Cati asks: I got this weird looking thing as a wedding shower gift. I assume it’s for cooking, but what is it and how do I use it?

First of all, congratulations on your marriage. Second, whoever gave this to you wants to make sure you don’t burn any newlywed suppers!

What you received is a stovetop heat diffuser (also called a simmer plate). It evenly distributes heat across the bottom of the pan when you cook over very low heat… like when you have to simmer a delicate sauce or braise a roast. It’s also great for melting chocolate!

A heat diffuser gets rid of “hot spots” because it reduces the intense heat from reaching the pan… the heat is diffused. Consider a heat diffuser as an added layer of protection between the burner and the bottom of the pan. It’ll keep you from scorching lightweight pots and pans or cracking clay, porcelain and glass cookware.

Using it is simple: just set it on top of the burner (gas or electric, but not induction) and place your cookware (pot or pan) on top. Make sure you let it cool down completely before moving or storing it.

Cati, your diffuser is tin-plated steel with a nice wooden handle. Heat diffusers are also made with dark anodized aluminum, enamel cast iron and perforated steel discs (with or without handles).

So, have fun using the diffuser and consider yourself lucky! I mean really, have you seen some of the odd-ball stuff people give as gifts at wedding showers?!

 

 

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