Best Stone Cookware

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I've rounded up the best stone cookware on the market. My top pick? The Carote 10-Piece Non-stick Cookware Set.

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I like using non-stick cookware for certain dishes, like scrambled eggs or crepes. But I also want cookware that’s free of toxic materials.

One way to get that non-stick quality without using toxic chemicals is to use stone or granite stone cookware.

I liked the Carote 10-piece non-stick cookware set because it had excellent feedback from many customers and was affordable at the same time.

But there’s a myriad of stone cookware options on the market, here is the selection I’ve reviewed:

What is the best granite cookware for you? Keep reading to find out.

Best Stone Cookware Review

I’ve reviewed some stone cookware sets as well as individual stone frying pans.

Carote 10-Piece Non-stick Kitchen Cookware Set: Best Overall

Carote is a European company that has been making cookware for over 30 years.  This non-stick Essential Woody cookware set has an attractive black speckled coating. The inner core consists of die-cast aluminum, and the cooking surface is lead, cadmium, and PFOA-free.

Although the product description is not 100% clear, I believe this set is free of Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), the active ingredient of Teflon. Carote’s website claims their five-layer coating is PTFE-free.

Carote advertises this sturdy cookware as 50% lighter than cast iron. The aluminum core heats quickly, making this set great for busy cooks.

This set includes 10 pieces:

  • 2.3-quart (2.18 liters) covered casserole
  • 4.3-quart (4.07 liters) covered casserole
  • 6-quart (5.68 liters) covered casserole
  • 1.5-quart (1.42 liters) covered saucepan
  • 9.5-inch (24.13 cm) frying pan
  • 11-inch (27.94 cm) frying pan
Carote Nonstick Granite Cookware Sets 10 Pcs Stone Cookware Set,non stick frying pan set , pots and pans set ( Granite, induction cookware)

Have an induction stove? No problem. This set is suitable for all cooktops. With gas stoves, make sure the bottom cooking surface covers the burner completely to avoid damaging the exterior of the pans.

The ergonomic bakelite handles stay cool to the touch while cooking. However, there were several reports of the handle either getting overheated or coming off. In general, customers had good experiences getting replacements in those cases.

The handles also mean this cookware set is not safe for oven use. As with other non-stick pans, it’s best to avoid metal utensils.

Customers loved the even heat distribution. They had success with scrambled eggs and other recipes without sticking.

As for cleaning: Carote recommends hand washing these pots and pans to make them last longer and save energy.

With the quality of the nonstick coating, however, cleaning by hand should not be overly difficult. One reviewer recommended letting the pan soak for a few minutes with soapy water in case of stubborn food.

The Essential Woody cookware set is very affordable, so you don’t have to break the budget. 

Pros

  • Induction compatible
  • Non-toxic non-stick coating
  • Easy to clean
  • Lightweight
  • Affordable
  • Likely PTFE (Teflon) Free

Cons

  • Stovetop only
  • Not dishwasher-safe
  • Reports of handle overheating or breaking

Carote 3-Quart Deep Frying Pan with Cover: Best Single Pan

For those who don’t want an entire set, Carote offers this 3-quart (2.84 liters) deep frying pan with a glass lid. This pan has induction compatibility, and it also works with halogen, gas, and ceramic stove tops.

Just like the Essential Woody set, this non-stick pan has a die-cast aluminum construction with a granite stone coating on the interior and exterior.

The Bakelite handles have a wood look and stay cool while cooking. One complaint some customers had was staining on the handles after a while. This doesn’t affect the performance, but it can be unsightly.

Several users liked how deep this pan is. They could hold several portions of rice, 3 whole chicken breasts, or enough vegetables for a family with just one pan.

Pros

  • Larger capacity
  • Lid included
  • For all cooktops, including induction

Cons

  • Possibly contains PTFE?
  • Reports of handles staining

Bialetti Textured 10-piece Non-stick Cookware Set: Overall Runner-Up and Best Oven-Safe Stone Cookware Set

You might recognize Bialetti from the Moka pot. This Italian brand has been making coffee pots for over 100 years. But you may not know that Bialetti also makes their own cookware.

