Ceramic cookware is trending huge time within the kitchen class at the moment. You’ve in all probability seen ceramic cookware critiques or demos in your social media feed — however not all ceramic cookware is created equal.
The Two Varieties of Ceramic Cookware
There are two distinct varieties — pure, all-ceramic cookware, like Xtrema Cookware — and ceramic-coated nonstick cookware. And there’s a giant distinction between the 2. Pure ceramic cookware is actually pure — crafted from clay, water, and pure oxides. It’s stood the check of time, we’re speaking over 10,000 years, to be precise, and Xtrema Cookware has introduced it to the forefront of at the moment’s trendy kitchens.
Xtrema’s line of ceramic cookware, featured in our information to the very best non-toxic cookware, bakeware information, and the finest ceramic cookware units examined, is flexible and pure – the proper instruments to start out new traditions in your kitchen.
Right here’s What Makes Xtrema’s Cookware Distinctive & Protected
It Doesn’t Have a Coating or Steel Core
In contrast to different common strains of “ceramic cookware,” Xtrema cookware doesn’t have a silicon coating (or any coating!), or a steel core (which is often composed of a number of layers of aluminum and or chrome steel). So there’s no want to fret a few chemical-laden coating flaking into your meals, leaching heavy metals, or reacting to acidic meals, like white and pink wine sauces, or these scrumptious tomato bases.
It’s Freed from Endlessly Chemical substances
In addition to heavy metals, Xtrema ceramic cookware can be freed from harmful “without end chemical substances” together with PFAS, PTFE, and PFOAs. These poisonous chemical substances are linked to some critical human well being and environmental dangers as a result of they don’t break down within the atmosphere and can accumulate in human blood and organs. 1, 2 Yikes.
“I like Xtrema’s pure ceramic cookware for gradual cooking soups, stews and braises. The even, constant, warmth distribution these cookware vessels provide is incredible. And since it’s 100% ceramic, I’m assured there’s no heavy steel leaching. I additionally love that these cookware vessels can go from stovetop, to oven to dinner desk.”
Laura Klein
It Has Ah-mazing Warmth Retention
Ceramics, like stoneware, are recognized for warmth retention — perfect for low and gradual cooking — which occurs to be one in every of my favourite cooking strategies. And Xtrema cookware does it masterfully.
Ceramic naturally heats evenly and might face up to excessive and low temperatures, cooking meals effectively and evenly. Nonetheless, cooking with ceramic could also be a bit totally different than what you’re used to in the event you’ve been cooking with steel your entire life.
“Non-stick and steel cookware are designed for quick and high-heat cooking,” says Rick Bergstrom, Xtrema’s founder. “Xtrema is the exact opposite.”
Utilizing low, gradual warmth with this cookware will assist cook dinner your meals evenly and protect your cookware.
The Household Behind the Model
Xtrema’s founder, Wealthy Bergstrom, is a veteran of the cookware business. As somebody who’s immunocompromised, Wealthy’s mission is to create the cleanest cookware attainable.
In line with the Xrema Crew, the care trendy shoppers take with their meals doesn’t all the time lengthen to their cookware — but it ought to!
Whereas some imagine that cooking with iron skillets is a approach so as to add pure minerals to their meals, Bergman cautions that you could be not truly be getting the supposed advantages. He notes the next with regard to the iron that may leach from forged iron when it comes into contact with acidic meals:
“The actual fact is that iron is available in a ferrous and a ferric type. Our physique was not designed to assimilate the iron (ferric) from forged iron cookware. Because of this iron leaching from forged iron cookware is just not bioavailable and it has no worth to our our bodies on the mobile degree.”
As we speak the model is run by Wealthy and his household — an genuine family-run firm via and thru.
In line with the Xrema Crew, the care trendy shoppers take with their meals doesn’t all the time lengthen to their cookware — but it ought to!
“When you care about the place your meals comes from or the dietary worth of the meals you serve,” they write, “then why are you settling when it comes to the cookware you utilize to arrange meals?” Sufficient mentioned.
