The Cookware Conundrum: Why Buying Individual Pieces Makes More Sense

When it comes to cookware, buying a set may not be the best option. While it may seem like a good idea to get all your pots and pans in one go, it's important to consider your individual needs and cooking habits. Here are some reasons why you might want to avoid buying cookware sets:

- Curating Your Own Collection: Instead of settling for a pre-assembled set, you can handpick each piece of cookware to suit your specific needs and cooking style. This way, you only get what you need and avoid wasting money on items you might not use.

- Mixing and Matching: By purchasing individual pieces, you can mix and match different types and materials, such as non-stick, cast iron, and stainless steel. This gives you more flexibility in the kitchen and allows you to choose the best tool for each task.

- Space Constraints: Cookware sets can take up a lot of cabinet space. If you have a small kitchen or limited storage, buying individual pieces that fit your space may be a better option.

- Cost: Cookware sets can be expensive, especially if you're looking for high-quality options. Buying individual pieces allows you to spread out the cost and invest in the pieces that are most important to you first.

- Your Cooking Habits: Consider your cooking habits and the types of dishes you typically prepare. If you're a beginner cook or prefer simple meals, you might not need an extensive cookware set. On the other hand, if you're an experienced chef or enjoy experimenting with different cuisines, you may want to invest in a wider variety of pots and pans.

Nonstick vs ceramic nonstick

Nonstick and ceramic nonstick cookware are both designed to prevent food from sticking to the pan's surface. However, they differ in terms of materials, performance, durability, and safety. Here is a detailed comparison between the two:

Materials:

Nonstick cookware is typically made of metal, such as aluminium or stainless steel, coated with a substance called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known by the brand name Teflon. Teflon was introduced in 1946 and has been used in cookware since the 1960s.

Ceramic nonstick cookware, on the other hand, usually has a base made of metal, such as aluminium or stainless steel, and is coated with a ceramic finish. This ceramic coating is derived from sand and is applied using a sol-gel process, creating a nonstick surface.

Performance:

Both nonstick and ceramic nonstick cookware effectively prevent food from sticking. However, traditional nonstick coatings tend to be more nonstick than ceramic ones, making them ideal for cooking delicate foods like eggs and fish. Ceramic nonstick coatings, while slightly less nonstick, are still effective and have the advantage of being free of chemicals like PTFE and PFOA.

Durability:

Nonstick coatings, such as Teflon, are known to be durable and can last for years with proper use and care. Ceramic nonstick coatings, on the other hand, tend to lose their nonstick qualities faster. Many users report that ceramic coatings start to lose their nonstick properties within a few months to a year of use.

Safety:

There have been concerns about the safety of traditional nonstick coatings due to the presence of chemicals like PFOA, which has been linked to health issues. However, it's important to note that PFOA has been banned from cookware manufacturing since 2015, and modern nonstick coatings are considered safe by organisations like the American Cancer Society.

Ceramic nonstick coatings are generally considered safer as they are typically free of PFOA and PTFE. However, it's important to avoid scratching or overheating ceramic cookware, as this can affect its performance and potentially release fumes.

In conclusion, both nonstick and ceramic nonstick cookware have their advantages and disadvantages. Nonstick cookware offers superior nonstick properties and durability but has faced safety concerns due to the presence of certain chemicals. Ceramic nonstick cookware provides a safer alternative, although it may not be as long-lasting in terms of nonstick performance. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your specific needs and preferences in the kitchen.

Stainless steel

When purchasing stainless steel cookware, it is important to consider the number of layers or "ply". Tri-ply cookware, with three layers of metal, is a common option that offers good heat distribution. For even better heat distribution, you may want to consider 5-ply or multi-ply cookware, which has more layers and is often used by professional chefs.

• All-Clad D3 Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set: This set includes a range of pots and pans, from fry pans to saucepans and a stockpot. It is known for its excellent performance, even heating, and easy cleaning. The handles are riveted and ergonomic, making them comfortable to grip. While it is an expensive option, it is considered an investment that can last for decades.
• Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set: This set offers great value for money, with similar sizes and shapes of pots and pans as more expensive sets. It performs well in cooking proteins, rice, eggs, and sauces. The handles on the smaller pots may be a bit uncomfortable due to their shorter length and narrower width. The set is easy to clean and can be washed in the dishwasher.
• Made In 10-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set: This set stands out for its 5-ply construction, which provides excellent heat distribution and conductivity. It includes both stainless steel and nonstick fry pans, as well as saucepans, a sauté pan, and a stockpot. The handles are well-designed, with a comfortable grip and good manoeuvrability. The set is easy to clean but may require extra care to maintain its appearance over time.
• Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Stainless Steel Set: This set offers a great balance of performance and price. It heats up quickly and evenly, making it suitable for searing steaks and cooking eggs. The handles stay cool during cooking, but some users find the weight distribution of the pots to be unbalanced. The set is dishwasher-safe and comes with a lifetime warranty.

