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What Is Seasoned Cookware?

Seasoning CookwareIf you’ve shopped for cast iron or carbon steel cookware, you’ve probably seen the word “pre-seasoned” in the pan’s description. Pre-seasoned cookware has been specially treated with a coating of oil to create a non-stick surface. Certain types of cookware benefit from seasoning. It improves the pan’s performance and makes clean-up a breeze. I also highly recommend keeping up with seasoning your cast iron cookware! You’ll thank me later.

What Types of Cookware Are Seasoned?

Most types of cookware do not need to be seasoned. Cast iron and carbon steel benefit most from seasoning, but tin and hard-coat aluminum may also be seasoned.

Seasoning does more than just provide a non-stick surface. In the case of cast iron cookware, seasoning also prevents the pan from rusting. This is the primary reason why most cast iron pots and pans are pre-seasoned before they are shipped to the consumer. Without this protective coating, the pan may rust before it arrives at the store or the consumer’s home.

In some cases, cast iron and carbon steel cookware will arrive unseasoned. In this case, the manufacturer will provide instructions on how to properly season the pan. The pan must be seasoned before it can be used.

How to Season Cookware

Seasoning is fairly simple and straightforward. The process is lengthy, but it’s mostly hands-off. All you need is some cooking oil and time.

Cast iron connoisseurs will tell you that the type of oil you use makes a difference, but most manufacturers will state that any type of cooking oil can be used. The most common and popular oil choices are:

  • Flaxseed oil (the preferred type)
  • Vegetable oil
  • Lard
  • Shortening

Some people also use coconut and olive oil to season their pans, but not everyone succeeds with these oils. Shortening, vegetable oil and flaxseed oil are the preferred methods and are generally foolproof.

To season cast iron cookware:

  • Start off with a clean pan.
  • Preheat your oven to the lowest temperature.
  • Apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the interior and exterior of the pan. Some people also apply the oil to the handles of the pan. If you do decide to do this, be very careful when handling the pan as the handle will be slippery.
  • Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and place it on the bottom shelf of the oven. The lined pan will be used to catch any oil that may drip from the cast iron pan.
  • Place the cast iron pan in the oven, and allow the seasoning to “bake” for approximately one hour.
  • Turn off the oven and allow the pan to cool inside.
  • Store in a dry, cool place.

Cast iron cookware will need to be re-seasoned from time to time. When food begins sticking to the surface of the pan, it’s time to re-season.

When purchasing seasoned cookware, it’s important to remember that this is just a basic seasoning. To create a lasting non-stick surface, you must cook with quite a bit of fat until you have built up a nice, thick layer of seasoning. To preserve the seasoning, cleaning with just a towel and kosher salt is recommended.

Check out this awesome video on how to season a cast iron skillet!

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What Is The Healthiest Type Of Cookware?

Healthy CookwareWhen it comes to cookware, heat distribution shouldn’t be your only concern. Some cooking materials may leach metals and other materials into your food, which may harm your health and alter the flavor of your food. If health is your primary concern when cooking in the kitchen, the cookware materials below are the healthiest choices.

Cast Iron

Cast iron cookware has been used for centuries. A well-seasoned cast iron pan offers an excellent non-stick surface, and the heat distribution with this type of cookware is superb. Cooking with cast iron will also add a little extra iron to your meals, which is beneficial for most families.

These pans do leech trace amounts of iron into foods, so if you have a health condition that puts you at risk for iron overload, this may not be a healthy cookware choice for you.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is one of the most affordable types of cookware, and it also happens to be one of the healthiest. Stainless steel is more stable than other cookware materials and far less prone to leaching. This means that meals cooked in stainless steel cookware are delicious and healthy.

Stainless steel pots and pans often feature aluminum or copper cores, which helps improve heat conductivity. However, these materials will not leach into foods as they are surrounded by layers of stainless steel.

Stoneware

Stoneware is an excellent choice for roasting or baking foods. This type of cookware is made from stoneware or special fire clay. Stoneware is made from natural materials, and does not need to be glazed. It heats evenly and provides great flavor.

The biggest concern with stoneware is cleaning. Soap should be avoided as the pan will absorb the flavor. Aside from this, stoneware is an excellent and healthier alternative to aluminum roasting pans and baking sheets.

