วันอาทิตย์ที่ 31 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2554
What Is The Best Stainless Steel Cookware Money Can Buy?
Customers always want the best of each product. When it comes to cookware, the rule stands strong – the best! Here is the Best Stainless Steel Cookware that you will ever come across. It is the Cuisinart classic stainless steel 10 piece cookware set. Solely on Amazon it has a whopping 444 positive reviews from its customers. The satisfaction of the customers was never clearer from the ratings. It has 4.5 stars out of 5 on an average.
The reason why it is the best stainless steel cookware is the fact that the stainless steel finish is simply outstanding. The set includes a sauté pan, saucepans, a stockpot and skillet.
It aluminium base ensures even and uniform heating while the handles are riveted and solid for better grip and strength. You can place it in the freeze, the broiler, the dishwasher and even the oven. The highest temperature it can hold in the oven is 55o F and we all know how incredible that is.
The best stainless steel cookware is available for shipping too. The weight is 27 pounds and outside United States too, in a few countries, the shipment option is available. Amazon ranks it as the second bestseller in the cookware category and that is indeed a great achievement.
The stainless steel used to make the cookware set is of supreme quality. Thus, it doesn’t react with any food content – acidic or otherwise.
The lids are tight fitting and secure while the handles are solid and firm. This ensures that the goodness and the taste of your food are sealed in the meals. It has an incredibly long life as it can withstand numerous times in the oven, in the broiler, in the freezer and in the dishwasher. This particular property is ensured by the mirror finish. This is how it remains top quality even after multiple uses.
Here’s the icing on the cake – you get a lifetime warranty.
The famous restaurateur Paul Bocuse endorses the Cuisinart classic stainless steel 10 piece cookware set personally. We all know why he is so famous and important. He has been winning the Michelin 3 stars for 36 years straight. What better testimony to the best stainless steel cookware than this?
One very happy user said she simply dotes on this cookware set. She states that she had researched a lot before zeroing in on a cookware set when she decided on buying one. For her, both appearance and weight were equally important. She said that she found some sets that were too heavy. You also may have experienced the same. Do you have a cookware set that you need two hands to lift? Heavy cookware sets are indeed not ideal. An ideal kitchen set should be of the ideal weight too.
She added that the price for the best stainless steel cookware set she found on Amazon was hard to believe. Free shipping was the icing on the cake for her. She was very impressed and she even ended up buying two sets – for her daughter and later for herself. This user is an Italian chef. Cooking is of course her passion and she swears by this kitchen set.
Another user actually road tested this cookware set and concluded that the quality was simply incredible. She even said that cleaning them was very easy. She is now considering buying many sets of this set to give out as gifts. For her, just like for many others, this cookware set is the best stainless steel cookware set.
Amazon.com is the best place to find the best deals and prices of this amazing cookware set. That is obvious now, after reading this review, isn’t it? The shipping is also free and even those outside the United States can purchase it. Here is the link you should click on to find out about the money you can save today on this great set of cookware!
Cookware Heat Conductivity
Materials used in cookware vary greatly in their heat distribution properties. Stainless steel by itself is not a good conductor of heat, which is the reason that aluminum or copper is bonded to the bottom. There are methods by which raw materials can be laminated together in sheets (such as 2 layers of stainless steel with a layer of aluminum in between), for cookware manufacturing, however, this process is extremely expensive. Following for your reference is a chart that graphically shows the thermal conduction properties of various materials. Since silver is the most efficient material for heat conductivity (at about 97% efficiency) silver was used as a base for a relationship to the other materials indicated. It is interesting to note that glass is very close to asbestos in heat conduction properties.
How To Find Stainless Steel Cookware Sets
Determine what type of stainless steel cookware to buy
When you want to shop for stainless steel cook ware, you want to know the type of stainless steel cookware set you are buying. This endeavour may look simple, but it very often is not so easy. When you need to find stainless steel cookware, you usually have many selections to make when you determine the special stainless steel cookware that you think will meet your needs and desires.
Especially when you desire to search for a better stainless steel cookware set for your desires, it is recommended that you think about if you need a certain quantity of stainless steel pans, what sizes of stainless steel skillets you wish to have, and whether stainless steel knives are included.
Except for when merchandise is such a low-cost bargain that the merchandise does not merit your time to analyze, you would benefit if you evaluate more cautiously concerning the capabilities you would benefit from in advance of getting the sales item. Your decision could necessitate doing a bit of investigation by seeking the opinions of acquaintances and referring to evaluations on the net.
As you converse with anyone you know who has used stainless steel cookware sets, make certain their desires and needs are very much like yours, as you talk to these people about their satisfaction with the merchandise. In addition to, ask whether they think they would purchase the merchandise next time.
While you investigate the merchandise by discussing opinions with sales people in retail stores or by getting reviews on the net, evaluate whether the reviews are objective. A recommended way to evaluate whether you are finding less biased reviews about stainless steel cook ware is to find many websites and to assure yourself whether you have learned what is necessary before you buy the product. Multiple evaluation sources will help you to avoid the biased reviews you may find in just a single website.
Determine what you can spend on discounted stainless bowls
For all products there are alternatives that contrast price and features. For example, a few stainless steel cookware collections have the abililty to cook without water wherein the cooking food provides the water, but these stainless steel cookware brands very often are at the higher end of the price range.
From the beginning, you need to decide what you can allocate from your spending budget. Through sensibly deciding how important the merchandise is in your collective financial resources, you are able to quickly pay attention to the subset of merchandise that you can afford. Evaluate not only the cost of the specific product, but also about any other outlays that you might be required to incur though the use of the product. Because stainless steel cooking sets are easy to clean and look so nice, you could start refurbishing your entire kitchen with shiny stainless steel, which could include all of your kitchen appliances and cookware plus even your BBQ grill. This most certainly will escalate your kitchen improvement costs.
