How to Choose a Cookware Set
Cookware is more than just pots and pans. Pots and pans are a part of it, but it has more to do with how you use them and what they can add to your life. A good cookware set acts as an extension of who you are in the kitchen.
A good cookware set is as much about you as it is about the design, construction and quality of the materials of the set. The first thing you need to do is evaluate what you want and need out of your kitchen. Ask yourself these questions:
- Do you eat out a lot, or do you cook a lot?
- Would you like to cook more?
- What kind of investment can/will you make?
- Are you just establishing kitchen basics, or are you thinking about advanced culinary creations?
If your lifestyle involves less cooking that is not too complex you will be able to save money by purchasing a good but modest cookware set. If you love to cook and spend a lot of time in the kitchen, or you are interested in developing your cooking skill, you will probably want to think about making a serious investment.
Three of the key elements to consider when buying your cookware set are durability, build quality and the type of metal used. Using the details provided below in each category will help you narrow your search.
Durability
If money is no object you can find cookware sets that will last your entire life. For example, you can purchase a titanium cookware set that, if properly cared for, will probably outlive you.
It is important to also remember, though, that a certain amount of fragility is not always an indicator of a lack of quality. Enameled cookware, for instance, will chip if not treated with some additional care, but enameled cookware is highly prized for its nonstick properties and neutral reactivity with acidic foods.
If you’re looking for a modestly priced cookware set that will survive a beating, and you have little concern with versatility, weight or style, a cast-iron set would be a good choice. If, however, you are interested in making a more serious long-term investment and want something that “handles” more easily, a lightweight but durable titanium cookware set is an excellent pick.
Build Quality
Generally speaking, a piece of cookware will be stronger if it is constructed from one piece of metal, like a cast-iron skillet. The handle is not riveted on and so has less chance of coming loose over time. Of course, high-quality cookware with riveted joints is common, and if you choose this design just be sure that the construction is solid.
If the handles of a cookware set are made with grips, be sure to examine the handles for weaknesses. A rule of thumb is that the more parts there are, the more parts there are to come loose over time. Pressure-molded grips that are fused to the handle will last longer than grips that have been riveted or screwed on, but a simple metal handle with no frills is always a good bet.
Material
Cookware can be made of anodized aluminum, stainless steel, cast iron, titanium or aluminum coated with a non-stick polymer. Exceptional cookware may be made by cladding using a mix of materials. All of these materials have different properties that give them different benefits and drawbacks. These qualities then have to be balanced against their cost.
High-quality cookware can be constructed from any of these materials. You must focus on why you are purchasing new cookware to know what is best.
Is this a starter cookware set for your college-aged child for use in his or her apartment? A value-priced non-stick set would be fine. Or, are you at home in the kitchen looking to invest in a set that will allow you to expand your culinary imagination? If so, then the sky is the limit.
Article provided by Only Cookware – a buyers guide to cookware including reviews, information and helpful advice relating to cast iron, non-stick, copper and stainless steel cookware.
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