Corningware and Glass

Corningware and glass can be tricky to cook with, but it’s one of the healthiest ways to cook simply because the material does not leach any kind of material into the food. There are only two concerns with glass cookware.

  1. Lids don’t seal tightly.
  2. Glass cookware can be damaged by thermal shock.

Aside from these two minor issues, cooking with glassware is a pleasure, and you can rest assured that the cookware is not leaching any harmful material into your food.

Ceramic

Like stoneware, ceramic cookware does not leach any material into foods. Ceramic is easy to clean and offers a non-stick cooking surface. Ceramic can be washed in the dishwasher, and you can even use steel wool or scrubbing pads without damaging the surface. If you are searching for durable, non-stick, healthy cookware, ceramic is a great choice.

These are the healthiest types of cookware you can buy. If you want to take things a bit further and reduce the amount of oils you cook with, ceramic and a well-seasoned cast iron pan are your best options. However, any one of these cooking materials will allow you to cook healthy, delicious meals that your whole family will love.

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Should I Buy A Cookware Set Or Individual Pots And Pans?

All-Clad Stainless Steel 14-Piece Cookware SetOne of the first questions people ask when buying cookware is, “Should I buy a cookware set, or individual pots and plans?” It can be difficult to answer this question because it really depends on your cooking style, your budget and how many cookware pieces you currently own. In some cases, purchasing a set is the best option, and other times, purchasing individual pieces is more practical. When deciding whether or not to buy a cookware set, consider the following:

Are You Starting From Scratch?

If you’re just starting your collection, a cookware set may be a great option. Generally, sets offer a better value than purchasing individual pots and pans and will provide you with all of the basic cookware pieces you need.

However, the two points below (budget and cooking style) also need to be taken into consideration. If you’re on a tight budget and you only cook a few times a week, purchasing three or four individual pieces may be a more cost effective option.

Are You On a Tight Budget?

If you’re on a tight budget, purchasing individual pieces may be the best option, especially if you’re just starting your cookware collection. If you decide to go this route, you can purchase just the cookware pieces you need. A basic saucepan, skillet and stock pot will allow you to take on just about any cooking task.

What is Your Cooking Style?

Another important thing to consider is your cooking style. Certain cookware pieces are better suited for certain tasks. You may not want a complete set of non-stick cookware. You may prefer a nonstick griddle for cooking eggs, a copper core sauté pan for browning meats and a stainless steel stock pot for cooking stock. In this case, purchasing individual pieces is the best option.

Pros and Cons of Cookware Sets

There are some advantages and disadvantages to purchasing cookware sets.

Pros

  • Offers great value.
  • Includes a variety of cookware pieces.

Cons

  • May include cookware pieces you do not need.
  • Only one type of cookware material is offered.

Pros and Cons of Individual Pots and Pans

Purchasing pots and pans individually also has its advantages and disadvantages.

Pros

  • Allows you to purchase cookware that does exactly what you want.
  • A variety of cookware can be purchased.
  • Allows you to purchase only the pots and pans you need.

Cons

  • Purchasing pieces individually may be more expensive, especially if you’re starting your cookware collection from scratch.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference. Unless you are starting your collection from scratch, the general consensus is that purchasing individual pots and pans is the best option. In doing so, you purchase only the cookware pieces you need and can continue adding to your collection over the years.

However, it’s hard to ignore the value and benefits that the best cookware sets offer. If a cookware set offers all of the pieces you need at a great price, purchasing the set is clearly the best option. Knowing what you want and how much you can spend on cookware will help you make your final decision.

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Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel Review

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Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless Steel Cookware SetCuisinart’s Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel collection was inspired by the kitchens of France. Complete with an elegant, polished stainless steel finish, this cookware is designed to take on any cooking task.

Available in multi-piece sets, this collection includes the following:

  • 7-Piece: 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 10” skillet, and 8-quart stockpot with lid.
  • 10-Piece: 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 3.5-quart sauté pan with lid, 8” skillet, 10” skillet, and 8-quart stockpot with lid.
  • 14-Piece: 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 4-quart sauté pan with lid, 8” skillet, 10” skillet with lid, 9-quart stockpot with lid, 20cm steamer with cover, and 24cm pasta insert.
  • 17-piece: 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 2-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 4-quart sauté pan with lid, 8” skillet, 10” skillet, 12” skillet with lid, 9-qaurt stockpot with lid, 20cm steamer with cover, and 24cm pasta insert.
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Functionality

The Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel collection is designed for everyday cooking. Available in a smaller 7-piece set or a deluxe 17-piece set, these sets provide you with all of the tools you need to get any job done.