Furthermore, even if you have enough money to buy the priciest merchandise out there, you are recommended to determine whether getting the pricier item is really worth it to you. Many stainless steel cookware may offer many features which might seem potentially valuable, however you should decide whether those are abilities which you actually want. If you acquire a product for high cost features that you do not take advantage of, then you are just throwing your money into the trash can. A less costly thing would have met your needs sufficiently.
On the other hand, you could invest less than you should and receive something which will not adequately meet your requirements from alternate viewpoints. The cheapest product at the lowest price point may be without the features you really require or the item may be constructed badly and, therefore, cannot last and will need to be bought again earlier than expected. If a price is so inexpensive that it appears like too good a deal, then it probably is.
Also, understand before you buy the terms for getting a refund for the stainless steel cookware set and whether there is a guarantee. Although you might not get the cheapest purchase price, dealing with a trust worthy seller offering a good refund practice is many times worth it. Usually only a small minority of all products that you purchase need to be brought back, however checking out your seller’s product guarantees prior to when you spend your money can assist you later on, if the product does not work.
Where should you acquire a better discount Kitchenaid bowl?
Most importantly when shopping, you need full access to a very broad selection of merchandise within the category of bargains which you want to find. Broad access is best, if the particular web page you are using taps into the very widest collection of competitive product offerings that are available. In addition, you really need to sort through the items which are on sale to find only those that are exactly what you want to find. To shop for what you want easily, you need to have access to an automated sorter that quickly delivers many specific choices.
Any catalog page should facilitate choosing among products for you. A superior method for people to do that is to browse a page of graphics of product bargains so that a person can decide visually and then evaluate if the product might be a possibility. Doing this permits you to take a quick visual screen of potentially interesting merchandise, in advance of analyzing product specifics. It is better to have the chance to see the different products visually rather than having to waste time on the details of products that are not right.
This visual method is how shopping was done in the past and is the best way of shopping. People have always enjoyed scanning through graphics to locate products to buy, when the document provides a reasonably extensive table of contents or a good index. As Such, an online catalog is simply a new online approach akin to color catalogs from stores which were so prevalent in years past. We are happy to tell you that using a visual electronic catalog can allow you a lot more choices of stainless steel waterless cookware. You can search for desirable products at greater discounts. With a pictures web page, costs are lower without hardcopy catalog printing costs.
Online vendor competition to receive your order helps assure that you get the best prices. Vendors know that they have to provide to you the best quality products and service, as they need to provide to you cut rate prices or you will just purchase from another seller.
For those who need to shop for the better discount weber grills stainless steel, appliances, and stainless steel grills, this is the place. This site offers you the quickest, most efficient buying experience. The very attractive pages of this shopping website give you arrays of color pictures of many stainless steel cookware sets and numerous other brushed stainless steel kitchen appliances.
At this shopping site you are able to very rapidly scan numerous alternative sales merchandise items from different competitors. Subsequently, you are able to acquire the most desirable merchandise at rock bottom prices. On top of all of this, you are able to receive these products at your front door. You do not have to waste time and expensive gasoline driving from store to store to buy what you need in terms of stainless steel cookware. It is frustrating to deal with regular stores that are out of stock and this shopping website can simply save your time.
วันศุกร์ที่ 29 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2554
The Advantages and Disadvantage of Stainless Steel Cookware
If you are searching for the perfect pots and pans, then consider a stainless steel cookware set. These sets are a popular choice in many households. Why buy stainless steel? Knowing about the main benefits of this type of cookware will allow you to decide if it is the best choice for your kitchen!
Advantage #1: Durability
Stainless steel cookware is very durable and scratch resistant. This is a big part of why the material is used in appliances and cookware found in commercial kitchens. As long as you follow the instructions recommended by the manufacturer of the set you choose, your set will stand up to frequent use, and give you many years of good service. No cookware set is indestructible, but a good quality stainless steel set is pretty close.
Advantage #2: Simple Cookware Maintenance
Time is an important consideration when choosing items for your household. Some cookware sets require a greater time investment when it comes to general maintenance. Skipping these important steps can significantly shorten the life of your cookware.
If you want to get the most out of your next cookware purchase without a big time investment, stainless steel may be your best option. If you buy a good quality stainless steel set you can simply wash it with warm soapy water and you are done!
Advantage #3: Cost versus Value
Cookware can be very pricy. Although there will always be something cheaper than stainless steel it is important to remember that you get what you pay for. A large set is going to cost a bit more, but it is well worth the investment for the amount of use you will get out of the various pieces of cookware. Cheaper sets are often made with flimsier material so they will not last nearly as long as a quality stainless steel cookware set. It’s always a good option to buy the very best your budget will allow.
Advantage #4: Stylish Appearance
Stainless steel cookware has an attractive appearance and when it is well cared for, it will remain nearly flawless. Your pots and pans can be cleaned and dried so that they give off an eye-catching shine no matter how many times you use them. Stainless Steel cookware looks great in many different kitchens, and will suit both modern and traditional decor.
Advantage #5: Can Be Used with Anything
Although many people assume this is a given for all types of cookware, stainless steel is one material that can be used with just about any type of food. The reality is some cookware reacts to acidic foods. Stainless steel does not come with these limitations so you can buy one set to do all of your cooking! The hard metal surface will not corrode or become damaged when you cook acidic foods such as tomatoes.
Disadvantage
Stainless Steel is not a good conductor of heat so you do need to find a set that has an aluminum or copper core so that you don’t get hotspots on the cooking surface, which will cause the food to cook unevenly.
Conclusion
This information is provided to help you make an informed decision when choosing stainless steel cookware.
What are the benefits in using stainless steel cooking pots?
Your pots and pans set is more than just part of your kitchen inventory. Many people don’t know that the pots and pats sets they use can either be a healthy advantage or a health risk. What is in your cookware can also go into your food. When used properly, our stainless steel pots and pans preserve the nutrients and flavor of food. Whether you are cooking for one person or many, the quality of cookware you use always matters.
If your pots and pans set doesn't last a lifetime and still look as good as when you purchased them, you are paying too much for cookware since it has to be replaced again and again. How would you like to own top-of-the-line stainless steel cooking pots from BetterCookwareByDesign.com and NEVER have to replace them again?
