Kitchenware: Choosing The Best Pots And Pans

A good quality pot and pan set is an essential purchase for your kitchen. While you can get away with owning just a pot and a skillet, a full array of cookware will enable you to cook a wider variety of dishes. When shopping for a good quality pot and pan set, there are several factors to consider, including the material, the number of pieces, and the price.

The most popular materials for pots and pans are stainless steel, non-stick, hard-anodized aluminium, copper, and cast iron. Stainless steel is often the most versatile and durable option, but non-stick pans are easier to cook with and clean. Copper is beautiful and an excellent heat conductor, but it is difficult to maintain. Cast iron is great for searing and cooking food at high temperatures, but it requires extra maintenance.

When it comes to the number of pieces, most sets include a variety of pots and pans, with lids sometimes counted as individual pieces. A good set should have at least two saucepans, one large stockpot, a small frying pan, and a large skillet. It is also important to consider the size of the pots and pans, especially if you are cooking for a large family.

In terms of price, a good quality pot and pan set can range from affordable to expensive, depending on the material, the number of pieces, and the brand. It is possible to find a good value set that offers a great performance at a reasonable price.

Stainless steel vs non-stick

When choosing between stainless steel and non-stick cookware, it's important to consider the pros and cons of each material and how they align with your cooking needs and preferences. Here's a detailed comparison to help you decide:

Stainless Steel Cookware:

Stainless steel cookware is known for its durability and versatility. It is made from a combination of metal alloys, typically including iron, chromium, and nickel, and sometimes a core of aluminium or copper for better heat conduction. Here are the key advantages and disadvantages of stainless steel:

Pros:

• Durability: Stainless steel is highly durable, resistant to corrosion, staining, and scratching. With proper care, it can last a lifetime.
• Versatility: Stainless steel can be used for various cooking methods, including stovetop, oven, and induction cooking.
• Heat Distribution: Stainless steel excels at evenly distributing heat, making it ideal for searing and sautéing.
• Non-Reactive: Stainless steel is non-reactive, meaning it won't react with acidic ingredients like tomatoes or citrus.

Cons:

• Food Sticking: Food can stick to the surface, especially if not properly preheated or without enough fat or oil. This also makes it harder to clean.
• Weight: Stainless steel pans are typically heavier, which can make them cumbersome to handle and store.
• Hot Handles: The handles can get hot quickly, so you'll need to use oven mitts or kitchen towels to avoid burns.

Non-Stick Cookware:

Non-stick cookware is designed to be easy to use and clean. It is usually made from hard anodized aluminium and coated with a non-stick substance like Teflon or ceramic. Here are the key advantages and disadvantages of non-stick cookware:

Pros:

• Easy to Clean: Food slides off the non-stick surface with just a little soap and water, making cleanup a breeze.
• Less Oil Needed: The non-stick coating reduces the amount of oil or butter required, resulting in healthier meals with less fat and calories.
• Versatility: Non-stick pans come in various sizes and shapes, perfect for sautéing, stir-frying, and searing.
• Lightweight: Non-stick pans are typically made from aluminium, making them lighter and easier to handle than stainless steel.

Cons:

• Durability: Over time, the non-stick coating can wear off, causing food to stick and making it more challenging to clean.
• Heat Tolerance: Non-stick pans are not suitable for high heat above 400°F (204°C). They are not recommended for searing, deep-frying, or finishing dishes in the oven.
• Induction Compatibility: Most non-stick pans are not compatible with induction stovetops due to their aluminium base.
• Utensil Restrictions: Metal utensils can scratch and damage the non-stick surface, so you'll need to use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils.

Both stainless steel and non-stick cookware have their strengths and weaknesses. Stainless steel is ideal for searing, browning, and cooking acidic foods, while non-stick pans excel with delicate foods like eggs, pancakes, and flaky fish. If you're stocking your kitchen, a combination of both types of cookware will give you the most flexibility. Invest in a high-quality stainless steel set and supplement it with a few moderately priced non-stick fry pans for quick breakfasts and delicate dishes.

Budget options

If you're looking for a good-quality pot and pan set that won't break the bank, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best budget-friendly cookware sets on the market:

Farberware Nonstick Cookware Set

This 15-piece set is a great option if you're looking for something lightweight and nonstick. It includes all the necessary pieces, like saucepans, a Dutch oven, frying pans, and even some utensils. The pieces distribute heat evenly and are easy to clean, although food can sometimes get caught around the handle rivets. While this set may not be as durable as some of the more expensive options, it's a fantastic choice for those who are new to cooking or looking for an affordable yet functional set.

Rachael Ray Create Delicious 13-Piece Cookware Set

This cheery set comes in a variety of colours, including red, burgundy, teal, light blue, and grey. It offers even heating and has a nonstick interior finish, making it easy to cook and clean. The silicone handles are riveted for durability, and the set includes a range of pots, pans, and even a cookie pan. However, some users have noted that the set may not be the most durable and requires extra care to ensure longevity.

Tramontina Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Clad 12-Piece Set

If you're looking for a professional-looking stainless steel set on a budget, this Tramontina set is a great option. It offers solid performance, with even heating and good heat retention. The handles are rounded for a comfortable grip, and the set includes a nice assortment of pieces, such as skillets, saucepans, a sauté pan, and a large stockpot. However, some users may find that the set doesn't include a large enough skillet.