This Bialetti Impact cookware set claims to be textured non-stick instead of stone cookware. Nonetheless, its materials and product description are quite similar to stone cookware. This Bialetti set includes 10 pieces:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) sauté pan
  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) sauté pan
  • 2-quart (1.89 liters) covered saucepan
  • 2.5-quart (2.37 cm) covered saucepan
  • 11-inch (27.94 cm) deep sauté pan with lid
  • 5-quart (4.73 liters) Dutch oven with lid

The aluminum surface is textured to eliminate hot spots and evenly distribute oil for better results. The manufacturer achieves this micro-divot texture by blasting the interior of the cookware with metal pellets during the manufacturing process.

These pots and pans have a nanotec-infused non-stick surface. I’ve researched what this nanotec-infused surface actually includes. And what did I find?

It’s not clear. It’s probably a form of PTFE, but I can’t be sure. Again, if you follow the care instructions, you should have zero problems.

Speaking of care, it’s essential to keep the heat at low to medium. You must not heat these  non-stick pans above 400°F (204°C). It’s easy to overheat an empty pan on the stove. Add cooking oil before preheating.

But the good news is these pans are safe for oven use, which is not the case for most stone cookware.

The reason? The Bialetti Impact cookware set has riveted silicone handles, as opposed to the Bakelite handles on other cookware sets. These silicone handles can withstand higher temperatures.

Hand washing is required, but it’s hassle-free. Customers loved how easy it is to clean these pans. The non-stick has an excellent food release.

They also raved about even cooking. One possible reason for this is that this Bialetti set does not have an induction plate on the bottom, thereby raising the center of the pan. The bad news? That means this set is not suitable for induction stovetops.

This set would be great for someone who does not have an induction stove or wants to use their stone cookware in the oven.  It’s also a good value set, so you don’t have to overheat your budget.

Pros

  • Oven-safe up to 400°F (204°C)
  • Micro-divot texture has even heating
  • Riveted silicone handles
  • Affordable price

Cons

  • Not suitable for induction
  • Hand washing required

Michelangelo 12-Piece Stone Non-stick Cookware: Best for Steaming

Michelangelo is a German brand that started in 1931 as a cutlery company. They have since expanded their product lines to include kitchenware, bakeware, and cookware.

This 12-piece set has a die-cast aluminum body with a triple layer nonstick coating. The Michelangelo set includes the following pieces:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan
  • 10 (25.4 cm) fry pan with lid
  • 1-quart (.95 liters) saucepan with lid
  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepan with lid
  • 5-quart (4.73 liters) stockpot with lid
  • 9.5-inch (24.13 liters) steamer insert
  • spatula & spoon

This coating uses a spatter technology developed by Whitford that offers the aesthetics of granite. This set has an attractive appearance with a light-colored interior and a dark exterior.

MICHELANGELO Pots and Pans Set Nonstick, 12 Pcs Pot Sets for Cooking Nonstick with Bakelite Handle, Non Toxic Cookware Set Induction Compatible

Michelangelo advertises their cookware as free of PFOA and other toxins. The product description does not state whether the cookware contains PTFE (active ingredient of Teflon). Michelangelo advertises other cookware as PTFE-free, so I believe this set is free of Teflon as well, but I can’t be sure.

Customers were pleased with the heat distribution of these pans. Food cooks evenly and thoroughly. Another perk? These pans are safe for all cooktops, including induction.

But if you want your cookware to go from stovetop to oven? You can’t do that with these non-stick pans because they’re not oven-safe.

The Bakelite handles have a wood look and stay cool during the cooking process. Although this set is supposed to be dishwasher-safe, I would recommend washing them by hand. Several customers who loved their cookware set also mentioned that they only hand wash their pieces.

These Michaelangelo pans come with a glass lid. Many customer reviews complained about the lids not fitting correctly. Others had no problems with the lids, but that does seem to be a possibility.

