Ekco is a historic brand that got its name in 1945 and was responsible for a significant portion of all kitchen utensils manufactured in the 1950s. Today, Ekco is a division of Corelle, and many of their original kitchen products are considered to be vintage. There's a high probability if you've been cooking since the '70s that you have some sort of Ekco product in your kitchen. Ekco spatulas come in many forms, from nylon plastic to rubber and stainless steel.
Ekco is a well-respected brand that has produced thousands of reliable spatulas still functioning in kitchen's across North America today. Spatulas come in all shapes and sizes, but a few qualities make some models superior to others.
Selecting a high-quality spatula depends primarily on the materials used. Nylon, silicone, wood, and stainless steel are common. While nylon is often most affordable, it will melt at around 400°F, whereas silicone has greater heat resistance. Silicone spatulas can resist heat up to 600°F, but this ranges by product. Silicone also has less rigidity and won't scratch your pots and pans.
For handling heavier pieces of food like a hamburger, stainless steel spatulas are the sturdiest option. They are also handy for turning raw meat because they're easier to clean and don't stain as wooden utensils do. However, stainless steel spatulas are often more expensive than other options, and they can scratch pots and pans.
In addition to being aesthetically pleasing, wooden spatulas are a great option because they don't conduct heat, so you can leave them resting against your frying pan without burning your hand when you go to pick it up. They can be challenging to clean and sterilize, especially if you don't rinse them immediately after use.
Choosing the right spatula for your kitchen depends on the kind of cooking you usually do and your aesthetic. Meat lovers who grill often need heavy-duty stainless steel or cast-iron utensils, while vegans or vegetarians have more flexibility to choose a lightweight material. If you have a rustic kitchen, a wooden spatula might fit your aesthetic best, but silicone is a safe choice for practical, everyday use.