  • Sauté vegetables, chicken and fish, or create a pan sauce in the sauté pan.
  • Create delicious, delicate sauces in the saucepan, or use it to reheat leftovers.
  • Cook up frittatas and stir-fry meals in the skillet.
  • Use the stockpot to cook stocks, soups, stews and large meals.
  • Use the steamer to steam delicious vegetables in a healthy way.
  • Cook pasta to perfection and strain right from the pot with the pasta insert.

This collection is compatible with halogen, gas, electric and glass ceramic cooktops. It’s broiler safe, freezer safe and dishwasher safe. These are some of the most versatile cookware pieces available, and this is the best Cuisinart cookware for everyday use.

Features

The Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel collection features a pure encapsulated aluminum base for quick, even heating. Aluminum is second only to copper in heat distribution, so foods heat and cook quickly.

Other features of this stainless steel set include:

  • Tapered rims for drip-free pouring.
  • Cool Grip handles for easy handling.
  • Lifetime warranty.
  • Tempered glass lids that are break-resistant and allow you to see your food while it is cooking.
  • Tight fitting lids that lock in moisture and flavor.
  • Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

Cookware in this collection is compatible with just about every cooktop surface, and is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Pros

  • Aluminum encapsulated base for quick and even heating.
  • Tight fitting lids that seal in moisture and keep foods flavorful.
  • Cool Grip handles allow for safe handling even when the pot is on the cooktop.
  • Special lipped rims make it easy to pour foods without spilling.
  • Every piece comes with a lifetime warranty.

Cons

  • Does not feature a triple ply construction.
  • Cannot be used with metal utensils.

The Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel set does not feature the same triple ply construction that the MultiClad Pro set features. That being said, the aluminum encapsulated base of this cookware still provides superior heat distribution when compared to other cookware.

Price

The Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel is more affordable than the MultiClad Pro collection. Both collections are similar in quality of construction, but MultiClad Pro is priced higher simply because of its triple ply construction. MultiClad pro is high performing cookware designed for professionals, while the Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel is designed for everyday cooks.

Durability & Maintenance

Caring for the cookware in this collection is simple and easy. Every piece is dishwasher safe, so clean-up is a breeze. However, it’s important to avoid using abrasive scrub brushes when cleaning the pot by hand as it may scratch the surface.

Cuisinart’s Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel cookware is designed to last a lifetime. In fact, it even comes with a lifetime warranty. For your everyday cooking needs, this is the best collection offered by Cuisinart.

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Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Cookware Set Review

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Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Cookware SetCuisinart’s MultiClad Pro lineup is professional cookware designed for gourmet cooking. Featuring a triple ply construction with a pure aluminum core, this cookware heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly for superior, professional performance. Chosen by chefs and serious cooks, MultiClad Pro can take on any cooking task with ease.

The MultiClad Pro collection is available in a 7-piece and 12-piece set, which includes:

  • 7-Piece: 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 8-quart stockpot with lid and 10” skillet.
  • 12-Piece: 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 3.5-quart sauté pan with lid, 8-quart stockpot with lid, 8” skillet, 10” skillet and steamer insert with cover (fits the 3-quart saucepan).
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Functionality

Cuisinart MultiClad Pro cookware was designed with chefs and serious cooks in mind. Both the 7-piece and the 12-piece sets include a versatile collection of cookware pieces designed to help you tackle day-to-day cooking tasks with ease.

  • Use the saucepan to create delicious sauces, prepare rice or reheat leftovers.
  • Fry fish, omelets and pancakes in the skillet.
  • Use the stockpot to cook stock, boil pasta or cook up a delicious stew.

Every piece of cookware in the MultiClad Pro collection is compatible with induction, gas, electric, glass ceramic and halogen cooktops. Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, broiler safe and freezer safe, this line of cookware can be used for just about any cooking task from delicate sauces to browning meats and caramelizing.

Features

Cuisinart’s MultiClad Pro cookware features a triple ply construction with a pure aluminum core surrounded by layers of brushed stainless steel. With a stainless steel exterior and interior surface, this high performing cookware produces professional results. It will not react with foods, alter flavors or discolor.

