Pots And Pans: Which Brands Sizzle?

When it comes to choosing the best pots and pans, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it's important to assess your cooking needs and the type of food you'll be preparing. Different materials, such as stainless steel, non-stick, cast iron, and copper, offer unique advantages and are suited for specific cooking techniques. For example, stainless steel is durable and easy to care for, while non-stick coatings allow for low-fat cooking and easy cleanup. Cast iron is ideal for searing and braising, and copper provides quick and even heating.

Additionally, the weight and balance of the cookware are crucial factors. Heavier pots and pans can be more challenging to handle, especially when full, while lightweight options may heat up quickly and require careful temperature control. It's also worth considering the number of pieces in a set and whether they include all the necessary items for your cooking needs.

Lastly, factors like oven and dishwasher safety, compatibility with your cooktop, and the overall durability and ease of maintenance of the cookware set should be taken into account.

Some popular brands that offer a range of options include All-Clad, Calphalon, Tramontina, Caraway, and Lodge, among others.

Nonstick vs. traditional

Nonstick cookware is a great addition to any kitchen, especially for beginners. They are easy to use, clean, and are lighter than traditional cast iron or stainless steel cookware. However, they are not as durable and may need to be replaced more often.

Nonstick Cookware

Nonstick cookware is made with a special coating that prevents food from sticking to the surface of the pan. This makes it easier to cook delicate foods like eggs and fish, and also makes cleanup a breeze. Nonstick cookware is usually made from hard-anodized aluminum, which makes it durable and helps with even heat distribution.

Some things to consider when purchasing nonstick cookware are the number of pieces included in the set, the weight and durability of the cookware, the design and ease of use, and the price. It is also important to note that nonstick cookware should not be used over high heat as it can cause the coating to break down and release fumes.

• Tramontina Professional 10-Inch Restaurant Fry Pan: This pan has a slick nonstick coating, comfortable handle, and flared lip, making it easy to flip food. It is also oven-safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
• All-Clad HA1 Hard-Anodized Nonstick 10-Piece Set: This set includes a variety of pots and pans with a sleek design and shiny metal handles. The hard-anodized aluminum construction ensures even heat distribution, and the three layers of PFOA-free nonstick material create a slick finish.
• T-Fal C561SC Titanium Advanced Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set: This affordable set performs exceptionally well, with comfortable padded handles and excellent nonstick properties. It includes a variety of pots, pans, and utensils, making it a great value for the price.

Traditional Cookware

Traditional cookware is made from materials such as cast iron, stainless steel, or aluminum. These materials are more durable than nonstick coatings and can withstand higher temperatures. Traditional cookware is also safer to use with metal utensils and is usually dishwasher-safe.

Some popular traditional cookware options include:

• Cast Iron Skillet: Cast iron pans are durable, affordable, and can develop a natural nonstick surface over time with proper seasoning. However, they are heavy and require more maintenance than nonstick cookware.
• Stainless Steel Skillets: Stainless steel pans are lightweight, easy to maneuver, and compatible with all cooktops, including induction. They are also usually dishwasher-safe and oven-safe.
• Aluminum Cookware: Aluminum is a lightweight and inexpensive material that conducts heat well. However, it is not as durable as cast iron or stainless steel and may not be compatible with induction cooktops.

In conclusion, both nonstick and traditional cookware have their advantages and disadvantages. Nonstick cookware is convenient, easy to use, and lightweight, but may not be as durable and may need to be replaced more often. Traditional cookware is more durable, compatible with high heat, and safe to use with metal utensils, but may be heavier and more difficult to clean. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal preferences and cooking needs.

Ceramic vs. traditional nonstick

When it comes to choosing between ceramic and traditional nonstick cookware, there are several factors to consider, including health, environmental impact, durability, lifespan, cooking performance, and cost. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide which option is best for your kitchen:

Health and Environmental Impact:

Ceramic cookware is often favoured for its health and eco-friendly benefits. Ceramic-coated cookware does not contain harmful chemicals such as PFOS, PFOA, and PTFE, which are typically found in traditional nonstick coatings. By opting for ceramic, you can reduce your exposure to these substances and make a more environmentally conscious choice, as ceramic cookware is designed to be less harmful to the environment.

On the other hand, traditional nonstick cookware with Teflon coating has been associated with potential health risks. While PTFE (Teflon) is widely considered safe, there are ongoing debates about its potential toxicity. Additionally, traditional nonstick coatings may release gasses when heated to high temperatures, which can be a concern for some individuals.

Durability and Lifespan:

Ceramic cookware is known for its durability and longevity. With proper care, ceramic pots and pans can last for many years. The hard-anodized surface of ceramic cookware resists scratches and chips, making it a sturdy option. However, it is important to use wooden or silicone utensils with ceramic cookware to maintain its surface in top shape.

Traditional nonstick cookware, on the other hand, tends to have a coating that wears out over time, even with careful use and maintenance. Regular use can lead to scratches and a gradual reduction in nonstick quality. To prolong the life of nonstick cookware, it is recommended to avoid using metal utensils and to refrain from exposing them to high heat.

Cooking Performance:

Both ceramic and traditional nonstick cookware offer unique advantages depending on the type of cooking you plan to do. Ceramic cookware is an excellent choice for tasks like boiling water for pasta, searing steak, and baking at high temperatures. It conducts heat quickly and evenly, ensuring perfect pasta and evenly cooked steaks every time.

Traditional nonstick cookware shines when it comes to frying delicate foods like eggs, making grilled cheese sandwiches, or cooking rice. The smooth surface of nonstick cookware prevents sticking, resulting in golden, crispy sandwiches without the need for extra butter or oil.