Pros

  • Induction compatible
  • Attractive appearance
  • Technically dishwasher safe (not recommended)
  • Includes a steamer
  • Likely free of PTFE (Teflon)

Cons

  • Not oven-safe
  • Some reports of ill-fitting lids

Michelangelo 10-Inch Frying Pan with Lid: Best Budget Single Stone Frying Pan

For those that don’t want a whole pots and pans set, this 10-inch (25.4 cm) frying pan is also made by Michelangelo. It has the same aluminum body and triple-layer non-stick surface as the complete set. This pan was my top pick for the best ceramic frying pan.

This pan is designed to cook on low to medium heat with less oil than other pans. This Michelangelo pan can work on all cooktops, but it is not for oven use.

MICHELANGELO 10 Inch Frying Pan with Lid, Nonstick Frying Pan with Bakelite Handle, 10 Inch Frying Pan Non Stick, White Stone Nonstick Frying Pan with Lid - 10 Inch

The Bakelite handle has a wood-grain look and stays cool to the touch.

Users had great results with scrambled eggs, omelets, and other dishes. The food slid right out of the pan. One reviewer said they simply wiped the pan clean with a paper towel after cooking.

The only caveat? This is not the most durable piece of cookware. Don’t expect to get several years out of this piece. But at its price point, it’s still a good value option for what you get.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Non-stick, food releases easily
  • Easy to clean
  • Includes a lid
  • Works on all cooktops

Cons

  • Not made to last a long time
  • Stovetop only

GraniteStone 20-Piece Stone Non-stick Cookware Set: Best Large Set

You may have seen GraniteStone cookware on TV. They offer a range of cookware sets and products. This particular GraniteStone set is more of a kitchen collection than a simple set. It comes with a whopping 20 pieces:

  • 8.5-inch (21.59 cm) fry pan
  • 10.25-inch (26.04 cm) covered skillet
  • 9.5-inch (24.13 cm) square pan
  • 9.5-inch (24.13 cm) deep pan with lid
  • 1.5-quart (1.42 liters) covered saucepan
  • 2.5-quart (2.37 liters) covered saucepan
  • 5-quart (4.73 liters) pot with lid
  • steamer & fry basket
  • 12-muffin tin
  • square bake pan, cookie tray, round bake pan, and loaf pan

There is a smaller 5-piece and 3-piece set available, as well.

GraniteStone uses a stone-derived nonstick coating with a triple layer. The coating is infused with diamonds to increase the hardness and durability.

All of their cookware is lead, cadmium, and PFOA-free.  It likely contains PTFE, but I could not confirm.

Granitestone 20 Pc Pots and Pans Set Nonstick Cookware Set, Kitchen Cookware Sets, Pot and Pan Set, Pot Set, Diamond Coated Non Stick Pots and Pans Set with Lids + Bakeware, Dishwasher Safe

One thing that separates this GraniteStone set from others is its versatility. It’s safe for oven temperatures up to 500°F (260°C), something that’s unique among granite stone cookware.

It is not suitable for induction cooktops, though. GraniteStone advertises their non-stick pans as safe for metal utensils and the dishwasher.

I would be cautious in testing that claim. Washing by hand and using wooden or silicone utensils are a safer bet, by far.

The stainless steel handles stay cool while cooking on the stovetop. But some users had issues with the lid handles getting too hot. If in doubt, use a potholder to lift the lid.

A set this large is going to cost more, and this one does. However, it is way more affordable than stainless steel or cast iron cookware.

Pros

  • “Kitchen in a box,” 20 pieces
  • Metal-utensil safe
  • Dishwasher-safe
  • Diamond-infused non-stick coating

Cons

  • Probably contains PTFE (Teflon)
  • Not for induction cooktops
  • More expensive

If you want to shop around then you can find a smaller version of this stone cookware set on Bed Bath and Beyond.

