Choosing the Cookware Line That’s Right for Your Kitchen
on August 30th, 2011 at 2:12 pmImagine you’re shopping for a new set of cookware. You need everything, from basic stock pots to omelet pans. How do you know where to start looking?
To make the right decision about cookware, you have to consider your personal situation. How often do you cook? How much are you willing to spend? Is convenience more important than excellent results? Your answers to these questions will point you to your ideal style of cookware. Actually choosing the brand you like is another story. Cookware is also a great gift ideas, especially for newlyweds.
Read over the descriptions of classic cookware materials below to find out what type most suits you.
Stainless Steel
Classic stainless steel cookware is a good choice for serious chefs who want versatile pots and pans. Stainless is beautiful and functional. It’s lightweight, so carrying your cookware around the kitchen won’t be a chore. Stainless conducts heat quickly and evenly. You can also put stainless steel cookware in the dishwasher, which makes it easy to clean.
Stainless steel is completely recyclable, and it has a life expectancy of more than 100 years. As far as price goes, stainless steel won’t be easy on your wallet. Expect to pay about $400 for a mid-grade, 10-piece set. You can find some brands for less money, but they might not be pure stainless steel.
Anodized Aluminum
Hard aluminum cookware is great for occasional chefs on a budget. The material is easy to use, lightweight, and dishwasher safe. Anodized aluminum is also the least expensive material you’ll find by far. A 10-piece set will cost about $150 on average.
Aluminum can cook food unevenly, and it tends to wear out quicker than other materials. These factors make is less than ideal for serious cooks. However, if you don’t cook regularly and just want basic pots and pans, anodized aluminum cookware could be perfect for you.
Cast Iron
Sturdy cast iron will last for generations if cared for properly. It can go from the stove top to the oven to the freezer without any problems. The thick pots are also excellent heat conductors, perfect for slow cooking.
Cast iron is not dishwasher safe and it is very heavy, which are two of its biggest drawbacks. Also, some brands of cast iron cookware are extremely expensive. An average set of six pots will cost about $500.
Nonstick
For cooks who are most concerned with convenience, nothing beats nonstick cookware. Pans of this variety are coated with a slick layer of nonstick substance. You’ll never have to worry about stubborn eggs stuck to your pans again. Most nonstick lines are lightweight and dishwasher safe. You might have to be careful in your cleaning methods, however, to avoid dislodging the nonstick material.
Nonstick cookware isn’t the best for even heat distribution, so it doesn’t make a good choice for serious chefs looking to create culinary masterpieces. However, it will do just fine for preparing everyday meals. we have to mention a product we just found letterpress cookie cutters, just imagine the fun you can have with these. They are sold by Givesimple.com.