In addition, this cookware offers the following features:

  • Drip-free pouring rims
  • Cool Grip handles
  • Tight-fitting lids that seal in moisture, flavor and nutrients
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Lifetime warranty

Thanks the cookware’s pure aluminum core, heat is distributed evenly, so meals are cooked to perfection every time.

Pros

  • Triple ply cookware with pure aluminum core
  • Tight-fitting lid keeps food moist and flavorful
  • Easy to care for
  • High performing
  • Compatible with induction cooktops
  • Drip-free pouring rims for easy pot-to-bowl transfer

Cons

  • Not suitable for metal utensils

Only plastic, nylon and wood utensils are suitable for MultiClad Pro cookware. Although this does reflect on the quality of the cookware, it may be a minor inconvenience for some users.

Price

The MultiClad Pro collection is Cuisinart’s high-end line of cookware. Designed for serious and professional cooks, the triple ply construction of this cookware is high performing and provides the best heat distribution. While the Chef’s Classic Stainless Steel collection may be more affordable, it does not include the triple ply core that produces professional results.

Durability & Maintenance

While MultiClad Pro cookware can withstand high cooking temperatures, Cuisinart does not recommend cooking on high heat as foods will burn. This is because of the cookware’s triple ply construction, which is highly conductive and heats up quickly.

Pans in this cookware collection are dishwasher safe and easy to clean. However, you should avoid using steel wool or abrasive pads to remove food particles.

With a high performing, triple ply construction, the MultiClad Pro collection is the best Cuisinart cookware set for professionals and serious cooks.

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Staub Frying Pan Review

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Staub Frying PanStaub cast iron frying pans are crafted with the same exceptional quality you’ve come to expect from the Staub name. Available in 10”, 12” and mini 4.75” sizes, these frying pans can be used for a variety of cooking tasks. Both novice and experienced cooks alike enjoy the durability and versatility of these pans. This is a must have frying pan if you don’t have any cast iron in your kitchen.

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Functionality

A Staub frying pan can be used for a variety of tasks from cooking omelets to searing meats and baking cornbread. The rough textured surface of the pan is excellent for browning, and its ability to withstand high temperatures makes it ideal for high heat cooking tasks.

The mini 4.5” pan is perfect for frying eggs, while the larger 10” and 12” pans are great for browning meats and cooking larger meals.

Because the pan is made from cast iron, you can easily transfer it from stovetop to oven. If you enjoy outdoor cooking or camping, you can use your cast iron frying pan on outdoor grills and cooktops as well.

Features

Much like other cookware offered by the Staub brand, this frying pan was made in France and is of exceptional quality.

While the pan performs like traditional cast iron cookware, its enamel surface allows it to be used on any cooktop surface. Each pan is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and features a rough texture that allows for exceptional browning.

Unlike other cast iron cookware, this pan does not require seasoning thanks to its enamel coating. It’s also resistant to thermal shocks and scratching, which adds to the durability of this cookware.

Staub offers this pan in a variety of colors, including:

  • Black Matte
  • Graphite
  • Cherry
  • Basil
  • Dark Blue
  • Grenadine
  • Saffron

Staub’s frying pans are lead-free, PFOA-free, cadmium-free and PTFE-free. They’re dishwasher safe and incredibly versatile. This is the best Staub cookware for everyday cooking.

Pros

  • Exceptional heat retention
  • Enamel bottom is compatible with all cooktop surfaces
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Rough texture is great for browning and caramelizing foods
  • Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Available in a variety of colors

It’s hard to find any faults with the Staub cast iron frying pan. It performs exceptionally well, comes in a variety of sizes and is manufactured by one of the most respected brands in the industry.

Price

The mini 4.5” cast iron frying pan is the most affordable choice in the collection, while the 10” pan is mid-priced and the 12” pan is the brand’s high-end pan. Considering the size difference between each pan, the increased price is practical and warranted. Staub offers exceptional quality cast iron cookware that’s trusted by chef’s all over the world. For professional-quality cookware, Staub’s is well worth the cost.

Durability & Maintenance

Staub’s has made their cookware incredibly easy to maintain. The enamel surface not only allows the pan to be used on any cooktop, but also makes the pan more resistant to thermal shocks and scratching. The enamel surface also allows the pan to be dishwasher safe, which makes clean up quick and easy.

