The Cooks' Den » Cookware Sets http://www.thecooksden.com Cooking Tools - Gear for Cooks and Chefs Thu, 27 Oct 2011 04:49:11 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 10 Piece Cookware Set by Swiss Diamond | Nonstick Cast Aluminum http://www.thecooksden.com/swiss-diamond-cookware-review-set-nonstick-cast-aluminum-10-piece/ http://www.thecooksden.com/swiss-diamond-cookware-review-set-nonstick-cast-aluminum-10-piece/#comments Thu, 19 May 2011 19:00:51 +0000 Sharon http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=12342 Swiss Diamond Cookware Review Set In the 1980s, one of the many technological advancements in kitchen cookware was the invention of a titanium ceramic non-stick cooking surface. Companies used titanium to make the surface more durable, allowing cooks to use metal utensils without fear of chipping or cracking the surface.

Swiss Diamond decided to take that concept a step further by using real diamond crystals, a stronger substance than titanium, as a part of its patented non-stick cookware surface. They advertise pans that will never "peel, crack or blister" and come with a limited lifetime warranty.

Each pan in this 10-piece cookware set is made from hard cast aluminum and is built with Swiss Diamond's non-stick diamond crystal technology. The set is a good inclusion of standard pieces any cook would need in the kitchen: two saucepans (1.4-quart and 2.2-quart), two frying pans (8- and 10-inch), an 8.5-quart stockpot, and a 3.2-quart saute pan. Each dishwasher-safe pot comes with a tempered glass lid and is fitted with stay-cool handles.

In theory, Swiss Diamond's indestructibility is a great idea. But does it actually work?

If you're taking extremely good care of the set, babying it and using metal utensils rarely or never, then yes. If you're lucky. However, over time, the surface will show wear and tear just like any other cookware set. Fortunately, there's a chance Swiss Diamond will replace them under the limited lifetime warranty, but there's also an equal chance of a voided warranty if Swiss Diamond deems normal wear and tear as "abuse."

Compare this set with the Cuisinart Green Gourmet cookware set. It features a durable non-stick surface that's healthy and free of Teflon as well, plus it's less expensive.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/swiss-diamond-cookware-review-set-nonstick-cast-aluminum-10-piece/feed/ 0 Cuisinart Chef’s Classic 14 Piece Hard Anodized Cookware Set | Nonstick Quantanium http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-chefs-classic-14-piece-hard-anodized-cookware-set-nonstick-quantanium/ http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-chefs-classic-14-piece-hard-anodized-cookware-set-nonstick-quantanium/#comments Tue, 16 Feb 2010 13:30:50 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=8967 Cuisinart Chef's Classic 14 Piece HardThe great thing about buying a full set of cookware is that you get to start all over, fresh. All of your pan sins of the past can be erased, if not forgiven. You open the big box and unwrap a whole set of matching pans and lids that are perfect and ready to go. If change can be difficult to consider, think about it as an upgrade. You'll reap the benefits of new designs and technology.

The Cuisinart set is a wonderful choice for many reasons. The Quantanium interiors provide a superior nonstick surface. The pans and lids are constructed to be high performance, resistant to breakage, wear, and the adherence of food. The drip-free rims, stay-cool handles, and helper handle are small features you'll appreciate during your most hectic cooking days. The aluminum cores provide exceptional heat distribution.

The set includes some extremely valuable pieces in addition to the traditional regulars. The pasta steamer insert and regular steamer insert are items not found in most sets. Buying the full set saves you on the cost of the pans and the hassle of trying to collect individual pans. Even if you don't display your set, you can be proud to have friends or family catch them out on the stove.

Compare this with Cuisinart's 12-piece cookware set and see which pieces you really need.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-chefs-classic-14-piece-hard-anodized-cookware-set-nonstick-quantanium/feed/ 0 Farberware Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 13 Piece | Non Stick Skillet & Storage Lids http://www.thecooksden.com/farberware-classic-stainless-steel-cookware-set-13-piece-non-stick-skillet-storage-lids/ http://www.thecooksden.com/farberware-classic-stainless-steel-cookware-set-13-piece-non-stick-skillet-storage-lids/#comments Fri, 11 Dec 2009 22:46:18 +0000 JT Hats http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=8757 Farberware Classic Stainless SteelAlthough this set of Farberware Classic Stainless Steel Cookware does have an adequate range of saucepans, stockpots, saute pans, and mixing bowls, modernization of the Classic series did result in a drop in overall quality. Some pieces in the set may last a lifetime, but others will need replacement in a few years.