T-fal Signature Nonstick Cookware Set

The T-fal Signature Nonstick Cookware Set is an excellent choice for those seeking a long-lasting nonstick coating. The wide handles stay cool to the touch and include finger grips for added comfort and control. The set includes a variety of pots, pans, and even a griddle pan, which is not commonly found in other sets. The nonstick coating makes cooking and cleaning a breeze, although it cannot be used in the oven at high temperatures.

Bialetti Ceramic Pro 10-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set

The Bialetti Ceramic Pro set truly shines when it comes to its nonstick properties. It includes a range of pots, pans, and lids, all with an impressive nonstick coating. The handles are bolted and feel ergonomic, and the light grey colour makes it easy to monitor your food as it cooks. However, the set may not offer the best heat distribution, with hot spots forming in the middle of the pans.

Ceramic vs traditional non-stick

When it comes to choosing between ceramic and traditional non-stick cookware, there are several factors to consider, including performance, durability, price, and safety. While both options offer a non-stick surface, there are some key differences between the two.

Performance

Ceramic cookware is made of a steel or aluminium base coated with a ceramic non-stick surface. It is marketed as a safer and more sustainable alternative to traditional non-stick cookware as it does not contain PTFE or PFOA. Ceramic cookware is also induction compatible, making it a versatile option for different cooktops. However, ceramic cookware tends to be less durable and more susceptible to scratches and other forms of wear and tear. On the other hand, traditional non-stick cookware, often coated with PTFE (Teflon), is more effective at releasing food and typically lasts longer. Reviews suggest that food sticks less frequently to Teflon-coated pans compared to ceramic-coated ones.

Durability

Ceramic cookware has a shorter lifespan than traditional non-stick due to the nature of its coating, which naturally releases every time the pan is heated. Additionally, the coating on ceramic cookware tends to be more brittle, making it more prone to scratches and other types of damage. Proper care, such as hand washing and avoiding high heat, can help extend the life of ceramic cookware. Traditional non-stick cookware, on the other hand, can also be susceptible to scratching and will eventually lose its non-stick properties over time, regardless of the type of coating.

Price

Ceramic cookware tends to be more expensive than traditional non-stick, but the price difference can vary depending on the product, brand, and retailer. It is worth noting that both types of cookware are considered affordable options for those seeking non-stick functionality.

Safety

Ceramic cookware is generally considered safe as long as it is purchased from a reputable retailer and is not overheated or damaged. It is free of PTFE and PFOA, which have been associated with potential health and environmental concerns. Traditional non-stick cookware, particularly Teflon-coated pans, has faced safety concerns due to the release of harmful fumes when heated above 500 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it is important to note that Teflon pans manufactured since 2013 are PFOA-free, and the American Cancer Society has stated that there are no known risks to humans from using these products.

In conclusion, the decision between ceramic and traditional non-stick cookware depends on your specific needs and preferences. Ceramic cookware offers a non-toxic, induction-compatible option with an easy-to-clean surface, while traditional non-stick cookware provides superior performance and durability at a typically lower price point.

Heat distribution

When it comes to materials, copper conducts heat better than other common metals, making it ideal for even heat distribution. Stainless steel is also a good option as it conducts heat evenly and is durable. Cast iron is another option, as it can get very hot and retain that heat. However, it is important to note that cast iron can be heavy and may not heat up as quickly as other materials.

In terms of specific products, the All-Clad D3 Tri-Ply Stainless-Steel Saucepan is recommended by experts for its even heat distribution. The Zwilling Madura Plus Nonstick Skillet is another option that offers both affordability and quality, with a surface that remains scratch-free even after years of use. For a more affordable option, the Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Saucepan offers similar features to the All-Clad saucepan but at a lower price point.

When choosing a pot and pan set, it is important to consider the size and number of pieces included, as well as the material and heat distribution properties.

Ease of cleaning

When it comes to cleaning, stainless steel cookware is relatively easy to maintain, but it may require some elbow grease from time to time. It is recommended to wash the cookware with warm soapy water after each use and to dry it immediately to prevent water spots. For burnt-on food or tough stains, a paste made from baking soda or a mild cleaner like Bon Ami or Bar Keeper's Friend can be used.

Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Set

This set is known for its ease of cleaning, with food sliding off easily during the cleaning process. The set includes two saucepans, a Dutch oven, and two skillets, all made of stainless steel and aluminium for even heating. While the set is easy to clean, it doesn't stack together nicely, and some users found the weight of the pots to be unbalanced.

Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

This set stands out for its ease of cleaning as food barely sticks to the surface. It includes skillets, saucepans, a stockpot, and a steamer insert, all of which are dishwasher-safe. However, the lids are not clear, so you can't see inside the pots without removing them.

All-Clad D5 Stainless Brushed 5-Ply Bonded 10-Piece Cookware Set

This set is known for its durability and ease of cleaning. It includes fry pans, saucepans, a sauté pan, and a stockpot, all made of stainless steel and aluminium. While it is easy to clean, it is on the expensive side.

Calphalon Premier Stainless Steel 8-Piece Cookware Set

This set is known for its even heating and tight-fitting glass lids. It includes fry pans, saucepans, and a stockpot, all of which are dishwasher-safe and oven-safe up to 450°F. While it is easy to clean, you might need to buy additional pans to complete your collection.

Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set

This set is known for its non-stick surface, which makes cleaning a breeze. It includes a fry pan, a sauté pan, a Dutch oven, and a saucepan, all of which are oven-safe up to 550°F. While the set is easy to clean, it does require hand-washing to maintain its non-stick surface.

Frequently asked questions