Investing in a quality cookware set for your kitchen will be one of the most practical, useful assets you acquire. Since it’s being utilized each and every day, having a solid set of pots and pans will not only help you execute your culinary creations to perfection, but will also make being in the kitchen fun and easy. We’ve got a few steadfast tips to use when choosing cookware that will last a lifetime.
Know Your Style in the Kitchen
Before making any big purchases, we suggest taking stock of what you already own so as to not double up on items. Next, pay attention to what you cook the most, and which vessels you use most often. A good starter kit includes 2 to 3 Sauté (or Fry) Pans in varying sizes, 2 Sauce Pots, and one other staple item such as a Slow Cooker. Sometimes purchasing a full set won’t be necessary, so individual items might be the route to go. Another tip is to seek out cookware sets that are dishwasher safe and compatible with all cooktops, so you can increase the versatility of your set.
Go for Quality Materials
When purchasing a cookware set or individual items, one of the telltale signs of high quality will be the materials that are used to construct the vessel. We suggest looking for high-quality materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and copper. Cookwares infused with these properties have high durability, transfer heat more evenly, and are high in energy efficiency.
Vessels crafted with lower quality materials will produce scorching or “hot spots” on the surface of the pot or pan because the heat is not evenly distributed, potentially ruining whatever you’re cooking. Also, you’ll notice warping along the base of the vessel, shortening the life of the item. The lower quality materials won’t allow for the versatility of going from stovetop to broiler, either.
Construction Matters, Too
The manner in which the materials are crafted impacts how efficiently they perform as well. Look for vessels that have long, elegant, ergonomically enhanced handles, which will stay cool to the touch and improve balance, comfort, and precision when cooking.
If you’re planning on investing in (or adding to your registry) an exquisitely crafted cookware set with all the staples and a lifetime guarantee, check out All-Clad’s exclusive TK™ set, available now at fine retailers across Canada.