Granitestone 11-Inch Non-stick Frying Pan: Best for Stovetop to Oven

GraniteStone Cookware also makes this 11-inch (27.94 cm) skillet. It features an aluminum construction and a lead, cadmium, and PFOA-free triple-layer non-stick surface reinforced with minerals.

There is some confusing information about the surface. The photo and label say that this non-stick is infused with titanium, whereas the product description states that the non-stick is infused with diamonds. Perhaps it is infused with both, but mismatching descriptions are strange.

One clear thing is that this skillet can handle high temperatures. It’s oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C). The stainless steel handles are comfortable and are supposed to stay cool while cooking on the stovetop.

GRANITESTONE 11 Inch Non Stick Frying Pan Nonstick Pan with Mineral/Diamond Coating for Long Lasting Nonstick Frying Pan Skillet for Cooking with Stay Cool Handles, Oven/Dishwasher Safe, Non Toxic

Although GraniteStone states this pan does not need butter or oil, several customers had issues with food sticking. Most required at least some oil or butter to release food. I always use a little oil, normally olive oil, even when cooking with non-stick.

It’s necessary to cook with these pans on low or medium heat. High heat can damage the cooking surface. Plus, some users had issues with burning their food. These pans heat quickly, so you’ll want to closely monitor your food.

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Oven-safe up to 500°F (260°C)
  • Stainless steel handles
  • Heats quickly

Cons

  • No lid
  • Reports of food sticking

Check out my Granite Stone pan review for more information about the 10 inch version of this pan.

Granitestone Stackmaster 10-piece Cookware Set: Best for space saving

Non-stick cookware is lightweight and easy to use, but it’s not known for being the most durable. For this reason, it’s generally not a good idea to stack non-stick pots and pans.

However, this GraniteStone Stackmaster cookware set is designed to solve that problem. It comes with 10 pieces, including:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) Fry Pan
  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) Skillet
  • 2.75-quart (2.60 liters) saucepan with lid 
  • 3.5-quart (3.31liters) saucepan with lid
  • 3.75-quart (3.55 liters) sauté pan with lid
  • 5.35-quart (5.06 liters) stockpot with lid

This set saves space by being stackable–GraniteStone claims this set can free up 30% more space in the kitchen.

Granitestone Original Stack Master 10 Piece Cookware Set, Triple Layer Nonstick Granite Stone with Diamond infused Coating, Dishwasher Oven Safe, Non-Toxic Pots and Pans, Large, Black

This granite stone cookware features a non-stick, diamond-reinforced triple coating. GraniteStone claims this cookware is safe for metal cooking tools and the dishwasher. Unfortunately, this is another one where it’s not clear if it’s Teflon/PTFE-free.

I would recommend wooden tools and washing these pans by hand, though.

This granite cookware is also safe for the oven, able to withstand temps up to 550°F (288°C). Plus, it’s suitable for all stovetops, even induction.

One major caution: Several customers had problems with their granite cookware on their induction stoves. Although the manufacturer claims this is induction compatible, I would probably choose another option over these pots and pans if I had an induction stove.

One thing I liked about these pots and pans is the interchangeable glass lids which make cooking more convenient and allow you to monitor food.

As far as cost? This set is affordable, although it’s pricier than other options on our list.

Pros

  • Oven-safe up to 550°F (288°C)
  • Space saving
  • Interchangeable lids
  • Safe for metal utensils

Cons

  • More expensive than other cookware sets
  • Complaints of not working with induction stoves
  • May not be Teflon-free

CSK 16-Piece Non-stick Cookware Set: Best Mid-range Set

If you like colorful cookware sets, you’re in luck. This bright red CSK non-stick cookware set will stand out. It comes with 16 pieces and includes:

  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) sauté pan with lid
  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan
  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) frying pan with lid
  • 1.5-quart (1.42 liters) saucepan with lid
  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepan with lid
  • 5-quart (4.73 liters) stockpot with lid
  • 5 black nylon cooking utensils
KOCH SYSTEME CS CSK Nonstick Cookware Set-Nonstick frying pans,Red Granite Cookware with Derived Coating,induction pot&pan set, Bakelite Handle and Multi-Ply Body, Lovely Housewarming Gift,16 Pieces

This CSK cookware set is PFOA, lead, and cadmium free. It might contain PTFE, however. It uses the same Whitford spatter coating as the Michaelangelo set to give it that granite look. This coating is on both the interior and the exterior of the pans. 