On the following pages, you will find a variety of stainless steel pots and pans sets, stainless steel accessories and serving pieces. You may choose large sets, small sets, or even individual stainless steel pots and pans.
Gordon Ramsay Stainless Steel Cookware Saute Pan 3 qt
Royal Doulton today announced a partnership with fellow British icon, restaurateur and haute chef Gordon Ramsay to create a new collection of superior bone china dinnerware, sparkling clear crystal, premium porcelain bake ware and professional stainless and copper clad cookware. The Gordon Ramsay by Royal Doulton collection offers a fresh approach to modern table setting by keeping it utterly simple, comfortable and functional. Plates feature a flat cross section to prevent cutlery from sliding and the sauceboat has an exaggerated handle for easy use and a wide spout for easy, non-drip pouring. Gordon's selection of primarily white tones showcases the food itself, which Gordon feels is most appealing to the appetites of diners. Because the entire collection will be used on the dining tables and in the kitchens of Ramsay's London restaurants as well as in his New York City outpost, the London NYC, Ramsay is demanding a new standard of perfection. The Gordon Ramsay by Royal Doulton collection is influenced by Gordon's years of cooking and presenting meals to thousands of new and faithful patrons and he is looking to impress thousands more. Clearly, Gordon has made a terrific impression, his restaurants have been awarded Michelin Stars for excellence as well as being knighted by England's Queen Elizabeth. Royal Doulton is thrilled to bring Gordon Ramsay's products to life, bringing affordable luxury to consumers everywhere.
วันพฤหัสบดีที่ 28 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2554
Check Out These Stainless Steel Cookware Established Reviews Prior To Purchasing
Stainless steel cookware set critiques are completed on each individual pot and pan within the cookware arranged and on the total set collectively. The performance of every utensil is mentioned and debated amongst certified testers. Things to consider are produced on how evenly each utensil disperses heat on gas and electrical ranges, the style with the individual cookware, the ease of use, quantity and dimensions of pots and pans, cleanup and the complete cost of the established. Using a complex formula, a winner is selected. The winners inside the budget and luxurious cookware and glassware ranges are outlined beneath. Rated finest in the spending budget cookware class is often a ten piece Cuisinart Chef’s Traditional Stainless Cookware. This set consists of seven of the most preferred dimension pots and pans and three tight fitting lids. Particular tapered rims prevent spills and also the well-designed stainless metal handles remain awesome for quick use in barware. They are dishwasher secure for easy cleanup and may be used in broilers or ovens as much as 550 F. The stainless metal enclosed aluminum base disburses warmth evenly throughout the bottom with the pan offering an even cooking surface. Inside the luxurious cookware class, All-Clad Stainless Cookware inside a ten piece set took the honors. The big distinction is in the internal design with the pots having a large aluminum core sandwiched between a stainless cooking floor and a magnetic stainless metal bottom. The heavy-duty core extends throughout the bottom and up the sides to the rim, dispersing warmth evenly throughout the pan and sides. That is particularly advantageous on gasoline ranges where the gas flames caressed the outer rim of the pan’s bottom. Costing almost five times as much, gourmet cooks may well benefit from this additional luxurious of even heat to the pot’s rim. Shoppers employing stainless steel cookware established reviews to purchase the ideal ought to contemplate their cooking model. Buying a cooking arranged using the correct dimension pots is crucial for quick use. Most sets come with saucepans in 1-1/2 and two quart sizes. Saute pans and Dutch ovens vary tremendously; saute pans in the 8 inch, 10 inch and 12 inch assortment are frequent, with or without having lids. Dutch ovens vary from the 3 quart dimension into a 5 quart dimensions. The actual worth in stainless cookware may be the accurate flavor of meals; this cookware is nonporous and doesn’t include any foreign materials for the duration of cooking. Professional chefs enjoy this excellent as they are able to totally manage the taste. Well being conscious people insist on this safety issue.Working with stainless metal cookware set, barware arranged and glassware evaluations to make purchasing choices is smart. Professionals charge every arranged and pick the ones supplying by far the most value for that purchase required.
Suggestions for maintaining your Cusinart stainless steel cookware
Your stainless steel cookware would definitely be the pride and joy in your kitchen, specially in case you have made a good investment and purchased Cuisinart stainless steel cookware. These stainless steel pots and pans are made of the highest high quality materials and learning and understanding the proper handling of these items will make certain a lifetime of lip-smacking dishes. However, there’s a little bit of work needed on your end to get probably the most out of them in performance and lifespan! Here are just some handling suggestions that may support you take pleasure in your cooking and eating experience to the fullest.
Cuisinart items are loved by amateur and professional cooks alike as a result of the high quality of materials used and the user-friendly design employed inside the manufacturing these products. Even your food will love to feel the even heat which is created by the combined aluminum and stainless steel bottom of this fantastic piece of cookware. Once you do get any new Cuisinart stainless steel cookware within your residence then you must 1st invest the time to wash it with warm water and soap, and then ensure it is clean and dry with a soft cloth before you cook any food in it.
Once you commence using your stainless steel pots and pans on a standard basis then these handling and maintenance tips will surely save a whole lot of sweat and funds within the long run. Rather than waiting for your cooked food to remain in your Cuisinart stainless steel cookware until it dries and sticks to the bottom or sides, you should instantly rinse it with warm water along with a mild detergent once your cooking is completed. You should not use abrasive metal pads or steel wool to scrub your cookware as you will only wind up scratching your favorite pot or pan.
If you choose to make use of a dishwasher, your dishwasher too ought to use only a mild detergent with out any lemon as opposed to ammonia or other strong chemicals which might be harsh to the pan itself and damage it prematurely. You ought to also make certain that your dishwasher just isn’t packed to the highest point that you’ll be able to pack it to. This will guarantee that your Cuisinart stainless steel cookware remains safe from dents or scratches for a extremely lengthy time. If you are forced to use challenging water then you’ll be able to effortlessly remove the resultant calcium stains with vinegar mixed with warm water.