Right here’s What Xtrema’s Cookware is Made Of
Constructed from flameware, a more moderen kind of ceramic clay, Xtrema cookware is fabricated from easy-to-understand, easy elements (pun supposed!). The completed merchandise are created from 100% pure ceramic supplies — crafted from clay, water, and pure oxides, and triple-fired at 2,000 levels. They’re California Prop 65 compliant, non-toxic, and authorized PFAS, PTFE, and PFOA free, which is a giant deal.
Xtrema is Third Celebration Examined
“Xtrema cookware is 100% ceramic — from the ceramic glaze to the ceramic core — to maintain your meals wholesome and flavorful,” says Bergstrom. “Most significantly, each cargo of Xtrema cookware is third celebration examined in accordance with California Prop 65 requirements for lead and cadmium leaching.”
It’s additionally freed from artificial glues, polymers, and dyes. It’s examined and authorized PFOA and PTFE free which is a giant deal. All of these items add as much as Xtrema being one of many most secure, if not the most secure, cookware in the marketplace that I do know of in my expertise.
Right here’s The place It’s Made
After looking the world over, and sure regionally in the US, for a producer who might produce ceramic cookware to Wealthy’s requirements, he returned to its nation of origin, China. It’s the one nation that’s made ceramics for 1000s of years. I do know what you’re pondering, “Yikes, China!” Nonetheless, not every part that comes out of China is poor high quality.
“It’s surprising what number of pots and pans are thrown out yearly in the US. Selecting extra sustainable supplies in your kitchen has a direct impact on limiting shopper waste.”
Wealthy Bergstrom, Xtrema Founder
Made by expert Chinese language artisans, every bit is hand made with a course of that takes 20 days from begin to end, with a high-pressure casting mould and triple-firing at 2,0000 levels for power and sturdiness.
My Expertise Cooking with Xtrema’s Cookware
I’ve been testing Xtrema ceramic cookware for over 10 years. I’ve cooked with their Signature Skillet, the 10 QT Spherical Dutch Oven (which is ah-mazing for big one-dish dinners together with household soups, stews, roasts, and extra!), and their newest Basic Oval Dutch Oven at 7.5Qts (you possibly can learn my evaluate of that Dutch right here). I like the trendy design and that it’s lighter than conventional forged iron Dutch ovens).
“The manufacturing course of is vastly cleaner than producing steel cookware. Our product is hand made by extremely expert artisans, and we use clean-burning pure gas-fired kilns to fireside our merchandise.”
Wealthy Bergstrom, Xtrema Founder
You do have to regulate the way in which you warmth your pot or pan when cooking with Xtrema’s ceramic cookware, although. You wish to steadily warmth up the cookware. Consider it like preheating an oven.
You’ll wish to begin it on low, to medium-low warmth for the primary 3-5 minutes, then add your required wholesome oil or fats, after which flip up the temperature if desired.
“Once I first learn Xtrema’s declare, I used to be skeptical. In spite of everything, there’s no nonstick coating.”
Laura Klein
In my expertise, Xtrema cookware retains warmth so effectively, that you could be not must cook dinner dishes at as excessive a temperature as you’re used to, or for so long as you often do.
For instance, I roasted an entire rooster with child rainbow carrots, potatoes, and garlic within the Basic Oval Dutch Oven with the lid on. The rooster was finished quarter-hour earlier than its typical whole cook dinner time, which is a big plus for busy weeknights. To complete browning the rooster, I merely turned up the oven to 500 levels Fahrenheit, and it turned out juicy and golden brown.
The Signature Skillet Examined
The Signature Skillet is a favourite of mine. I like cooking my morning eggs in it as a result of they arrive out like baked eggs. I additionally use this skillet to cook dinner this brunch favourite, shakshuka with feta and cilantro, heat dips like spinach and artichoke dip, and delicate proteins like salmon and rooster dishes and sauteed veg.
Due to their modern trendy design, these pans can go from stovetop to oven to desk superbly, eliminating the necessity for one more serving dish (which suggests fewer dishes to wash).
You possibly can even use Xtrema’s pots and pans within the microwave, on the grill or take them tenting. They’re fairly darn versatile.
Unique code: Use code OA15 to save an additional 15% off your order at checkout.
Have a query for me about Xtrema or my expertise? Drop it within the feedback and I’ll get again to you!