The triple layer base with magnetic plate means this cookware set is induction compatible.  The tempered glass lids are vented to help you monitor food while you cook. The Bakelite handles also feature a wood look and stay cool while cooking.

CSK says this cookware is only safe for temperatures up to 320°F (160°C), so it’s not really feasible to use these pots and pans in the oven.

Customers loved the quality of the nonstick coating. The food release is conducive to healthy cooking, since it requires less oil.

Even though this is not the most expensive set on our list, it is a pricier product line than others.

Pros

  • Bright red exterior
  • More durable than most
  • Food doesn’t stick

Cons

  • Pricier than other brands
  • Not dishwasher safe
  • Stovetop only
  • Might contain PTFE?

CSK 11-Inch Non-stick Pan with Lid: Best Large Skillet

CSK also offers a single non-stick pan with a diameter of 11 inches (27.94 cm). It comes with a glass vented lid, as well.

Like the 16-piece set, this non-stick pan features the spattered red nonstick coating on the interior and exterior. It also has a magnetic plate at the bottom to make it compatible with induction cooktops, as well as all others.

CSK 11” Red Granite Frying Pan with Lid-Classic Fry Pan with APEO & PFOA-Free Whitford Non-Stick Coating,Skillet Nonstick,Aluminum Alloy, Superior Heat transfer,Bakelite Handle,Induction Compatible.

The Bakelite handles have a pretty wood look and stay cool, but they are not to be put in the oven.

Overall, customers were pleased with the pan’s performance and non-stick quality.

But there were a couple of complaints. First, some users reported ill-fitting lids. Secondly, there were several that reported peeling and flaking non-stick after a few uses. In general, this pan will work well. But don’t count on it being durable or lasting a long time. diameter

Pros

  • Includes a lid
  • Affordable
  • Bright red exterior
  • Compatible with all cooktops

Cons

  • Reports of peeling/flaking non-stick
  • Complaints of lids not fitting
  • Stovetop only

Induction Kitchen Cookware Set, 15 Pieces: Best Teflon-free set

Manufactured by the Kitchen Academy, this 15-piece cookware set is free of PTFE, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. It has a hammered blue exterior and a granite stone cookware coating. It also comes in a black exterior.

This cookware set includes the following pieces:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan
  • 9.65-inch (24.511 cm) fry pan
  • 1.5-quart (1.42 liters) saucepan 
  • 3-quart (2.84 liters) saucepan
  • 5-quart (4.73 liters) casserole
  • 9.45-inch (24 cm) SS round steamer
  • 8.65-inch (21.97 cm) SS Round Fry Basket
  • 5-piece nylon kitchen utensils
  • 3 lids both fit for pots and pans

The aluminum core helps this cookware heat quickly and evenly. It has a magnetic base, making it induction compatible.

Although the manufacturer claims this set is dishwasher-safe, I would stick to washing these pots and pans by hand. Also, the product description says it’s oven-safe, but does not list any maximum temperature. To further confuse the issue, customer reviews give conflicting information regarding this.

For that reason, I would stick to stovetop use only. Better safe than sorry.

Customers liked the non-stick quality of these pans. They had success with omelets, stews, and bacon. They also liked the even heating of these pans.

One major complaint, though? The lid knobs. There were several reports of those breaking.

Pros

  • Contains no PTFE/Teflon
  • Attractive blue hammered exterior
  • Compatible with all cooktops
  • Dishwasher safe

Cons

  • Conflicting info regarding oven use
  • Reports of lid knobs breaking

Ballarini Parma 10-Piece Non-stick Cookware Set: Best Splurge Set

This Ballarini Parma set has a cold-forged aluminum body with a ceramic non-stick coating reinforced with titanium. It comes in a speckled gray look.