These pans do not require seasoning before use, and they offer anti-adhesive properties. Maintenance is virtually non-existent, and the pans themselves will last for decades. The Staub cast iron frying pan is one piece of cookware that every cook should have in their kitchen.

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Staub Sauté Pan Review

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Staub Saute PanStaub sauté pans are the perfect addition to any cookware collection. Constructed with high quality cast iron and finished with an enamel surface, these sauté pans are easy to maintain and attractive enough to double as a serving dish.

You really can’t go wrong with these beautiful sauté pans. They are top of the line and easily go head to head with Le Creuset. Price is also in the same ball park.

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Functionality

Staub’s sauté pans are the perfect size and shape for taking on just about any cooking task, including:

  • Sautéing vegetables
  • Cooking fish and meat
  • Reheating
  • Warming pre-cooked dishes

Cast iron’s exceptional ability to distribute and retain heat allows you to cook up delicious meals and keep them warm long after they have been taken out of the oven or off of the stovetop.

Features

Staub offers both a 2.75-quart and a 4-quart sauté pan to accommodate your needs. The 4-quart is ideal for larger meals or gatherings, while the smaller 2.75-quart is perfect for couples and small families.

Thanks to its cast iron construction, this sauté pan is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit. The smooth enamel bottom allows the pan to be used on any cooktop surface and also eliminates the need to season the pan. This same enamel surface is also what allows the pan to be dishwasher safe, which is something you won’t find with traditional cast iron cookware.

Each pan comes with a tight-fitting lid that retains moisture and prevents humidity from escaping. As a result, foods are juicer and more flavorful.

The rough texture of the pan also allows for exceptional browning.

Aesthetically speaking, Staubs’ sauté pans are attractive enough to take from oven to table when serving guests or family. This pan features a brass knob and comes in a variety of colors, including:

Pros

  • Black Matte
  • Graphite Grey
  • Basil
  • Dark Blue
  • Grenadine
  • Excellent heat retention and distribution
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Easy to maintain
  • Comes in a variety of colors

Cons

  • Heavy

The heavy weight of this sauté pan is to be expected. Cast iron cookware is notorious for its heavier weight, but this weight adds to the pan’s durability.

Price

The 2.75-quart Staub sauté pan is offered at a lower price than the 4-qaurt pan. The larger size of the 4-quart pan warrants this price increase, and the exceptional quality of the Staub brand makes the pan well worth the cost.

Durability & Maintenance

When compared to other cast iron cookware sets, Staub’s sauté pans are very easy to maintain. They can be washed by hand or in the dishwasher. Traditional cast iron cookware cannot be washed in the dishwasher and should not even be washed by hand.

The enamel surface on the pan eliminates the need for “seasoning,” which makes this pan virtually maintenance-free. However, it’s still important to store your pan in a cool, dry place and ensure that it’s thoroughly dry before storing it away in a cupboard or cabinet.

Staub constructed their sauté pans to last a lifetime, and with proper care and maintenance, you can continue using your pan for decades to come. Staub is the brand of choice for many chefs simply because of its durability and high quality construction. For sautéing, roasting and browning, this is the best Staub cookware choice.

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Staub Mini Cocottes Review

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Staub Mini CocotteStaub offers some of the highest quality cast iron cookware in the world. Complete with an enameled surface, the brand’s cookware is easy to care for and performs exceptionally well in the kitchen. While the brand offers a wide range of pots, pans and specialty cookware, their collection of mini cocottes is one of their most popular products.

In addition to the mini cocottes, Staub also offers:

  • Round and shallow round cocottes – Also known as the French oven, round cocottes are great for cooking soups, casseroles, stews, roasts and other one-pot meals.
  • Oval and shallow oval cocottes – These are ideal for braising, browning meats, and cooking fish, soups and stews.

Every cocotte is made in France with exceptional quality.

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Functionality

The Staub mini cocotte can be used for a variety of cooking tasks, including:

  • Searing
  • Roasting
  • Caramelizing
  • Browning
  • Preparing stews and soups

Due to their ability to withstand high cooking temperatures, these cocottes can be used for just about any cooking job.