With proper care of this set you'll have better luck, since there are some good features here. The cookware has the modern sandwich bottom design which layers a disc of aluminum between two sheets of stainless steel. The aluminum conducts heat evenly over the enter bottom surface. This type of construction requires less power and works best on low to medium burner settings.

Farberware's non-stick coating has some special needs, and the company suggests one and only one type of detergent to clean it. The lifetime of the interior finish of the saute pans will be reduced if that advice is not taken. Dishwashers are also tough on this cookware, and hand washing according to Farberware's instructions will reduce problems.

Handles of these pots and pans are plastic, heat tolerant to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, so technically the set is oven safe. Practically speaking, that's too close to an oven's working temperature for safety, since a reading of 350 on the oven often means a temperature roaming between 325 and 375 degrees.

Cut back a little bit on expectations, and the Farberware will survive the kitchen longer.

Compare this with Cuisinart's stainless steel cookware set.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/farberware-classic-stainless-steel-cookware-set-13-piece-non-stick-skillet-storage-lids/feed/ 2 Cuisinart Cookware Set w/ Saucepans, Stockpot & Skillet | Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel 7 Piece http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-cookware-set-chefs-classic-stainless-steel-saucepan-stockpot-skillet-7-piece/ http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-cookware-set-chefs-classic-stainless-steel-saucepan-stockpot-skillet-7-piece/#comments Sun, 06 Dec 2009 22:25:18 +0000 JT Hats http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=8738 Cuisinart Cookware Set Chef's Classic This stainless steel Chef's Classic 7 Piece Cookware Set from Cuisinart includes three pots and a saute pan. Oven safe to 550 degrees Fahrenheit, the base of each piece holds a layer of encapsulated aluminum for even and efficient heat distribution.

One-and-a-half-quart and three-quart saucepans plus an eight-quart stockpot give you the basics for a new kitchen, and together with the ten-inch skillet comprise the bare minimum you'll need. These pots and pans are high quality, heavy enough to heat evenly and cook on lower heat settings than cookware with less heft requires. Low to medium heat settings are recommended, and those lower settings save energy and do lower utility bills. If you're used to lightweight non-stick cookware, there will be a short adjustment period while you get accustomed to the lower energy needs.

All metal construction means the handles are also stainless steel, and you will have to keep hot pads handy. The handles won't be as hot as the pots, but they'll still get warm. Cooking in the skillet is a mixed experience -- stainless steel gets rid of the hot and cold spots, and you can use metal spatulas that actually slide under the food instead of just pushing it around. But, you'll have more problems with scorching and sticking, and the pan will require more cooking oil. That adds calories to the food.

Hand washing is recommended, if you want to save the polish on the set, but even scrubbies will mar the finish. Unless you are willing to put in time with polishing compound, you'll have to be happy with a set that looks like it's been used.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-cookware-set-chefs-classic-stainless-steel-saucepan-stockpot-skillet-7-piece/feed/ 0 KitchenAid Gourmet Essentials Cookware Set | Nonstick Anodized Aluminum 10 Piece http://www.thecooksden.com/kitchenaid-gourmet-essentials-cookware-set-nonstick-anodized-aluminum-10-piece/ http://www.thecooksden.com/kitchenaid-gourmet-essentials-cookware-set-nonstick-anodized-aluminum-10-piece/#comments Fri, 16 Oct 2009 23:51:04 +0000 JT Hats http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=8282 KitchenAid Gourmet Essentials CookwareKitchenAid's Gourmet Essentials ten piece Cookware Set is constructed from hard anodized cast aluminum that's both light and strong. Three saucepans in one, two, and three quart sizes, plus two saute pans and a stock pot, are enough to start out a small kitchen.

Aluminum cookware like this looks tougher than it is, so be aware of weak points like skillet handles where you'll have a lot of stress on handle rivets if there's a lot in the pan. Short handles on saucepans and the big stockpot aren't so much at risk. Another vulnerable point is the nonstick coating on the interior -- use wooden or plastic utensils to stir food, not metal. The lids that accompany this set are tempered glass, break resistant and heavy. The see-through quality is a handy bonus, especially for the saute pans.