Should you have burnt food stubbornly clinging to the insides of your stainless steel pots or pans then you will will need to boil a little detergent in water in that really pot or pan and allow it to simmer on low heat for around 15 minutes. You can now allow the vessel to cool down just before draining off the mixture and cleaning it with a plastic spatula or sponge. Your Cuisinart stainless steel cookware will not only become clean but also get back its original shine. You ought to keep in mind to use a non-lemon detergent and conduct this procedure in a well-ventilated location since detergents might release fumes upon boiling.
If you want much less food to stick to your pots and pans from the quite very first day of purchase itself then you are able to also season your Cuisinart stainless steel cookware. You’ll be able to basically spread out a film of peanut oil or any other oil that smokes at high temperature and heat it on a medium flame on your gas range. You can stop heating once the oil starts to emit smoke and clean the residue with a paper tissue. The oil would have penetrated all open pores inside your new pot or pan and you will find less food sticking to your new pan. You are able to repeat the method once you notice an improve in food sticking to your cookware.
It’s quite important that you follow these handling and maintenance suggestions even though utilizing your prized Cuisinart stainless steel cookware since insuring the proper care of these will ensure a lifetime of perfectly cooked dishes. You and your loved ones will surely thank your choice to buy Cuisinart goods even as you roll out 1 tasty dish after the other from your prized cookware. Keep in mind, the more you take the time to care an maintain your pots and pans, the longer the life will be on these. Just some tiny maintenance will enable you to maintain your investment for years to come.
Helpful Ideas For Picking Stainless Steel Cookware
By waiting for your stainless steel cookware to preheat to the correct temperature before you begin to cook you will notice a big difference in the efficiency of one’s stainless steel set and in the look and flavor of the food you’re preparing. Our grandmothers and great grandmothers all knew these cooking ideas and used them frequently in their stainless steel cookware kitchen vessels.
Non stick pots and pans are extremely popular nowadays, and they are simpler to clean than most other types of cooking materials. You will also have the benefit of a non stick surface. However, there are disadvantages to these types of supplies.
When you are using a non-stick coated stainless steel cookware pot or pan you must make particular that you stir all food with either a wooden spoon or a plastic coated spoon so that you do not create any scratches or blemishes within the non-stick coating of stainless steel cookware. Once that coating becomes scratched every thing will start to stick and also the coating will really begin to flake off in the food you’re preparing.
Numerous non stick pots cannot be used in the dishwasher. Also, you may not have the ability to bake with some kinds of items. This can limit the use and versatility of these items. It also can imply purchasing more items than you may ordinarily need, as you might need special issues just for baking.
Whenever you purchase stainless steel cookware, in the event you can, purchase a set that has handles that are riveted to the pot. With this type of deal with any of the stainless steel cookware pots will probably be capable of becoming used in the oven with out causing damage to the handles. This makes the utilizes for your set of stainless steel cookware pots and pans double created less need for more stainless steel cookware items in your cupboards. When cooking in stainless steel cookware you’ll uncover that you can use lower temperatures and less added water to accomplish the same scrumptious recipes you loved as a child expanding up.
Some stainless steel cookware pot sets are made with two layers of stainless enclosing a layer of aluminum. This kind of pot conducts heat superbly and is one of the best cooking vessels you will ever use. When you have purchased your stainless steel cookware set you’ll have to know how to maintain them searching their greatest. To be able to assist your stainless steel cookware set keep its shine attempt this hint: Mix about 1 quarter cup of Calgon water softener and one quarter cup of chlorine bleach in a gallon of hot water. You can mix this up correct in your kitchen sink. No scrubbing is needed.
Most non stick pans will not hold up nicely beneath use. In time, the surface will start to flake and possibly start to peel. This can be a well being concern amongst many people, nowadays. Also, some kinds of supplies may emit toxic fumes when extremely hot. This can be a problem, and ought to be a consideration when choosing cooking tools.
Summary
Stainless steel cookware sets are resistant to corrosion and are extremely tough. They will hold up much better than numerous other comparable products. A number of the best sets will final for thirty years or more.
วันพุธที่ 27 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2554
Finding The Best Calphalon Stainless Steel Cookware
Finding The Best Calphalon Stainless Steel Cookware
Over the years, the Calphalon brand has come to be associated with the best of the best in cookware. And in the minds of many chefs, it has garnered a completely deserved reputation as a well made, affordable, easy to use, and easy to care for cookware.
Calphalon Stainless Steel Cookware
Calphalon’s triple ply (or Tri-Ply as they call it) pans consist of three layers of steel sandwiching heavy gauge conductive aluminum cores. This gives you the heat transfer benefits of aluminum combined with the durability of stainless steel. Stainless steel is not very conductive to heat. In fact, a pan made out of pure stainless steel would be a very poor piece of cookware. On the other hand, aluminum is an excellent heat conductor (the only common material that would be better is copper).
The best Calphalon stainless steel cookware carries a lifetime warranty and consists of 18/10 or better quality stainless steel.. The first number, 18, is the percentage of chromium in the metal. The higher this percentage, the more resistant it is to staining. The second number, 10, is the percentage of nickel in the metal. Any number 8 or higher is an indicator of quality cookware.
For those that can afford a bit more, Calphalon makes a variety of copper versions of their cookware (e.g. Calphalon Tri-Ply Copper 10-Piece Cookware Set). The role of the aluminum or copper in the cookware is to allow the heat to flow more evenly through the cookware than it would through a pan made of simply stainless steel. Because of this, Calphalon stainless steel cookware will consistently result in an even cooking surface.
On the other hand, if you don’t have the funds to purchase the high end or medium priced Calphalon cookware, you can set your sites lower at their Simply Calphalon cookware line – such as their waterless cookware. The pieces in this line are cheaper but they also don’t come with the copper or aluminum “sandwich” found in the higher end stuff. The pieces in this line also don’t come with a lifetime warranty.