Cost:

Ceramic cookware often carries a higher price tag compared to traditional nonstick options. While the initial cost may be higher, it is important to consider the long-term costs associated with each type of cookware. Ceramic-coated cookware may require more frequent replacements due to the potential for faster degradation of its nonstick properties.

Traditional nonstick cookware is usually more affordable and may offer longer-lasting nonstick performance, making it a more budget-friendly option in the long run.

In conclusion, both ceramic and traditional nonstick cookware have their advantages. Ceramic cookware is an ideal choice for those seeking a durable, eco-friendly, and healthy option, while traditional nonstick cookware excels in providing a convenient and affordable cooking experience. Consider your specific cooking needs and priorities to make the best choice for your kitchen.

Stainless steel

Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Set

This set offers great performance when searing and browning, and its pieces are durable and well-built. Each piece is made of 18/10 stainless steel wrapped around an aluminium core, which ensures even heating. The set includes a variety of pots and pans, such as skillets, saucepans, a sauté pan, and a stockpot, and is induction compatible. While some might find the pots unbalanced, the riveted handles are comfortable and the set is backed by a lifetime warranty. It is dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is recommended.

Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel 7-Piece Cookware Set

This set is a great budget option that looks good on your stove. The pans have a mirrored finish inside and out, an encapsulated base for even heat distribution, and can be used on all cooking surfaces. The set includes two saucepans with lids, a stockpot with a cover, and a skillet—all the basic pans you need in your kitchen. The riveted stainless steel handles stay cool when cooking, and the set is dishwasher-safe.

All-Clad D5 Stainless Brushed 5-Ply Bonded Cookware Set

If you’re looking for a high-end set to make your neighbours jealous, this All-Clad set is the crown jewel of your kitchen. The set includes two frying pans, two saucepans, a sauté pan, and a stockpot, all made with a 5-ply bonded construction that has alternating layers of stainless steel and conductive aluminium for warp-free strength and thorough heating. The ergonomic handles stay cool while cooking, and the pieces are oven- and broiler-safe up to 600 degrees. While this set is dishwasher-safe, hand washing is recommended.

Made In 10-Piece Stainless Set

This set has become a customer favourite due to the durability of its products. The 5-ply stainless-steel cookware includes two frying pans, two saucepans, a saucier, and a stockpot, all of which are induction-compatible, oven-safe up to 800 degrees, and have a lifetime warranty. The pans displayed fairly even heating and browning when tested, though there was some variance in temperature across the pan when searing steak. The pieces are extremely balanced and have long, ergonomic handles, but they don't include a nonstick pan.

Calphalon Stainless Steel Cookware Set

This set is a good option if you're moving into a new home or tapping into your cooking skills. The 10-piece set includes essential cookware pieces such as skillets, saucepans, a sauté pan, and a stockpot, and offers even cooking and an easy cleanup. The pieces heat up fast and provide even heating, though there was some minor discoloration and flexing of the material during testing. The set is dishwasher-safe, but hand washing is recommended.

Cast iron

One of the most well-known and beloved brands of cast iron cookware is Lodge. Lodge has been creating heirloom-quality cast iron cookware in Tennessee since 1896. Their products are made with just iron and oil, resulting in tough and durable cookware that can be passed down through generations. Lodge offers a wide range of cast iron products, including skillets, griddles, dutch ovens, pots, grills, and sets. Their skillets are available in a variety of sizes and are perfect for cooking anything from cornbread to steak. Lodge's cast iron dutch oven is also a versatile piece of cookware that can be used for making soups, stews, and slow-cooked meat.

Another popular brand of cast iron cookware is Le Creuset, known for their colourful and shiny enameled cast iron dutch ovens. Le Creuset's products are known for their high performance, durability, shock-resistance, and heat retention. Their dutch ovens come in a variety of colours and add a touch of elegance to any stovetop.

For a more affordable option, the Amazon Basics Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron 5-Piece Kitchen Cookware Set offers great value for money. The set includes a griddle, skillet, dutch oven, and lid, providing all the essentials for cooking a variety of meals.

When choosing cast iron cookware, it's important to consider the size, weight, and maintenance requirements. Cast iron is a heavy material, so it can be difficult to handle for some people. It's also important to follow the care instructions carefully to ensure your cookware lasts for years to come.

Copper

However, copper cookware is quite expensive and requires a bit more care than other types of pans. It's also reactive to acidic foods, so having a stainless steel interior is important to protect food safety. Most copper cookware sets will have a copper exterior and a stainless steel interior, with some also including an aluminium core to aid with heat distribution.

When it comes to choosing a copper cookware set, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider the number of pieces in the set and whether it includes the types of pans you need. You'll also want to pay attention to the thickness of the copper, as this will affect the performance of the pans. Look for copper that is between 2.5 and 3mm thick for the best results.

• Hestan CopperBond 10-Piece Set: This set offers excellent heat distribution and has a large surface area for cooking. It includes a skillet that scored perfectly in heat distribution tests.
• Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper 10-Piece Cookware Set: This set offers excellent quality at a more affordable price. The pieces are excellent at browning steaks and simmering sauces, and the handles stay cool while cooking.
• All-Clad Copper Core 7-Piece Cookware Set: This set has a quick boil time and is easy to clean, with food sticking minimally to the sides of the pan.
• Ruffoni Historia Hammered Copper 11-Piece Cookware Set: This set is not only functional but also stunning, with a gorgeous hammered finish. The pieces are delicate and tin-lined, making them ideal for cooking foods that require gentle heat and stirring.
• Mauviel Copper Triply 7-Piece Cookware Set: This set combines traditional aesthetics with modern functionality. It has a stainless steel interior that won't react with food and is easier to clean.
• De Buyer Prima Matera Copper 5-Piece Set: This set is induction compatible and heats quickly and evenly. The curved handles stay cool to the touch, making them easy to hold.

Frequently asked questions