All the handles are fitted with silicone exteriors that provide a comfortable and safe grip. The silicone is oven safe to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, so in a pinch you can use these pans for baking or roasting.

The nonstick interior is not dishwasher safe, so be prepared for hand washing. The pots and pans generally clean up well, though, and the extra effort you spend in cleaning them extends the lifetime of the cookware. KitchenAid provides a one-year hassle free replacement warranty on every item in the set.

Compare this with the Circulon Classic cookware set.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/kitchenaid-gourmet-essentials-cookware-set-nonstick-anodized-aluminum-10-piece/feed/ 0 Cuisinart 12 Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set w/ Lids | Aluminum Core Chef’s Classic http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-chefs-classic-stainless-steel-cookware-set-aluminum-core-12-piece/ http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-chefs-classic-stainless-steel-cookware-set-aluminum-core-12-piece/#comments Wed, 14 Oct 2009 22:25:22 +0000 Dan http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=8266 Cuisinart Chef's Classic StainlessStainless steel fans can rejoice at the news that Cuisinart has this complete set of cookware on sale for less than the price of one or two pans from some competitors.

For a popular blend of looks and durability, it is hard to go wrong with stainless steel cookware. This set from Cuisinart is certainly built to last. Every component of these pans is manufactured from the metal. The pans and lids are made from 18/10 stainless, well known for its resistance to corrosion and long lasting appearance. In addition, there is a layer of aluminum encapsulated in the base to provide a superior surface against the cooktop for even heat distribution when cooking. While these pans do not carry the aluminum layer up the pan sides, with careful attention to heat control excellent results can be achieved. It's nice to see the all-steel lids accompanying this set. While the tempered glass style is elegant, the fragility is a bit of a distraction to serious cooking, and the venting necessary with them compromises a good seal when steaming food items.

For those used to nonstick cookware, stainless steel takes a little getting used to. A lower heat setting is preferred, and a light coating of cooking oil when frying or braising works wonders. While this cookware is basically bulletproof, the high polish shows stains and scratches readily, so extra care will keep these shining for many years.

Here's a smaller stainless steel cookware set by All-Clad, but it boasts a copper core for proper heat distribution.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-chefs-classic-stainless-steel-cookware-set-aluminum-core-12-piece/feed/ 0 All-Clad Multi Cooker w/ Steamer Basket | Stainless Steel 12 Quart Aluminum Core http://www.thecooksden.com/all-clad-multi-cooker-w-steamer-basket-stainless-steel-12-quart-aluminum-core/ http://www.thecooksden.com/all-clad-multi-cooker-w-steamer-basket-stainless-steel-12-quart-aluminum-core/#comments Tue, 04 Aug 2009 20:12:58 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=4911 All-Clad Multi Cooker w/ Steamer Basket This set is designed for all of the boiling tasks you can throw at it. Use the cooker alone for large batches of chili or hot soup. Use the large pasta basket and small steamer basket to produce healthy versions of seafood and vegetables or to prep and drain steaming mountains of pasta using the insert as a colander.

This is another aluminum core paired with stainless steel pot. This combination produces fantastic heat distribution, helps you cook without burning and cleans as easily as nonstick. I never thought this could be true, but I have seen it work in my own kitchen. The magnetic exteriors are made to work with induction cooktops as well as on gas and electric stoves.

The baskets are a perfect fit with the pot. The pot is sized just right, not too big for handling, and not so small that you'll be up to the rim in ingredients to cook for a dinner party. Several pairings are possible with the set. You'll appreciate how the aluminum core extends into the sides when cooking items which are thicker and of larger volume. The transfer will push heat into your foods from all sides, penetrating the center.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/all-clad-multi-cooker-w-steamer-basket-stainless-steel-12-quart-aluminum-core/feed/ 0 Calphalon Contemporary Roasting Pan Set | Nonstick Hard Anodized Aluminum http://www.thecooksden.com/calphalon-contemporary-roasting-pan-set-nonstick-hard-anodized-aluminum/ http://www.thecooksden.com/calphalon-contemporary-roasting-pan-set-nonstick-hard-anodized-aluminum/#comments Wed, 29 Jul 2009 07:50:47 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=4985 Calphalon Contemporary NonstickThere's no need to buy a cheap, one-use roasting pan and create more waste. The Calphalon roaster can give you better results than you'd get from an aluminum throwaway and ensure your dinner safe transport to and from the oven. It will earn a place among your favorite cookware. The tall handles are set high to make room for pot holders and aimed vertically to save clearance space in the oven, so the whole pan is easier to handle.