This set includes:

  • 8-inch (20.32 cm) fry pan
  • 10-inch (25.4 cm) fry pan
  • 1.5-qt (1.42 liters) covered saucepan
  • 2.8-quart (2.65 liters) covered saucepan
  • 2.9-quart (2.74 liters) sauté pan with lid
  • 4.8-quart (4.54 liters) pot with lid

This cookware is made in Italy. Ballarini is owned by Zwilling, the same company that manufacturers Henckel’s knives and Staub cookware.

BALLARINI Parma by HENCKELS 10-pc Nonstick Pot and Pan Set, Made in Italy, Set includes fry pans, saucepans, sauté pan and Dutch oven with lid,Gray

The Thermopoint on the handle indicates when the pan is preheated.

There were some reports of staining on the ceramic coating, but overall, customers were pleased with the performance of this ceramic cookware.

The quality of this set is high, and the price point reflects that. Expect to pay significantly more for this ceramic cookware than other cookware brands.

Pros

  • Thermopoint indicator
  • Good ceramic non-stick quality
  • Even heating

Cons

  • Reports of staining
  • Significantly more expensive

Ballarini Parma 2-Piece Non-stick Frying Pans Set: Best Ceramic Skillets

This Ballarini Parma set includes two open skillets: a 10-inch (25.4 cm) and 11-inch (27.94 cm) pan.

BALLARINI PARMA by HENCKELS 2-pc Nonstick Pot and Pan Set, Made in Italy, Set includes 10-inch and 12-inch fry pan

This 2-piece set has the same cold-forged aluminum body and titanium-reinforced ceramic coating as the larger set.

These pieces are dishwasher-safe, although I would hand wash if possible.  The coating is free of PTFE, PFOA, and other toxins.

These frying pans also have Ballarini’s proprietary Thermpoint heat indicator on the handles, just like the larger set.

Pros

  • Does not contain PTFE
  • Non-stick, easy to clean
  • Has Thermopoint heat indicator

Cons

  • Does not include lids
  • Some reports of the coating coming off
  • Expensive

You can also get individual pans, straight from Zwilling, the manufacturer behind Ballarini. If you just want one ceramic stone pan, then consider this 12 inch pan:

Ballarini Parma Plus 12-inch Aluminum Nonstick Fry Pan

This 12 inch pan performs the same as 10 and 11 inch pans above.

Stone Cookware: A Buying Guide

Best Stone Cookware

What Is Stone Cookware Made Of?

Don’t let the name fool you. Granite or stone cookware is not made of granite or stone. Most stone cookware is actually aluminum with a textured non-stick coating.

The name comes from the coating, which often contains rock or granite particles. Sometimes the non-stick coating is not infused with rock or granite but has a stone look. Stone cookware can even include some ceramic cookware.

The term “stone cookware” covers a wide range of materials. My recommendation? Confirm the cookware materials by reading the product description. All of the products in this post have the materials listed, so you don’t have to do any guesswork.

I personally think that a lot of stone cookware has a little bit of marketing sauce mixed into the description. I mean it’s unlikely a “stone earth frying pan” is at all natural despite the description.

So don’t buy that stone earth frying pan for the alleged health benefits, buy it because you like the look and treat it like other non-stick pans.

Are stone frying pans and stone-coated cookware safe?

In a word? Yes, with proper use and care.

Granite cookware, as with all modern cookware, is PFOA-free, so it’s non-toxic. It’s also non-reactive, meaning you can cook acidic foods like tomato-based recipes without worry.

However almost all stone frying pans have a non-stick coating. It’s this coating we need to look more closely at.

Some people wish to avoid PTFE (Polytetrafluoroethylene), a polymer used in Teflon and a lot of non-stick surfaces. While there is no evidence to suggest PTFE is unsafe in a nonstick coating, nonstick cookware can release toxic fumes when heated above 500°F (260°C) that are deadly to birds and give humans flu-like symptoms.

