By CLARICE SMYTH
HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT COOKWARE
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“Design your kitchen to the max. It won’t make you a better cook, but you will enjoy the process in style. “
CHOOSE THE RIGHT COOKWARE
It can be a challenge to choose the cookware that suits how you actually like to cook. Today we are going to take a look at several cookware options and at various price points.
As the self-proclaimed Sporadic Cook, the time had come for new cookware. So the research began. I looked at many options and the cost varied widely.
Amoretti Brothers Copper Cookware
Amoretti Brothers Copper Cookware
The first brand I researched was the Amoretti Brothers Copper Cookware. This exquisite cookware set is a true piece of art. Just looking at it while eating could make even a grill cheese taste gourmet. Manufactured by Amoretti Brothers, the exterior is 2mm Hammered Copper, Tin Lined, and Cast Bronze Handles. Absolutely gorgeous.
Master crafted copper adds a superior results to the cooking experience. When cared for properly this type of cookware can last generations, becoming a coveted heirloom. The quality for the price is expected and fair but certainly an investment. The 11 piece set that I was drooling over was listed for $2490.00 NOW ON SALE $2250.00
Le Creuset Cookware
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron and Stoneware
The second brand of cookware I researched was Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron and Stoneware. The cookware can be purchased in sets or individual pieces. Cast-Iron has been proclaimed by many famous chefs as the material of choice for creating culinary wizardry. This type of cookware distributed heat slowly and evenly which makes it perfect for sautéing, baking, searing, and braising. My mother was an excellent cook and her number one preference was cast-iron. The Le Creuset Cookware I would select would cost about $950.00
NOTE: Le Creuset offers a multitude of colors in Cast Iron, Stoneware, Non-Stick, Stainless Steel, Enamel on Steel, and Metal Cookware. So you can get whatever material is your favorite to cook with at Le Creuset.
VIKING CONTEMPORARY COOKWARE
Viking Stainless Steel Cookware
Viking Contemporary 3 Ply 10 Piece Cookware Set- Mirror – Stainless Steel
The Third brand of cookware I researched was Viking Contemporary 3-ply Stainless Steel Cookware. Stainless steel is one of my personal favorite materials because of durability and ease of cleaning. This shiny set is has 10 pieces and is constructed of 18/8 surgical grade stainless steel. The cookware can be purchased in sets or individual pieces. This cookware can be used for gas, electric, or induction cooktops. The set I considered is $449.99
Rachael Ray Cookware
Rachael Ray Porcelain Enamel Cookware
Rachael Ray Classic Brights Porcelain Enamel Nonstick Cookware Set with Bakeware and Utensils, 14-Piece, Gradient Orange – Gradient Orange
The fourth and final cookware set I researched was the Rachel Ray 14 Piece Gradient Orange Hard Porcelain Enamel Cookware Set. This set comes in a variety of colors, my signature color is orange, and in many different sizes – which of curse the other brands do as well. They are porcelain enameled, rubberized dual-riveted handles (you know sturdy handles are important if you have ever had one break loose while transferring pot contents), non-stick coated, and tempered glass lids. The cookware can be purchased in sets or some individual pieces. The set I found is $149.99
Key Takeaways
How to choose cookware ?
Here are a few things to consider
WHAT TYPE OF COOK ARE YOU
What types of food do you usually cook and in what quantities?
Are you a foody, gourmet enthusiast, professional chef, or in my case a Sporadic Cook? Do you live on salads, microwaved or prepackaged foods most of the year? Do you host an annual big family/friend gathering where you become a Julia Childs impersonator and commence a cooking marathon single-handedly? Do you cook forty ingredient dishes or one-pot meals? Do you regularly cook just for yourself, for two, for ten, for a crowd?
WHAT ARE YOUR COOKWARE NEEDS
Do you need only a few cookware pieces or the entire series? What type of appliance are you cooking on or in? Do you use a gas, electric, or induction range? Do you cook mostly on open fire or grill? Do you want the ability to transfer from microwave to stovetop or oven?
WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET
Do you prefer to use cookware, with little or no maintenance, until it falls apart and then buys new? Do you painstakingly clean and polish each piece immediately after use…and enjoy it? Do you want to invest in a cookware set for the long run or something temporary and replaceable?
WHAT IS YOUR DESIGN STYLE
Do you want the warmth of color gained by displaying a high-quality copper cookware set? Do you want substantial pieces that highlight your traditional or rustic style? Do you surround yourself with cool metals and therefore the stainless steels beckons you? Do you want lightweight, easy maintenance, color choices, and affordable?
Before choosing your cookware, be honest in your evaluation of yourself, your cookware needs and wants your cooking style, and your budget.
Oh, and what was my choice? I cook mostly for two, with an annual cooking marathon. I maintain my cookware but prefer the ease of cleaning. I currently cook on electricity but will be switching to a gas range. My style is Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian. The interior shell of my house is white so I prefer a pop of color. I cook and eat healthy foods, as close to fresh and natural as possible, but do not want a large investment in my cookware. I chose the Rachel Ray Gradient Orange Porcelain Enameled Cookware. I also purchased the matching 12 Qt Stock Pot for $27.47 + Shipping
The good news is that there is truly something available for everyone, so just find and purchase what works for you.
Which cookware will you choose?
I have links below to the cookware sets mentioned in this post, including the set I now own.
I hope you found this post helpful and entertaining. Check out the cookware links and see which cookware you would choose. It would be great if you would leave your cookware choice, comments, and why you love it in the comments section below. I would love to read them.
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