Calphalon Stainless Steel Cookware Set
A Calphalon stainless steel cookware set, unlike cast iron cookware, is dishwasher safe. In addition, stainless steel has the feature of being non reactive with foods, especially acidic foods and liquids. Of course, what attracts most people to stainless steel over regular steel is that it is extremely corrosion and rust resistant. Another really nice feature of many of the Calphalon is the use of glass lids so you can see your foods as they cook.
In fact, the only real drawback to the cookware is that because of the quality of steel used, the cookware can be heavier than other brands.
Stainless steel is very easy to clean. Even so, you can buy specialized stainless steel cleaning products that do a better than average job on the cookware pieces. One such product is the Cameo Aluminum & Stainless Steel Cleaner which is perfect for cleaning stainless steel pots, pans, and cookware as well as sinks. It’s only mildly abrasive and really puts a shine on the cook ware.
How To Polish Stainless Steel Cookware
Cookware made from stainless steel is very durable. You can clean it in a dishwasher without worrying if it’s going to rust, chip, or tarnish. Even if you burn the food that you are cooking, it’s safe for you to give your cookware a good scrub because the metal is so sturdy; it won’t get scratched or dented. It is designed to retain its shine for a long time. However, due to misuse and occasional neglect, stainless steel cookware can turn dull and dirty. To get back its original shine, here are some tips that you can follow to polish your stainless steel cookware.
•Remove leftover food. After cooking, let the cookware cool for a few minutes then wash it in lukewarm water. Scrub the interior with a plastic scrubber and some dishwashing detergent. Use the same scrubber to clean the exterior of your pots or pans. Rinse with lukewarm water.
•Sprinkle powdered cleanser on the stainless steel cookware to get rid of burned-on or dried food remnants. Pour water into the cookware until it is almost filled. Add a few drops of dishwashing detergent then leave it to soak for one hour. Place the cookware on the stove and let the water boil for fifteen minutes. Allow the water to cool for half an hour before draining. While the stainless steel cookware is still damp, sprinkle on some powdered cleanser or baking soda. Use a synthetic, non-abrasive scrubber to work the powder on the dried remnants. Avoid scrubbing in a single direction to prevent creating streaks on the surface of the cookware.
•Remove fingerprints with a small amount of glass cleaner. The shiny surface of stainless steel cookware shows every greasy fingerprint left by anyone who handles it. To remove unsightly marks, pour a small amount of glass cleaner on a soft rag and rub it on the fingerprints. The glass cleaner is strong enough to dissolve the grease so before using any chemicals, make sure that you protect your hands by wearing rubber gloves. You can also use household ammonia as a substitute for the cleaner. Rinse the entire cookware with lukewarm water then dry it completely using a clean towel.
•Remove calcium residue with white vinegar. If the water from your faucet contains a lot of calcium, you might encounter problems with chalky buildup on the stainless steel cookware. You can easily remove this by rubbing vinegar and baking soda paste on the stained area. For stubborn white residue, fill the cookware with water and add a few cups of white vinegar. Bring the solution to a boil then allow it to cool. Remove the vinegar smell by washing the pot or pan with dishwashing detergent. Rinse the cookware thoroughly before towel-drying.
For a shine that makes the cookware look like it is still brand new, apply a thin coat of commercial stainless steel cleaner. Polishes and cleaners specifically made for this metal can be bought from any hardware store. Check the bottle or packaging for directions on how to use the product. Make sure to test the product on an inconspicuous section of the cookware first before applying it on the entire item to see if it will react adversely. Wash the cookware after polishing and dry completely with a soft towel or rag.
What are the Advantages of Stainless Steel Cookware?
Stainless steel cookware is the most popular cookware choice of today’s consumer. It is durable, economical, easy to care for, and useful in a variety of different cooking applications. Stainless steel also has a shiny appearance that many consumers find aesthetically pleasing.
Stainless steel is an alloy composed of two to three metals; steel, chromium and in some instances, nickel. The chromium in the alloy prevents or reduces the formation of rust in stainless steel. Higher quality stainless steel has nickel as part of the alloy along with chromium. Nickel works with chromium to increase stainless steel’s resistance to corrosion and rusting.
Stainless steel is a favorite of many cooks because it is a non-reactive metal. This means that it can be used to cook foods with heavy alkaline or acidic content without the stainless steel reacting to and changing the taste and appearance of the food. The non-reactive nature also means that stainless steel will not corrode or pit when it comes into contact with acidic or alkaline foods. In comparison, cookware made with aluminum and cast iron that is not coated nor anodized does react with acidic or alkaline foods.
Stainless steel cookware is also extremely durable. It resists dents, scratches, and is strong. The durability also makes stainless steel cookware easy to clean and maintain. There are no special cleaning requirements for stainless steel cookware as there are for non-stick and copper cookware. Therefore most stainless steel items can be cleaned with regular dishwashing soap and water.
Another reason many cooks choose cookware made of stainless steel is due to its effectiveness in browning and searing meats. Searing helps meat to retain its internal moisture, making it juicy and tender. Browning helps to caramelize the meat, bringing out the flavor and color of the internal sugars in the meat.
Browning and searing food in stainless steel cookware also creates bits of food stuck to and residual oils left in the bottom of the pan known as “fond.” Cooks pour a liquid such as wine or a broth into the pan which loosens the fond from the pan. This is known as deglazing. Deglazing is the foundation of many classical sauces and gravies, and the fond is a key element of the flavor and richness of these sauces.
One thing the consumer should keep in mind when considering stainless steel cookware is that stainless steel, for all of its advantages, is a poor conductor of heat. Because conduction of heat is a critical element of cookware performance, stainless steel cookware is usually made with a copper or aluminum core and/or bottom plate. Copper and aluminum are very efficient conductors of heat and provide much more even distribution of heat than stainless steel alone would. The consumer is encouraged to consider and purchase only stainless steel cookware that is made with copper or aluminum.
วันอังคารที่ 26 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2554
How to choose Stainless steel flatware and cookware?
