Copper vs Brass vs Stainless Steel – Which Cookware is Best?

Copper vs Brass vs Stainless Steel – Which Cookware is Best?

When it comes to cookware, choosing the right material makes a huge difference in taste, health, and durability. Indian kitchens have long trusted copper and brass, while modern homes often rely on stainless steel. But which is actually better? Let’s compare copper, brass, and stainless steel cookware so you can decide what’s best for your kitchen.

1. Copper Cookware

Copper is one of the oldest metals used for cooking.

✅ Benefits

  • Excellent heat conductivity: Cooks food evenly without hot spots.

  • Enhances flavor: Traditional dishes like kheer, halwa, or gravies taste richer.

  • Health benefits: Copper supports digestion, immunity, and overall wellness.

⚠️ Limitations

  • Reacts with acidic foods (tomato, tamarind, lemon).

  • Needs tin coating (kalai) for safe cooking.

  • Requires polishing and care to maintain shine.

2. Brass Cookware

Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc, valued in Indian households for centuries.

✅ Benefits

  • Nutritional value: Adds trace minerals (copper + zinc).

  • Keeps food warm: Brass retains heat longer than steel.

  • Flavorful cooking: Enhances aroma and taste of traditional recipes.

  • Ayurveda approved: Believed to balance the three doshas.

⚠️ Limitations

  • Also requires kalai lining for safety.

  • Heavier than steel, with more upkeep.

  • Not suitable for acidic foods without lining.

3. Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel has become the most common cookware material in modern kitchens.

✅ Benefits

  • Non-reactive: Safe for all food types.

  • Easy maintenance: Simple to clean, dishwasher-safe.

  • Durable: Resistant to rust, scratches, and dents.

  • Affordable: Generally more budget-friendly than brass or copper.

⚠️ Limitations

  • Heat conduction is lower than copper or brass.

  • Lacks traditional taste and health benefits.

  • Food may stick unless using high-quality tri-ply steel.

4. Which One Should You Choose?

  • For health & taste → Brass or Copper (with proper lining).

  • For convenience & low maintenance → Stainless Steel.

  • Best approach → Use a mix: stainless steel for daily cooking, brass and copper for special dishes and traditional serving.

Conclusion

Each material has its own strengths. Copper and brass connect you to tradition, Ayurveda, and authentic flavors, while stainless steel offers durability and ease. Choosing the right balance ensures you get the best of both worlds.

👉 Explore our handcrafted brass cookware and copper utensils to bring timeless tradition back into your kitchen.

 

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