Chuck a snag or boil the billy with Cosy Camp's awesome Outdoor Cookware range. Whether you're having a Barbie under the tree or brewing a cuppa, our top-notch gear is built to last. Backed by an excellent warranty and our ace customer service team, bush cooking's a breeze. Dive into our collection and take your camp tucker up a notch today!
How to pick your Camp Cookware
Material, type, size, and maintenance,know what you need!
Material Matters
Stainless Steel: Durable and resistant to rust and corrosion, stainless steel is a great all-purpose cookware material. It’s non-reactive, meaning it won’t alter the taste of your food, and it's also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning.
Non-Stick: Ideal for beginners, non-stick cookware is great for cooking delicate foods like eggs or pancakes. It requires less oil and makes cleanup easy. Just be cautious with high heat, which can wear down the coating over time.
Cast Iron: Known for its heat retention, cast iron is perfect for searing meats and making one-pot meals. It does require seasoning to prevent rust, but with care, it can last for generations.
Copper and Aluminum: Both offer excellent heat conductivity, which means faster, more even cooking. However, they may react with acidic foods, so they’re often lined with stainless steel.
Type of Cookware
Pans and Skillets: Essential for frying, sautéing, and browning. Skillets are versatile and can be used for many quick-cooking tasks.
Saucepans: With higher sides, saucepans are designed for simmering and boiling. They’re perfect for making sauces, soups, and rice.
Stockpots: These large, deep pots are ideal for making large batches of soups, stews, and pasta. If you plan on batch cooking or meal prepping, a good stockpot is a must-have.
Dutch Ovens: Heavy and versatile, Dutch ovens are great for slow-cooking, braising, and baking. They’re a favorite for stews and can even be used for bread-making.
Choosing the Right Size
Small (1-2 quarts): Perfect for heating small portions or making sauces, small pans are useful when you don’t need a lot of space.
Medium (2-4 quarts): Great for everyday meals and can handle most tasks for 1-2 people. This size is common for saucepans and sauté pans.
Large (5+ quarts): Large pans and pots are ideal for families or those who like to cook in bulk. Stockpots and Dutch ovens in this size allow you to make large batches at once.
Consider your typical meal sizes to avoid cluttering your kitchen with unnecessary cookware. A few versatile pieces can often cover all your cooking needs.
Maintenance and Care
Non-Stick Care: Use only silicone or wooden utensils to avoid scratching the surface. Hand-washing with a soft sponge extends its life.
Cast Iron Seasoning: Cast iron needs to be seasoned regularly by applying a thin layer of oil and heating it. This keeps it non-stick and rust-free.
Stainless Steel Cleaning: Stainless steel is dishwasher-safe, but hand-washing helps maintain its shine. For stubborn stains, a paste of baking soda and water works wonders.
Storage Tips: Stacking pots and pans can scratch them. If space allows, consider using pot protectors or hanging racks to extend your cookware’s life.
What’s the best cookware material for beginners?
Non-stick is often the most beginner-friendly. It’s easy to use, requires less oil, and is simple to clean. If you want something versatile and durable, stainless steel is a great option too, as it’s resistant to rust and suitable for various cooking techniques.
How do I know what size of cookware to buy?
Think about the meals you usually make and how many people you cook for. For example, if you typically cook for one or two, a 2-4 quart saucepan and an 8-10 inch skillet should be enough. For families or batch cooking, consider larger options like a 5+ quart stockpot or Dutch oven.
What types of cookware are essential for a starter kitchen?
Start with a few basics: a skillet for frying and sautéing, a saucepan for boiling and making sauces, and a stockpot or Dutch oven for soups and stews. These three types cover most cooking methods and give you flexibility.
How important is heat conductivity when choosing cookware?
Heat conductivity affects how evenly your food cooks. Copper and aluminum are excellent conductors, meaning they heat quickly and evenly. Stainless steel is less conductive but more durable. Many people choose stainless steel with an aluminum or copper core for the best of both worlds.
How should I care for my cookware to make it last?
Each material has its own care requirements. Non-stick should be hand-washed with a soft sponge, and metal utensils should be avoided. Cast iron needs to be seasoned regularly to maintain its non-stick surface and prevent rust. Stainless steel and enameled cookware can be cleaned with a bit of baking soda to maintain their shine.
Should I buy individual pieces or a cookware set?
A set can be convenient and usually offers good value, especially if you need multiple pieces. However, if you only need a few specific items or want different materials for different tasks, buying individually may be more suitable. Look for versatile, high-quality pieces you’ll use frequently, rather than a set with items you may never use.
What’s the best cookware material for beginners?