14/1, 21/0, 18/0, 18/8, 18/10, 301, 302, 304, and 316 are used to fabricate flatware and cookware. Different grades determine level of shine and prevention against corrosion.
Type 18 is old classification of stainless steel. American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI) developed 300 series designation, now used for all steel products. It gives a tighter control over the quality of stainless steel being used. Type 304 is the most common grade (the classic 18/8) used in fabricating cookware and flatware. Type 316 is the second most popular grade, the classic 18/10. Type 316 is better than 18/10 against corrosion.
Type 440 is used to make cutlery knives
Role of Carbon
Carbon is needed in iron to make iron into steel. Carbon up to 0.65% makes steel harden-able. Durability can be increased by adding up to 1.5% Carbon. Beyond 1.5%, the Carbon reduces the toughness and makes it brittle,
Role of Chromium
Chromium increases hardness penetration, toughness, and wear resistance. The most important effect on steel is to resist staining and corrosion. When the steel contains 10.5% or more Chromium, the surface reacts to the oxygen in the air forming Chromium oxide. Chromium oxide prevents the 'staining' (rusting) of the iron alloy, leading to the name stainless steel. If you scratch the surface, the oxygen in the air forms new chromium oxide surface. Higher the amount of Chromium, thicker is the protective surface and coated quicker by Chromium oxide after it has been scratched and exposed to air.
Role of Nickel
The stainless steel may corrode due to acids and salts. Nickel is added to prevent the corrosion and pitting. It hardens the steel, and adds whiteness to render polishing (shiny) characteristics. Higher the amount of Nickel, harder and shinier is the stainless steel, as well as the price.
Grades of Stainless steel Flatware and Cookware
- Economy grade Kitchenware in India is made with low carbon 14/1 (Chromium: 14%, Nickel: 1%) stainless steel
- Economy grade 21/0 is used to make economy flatware. It is comparable to classic 18/0. Neither 21/0, nor 18/0 has any Nickel.
- There are three classic standard grades of stainless steel sold in United States:
18/0: Chromium: 18%, No Nickel.
18/8: Chromium: 18%, Nickel: 8%. This is the most common stainless steel used worldwide
18/10: Chromium: 18%, Nickel: 10%. This is the most common 'high quality' grade
- The 300 series is modern standard with a slightly tighter margins. Type 304 is the most common stainless steel used in the world similar to classic 18/8 stainless steel. Therefore, other stainless steel are compared against Type 304
Type 304: Carbon: 0.08% max, Chromium:18% to 20% , Nickel: 8% to 10.5%
304 is the most common stainless steel produced, similar to classic 18/8 stainless steel. It is durable, resists most of the chemicals and withstands ordinary corrosion. Slightly magnetic.
304L is low carbon (0.03% max) version of 304 stainless steel.
Type 316: Carbon: 0.08% max, Chromium: 16% to 18%, Nickel: 0% to 14%, Molybdenum: 2% to 3%
Molybdenum gives greater resistance to various forms of deterioration caused by Chlorides such as seawater over 304. This is non-magnetic. This is the second most commonly used stainless steel similar to 18/10 with the addition of Molybdenum.
316L is the low carbon (0.03% max) version of 316. 316L is commonly used in commercial food processing equipment.
302: Carbon: 0.15% max, Chromium: 17% to19% , Nickel: 8% to 10%
This is same as 304 for corrosion resistance. It has higher strength than 304 due to additional carbon
301: Carbon: 0.15% max, Chromium: 16% to 18%, Nickel: 6% to 8%
Type 440 Cutlery Knife steel
This is used to fabricate cutlery knives such as chef's knife or paring knife, daggers (Chhuri,or Kirpan), and swords. It contains 12% to 14% Chromium sufficient enough to make it corrosion resistant. Corrosion resistance is achieved when it is hardened and surface ground and polished. It has better corrosion resistance, and tougher than 304. Higher amount of carbon provides better edge retention when properly heat-treated. 440A has the lowest amount of carbon, 440 B average amount of carbon, and 440 C is high carbon. Low carbon stainless steel knives (440A) are hard to sharpen at home, however they are most strain-resistant. High carbon stainless steel (440C) knives are the strongest and can be sharpened at home.
More expensive high carbon knives may contain Molybdenum (for increased corrosion resistance), and Vanadium for increased hardness.
Is one grade heavier than the other grade?
Chromium Nickel and Iron are basically same weight density. The weight for the same geometry is same for all the grades of the Stainless steel. Physically larger pieces are heavier than the smaller pieces. Choose flatware or cookware that feels heavier.
All 18/10 stainless steel is not same
Unfortunately, the federal laws permit labeling of stainless steel as 18/10, as long as the Nickel is at least 8.3%. Comparing it with 18/8, there is not much of a difference. You have to really compare the two products side by side and compare. Type 304 and Type 316 have better Nickel content. Stick with brand names
Stainless Steel Flatware
14/1, 21/0,18/0, 18/8, 18/10, 301, 302, 304,316, 316L are all acceptable.
Economy flatware is fabricated from 18/0, 21/0, and 14/1 stainless steel. New flatware is polished and shiny. After a while, the polish wears off and the flatware starts to look dull. The flatware is magnetic, makes it useful at restaurants that use magnetic rings to automatically pick flatware up from the trays when they are being emptied in to garbage.
Good quality flatware is fabricated from 18/8, 301, 302, and 304 stainless steel. It maintains its looks for a few years. These flatware is slightly magnetic.
Better quality flatware is fabricated from 18/10, 316, or 316L stainless steel. It is harder and shinier than Type 304, and maintains its eye appeal longest. This flatware is not magnetic. A very slight magnetism may be present depending on the manufacturing process.
Bowls and Storage Containers
You can use 14/1, 18/0, 21/0 for storing dry stuff such as Atta and sugar. You can also store milk or Dahi in the refrigerator.
Salt and acids corrode and pit low Nickel ware. Use 18/8, 18/10, 304, or 316 to store curries.
316L is suited for marinating (due to vinegar salt and lime juice) meats.
