Steel Yourself: Unraveling The Secrets Of The Excel Steel Cookware Set

ExcelSteel offers a range of cookware sets made from stainless steel, suitable for all your kitchen needs. The sets are durable, heavy-duty, and feature an encapsulated base that enhances even heat distribution. The mirror-polished finish gives the cookware a high shine, and the pieces are dishwasher-safe and induction stovetop-ready.

The ExcelSteel 7-piece stainless steel cookware set includes a 1QT covered saucepan, 2QT covered saucepan, 5QT covered Dutch oven, and a 9.5 open frypan. The set has received positive reviews for its quality, value, ease of cleaning, performance, and appearance.

In addition to the 7-piece set, ExcelSteel also offers a 10-piece set, as well as various individual pots, pans, and kitchen tools.

Encapsulated base for even heat distribution

The ExcelSteel cookware set features an encapsulated base for even heat distribution. This means that the base of the pots and pans has a layer or disc of aluminium sandwiched between other layers of steel. This aluminium core improves cooking performance by enhancing even heat distribution and retention.

The cookware set is compatible with almost any form of cooking, including gas, electric, ceramic, and induction. The encapsulated base ensures that heat is evenly distributed, preventing the pots and pans from having hot spots. This is especially useful when cooking pasta and delicate sauces.

The encapsulated base also makes the cookware set warp-resistant, keeping your meal steady on your stove or countertop during cooking and serving.

Stay-cool handles

Safety:

Comfort:

The stay-cool feature provides a comfortable grip while cooking. You won't need to worry about using potholders or oven mitts, allowing for easier handling and manipulation of the cookware.

Durability:

Design:

These handles are designed with ergonomics in mind. They usually feature a solid grip and are riveted for stability. Some handles are also designed with hollow interiors, which contribute to their heat-resistant properties.

Versatility:

Cookware sets with stay-cool handles are often compatible with various cooktops, including gas, electric, induction, and ceramic stovetops. This versatility allows you to use the cookware on different heat sources without worrying about the handles getting hot.

When purchasing an Excel Steel cookware set, look for sets that specifically mention "stay-cool handles" or "cool grip handles" in their product description. This feature ensures a safer and more comfortable cooking experience. Stay-cool handles are a valuable addition to any cookware set and are worth considering when making your purchase decision.

Mirror finish for high shine

The ExcelSteel 7-piece stainless steel cookware set has a mirror polished finish for a high shine. This elegant and silky appearance is a wonderful addition to your kitchen and cupboards. The mirror finish is achieved through a meticulous process that requires dedication, attention to detail, and a desire for a glossy finish. Here are the key steps to achieving a mirror finish on your ExcelSteel cookware:

Step 1: Prepare the Surface

Begin by cleaning the cookware with a damp cloth to remove any dirt, scuffs, or dust. Use a mild soap or detergent for stubborn spots, but try to keep it minimal. Ensure that every area is thoroughly cleaned, as even the tiniest speck of dust can affect the finish. Once cleaned, dry the surface with a soft cloth.

Step 2: Sanding

Sanding is crucial to creating a smooth base for the mirror finish. Use an electric sander for flat and even surfaces, and sand by hand for hard-to-reach areas. Start with 80-grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits like 120 and 180. Always sand in the direction of the grain to avoid visible scratches. Continue sanding until you achieve a very flat and even surface.

Step 3: Filling Grain

Some types of wood, like walnut, mahogany, or koa, have large pores that require filling to achieve a smooth finish. Use a grain filler that matches your chosen stain. Apply the filler with a paintbrush, ensuring it fills the pores evenly. Remove any excess filler with a credit card, pulling it in the direction of the grain. Let the filler dry overnight, then sand again with 220-grit sandpaper or finer.

Step 4: Apply Lacquer or Varnish

Choose between lacquer and varnish for your mirror finish. Lacquer dries faster, typically within 15-20 minutes, while varnish takes longer, about 3 hours for the first coat. Apply the first coat with a brush or sprayer, then let it dry. Sand the surface to remove any bumps, using 320-grit sandpaper. Clean the dust with a rag, then inspect for any flaws under light. Apply additional coats as needed, sanding between each coat for a smoother finish.

Step 5: Wet Sanding

Wet sanding is crucial for achieving a crystal-clear finish. Use silicon carbide sandpaper with water as a lubricant. Start with 400-grit sandpaper, then move to finer grits like 600 and 800. Sand gently in a circular motion, always following the direction of the wood grain. Continue wet sanding until the surface feels smooth and free of scratches.

Step 6: Polishing

Apply a rubbing compound with a low-speed automotive buffer or by hand. This helps to level the surface and prepare it for the final polish. Switch to a polishing compound and buff the surface with an electric buffer or sponge pad. Finish the process by hand-buffing with a cotton rag to achieve a glossy, mirror-like shine.

Maintenance Tips:

• Always use the right type of brush for your chosen stain. For polyurethane-based stains, use a synthetic brush, while for oil-based stains, opt for a natural coat brush.
• Wash and clean your brushes thoroughly to extend their lifespan.
• Use a wood conditioner to enhance the evenness and shine of the finish, especially for woods like maple, cherry, and birch.
• Follow safety precautions when working with finishes and power tools. Work in a well-ventilated area, wear gloves and a respirator, and always read the instructions before use.

Vented glass lid

The ExcelSteel 10-piece stainless steel cookware set features a vented glass lid. The lid is designed to allow steam to escape, helping to prevent boil-overs and rattling. This is especially useful when cooking foods that tend to boil over, such as rice or pasta. The vented lid also allows for better visibility while cooking, as it reduces the amount of steam that builds up inside the pot.

The vented glass lid is made of durable borosilicate glass, which is a less toxic alternative to plastic. It is oven safe up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and dishwasher safe, making it easy to clean. The lid also features a built-in splatter guard to keep your appliances and countertops clean.

In addition to its functionality, the vented glass lid adds a sleek and modern touch to the cookware set. The transparent glass allows you to monitor the cooking process, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection. The lid is also designed with a steam vent, which helps to prevent boil-overs and keeps your food moist.

Overall, the vented glass lid is a useful and stylish addition to the ExcelSteel cookware set. It provides better visibility while cooking, prevents boil-overs, and keeps your food moist and delicious.

Tri-ply construction

The benefits of tri-ply construction are:

• Superior heat distribution: the combination of metals improves heat conduction and distribution, reducing hot spots and ensuring even cooking.
• Durability: the multiple layers of metal provide added durability, making tri-ply cookware more resistant to warping or denting.
• Safety: the strong bonds between the layers of metal prevent metals from leaching into food.
• Compatibility: tri-ply cookware is compatible with all cooktops, including induction.

However, there are also some considerations when choosing tri-ply cookware:

• Price: tri-ply cookware is usually cheaper than cookware with more layers, but it can still be expensive compared to other types of cookware.
• Weight: tri-ply cookware is slightly lighter than cookware with more layers, making it easier to handle and store.
• Quality of heat: tri-ply cookware may be more prone to uneven heating compared to cookware with more layers.

Frequently asked questions