Cookware Sets

A cookware set is a long-term purchase, so you’ll want to be sure you aim for a quality pots and pans set that will last you several years. You can find a cookware set in almost any color, but other options might have you scratching your head as to which one is best. As you shop around, consider these helpful tips:

What type of material should my cookware set be?

When it comes to selecting your pots and pans set material, you may be wondering if it’s better to choose the most expensive or the most popular brand — or perhaps even ones that look like what contestants used on the latest episode of Chopped. Here’s an easy guide to help you tell the difference between each material and decide which one is best for you:

• Nonstick: A specialized coating helps these pan sets reduce sticking, which means you can lay off the excess butter and cooking oil. This style is, however, not the best choice for cooking sauces, and some materials like Teflon can release a toxic gas at high temperatures. If you opt for nonstick, be sure to use special plastic spatulas and tools to ensure the coating isn’t scraped off.

• Anodized aluminum: Anodized aluminum saucepan sets are nonstick and scratch-resistant, thanks to the creation of aluminum oxide on the surface. These pots and pans can take extra time to heat up so surfaces can wear down over time, especially if you cook a lot of acidic foods.

• Stainless steel: This is a popular choice, and for good reason. They’re resistant to rust and highly durable, plus they won’t react with any acidic foods. You’ll want to look for stainless steel cookware sets that have an aluminum or copper core to help with heat conduction, and be sure to not scrub your new cookware set with abrasive cleaners.

• Cast-iron: Along with adding a rustic feel to your kitchen, cast-iron cookware sets are durable and provide excellent heat conductivity. However, they are very heavy, react to acidic foods and will require continuous care to keep them in tip-top shape. Enameled cast-iron is another option that can reduce the need for continuous care, but it will drive the price of your cooking set up.

• Copper: Copper is an excellent conductor of heat, which means cooking food in a copper cookware set will be easier. Most copper sets are lined with stainless steel to increase their durability, which makes them easier to clean and keeps them from reacting with acidic foods. This choice can be expensive and will require polishing to keep them gleaming.

How many pieces should my pots and pans set include?

The number of pieces included in cookware sets ranges from seven to 15, though you can find more specialized sets that are smaller or larger. At the minimum, you’ll want a large and small saucepan with matching lids, a stockpot with a lid and a fry pan. For additional pieces, check out a 12-piece combo that includes the basics, as well as a covered saute pan and a smaller frying pan or skillet.