PTFE is very common in nonstick cookware.

Some stone cookware is PTFE-free, but some sets do contain it. In general, though, there are some easy guidelines to help keep your stone frying pans safe and in the best shape.

Firstly, make sure to use your stone pan on low to medium heat. Higher temperatures can break down a non-stick surface and easily warp pans.

Secondly, avoid using metal utensils on granite stone cookware. Although some manufacturers claim their stone cookware is scratch-resistant and safe for metal utensils, they can potentially damage non-stick coatings. I would play it safe and use wooden or heat-resistant silicone cooking tools with any non-stick coating.

Scratch-resistant isn’t scratch-proof.

Lastly, hand washing is better than using the dishwasher. Again, several brands claim their stone cookware is safe for the dishwasher, but non-stick coatings are notoriously fragile. Washing with mild soap and a non-abrasive sponge is the best cleaning option.

Do I have to season stone cookware?

While it’s not absolutely required, seasoning granite stone cookware may be a good idea. However stone pans can be made of very different materials so it’s always best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

My experience is that seasoning nonstick cookware when the manufacturer doesn’t recommend it can actually worsen performance. This is because the nonstick surface ends up with a layer of effectively dirt that stops it working well. (This is why it’s sometimes possible to restore a nonstick surface by cleaning it with Barkeeper’s friend.)

Some stone cookware sets will have instructions on how to season their pans in the owner’s manual, which you should follow.

In general, you can season a stone frying pan by washing and drying it. Then, put a teaspoon of cooking oil in the pan and heat it over medium for two or three minutes. Turn off the heat and wipe the remaining oil with a paper towel. Voila!

Unlike cast iron, don’t overheat the oil until it smokes, unless specifically advised to do so by the manufacturer. If you overheat the oil, you risk overheating the pan, damaging it, and releasing toxic fumes.

Why choose granite cookware?

Stone wok being used to cook mushrooms

Granite stone cookware is lightweight, which makes it ideal for those who can’t lift heavy pans like those made from cast iron.

Other cookware materials like stainless steel and cast iron are great, but sometimes it takes forever to heat them. Most granite stone cookware has an aluminum core, which means it heats up quickly. It also distributes heat evenly, making it great for cooking a variety of dishes.

Aluminum is an abundant and inexpensive material, so stone cookware is affordable. The granite or stone-infused coating makes the stone pan more durable, although non-stick pans are generally not going to last a long time.

In the end, stone cookware offers no real advantage over other non-stick cookware, apart from the look. Don’t buy stone cookware, thinking there is some sort of performance advantage.

If you do want something genuinely different, consider enamel cookware

What to cook with stone cookware

Granite cookware is ideal for eggs, sauces, vegetables, rice, and meats. It’s not the best for stir-frying, searing meat, or any type of high heat cooking, as the high temperatures could ruin the handles and break down the non-stick surface.

If you want high-heat cookware–check out my guide.

Stone frying pans are not suited for oven dishes. Most stone cookware is not oven-safe, so you’ll have to stick to stovetop cooking. There are a couple of exceptions to that rule, but make sure to never supersede their maximum temperatures.

The reason stone cookware is not oven-safe is that most sets have wooden handles. These are attractive, typically stay cool, and are comfortable. But you can’t heat them!

Your guide when buying the best stone cookware

Final Verdict: The Best Stone Cookware

Want the best stone cookware? I’d go with the Carote 10-Piece Non-stick Cookware set. It has wonderful customer feedback and has good value.

Just want a single pan? Stone frying pans tend to be quite similar: they look nice but won’t last forever. Anyway, I’d choose the Carote 3-Quart Deep Pan. It has a large capacity and provides the same benefits as the Carote 10-piece set.

If you are looking for healthy attractive cookware, then consider, also ceramic cookware. It’s mostly Teflon-free, and, though lacking the textured surface of stone cookware, comes in a range of lovely colors.