Yes, carbon steel pans are generally induction compatible.
Carbon steel, thanks to its high iron content, is a ferromagnetic material, meaning it interacts with magnetic fields. Induction cooktops work by creating a magnetic field that heats up ferromagnetic cookware directly. Because of this inherent property, carbon steel pans heat efficiently on induction cooktops.
While most carbon steel pans will work seamlessly with induction, it's always a good idea to:
- Check the manufacturer's specifications: Confirm the pan is explicitly stated as induction-compatible. This ensures optimal performance and avoids any warranty issues.
- Test the pan: Place a small amount of water in the pan and put it on the induction cooktop. If the water heats up, the pan is compatible.
Therefore, you can typically use carbon steel pans on induction cooktops.