Calphalon Cooking Sets Are Great For All
Got some basic cooking needs? One of the best sets on the market is a Calphalon cookware set. A classic set is usually eight pieces. Each pan can go into the oven, which adds versatility to the set. The 1-1/2-quart and 2-1/2-quart saucepans and 4-quart chef's pan with rounded sides all have lids and are perfect for making sauces, and the chef's pan is great for braising. The non-stick 8- and 10-inch omelet pans sear and saut¨¦ as well as cook omelets. Made of heavy-gauge aluminum, the pans cook without hot spots or warping. All items should be hand washed with mild detergent to ensure the integrity of the stick-resistant surface remains in tact.
Cookware 101
Cookware sets can be made out of several materials. Copper is considered the best material for cookware, as it conducts heat uniformly and quickly. Aluminum is widely used in cookware sets as it performs almost as well as copper and is generally cheaper, but be sure the aluminum is a thick gauge. Cast iron cookware sets can be even cheaper than aluminum, but it does require more maintenance. Enameled cast iron can be very colorful, but expect the price to go up quickly! A nonstick cookware set has manmade coatings that keep foods from sticking to the pan. When cooking fish or omelets, for example, this can be a big help. Stainless steel cookware sets are easy to clean but are also prone to hot spots, so search for thicker pots and pans.
Paint it Black
If your cookware set does not have a black outer finish, consider putting one on yourself. This can be done quite easily and cheaply. Go to any hardware or home improvement store and pick up a can of black oven paint. Why paint them black? Adding the black coating to the outside of your pots (never on the inside ) will help your cookware heat up faster.
The Benefits of Cooking With Cast Iron
Did you know cooking with a cast iron cookware set can actually improve your health? Cooking with cast iron results in a slightly increased bodily intake of Iron, an essential mineral. Most North Americans don't get enough iron in their diet. Granted, if you cook one or two meals a day on iron pans, the small amount that is absorbed into the body by the food represents only about 20% of the recommended daily dosage, but it's better than nothing!
Stainless Steel Cookware For Vegan Cooking
If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you should invest in a good-quality stainless steel cookware set. If you take care of these pots and pans you will have them for a lifetime. Unfortunately, lower-quality (i.e., lighter) stainless steel pans found at department stores or specialty home stores will not conduct the heat well, nor will they hold in the heat. The best vegetarian cooking is done on a low flame, and the heat needs to be held inside the pot tightly. Thick, heavier, better built stainless steel is what you need to find in a pot or pan.