Features

The design of the cocotte is what really makes it one of a kind, and allows for its exceptional performance in the kitchen.

Its tight-fitting lid allows less humidity to escape when cooking. As a result, 10 percent more moisture is retained after 55 minutes of cooking when compared to competing cookware.

Spikes on the interior of the flat lid create a rainfall effect over the food. This self-basting system keeps food flavorful and tender.

The rough texture of the cocotte makes it ideal for browning foods. Cocottes are oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, dishwasher safe and include a brass knob. The smooth enamel bottom allows this pot to be used on any cooktop surface.

Staub’s mini cocottes come in a variety of colors, including:

  • Cherry
  • Aubergine
  • Graphite Grey
  • Saffron
  • Black Matte
  • Basil
  • Dark Blue
  • Grenadine

Because of its small size, these mini cocottes are the best Staub cookware for small households or single serving meals.

Pros

  • Self-basting system keeps food tender, juicy and flavorful
  • Tight-fitting lids keep heat and moisture inside of the pot
  • Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Comes in a variety of colors

Cons

  • Only available in one size

Mini cocottes are only available in a 0.25-quart size, making them ideal only for single serving meals.

Price

Staub’s mini round cocottes are one of the most affordable cookware pieces offered by the brand. The round and oval cocottes are larger in size and higher priced, but can be used to cook larger meals. The mini cocottes are perfectly priced for single or two-person households.

Durability & Maintenance

Staub cast iron cookware features an enameled surface that does not require seasoning before use and comes with anti-adhesive properties. This allows the cookware to be dishwasher safe and easy to clean while preserving the heat retaining properties of cast iron cookware.

Because these mini cocottes are made from cast iron, they’re built to last a lifetime. The enameled surface also improves the pot’s resistance to scratching and thermal shocks for easy care and maintenance throughout its lifetime.

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Le Creuset Stainless Steel Cookware Set Review

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Le Creuset Stainless Steel Cookware SetLe Creuset’s tri-ply stainless steel cookware is every bit as beautiful as it is high performing. Complete with a pristine, polished stainless steel surface, this collection of cookware is ideal for professionals and true cooking connoisseurs.

The stainless steel collection is available in four different sets:

  • 5-Piece: 10” frying pan, 3-quart sauce pan with lid and 7-quart stockpot with lid.
  • 8-Piece: 8” nonstick omelet pan, 9.5” frying pan, 2-quart sauce pan with lid, 3-quart sauce pan with lid and 7.5-quart stockpot with lid.
  • 10-Piece: 10” frying pan, 2-quart sauce pan with lid, 4-quart sauce pan with lid, 3-quart sauté pan with lid and 9-quart stockpot with deep colander insert and lid.
  • 12-Piece: 9.5” frying pan, 11” frying pan, 2-quart sauce pan with lid, 3-quart sauce pan with lid, 3-quart sauté pan with lid, 4 1/4-quart soup pot with lid and 7.5-quart stockpot with lid.
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Functionality

The Le Creuset stainless steel cookware set is one of the most versatile sets offered by the brand. The small 5-piece collection includes three basic pans that every kitchen should have, while the 12-piece set provides you with multiple tools to handle any cooking job. Use your cookware for:

  • Reheating
  • Boiling
  • Browning and searing
  • Cooking soups and stews
  • Making stock
  • Frying eggs
  • Making sauces

Thanks to the cookware’s tri-ply construction, pans heat up quickly and evenly to create the perfect dish every time.

Features

Le Creuset’s stainless steel cookware features a tri-ply construction for superior heat conductivity and even heating. The bottom of the pan is constructed with a complete aluminum core surrounded by two layers of stainless steel.

The interior surface of the pan is constructed with surgical-grade stainless steel for a stable, safe cooking surface that will not react to food. The magnetic external layer of the pan’s core is compatible with induction cooktops and infused with titanium to prevent discoloration. Aside from induction cooktops, this cookware is also compatible with:

  • Electric
  • Gas
  • Halogen
  • Ceramic

Thanks to the durability of stainless steel, this cookware is dishwasher safe and oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

Casserole pans, stockpots and sauce pans included in these sets feature capacity markings for easy measuring. Pour rims also allow for convenient, drip-free pouring directly from the pot.

