The Cook's Companion: Choosing The Perfect Cookware Set

Whether you're a culinary whiz or a novice cook, having a good cookware set is essential for any kitchen. While you can get away with owning just a pot and a skillet, a full set of cookware can help you save money and get to know your tools better.

There are many types of cookware sets available, from stainless steel to non-stick, copper, and ceramic. Each has its pros and cons, so it's important to consider your needs and preferences before making a purchase. For example, if you're an experienced cook, you might prefer stainless steel cookware, while non-stick options are great for beginners.

When choosing a cookware set, it's also important to consider the size and number of pieces included, the materials used, the heat conductivity and distribution, the weight and balance of the pans, the ease of cleaning, and whether the set is oven- and dishwasher-safe.

- Best Overall Stainless Steel Cookware Set: Hestan ProBond Collection Professional Clad 10-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set. This set offers even heating, sleek design, and comfortable handles.

- Best Value Stainless Steel Cookware Set: Calphalon Classic 10-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set. This set is lightweight, versatile, and offers good value for money.

- Best Overall Non-Stick Cookware Set: Le Creuset Toughened Nonstick PRO 10-Piece Cookware Set. This set includes a range of pot and pan sizes, is durable, and has excellent non-stick properties.

- Best Value Non-Stick Cookware Set: Amazon Basics Non-Stick 15-Piece Cookware Set. This budget-friendly set comes with both cookware and utensils, and food doesn't stick to the surface.

- Best Overall Ceramic Cookware Set: Caraway Nonstick Ceramic 12-Piece Cookware Set. This set comes in stylish colors, has a non-toxic and non-stick coating, and stores neatly.

- Best Value Ceramic Cookware Set: CAROTE Granite 10-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set. This lightweight and attractive set is incredibly affordable and performs well, but it's not oven- or dishwasher-safe.

- Best Splurge Ceramic Cookware Set: GreenPan GP5 Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set. This set offers the benefits of non-stick cooking with the durability of stainless steel. It's induction-friendly and easy to clean, but it's recommended to hand-wash the pans.

- Best Overall Copper Cookware Set: Viking 4-Ply Contemporary 9-Piece Copper Cookware Set. This set is versatile, functional, induction-compatible, and heats evenly. However, the handles can feel a bit awkward.

- Best Value Copper Cookware Set: Cuisinart Copper Collection Tri-Ply 8-Piece Cookware Set. This small but sturdy set from Cuisinart offers quick and even heating at a fraction of the price of other copper cookware sets.

Nonstick vs stainless steel

Nonstick Cookware

Nonstick cookware is easy to use and clean, as its slick coating prevents food from sticking to the pan's surface. This means you can use less oil than you would with uncoated cookware, which is great if you're health-conscious. Nonstick cookware is also lightweight, versatile, and perfect for preparing delicate foods such as eggs, seafood, and vegetables.

However, nonstick coatings don't last forever and can start to wear off over time, causing food to stick to the pan. They also can't withstand very high temperatures, and using nonstick pans over high heat can release potentially toxic chemicals.

Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel cookware, on the other hand, is durable, versatile, and provides even heating. It's great for all types of cooking, including stovetop, oven, and induction cooking. Stainless steel pans are also non-reactive, meaning they won't react with acidic ingredients, making them ideal for cooking dishes like tomato sauces or citrus-based recipes.

The downside of stainless steel is that food can stick to the pan if it's not properly preheated or if you don't use enough fat. Stainless steel pans can also be harder to clean, especially if food is burnt on, and they tend to be heavier than nonstick pans.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

It depends on your needs and preferences. If you want unparalleled convenience and lower-fat cooking, nonstick may be the way to go. If you're looking for exceptional durability and unmatched versatility, stainless steel could be the better option. Ultimately, having both types of cookware in your kitchen will give you the most flexibility and versatility.

Ceramic vs traditional nonstick

Ceramic and traditional nonstick cookware are both highly effective at keeping food from sticking while cooking. However, there are some key differences between the two.

Ceramic Cookware

Ceramic cookware is made from either pure ceramic or metal with a ceramic coating. Ceramic coatings are derived from natural materials, such as sand, and are free from harmful chemicals such as PTFE and PFOA. Ceramic cookware is generally considered safer and more environmentally friendly than traditional nonstick cookware. It can also be heated to higher temperatures and is suitable for use with induction cooktops. However, ceramic coatings tend to be less durable and may need to be replaced more frequently. Ceramic cookware is also more expensive than traditional nonstick.

Traditional Nonstick Cookware

Traditional nonstick cookware is typically made from metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel, with a PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) coating. PTFE, also known as Teflon, is a synthetic material that provides a slick, nonstick surface. Traditional nonstick cookware is usually more affordable and longer-lasting than ceramic. However, there have been health and environmental concerns associated with PTFE, particularly when heated to high temperatures. Traditional nonstick cookware is also not suitable for use with induction cooktops.

When choosing between ceramic and traditional nonstick cookware, consider your budget, how often you plan to use it, and your preferred cooking methods. Both types of cookware have their pros and cons, so the best choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Budget vs splurge

Budgeting for cookware can be tricky, especially when you're not sure what you need. Here are some tips to help you decide where to splurge and where to save.