316, and 316 L are good to store Indian pickles for their high salt and acid content.
Cookware
Stainless steel is a poor conductor of heat. To remedy, this a layer of aluminum is sandwiched in between two layers of stainless steel to form the bottom. Normally, this cookware is called heavy bottom. Sometimes the external surface may be clad with copper.
Salt and acid (tomatoes, tamarind, Amchoor, lime juice) will corrode and pit stainless steel. 18/10, 316, and 316 L are the only good stainless steel to fabricate cookware for curries.
Always use 18/10, or 316 Heavy bottom stainless steel Pressure cookers, frying and sauté pans.
Commercial food processing equipment is generally made of Type 316L.
18/8 cookware is acceptable where no acids and salts are used, examples: boil milk, make Khoya (reduce milk), make Kheer (Rice pudding), make Gajar Halwa.
Stainless Steel Care
-Do not store or use stainless steel kitchenware along with regular steel (No Chromium) or cast iron kitchenware. Doing so will results in surface-rust to develop on stainless steel kitchenware.
- Use stainless steel pads or wool to scrub stainless steel pots
- Use wooden utensils with cast iron pots and pans.
How To Handle Stainless Steel Cookware
Stainless steel is really the champion when it comes to durability in high quality cookware. A good stainless steel pot can last you a lifetime.
There are still some things you want to do to maintain your stainless steel cookware perfectly spotless and shiny – because even thought it is very durable the beauty of stainless steel will need some care (specially if it’s polished stainless steel cookware). If you want your cookware to just cook great – then you don’t even have to think about these things. But if you want it to also look great then watch out for a couple of things. And since you are into high quality cookware you probably care about the looks too.
When you first get your high quality stainless steel cookware out of the box, wash it in hot soapy water. Just use a normal sponge or dishcloth. (Nylon scrubbing pads are ok too.) Then rinse it in hot water and dry it thoroughly. I don’t recommend using steel wool, steel scouring pads, harsh detergents, oven cleaners or cleaners with clorine bleach. This is the only thing where it’s more than just a cosmetic issue: if you use extreme cleaning methods the surface of the stainless steel cookware might get scratched and then foods will more likely stick to it because these scratches provide places where the food can stick to.
If you feel hot soapy water is not enough use a fine powder cleanser. Sometimes people ask me “Can I wash stainless steel cookware in the dishwasher?” And my answer is just: Yes!
One of the most common problems with stainless steel cookware beauty are water spots. The simplest way to not have to deal with water spotting is to just rinse your cookware thoroughly after washing and dry it right away (either with a dry towel or cloth or by heating it up on a hot stove for a couple of minutes so that the water evaporates).
Sometimes with stainless steel you might experience that food sticks to your cookware. If you find this is excessive then it might just be that you are using too high heat. Or the pot might not be really clean. Also if your stove is not level that might be another cause of sticking foods.
If you use too high heat your stainless steel cookware can get brown or blue stains. Also if there is still some food left in the pan and it’s not cleaned before the next reheating that can cause discolorations.
You should always preheat the pan before you put foods inside.
Salt can get really aggressive too. Salt can create small white spots on your stainless steel cookware. That is why you should always bring liquids to boil before you add salt – this way salt will be totally harmless to your stainless steel cookware. The point just is to not have the salt grains come in contact with your hot cookware – but if it is dissolved in boiling water or cooking food that is fine. The small white spots or pits that are created by salt damage are purely “cosmetic” problems – they don’t dimish the cooking performance of your stainless steel cookware at all. They just don’t look beautiful.
You also shouldn’t leave foods for long time in stainless steel. Some people cook and then leave the food in the pot or pan for a couple of days in the fridge. Specially if it’s acidic or salty food, I would recommend to refrain from storing foods in stainless steel.
Again – all these tips are really for the meticulous. Stainless steel cookware can be a breeze to take care of, but if you spend hundreds of dollars on a stainless steel pan or pot you might want that piece of high quality cookware to have the “look of perfection”.
If you have any questions about stainless steel cookware just write a comment on this post and I will get back to you as soon as possible.
Stainless steel cookware – An introduction
There are many types of materials used for cookware like clay, ceramics, and aluminum, among others. Today, one of the more popular material used for cookware is the stainless steel.
Stainless steel and the kitchen
Because of its modern look and style, stainless steel has become a popular material used for designing the kitchen and also for making stainless steel cookware such as pans, pots, and casseroles. Aside from its aesthetic value, stainless steel also gives great functionality to the kitchen. Most kitchens found in restaurants or hotels use stainless steel equipment because they are easy to maintain, durable, and can withstand the harsh temperatures and conditions in the kitchen.
Stainless steel is an alloy that has a higher resistance to corrosion and rust as compared to other metals. Stainless steel gets its “stainless” characteristic from the chromium that is added to regular steel. The chromium adds a fine film on the metal that makes it less reactive to air and water.
Why get stainless steel cookware?
Stainless steel cookware is a great cookware option for chefs because of its high resistance to heat and water. It can take temperatures of up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit or 260 degrees Celsius and it is the best material to use when cooking on gas stoves. Stainless steel cookware has an edge against other cookware materials because it does not rust or corrode easily. It is the best material for cooking acidic food because you will not have to worry about the acid reacting to the pan. Furthermore, stainless steel cookware does not dent or scratch easily, making sure that your pots and pans will last a very long time.
The drawback
The problem with stainless steel cookware is that it is a poor heat conductor. Since stainless steel has a high resistance to heat, you can expect these pots and pans to take longer to heat up compared to other materials. To solve this problem, cookware manufacturers are now combining stainless steel with other compounds such as aluminum or copper so that it will conduct heat faster without compromising its durability.
Stainless cookware today
One of the most annoying jobs in the kitchen is cleaning fried eggs that got stuck on the pan. People usually encounter this problem with stainless steel cookware. Today, scientists have discovered a way to remedy this by adding a nonstick coat on the surface of the pans. There are now a lot of manufacturers that make these nonstick-coated stainless steel cookware. It may cost a few more dollars than the regular ones but the convenience it gives you is priceless. Cooks and chefs continue to debate on which one is better. They argue that uncoated cookware gives better results than the nonstick variety.
