If you are considering buying cookware then you know that there are many different options. Cookware sets comes in different sizes, styles and shapes. There are a variety of different features and many different manufactures. There is much to consider; selecting the right set can be a daunting process.
Maybe the first thing you should consider is you particular cooking style. The causal home cook and the professional chef will have different cookware needs. It is important to find the right fit for your type of cooking.
Another consideration is your budget. You can find inexpensive cookware sets for under $200, and sets can cost over $500 on the high end of the scale. The price can vary for a number of reasons including manufacturers' name and reputation, quality of construction and number of pieces in the cookware set.
There are a few different metals that cookware is made from. Stainless steel has always been a favorite since it is attractive, durable and cleans easily. Aluminum heats much more evenly and efficiently than stainless, but is softer. Many manufacturers will use stainless steel to cover an aluminum core in order to get the best of both worlds. Another excellent choice is hard anodized aluminum which is chemically treated aluminum so that it is more durable than non-treated aluminum.
Many people gravitate towards nonstick cookware because of its ease of use and easy cleaning. However it does have its drawbacks. Since the nonstick surface is a coating, it is not durable. Over time the nonstick coating will wear off and the cookware will need to be replaced. In addition almost all nonstick cookware is not dishwasher safe, although they clean easily with sponge and warm sudsy water. In addition nonstick cookware does not brown foods as well as other cookware, so it might not be the right choice for the serious cook.
Another consideration is the number of pieces included in the cookware set. A basic set will have just a few pots and pans, and other sets will be very elaborate including not only pots and pans, but sometimes accessories and even bakeware. Think about some of the favorite meals that you cook and consider any other cookware you might own, when making your choice. It is almost always less expensive to purchase a larger set initially, then to buy more pieces later.
There are many things to consider when selecting cookware. Durability, functionality and aesthetics can vary widely. There are so many cookware options with a little due diligence you will surely find the set that is right for you.
Maybe the first thing you should consider is you particular cooking style. The causal home cook and the professional chef will have different cookware needs. It is important to find the right fit for your type of cooking.
Another consideration is your budget. You can find inexpensive cookware sets for under $200, and sets can cost over $500 on the high end of the scale. The price can vary for a number of reasons including manufacturers' name and reputation, quality of construction and number of pieces in the cookware set.
There are a few different metals that cookware is made from. Stainless steel has always been a favorite since it is attractive, durable and cleans easily. Aluminum heats much more evenly and efficiently than stainless, but is softer. Many manufacturers will use stainless steel to cover an aluminum core in order to get the best of both worlds. Another excellent choice is hard anodized aluminum which is chemically treated aluminum so that it is more durable than non-treated aluminum.
Many people gravitate towards nonstick cookware because of its ease of use and easy cleaning. However it does have its drawbacks. Since the nonstick surface is a coating, it is not durable. Over time the nonstick coating will wear off and the cookware will need to be replaced. In addition almost all nonstick cookware is not dishwasher safe, although they clean easily with sponge and warm sudsy water. In addition nonstick cookware does not brown foods as well as other cookware, so it might not be the right choice for the serious cook.
Another consideration is the number of pieces included in the cookware set. A basic set will have just a few pots and pans, and other sets will be very elaborate including not only pots and pans, but sometimes accessories and even bakeware. Think about some of the favorite meals that you cook and consider any other cookware you might own, when making your choice. It is almost always less expensive to purchase a larger set initially, then to buy more pieces later.
There are many things to consider when selecting cookware. Durability, functionality and aesthetics can vary widely. There are so many cookware options with a little due diligence you will surely find the set that is right for you.
About the Author:
Mary Poodel's experience in education includes teaching, counseling, tutoring, and student residence hall supervision. She has written numerous articles on financial aid, online degrees, campus life, online colleges, and college admission.