Cast iron

Pros

• Heats and cooks evenly
• Durable
• Can be used for a variety of cooking tasks
• Relatively inexpensive

Cons

• Heavy
• Requires seasoning and special care when cleaning
• Enameled vs. uncoated: Enameled cast iron is easier to clean and maintain, but uncoated cast iron is more durable and can be used on outdoor grills or campfires.
• Size and weight: Cast iron is typically heavier than other types of cookware, so consider the weight and size of the cookware before purchasing.
• Handle configuration: Cast iron handles should be sturdy and easy to grip, especially when using oven mitts or potholders.
• Lodge Blacklock Cast Iron Skillet: Lighter weight than most cast irons, heats up quickly, and has a looped handle that stays cool.
• Lodge Cast Iron Skillet: User-friendly size, affordable price, and easy to clean.
• Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Skillet: High-quality design, easy to maneuver, and dishwasher-safe.
• Stargazer Cast Iron Skillet: Lightweight, excellent heat retention, and extremely non-stick.
• Lodge Seasoned Cast Iron 5-Piece Set: Versatile assortment of pieces, pre-seasoned, and compatible with most stovetops.

Copper

However, there are several considerations to keep in mind before investing in copper cookware. Firstly, it is essential to understand that copper is highly reactive to temperature changes. This means that when using copper cookware for tasks that typically require high heat, you need to adjust the heat setting accordingly to prevent overheating. Copper's exceptional conductivity means that medium heat will yield similar results to high heat used with other cookware materials.

Another important factor to consider is the lining of the copper cookware. Copper should not come into direct contact with food as it can leach into the food and be harmful over time. Traditionally, copper cookware was lined with tin, which has non-stick properties but melts at a relatively low temperature. These days, stainless steel is commonly used as a lining material as it is more durable, but it is more prone to sticking. Some copper cookware may also have a copper core, with a layer of stainless steel on the bottom, making it compatible with induction cooktops.

When purchasing copper cookware, look for pots or pans that are 2.5 to 3mm thick, as this thickness provides the best balance between heat responsiveness and even heating. While hammered copper surfaces are mostly decorative, they certainly enhance the visual appeal of the cookware.

Finally, copper cookware requires special care and maintenance. It should not be washed in the dishwasher and should be cleaned with mild soap and a soft sponge. To maintain the shine, you can use special copper cleaners or a homemade paste of lemon juice and salt.

• Williams Sonoma Thermo-Clad Copper 10-Piece Cookware Set: This set offers excellent heat distribution and includes a variety of essential cookware pieces. However, the handles are heavy and it is not compatible with induction cooktops.
• Hestan CopperBond 10-Piece Set: This set offers great heat distribution and has a large cooking surface area. It has comfortable handles and a rivetless design for easy cleaning.
• Mauviel Copper M'200 CI 10-Piece Cookware Set: This set is aesthetically stunning and offers excellent performance. The pieces are well-balanced and have comfortable handles. However, it is very expensive and can be challenging to clean.
• Viking 4-Ply Contemporary 9-Piece Copper Cookware Set: This set is induction-compatible and has excellent heat retention and distribution. The pieces have spacious openings and a rounded lip for easy pouring. However, the handle angle could be improved.
• Cuisinart Copper Collection Tri-Ply Cookware 8 Piece Set: This set offers excellent value for money, with consistent performance and moderate responsiveness, making it suitable for copper novices.

Budget options

If you're looking for a budget cookware set, you're in luck! There are plenty of options that won't break the bank. Here are some of the best budget cookware sets on the market:

• Farberware Nonstick Cookware Set: This lightweight, nonstick 15-piece set offers great performance and includes all the necessary pieces while staying within a budget. The nonstick surface makes these pots and pans easy to clean, and they heat up quickly and evenly. The set includes two frying pans, two saucepans with lids, a stockpot with a lid, a sauté pan with a lid, a spatula, and a slotted spoon.
• Rachael Ray Cook + Create 11-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set: This comprehensive and affordable set is a great way to stock a new kitchen. It includes two frying pans, two saucepans, a stockpot, a baking sheet, two multipurpose glass lids, a slotted spoon, and two spatulas. The interior of the pans is reliably nonstick, and the set features a lightweight design and comfortable handles.
• T-Fal C561SC Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set: Don't be fooled by the low price of this set—it scored higher marks on tests than significantly more expensive sets. The nonstick coating makes these pots and pans easier to clean, and they heat up quickly and evenly. The set includes two skillets, two saucepans with glass lids, a stockpot with a glass lid, a sauté pan with a glass lid, a spatula, and a slotted spoon.
• Cuisinart TPS-10 10-Piece Cookware Set: This set is an excellent option for those looking for a starter set or an upgrade. It includes two saucepans with glass lids, a stockpot with a glass lid, a sauté pan with a glass lid, and two skillets. The triple-ply construction gives the pans excellent heat conductivity, and they're dishwasher-safe and compatible with induction cooktops.
• Ninja CW99009 Extended Life Premium Ceramic 9-piece Cookware Set: This durable ceramic-coated nonstick cookware set offers excellent performance and value. The set includes two frying pans, two saucepans with lids, a stockpot with a lid, and a sauté pan with a lid. The nonstick coating is PFAS-free and designed to last longer than traditional ceramic cookware. The stainless steel handles are comfortable and durable.
• Tramontina Tri-Ply 8-piece Cookware Set: This stainless steel cookware set offers excellent heat distribution and durability at an attractive price. The set includes two frying pans, two saucepans with lids, a Dutch oven with a lid, and ergonomic, riveted handles. The pieces are oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and dishwasher-safe.

Frequently asked questions