Are stainless steel or glass mixing bowls better
| Stainless Steel Mixing Bowls | Glass Mixing Bowls |
|---|---|
| Transfers temperature to food - best for whipping stiff peaks | Tolerates high heat |
| Hand washing recommended | Dishwasher safe |
| No acidic foods | Acidic foods ok` |
| Light | Heavy |
| Scratches and dents possible | Chipping possible |
Temperature
Glass mixing bowls can tolerate high heat, and can be used with acidic foods. Glass mixing bowls can be used in the microwave, unlike stainless steel mixing bowls. This makes baking easier when you need to start your recipe with melted butter. It saves you a step having to get a new bowl out to microwave butter, and then having to place it in your stainless steel mixing bowl.
Glass such as Pyrex are made of borosilicate glass. The makeup of borosilicate glass allows it to resist stresses like thermal shock or thermal expansion. This type of glass is also used by labs and household cookware since it will tolerate high heats without cracking.
Stainless steel mixing bowls are able to transfer their temperature to the food they are carrying better than glass. When mixing foods that are cold such as egg whites or whipping cream, a stainless steel bowl is preferred. The bowl will become the same temperature as the food and will hold the temperature, allowing the food to be whipped to stiff peaks better than a glass bowl.
Dishwasher Safe
Stainless steel mixing bowls are dishwasher safe, but it is recommended that they are hand washed to prolong the life of the bowl. Glass bowls are easily washed in a dishwasher, with no need to hand wash them.
Damage
Stainless steel does have a tendency to get scratches and dents, whereas glass mixing bowls can get chips in them over time. Be sure to monitor your glass mixing bowl before using it to ensure it’s free of any chips before using it.
Stainless steel mixing bowls are resistant to stains and can be used for everyday use, not just with your stand mixer.
Heavy vs Light
Stainless steel mixing bowls are light and can be easily placed onto your stand mixer. Glass mixing bowls are much heavier, and will ensure your stand mixer remains in place. If you are using your stainless mixing bowl and vigorously mixing, it has the potential to be unsteady on your countertop.
Bonus Uses
Stainless steel bowls are preferred when using a double boiler as well. The high heat from the steam created by the boiling water will transfer to the stainless steel bowl. Stainless steel is a low conductor of heat which is ideal for making custard. The slowly heated bowl does not overcook the eggs needed for custard, making it the perfect choice for a double boiler.
Glass mixing bowls can be used for mixing other baked goods, and not just for your stand mixer. Glass mixing bowls come in handy when making dips and sauces.
When not to use metal mixing bowls
Do not use metal mixing bowls for foods that are high in acidic. Do not use metal mixing bowls for citrus, tomatoes, apricots, rhubarb, or vinegar. It’s best to use a glass or ceramic mixing bowl when baking rhubarb crisp, apricot pies, or lemon tarts.
Mixing bowls with measurements inside
You can find glass mixing bowls with measurements you can easily ready from the inside. Since glass is transparent, you can read the measurement markings on the outside as well.
Glass mixing bowls with measurements on the outside are difficult to find. If you’re lucky you can find one with a lid that fits on top.
Glass mixing bowls and Stainless steeling mixing bowls have their place in the kitchen. Depending on what you plan on baking with your mixing bowls, you could select either one. Stainless has more drawbacks when it comes to foods you can use in your mixing bowl. But stainless steel is a necessity when whipping cream or egg whites. Glass mixing bowls can be used with any type of food, but will struggle when using it for whipping egg whites or whipping cream. Glass mixing bowls are versatile and heavy duty for your every day use.
