Top-notch Ramekins for Baking and Presenting Delicacies
Ramekins, versatile kitchen tools used for serving individual portions of desserts, soufflés, and appetizers, come in various materials each with its unique advantages and disadvantages. Here's a comparison of common materials to help you make an informed choice.
## Porcelain Ramekins
Porcelain ramekins are known for their elegance and ability to enhance food presentation. They are generally long-lasting if handled carefully and are suitable for high-temperature use in the oven. However, they are not recommended for microwave use due to the risk of cracking or breaking, and some require hand washing and gentle handling.
## Le Creuset Stoneware Ramekins
Le Creuset stoneware ramekins offer versatility, as they can be used in the fridge, freezer, microwave, oven, and under the grill. They maintain even temperature and are strong and durable. Dishwasher safe and scratch-resistant, they are easy to clean. These ramekins are available in vibrant colours that match other Le Creuset items, making them a stylish addition to any kitchen. However, they are generally more expensive and can be heavy.
## Glass Ramekins
Glass ramekins are safe for acidic foods and are typically dishwasher safe. Their clear design allows food to be visible, and they are generally safe for microwave use. However, they can break if dropped and may shatter if exposed to sudden temperature changes.
## Plastic Ramekins
Plastic ramekins are lightweight, easy to handle, and transport. They are cost-effective and can come in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, they are not suitable for high oven temperatures and may degrade over time, especially if exposed to heat.
While not typically used as ramekins, other materials like ceramic or silicone could also be options, each with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
In the market for a new ramekin set? The Chicago Metallic Professional 6-Piece Crème Brûlée Set, while only available in a 6-ounce size, includes tools for easier crème brûlée baking. However, it contains four pieces, which is less than the standard six in most ramekin sets. On the other hand, the Hatrigo Porcelain Ramekins With Silicone Storage Lids are the best ramekin set, available in 6-, 8- and 10-ounce sizes.
Individual ramekins are also available and start around $5. Specialty shapes for ramekins include stars, extra-large diameters with less than an inch height, and ramekins with little handles that look like miniature pots. Stainless steel ramekins are commonly used in restaurants for serving sauces.
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. They have found that the average set of ramekins contains six 6-ounce ramekins and costs around $20. It's important to note that the prices listed for the Hatrigo Porcelain Ramekins With Silicone Storage Lids and the Chicago Metallic Professional 6-Piece Crème Brûlée Set may be subject to change.
Ramekins come with tight-fitting silicone lids for easy storage of excess foods. The standard shape for ramekins is a basic cylinder with equal diameters at the top and bottom. Subscribers are entitled to 10 gift sharing articles each month.
While some reports suggest that these porcelain ramekins may arrive broken or cracked, requiring all ramekins to be returned for exchange, it's always a good idea to check the manufacturer's warranty before making a purchase.
In summary, the choice of material for ramekins depends on intended use, desired durability, and personal preference regarding aesthetics and cost.
Cooking with ramekins can be a delightful part of one's food-and-drink lifestyle, as these versatile kitchen tools serve individual portions of various dishes. For instance, porcelain ramekins offer an elegant touch to food presentation, while glass ramekins safely hold acidic foods. On the other hand, stoneware ramekins like the Le Creuset brand provide versatility and style, and home-and-garden enthusiasts might appreciate plastic ones for their lightweight nature and cost-effectiveness. While making a choice, keep in mind that each material has its unique advantages and disadvantages, and the intended use, durability, aesthetics, and cost should all be factors in the decision-making process.
