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COOKWARE

The first pots and pans I had were nonstick hand-me-downs. They got the job done but didn't last very long before the interior surface started to wear off. Then I purchased a mixture of reasonably priced, good-quality stainless steel and more nonstick. The nonstick didn't last as long as the first set and the stainless always caused a problem with hot spots and sticking. After that, I did some research into what the best types of pots and pans would be for the type of cooking I do. I read catalogs, cooking magazines and consulted an expert. My decision was to invest in high-quality cookware that would make cooking easier and, hopefully, last a lifetime.

What to look for - There are several materials from which to choose as listed below. The criteria is the same for all. Pots should be heavy enough so that the entire bottom surface sits flat on the burner. However, don't choose those that are excessively heavy and are a burden to manuever. Be certain that the handles are designed to stay cool and are ovenproof. And look for those that withstand high oven temperatures. Of course, price is a consideration, but keep in mind that a really good pan will last a lifetime with proper care. When you have decided which type(s) you need, then choose the styles you will use.

Types of Cookware:

Copper - Copper is an excellent conductor of heat which is why it is the choice of many professional chefs. The interior is usually lined with stainless steel to prevent reaction from acidic foods. Good copper pots are quite heavy and require frequent polishing to keep their shine. The biggest drawback is the price. They are very expensive, costing nearly twice as much as the same pan by the same manufacturer in high-quality aluminum.
Aluminum - Aluminum is another excellent conductor of heat but, like copper, can react to acidic foods. It also scratches easily. Therefore, a high-quality aluminum pan undergoes a process called hard anodization, in which the aluminum is treated to prevent it from reacting or scratching. See Stainless Steel for other ways in which aluminum is used.
Stainless Steel - Stainless steel, although lighter in weight and easier to maintain, is a very poor conductor of heat and therefore not recommended unless combined with copper or aluminum. The best of this type has a stainless steel interior and an aluminum core that is sandwiched in between the inner and outer layers on the bottom and up the sides of the pan. This gives the desired weight and optimum heat conductivity while preventing reaction to foods and providing easy maintenance. Many of the pots and pans I now use are stainless steel with an aluminum core. I love them.
Nonstick Pans - No matter what other type of cookware you select, every well-equipped kitchen needs some nonstick pots and pans. It makes cleanup so much easier and less fat is needed in cooking. However, do your research before purchasing. There are many different types of interior surfaces available and many will wear out eventually. Look for the same qualities as in the other pots, such as weight, heat conductivity, handle durability, and temperature limitations. Be certain to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for maintenance and heating, as most need to have some oil in them before they are heated.
Cast Iron - I wouldn't go so far as to say every cook needs cast iron pans, but they really are great for some types of cooking. I have an old set that was my Grandmother's. They are at least 100 years old. They have been through both fire and flood. It was not fun cleaning them after either of those events, but I guess they are indestructible. All cast iron must be seasoned before use which is a process of oiling and heating in the oven. Once well-seasoned, they are virtually nonstick. They are extremely heavy, great conductors of heat and totally temperature proof. They are food reactive. I remember making turnips in one and the turnips turned dark purple and took on the flavor of the iron.

Notes: The cookware below is what I consider basic. If you are like me, you will want other cookware. Don't forget a roasting pan, grill pan, stir-fry pan and/or wok. Electric pans are useful, especially a crock pot. Most skillets do not come with lids. They can be purchased separately if needed. You can use lids from the saucepans and other pots or purchase less expensive lids. If you decide to purchase new cookware, don't discard all of the old. Keep some for the outdoor grill. They come in handy, especially during prolonged power outages. But even on the grill, beware of handles that can't stand the heat.

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