This set includes a nonstick roasting pan, roasting rack, bulb style baster, an injector, and a set of lifters. The heavy gauge construction is made of hard anodized aluminum and is oven safe to 450 degrees. The use of nonstick coating and rounded corners makes the pan a breeze to clean. The pan is fantastic by itself to prepare deep dish items without the sticky, burned-on mess.

The rack keeps your food suspended above the pan surface, allowing delicious drippings to accumulate in the pan's bottom while the meat above is exposed to circulating heat and air. The skin can crisp while the fat drains away. The meat comes away intact for a nicer presentation. Save the juices for gravy or simply enjoy a healthier preparation.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/calphalon-contemporary-roasting-pan-set-nonstick-hard-anodized-aluminum/feed/ 1 Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Roasting Pan Set w/ Rack | 3 Piece Stainless Steel 16 Inch http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-chefs-classic-roasting-pan-set-w-rack-3-piece-stainless-steel-16-inch/ http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-chefs-classic-roasting-pan-set-w-rack-3-piece-stainless-steel-16-inch/#comments Sat, 18 Jul 2009 07:23:23 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=4967 Cuisinart Chef's Classic Roasting PanThe reasons to buy this set extend beyond the quality pan and into the extras included along with it: a stainless rack, two roasting lifters, and a thermometer. The rack is nicely shaped to support meat, allowing fat to drip into the bottom of the pan and air to circulate as your food cooks. This pan is sized to hold large items for roasting; prepare a load of potatoes and carrots along with your roast, turkey or chicken.

The mirrored stainless steel interior and exterior are equal to the task of serving your dish in style. Metal utensils can be used with the pan, but may scratch the surface. The handles do add to the length of the pan, meaning that the sixteen inch clearance is actually over twenty. The tapered rim enables you to pour without drips and spills, great for when you make a gravy and don't need the accompanying grease trail.

The stainless steel won't react with foods to alter their original flavor. Sauce and gravy can be made right inside using drippings from the meat. Because the pan can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, or under the broiler, you can brown and bake in the same pan, even store in the freezer. For cleaning, it is dishwasher safe.

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]]> http://www.thecooksden.com/cuisinart-chefs-classic-roasting-pan-set-w-rack-3-piece-stainless-steel-16-inch/feed/ 0 Farberware Nonstick Cookware Set of 15 | Classic Stainless Steel & Aluminum w/ Mixing Bowls http://www.thecooksden.com/farberware-classic-cookware-set-stainless-steel-aluminum-nonstick-15-piece/ http://www.thecooksden.com/farberware-classic-cookware-set-stainless-steel-aluminum-nonstick-15-piece/#comments Mon, 13 Jul 2009 07:12:25 +0000 Alice http://www.thecooksden.com/?p=4959 Farberware Classic Cookware Set If you're looking for value, this set will give you a great selection without breaking the bank. It also includes several extras you won't find in most cookware collections. The matching mixing bowls come in handy during many stages of prep in the kitchen and the snap-on lids allow you to store any leftover bits inside. The mirror finish shine will please all comers.

Thick rolled rims assist with pouring. The handles are oven safe to 350 degrees, adequate for the needs of most average families. The aluminum cores are completely clad in stainless steel to prevent corrosion and improve cleanup. The stockpot lid works with the larger skillet, saving space while still providing a covered skillet option. The whole set is dishwasher safe, but with the ease of stainless cleaning, you might not even bother.

People remark upon the consistent quality and durability of Farberware cookware. Many people come back to purchase this set after a previous set impressed them with lasting use (and after they've passed their still useful pieces on to others to enjoy). The skillets are nonstick, and the saucepans and stockpots are offered in a variety of sizes-- definitely one of the more versatile collections I've seen. You'll have a pot for every need.

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