The Pure Nonstick Declare Examined
Now lets talk about their “pure nonstick” claims. Once I first learn Xtrema’s declare, I used to be skeptical. In spite of everything, there’s no nonstick coating. Their web site and packaging instructions inform you to “Warmth the pan on low, to medium, for two-three minutes, then add a wholesome oil/fats to create a naturally non-stick floor.”
So I examined it with one in every of my favourite sticky meals—eggs. I adopted the model’s instructions. I preheated the pan, added my EVOO and let that come to a shimmer, after which I added the eggs. The completed product turned out simply the way in which I like them — delicately tender, but agency, with none bizarre undercooked bits (I don’t like my eggs laborious, or brown).
Shockingly, they didn’t bind to the pan and slid round properly. And the clean-up? A breeze—nothing caught to the pan.
Right here’s Learn how to Clear Xtrema
Caring for Xtrema is easy. Whereas dishwasher protected, hand washing is really helpful to protect its life (dishwashers are laborious on cookware and speed up deterioration).
I would be the exception, however I hand wash all of my cookware, nothing ever goes within the dishwasher and it lengthens the lifetime of my cookware. And with just a little dish cleaning soap, water, and a tender brush you’d be stunned at how straightforward it’s to rapidly clear cookware.
When you do get caught on meals, use the outdated baking soda and water trick. Add a tablespoon or two of baking soda with water to the pan. Put it over low warmth. Because the pan heats up and involves a low simmer, use the picket spoon to assist take away caught meals. As soon as the meals is eliminated, cool, and hand wash as typical.
Utensil Suggestions
Xtrema doesn’t advocate utilizing steel utensils. Use wooden or silicon to keep away from scratches and knicks. When you stack your cookware when saved, they advocate storing it with a kitchen towel masking the underside or specifically designed Cookware Protectors to stop chips and breakage. I haven’t used the cookware protectors, however I do use dish towels and it really works.
Take excellent care of your pure ceramic cookware, and it’ll final for years to come back.
Longevity
As a result of this cookware is freed from any nonstick coatings, its shelf life is for much longer than ‘ceramic coated’ nonstick cookware. In truth, if cared for correctly it could final a lifetime and should turn out to be your loved ones’s subsequent cookware heirloom, handed all the way down to generations.
I’ve been testing Xtrema cookware for 10 years now and every bit remains to be in nice situation — fairly unbelievable!
The Xtrema Guarantee and Return Satisfaction Assure
Xtrema gives a 10-year restricted guarantee and a without end substitute program, which is spectacular! Right here’s what it includes: You merely contact their buyer help, submit a ticket, and observe their directions for verification. The primary substitute is free! After that, subsequent replacements come at a 30% low cost. I haven’t met one other cookware firm that gives this.
Xtrema additionally gives a 40-day return satisfaction assure. This implies you’ve a 40-day trial interval throughout which they settle for returns and exchanges inside the US.
Xtrema’s Environmental Influence
Xtrema isn’t simply higher to your well being; it’s additionally higher for the atmosphere. Made with clay and water, Xtrema has a much smaller carbon footprint than most different cookware. Additionally there aren’t any PFAS Endlessly Chemical substances, like PTFE, that have to be disposed of that might find yourself in a metropolis’s consuming water provide and, finally, the ocean.
“The manufacturing course of is vastly cleaner than producing steel cookware,” says Bergstrom. “Our product is hand made by extremely expert artisans, and we use clean-burning pure gas-fired kilns to fireside our merchandise.”
Bergstrom additionally shares, “It’s surprising what number of pots and pans are thrown out yearly in the US. Selecting extra sustainable supplies in your kitchen has a direct impact on limiting shopper waste.”
Lately, Xtrema has additionally made strides in enhancing the sustainability of its packaging, phasing out Styrofoam and transitioning to packaging that’s 70 p.c cardboard, 30 p.c EPE foam, and 100% recyclable.
I like Xtrema’s pure ceramic cookware for slow-cooking soups, stews, and braises. The even, constant, warmth distribution these cookware items provide is incredible. And since it’s 100% ceramic, I’m assured there’s no heavy steel leaching. I additionally love that these cookware items can go from stovetop to oven to dinner desk.