Where to splurge:

• Food processor: If you're a busy cook, a food processor can be a real time-saver. It can chop, mix, whip, and do a lot more, saving you time and effort. While cheaper food processors may have limited functions and break down easily, investing in a good-quality food processor will save you money in the long run. Look for one with multiple processing capabilities like juicing, grinding, and whipping.
• Chopping board: A good-quality chopping board is essential for any kitchen. While plastic and fibre chopping boards are convenient, a wooden chopping board is the best choice for your knives and other kitchen tools. Wooden chopping boards are more durable and provide a better cutting surface. They also absorb impact better than plastic or fibre boards, reducing the risk of damage to your knives.
• Skillets: Skillets are a must-have for any kitchen, and it's worth investing in a good set. Look for skillets made from cast iron, stainless steel, or non-stick materials. Cast iron skillets are durable and can be used for a variety of cooking techniques, while stainless steel skillets are great for searing and browning. Non-stick skillets are easy to clean and perfect for beginners. Consider getting a variety of skillets to suit different cooking needs.
• Oven: A good-quality oven can be a valuable addition to your kitchen, especially if you like to bake or cook large meals. Look for an oven with multiple functions like grilling, microwaving, and convection. Ovens with high temperature settings and large capacities can be worth the investment.

Where to save:

• Knives: You don't need to spend a fortune on knives. While professional chefs may require high-end knives, home cooks can get by with more affordable options. Look for knives that suit your needs and comfort level. You may not need the most expensive, professional-grade knives to chop vegetables or slice meat.
• Thermometers: Food thermometers are not essential for most home cooks. Unless you're cooking something very specific like sugar sculptures, you can save money by skipping the expensive food thermometers. Basic food thermometers will do the job just fine, and you'll rarely need to use them.

Copper vs stainless steel

Copper and stainless steel are two popular materials for cookware, each with its own unique advantages and disadvantages.

Heat Conductivity

Copper is known for its exceptional heat conductivity, making it ideal for precise temperature control. It heats up and cools down quickly, allowing for quick adjustments and fine-tuning of heat levels. This makes copper cookware perfect for delicate tasks like making sauces, where even heat distribution is crucial, and rapid cooling is necessary.

On the other hand, stainless steel has poor heat conductivity on its own. To improve heat distribution, high-quality stainless steel cookware often incorporates other metals, such as copper or aluminium, in its design. While stainless steel may not offer the same level of precision as copper, it still conducts heat relatively well and is suitable for a wide range of cooking techniques.

Reactivity

Copper is a very reactive metal and needs to be lined with another material, such as tin or stainless steel, to be safe for cooking. It reacts with acidic foods, which can lead to a metallic taste in your dishes. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is non-reactive and can be used to cook acidic foods without worry.

Maintenance

Copper cookware requires more maintenance than stainless steel. It needs to be hand-washed and polished regularly to maintain its attractive appearance. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is relatively low maintenance and can even be dishwasher-safe, depending on the brand.

Durability

Stainless steel is known for its durability and is often passed down through generations without diminishing in quality. Copper, on the other hand, is a soft metal that is easily dented or tarnished. Proper storage is essential to prevent damage to copper cookware.

Cost

Copper cookware is typically much more expensive than stainless steel. The high cost is due to the price of raw copper, the labour-intensive manufacturing process, and the weight of the pans. Stainless steel, on the other hand, offers a more affordable option without compromising on quality.

Compatibility

When it comes to compatibility with cooktops, stainless steel is a more versatile option. It can be used on all heating surfaces, including induction cooktops, which require magnetic pans. Copper cookware is not usually induction-compatible unless it includes other materials, such as the expensive French line mentioned in the sources.

Health and Safety

Both copper and stainless steel cookware have potential health and safety concerns. Copper pans with an unlined copper surface that comes into contact with food will leach copper into your meals, which can cause a metallic taste and have negative health effects. Modern copper cookware addresses this issue by using copper only in the base or exterior of the pan, with a stainless steel lining.

Stainless steel, while considered non-toxic, does leach small amounts of nickel and chromium into food. However, the levels are generally safe for consumption unless you have a nickel allergy. In this case, it is recommended to use nickel-free stainless steel cookware.

Aesthetics

Both copper and stainless steel offer a stylish look for your kitchen. Copper cookware has a unique brightness and glamour, while stainless steel has a reflective exterior that adds a sleek touch to your kitchen.

Hybrid Options

If you can't decide between the two, hybrid cookware options are available that combine the benefits of both materials. For example, you can find cookware with a durable stainless steel interior and exterior, and a copper core for superior heat distribution.

Both copper and stainless steel have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best choice for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Copper offers exceptional heat conductivity and precision but requires more maintenance and comes at a higher cost. Stainless steel, on the other hand, is durable, low-maintenance, versatile, and more affordable. Ultimately, the ideal cookware set for you may include a combination of both materials to suit a diverse range of cooking tasks.

Oven-safe vs dishwasher-safe

When it comes to cookware, there are a lot of options to choose from. From stainless steel to cast iron, there are pros and cons to each material. But how do you know if your cookware is dishwasher-safe or oven-safe?

Dishwasher-safe items are those that can withstand the high temperatures, water pressure, and detergents of a dishwasher cycle. You can usually find a dishwasher-safe symbol or a label that says "dishwasher safe" on the bottom of your dishware.

Oven-safe refers to cookware that can withstand high temperatures in the oven. The maximum temperature that your cookware can withstand may be specified by the manufacturer.

Materials That Are Typically Dishwasher-Safe:

• Ceramic plates, bowls, and mugs
• Plastic and wood-composite cutting boards
• Stainless steel half-sheet pans, cooling racks, muffin tins, and other metal bakeware
• Kitchen sponges and scrub brushes
• Silicone and metal kitchen utensils
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Stainless-steel flatware

Materials That Are Not Typically Dishwasher-Safe:

• Cast iron skillets
• Wooden cutting boards
• Dishes or cups with labels still attached
• Aluminum cookware
• Expensive chef's knives
• Cookware with burnt stains

Materials That Are Typically Oven-Safe:

• Stainless steel
• Ceramic
• Cast iron
• Glass

Materials That Are Not Typically Oven-Safe:

• Plastic
• Wood

Frequently asked questions