency of the cooking process, though it may cause inconvenience until a compatible pan is used.