An Overview of Choosing the Perfect Cookware Set for Your Kitchen
A cookware set is a big purchase and will be used daily. So, investing in a quality set that will last is essential.
Most cookware sets include frying pans, saucepans, and a Dutch oven or stock pot. But, how you prioritize the pieces in your set will depend on your cooking style and storage space.
Material
Few items in the kitchen get as much use as pots and pans, so selecting one that will withstand years of open flames, scalding heat, grease, and even a lot of scrubbing can be intimidating. Luckily, this selection process can be made much easier with expert guidance from chefs and cooking teachers.
Metal is a crucial consideration. Copper is a superior conductor of heat, but it’s also costly. To counteract that, most sets with this material will have an aluminum core to help spread the heat evenly and prevent warping.
Stainless steel is durable and relatively inexpensive, but it’s not the best conductor of heat. To address this, many best cookware sets crafted with this material feature an aluminum core that runs through the base and up the sides of the stainless steel exterior. This allows the cook to enjoy the benefits of both metals at a more affordable price point.
Style
If your cupboards are full of pots and pans with wobbly handles and more grease splatters than actual food, it’s time to upgrade. But before you start shopping for a new set, be realistic about the cooking you plan to do and consider these tips from professional chefs and cooking teachers.
Stainless steel is durable, but it doesn’t conduct heat well, so opt for a set that has an aluminum core, or go with clad cookware, which sandwiches multiple layers of metals to give you the best of both worlds.
Look for design touches like rolled rims that make pouring easier and hollow and stay-cool handles that hold heat at a lower temperature than solid metal ones for easy handling. You’ll also want to consider the material since some types require more exceptional care.
Number of Pieces
Cookware is a significant investment, so you want to ensure you purchase quality that will last a long time. A well-rounded set should include various pieces, but the amount will depend on how often you cook.
Cost
A good cookware set can be expensive, but it’s essential to consider all the elements before purchasing. For example, you want a set that’s durable enough to last years and will fit your kitchen space well. Also, consider what kind of maintenance you’re willing to do, such as scrubbing or handwashing the pots and pans to keep them looking fresh.