My Prime Favourite Xtrema Cookware Product Picks
The Signature Skillet Set
Xtrema’s Signature Sequence assortment might be my favourite set. In case you are trying to begin with a small skillet set, I like to recommend their 3-piece assortment that comes with a 7, 9, and 11-inch skillets. If you wish to begin with one piece to try it out and see if it’s best for you, I like to recommend beginning with this Skillet (select your most popular measurement 7, 9, or 11-inch) and select the 9 or 11 inch.
A bigger skillet provides you extra floor space for cooking and makes it simpler to brown meals in a single layer (which provides texture and extra layers of taste to meals). When you stack your meals, you’ll create steam in your pan, which prevents browning and promotes watery texture and taste. Nonetheless, in case your objective is to steam your meals, that’s okay, too. I additionally love that it cleans simply.
There’s additionally the Signature Saute Set which incorporates 2 pans, a 9 and 10-inch with a lid, so if you need a lid get this one. I like the 10-inch giant outsized pan for big meals for family and friends, and batch cooking Sundays. There’s additionally a Signature Sequence Set (9-piece cookware set) that comes with 1, 1.5, 2.5 Quart saucepans with lids and one 9-inch signature skillet and two 100% natural cotton deal with potholders.
Use it for: On a regular basis eggs or frittatas (like our mushroom, zucchini, and goat cheese frittata), and since they’ll go proper into the oven, cook dinner up casseroles or issues like shepherd’s pie.
Signature Skillet Set Contains:
- 11-Inch Signature Skillet
- 9-Inch Signature Skillet
- 7- Inch Signature Skillet
Unique code: Use code OA15 to save an additional 15% off your order at checkout.
Worth: $385.04 (at time of publish)
The Basic Oval Dutch Oven
Put together a feast match to your crew with the Xtrema Basic Oval Dutch Oven. This 7.5-quart trendy magnificence isn’t simply fashionable (because of the textured, fluted exterior!). It additionally boasts a superbly designed lid that locks in taste and an oval form for even warmth distribution.
Use it for: Sunday roasts, a entire rooster (sure, actually), hearty soups, crusty artisan bread — this Xtrema Cookware heirloom-quality pan will aid you create meals for generations to come back.
Specs:
- Size: 16.5
- Width: 10″
- Peak: 6.3″
- Capability: 7.5qt
Unique code: Use code OA15 to save an additional 15% off your order at checkout.
Worth: $314.99 (at time of publish)
Tea Kettle Set
This tea kettle set screams (or whispers in a relaxed, tea-soothed voice) “I take my tea critically.” The two.5-quart Retro Tea Kettle pairs completely with the matching 18 oz. basic mugs. It’s an excellent set to make your personal do-it-yourself ginger tea, or your favourite matcha or turmeric latte. Due to the wonderful thermal retention, these ceramic mugs excel at preserving your brew cozy heat.
Specs:
- Tea Kettle Capability: 2.5-quarts
- Basic Mug Capability: 18 oz (set of 4)
Unique code: Use code OA15 to save an additional 15% off your order at checkout.
Worth: $226.09 (at time of publish)
The Pie Plate (It Doubles as a Fairly Serving Dish for Dips and Extra)
Ditch the soggy crusts and bake sensible. Xtrema’s 100% ceramic pie plates (in 7 & 9-inch sizes) are designed for even cooking and baking bliss. These baking beauties go from oven or grill proper to the desk, wanting nearly as good as your culinary creation tastes.
Use it for: Pies, like our panna cotta pie with recent berries, tarts, and gratins like this attractive cauliflower gratin. We additionally find it irresistible for serving dips both sizzling, like our plant-based spinach and artichoke dip, or chilly like this garlic lemon butter bean dip.
Specs:
- 7” (8” extensive by 2” top)
- 9” (10” extensive by 2” top)
Unique code: Use code OA15 to save an additional 15% off your order at checkout.
Worth: $47.69 (at time of publish)
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Sources:
1: https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/contaminant.php?contamcode=E207
2. https://www.cancercenter.com/neighborhood/weblog/2021/09/does-teflon-cause-cancer