Pros

  • Tri-ply construction allows for excellent heat conductivity and even heating
  • Dishwasher safe
  • Versatile
  • Durable
  • Oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit
  • Polished stainless steel finish
  • Easy-pour rims
  • Convenient measuring marks in some pans

It’s hard to find any complaints with this stainless steel cookware. Not only is it easy to care for, but its superior heat conductivity and even heating make it the best Le Creuset cookware for serious cooks.

Price

Le Creuset’s tri-ply stainless steel cookware is comparable to the brand’s enameled cast iron cookware collection. Because the brand does not offer larger sets in their cast iron collection, it’s hard to compare the 10-piece and 12-piece sets as far as price is concerned.

With that in mind, it’s important to remember that professional quality cookware comes at a price. The tri-ply set is high performing cookware that’s designed for serious and professional use. Its exceptional performance makes it well worth its high price tag.

Durability & Maintenance

Every cookware piece in this collection is very easy to maintain and built to last a lifetime. Each piece is dishwasher safe, easy to clean and virtually maintenance-free. The stainless steel construction of the pans resist discoloration and warping to provide many years of use.

If you’re looking for high performing cookware with a sleek, professional look, Le Creuset’s tri-ply stainless steel cookware is the ideal choice.

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Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Cookware Set Review

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Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Cookware SetLe Creuset is a leader in the cookware industry, and their signature cast iron sets are a testament to the quality this brand is known for. Each piece is cast in sand molds and inspected by 15 different artisans before making its way to store shelves. The brilliant heat retention of cast iron makes this cookware collection exceptional both on the stovetop and in the oven.

The Le Creuset Signature cast iron cookware set is available in a 5-piece and 6-piece collection. Each set includes the following items:

  • 5-Piece: 3.5-quart French oven with lid, 1 3/4-quart saucepan with lid and 9” skillet.
  • 6-Piece: 4.5-quart French oven with lid, 2 1/4-quart saucier with lid, 5 1/4-quart roaster and square skillet grill.
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Functionality

Le Creuset’s Signature Cast Iron sets are incredibly versatile. Thanks to cast iron’s exceptional heat retention properties and its ability to withstand high temperatures, you can use these pieces for just about any cooking application, including:

  • Slow-cooking
  • Stir-fry
  • Baking
  • Searing
  • Frying

Adding to its versatility, this cast iron cookware set can be used on just about any cooking surface, including: gas, electric, induction, outdoor grill, ceramic and halogen cooktops. Every piece is oven safe and freezer safe.

Features

In addition to its heat retention abilities, this cast iron cookware set also boasts a number of other great features, including:

  • Dishwasher safe
  • Colorful enamel exterior that’s resistant to cracking and chipping
  • Skillets and skillet grills in the collection do not require seasoning
  • Large handles allow for easy handling even with oven mitts
  • Phenolicknobs can withstand temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit

All of the pieces in the cast iron cookware collection are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. This the best Le Creuset cookware set for all-around use and everyday cooking.

Pros

  • Easy to clean and maintain
  • Versatile
  • Excellent heat retention
  • Can be used on any heat source
  • Can withstand high cooking temperatures
  • Comes with a limited lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Not ideal for dry cooking – with the exception of skillet grills.

Unlike traditional cast iron cookware, which is seasoned, oils and fats are needed in order to prevent foods from sticking to the surface of the pan.

Price

Le Creuset’s Signature Cast Iron 5-piece set is comparable in price to the brand’s stainless steel 5-piece set. However, the 6-piece set is pricier when compared to the stainless steel 8-piece collection. From a cook’s point of view, the cast iron collection is well worth the price simply because it offers exceptional heat retention and can withstand high cooking temperatures. This is something that stainless steel cookware rarely offers.

Durability & Maintenance

Traditional cast iron cookware can be tedious to maintain. Rust is a major issue and you must ensure that your pans are seasoned in order to prevent foods from sticking.

Le Creuset’s cast iron cookware set completely eliminates the heavy maintenance of cast iron thanks to its enameled exterior. Each piece is dishwasher safe, so cleanup is a breeze. If food residue and deposits become an issue, soft abrasive pads or nylon can be used to remove them. To protect the enameled surface, abrasive cleaners and scourers should not be used, and all pans should be completely dry before storing.

For an all-around cookware set that can tackle any cooking task, the Signature Cast Iron cookware collection is a smart choice.

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