Prices
You can buy various stainless steel pots, casseroles, and pans from the nearest retail store or online. Most of the time, stainless steel cookware is sold in sets and can cost around $100. Of course, you can also buy the cookware separately. A regular stainless steel frying pan or sauce pan can cost around $15 dollars for both nonstick and uncoated varieties.
วันจันทร์ที่ 25 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2554
Stainless Steel Products
You will never find a good craftsman who uses second-rate tools. Similarly, a good cook cannot work well with thin pans and blunt knives. Apart from the functional necessity of good-quality equipment, the aesthetic pleasure that the best cookware brings to the process of food preparation is also very important.
Most of the best kitchen tools have been tried, tested and refined in kitchens over the last century and it has been agreed by many that stainless steel products are by far the best. Stainless steel is very durable and will not corrode.
Hence, stainless steel products are ideal for heavy-duty kitchen use since they are resistant to chips, cracks, dents and water stains. Although grease will accumulate over time, the smooth mirror-like finish that's inherent to stainless steel products allows them to be easily cleaned, even without the use of abrasives.
There is a certain affinity between good food and natural materials and simple shapes.
This is not to say that a little decoration does not contribute charm and style, but it should always be a gentle embellishment, and never confuse or dominate the purpose of the utensil.
Stainless steel products have that quality built into their sleek and shiny designs.
Always insist on good-quality stainless steel products.
It will be a pleasure to use and help you prepare food efficiently and well, which will go a long way into making you a good cook.
Start with a few basic essentials and collect extra pieces as and when you need them. This will spread the cost of all your stainless steel products. At the same time, you will be less likely to fall into the danger of buying things on a whim and end up never using them.
With the range of stainless steel products available to make our kitchen endeavors a breeze, there is no longer any reason why anyone cannot be a great cook!
Stainless Steel Meat Thermometers
KitchenAid Cook's Series Stainless Steel Meat Thermometer
Stainless steel meat thermometer features a dial that clearly shows temperatures from 140 to 180 degrees. A guide to temperatures for various meats and poultry is printed on the dial for convenient reference.
Accuracy-tested precision dial
Stainless steel construction
Hand wash only
Use a Meat Thermometer
...And Take the Guesswork Out of Cooking
Why Use A Meat Thermometer?
Click to Buy This Thermometer
Have you ever cut into a roast or a turkey in the oven to see if it has finished cooking? It's an inconvenience, especially if you have to do it several times.
Use a meat thermometer! It takes the guesswork out of cooking.
A meat thermometer can help you:
■Prevent food borne illness;
■Prevent overcooking; and
■Hold foods at a safe temperature.
If you don't regularly use a meat thermometer, you should get into the habit of using one. A meat thermometer can be used for all foods, not just meat. It measures the internal temperature of your cooked meat and poultry, or any casseroles, to assure that a safe temperature has been reached and that harmful bacteria like certain strains of Salmonella and E. Coli O157:H7 have been destroyed.
A meat thermometer should not be a "sometime thing." Use it every time you prepare foods like poultry, roasts, ham, casseroles, meat loaves and egg dishes.
Which Type of Meat Thermometer Should You Buy?
These are several types of meat thermometers available at grocer, hardware or kitchen supply stores. They include:
■Regular, oven-proof types go into the food at the beginning of the cooking time and can be read easily. Some, like the Polder brand, have a long probe that inserts into the food while it cooks, yet the digital read-out sits outside the oven—hence, no need to open the oven door to check the food.
■Instant-read and digital types which are not intended to go into the food while it cooks; they give you a quick reading when inserted into the hot food for just a few seconds.
■Pop-up types, commonly found in poultry, but may be purchased for other types of meats.
■Microwave-safe types are especially designed for use only in microwave ovens.
Tip: Make sure the thermometer you buy is designed for meat and poultry. There are other types of thermometers, for example, candy thermometers. Read the package label carefully to make sure you are buying the type designed for use with meats.
When buying a meat thermometer, look for an easy to read dial, made with stainless steel and a shatter-proof clear lens. Meat thermometers that can be calibrated for accuracy and digital thermometers are also available.
Buy a Thermometer
How Accurate Are Meat Thermometers?
Click to Buy This Thermometer
Most meat thermometers are accurate to within plus or minus 1-2 degrees F.
Tip: "Pop-up" thermometers are said to be reliable to within 1-2 degrees F if accurately placed in the product—but we also suggest that the temperature be checked with a conventional thermometer in several places.
The accuracy of the meat thermometer can be verified and the thermometer "calibrated" if necessary. Some thermometers have "test" marks on them at 212 degrees F, the boiling point of water at sea level. To test the thermometer, insert at least 2 inches of the stem into boiling water. It should read 212 degrees F. Some thermometers, especially the "instant-read" type, have a recalibration or adjustment nut under the dial. Turn the nut if necessary to adjust.
Note: Water boils at a lower temperature at higher altitudes, for example 202 degrees F at 5,000 feet.
Where To Place The Meat Thermometer?
Poultry
Insert the meat thermometer into the inner thigh area near the breast of the chicken or turkey but not touching the bone.
If stuffed, stuffing temperature must reach 165 degrees F. Do this near and at the end of the stand time.
Beef, Pork, Lamb, Veal, Ham, Roasts, Steaks or Chops
The thermometer should be inserted into the center of the thickest part, away from bone, fat and gristle.
Ground Meat & Poultry
The thermometer should also be placed in the thickest area of ground meat or poultry dishes like meatloaf. The thermometer may be inserted sideways in thin items such as patties.
Casseroles and Egg dishes
The thermometer should be inserted into the thickest portion.
When To Insert A Meat Thermometer
When should the thermometer be inserted—at the beginning of the cooking time or at the end? When you insert the thermometer will be determined by the type: oven-proof or instant-read. The important thing is to use a meat thermometer, no matter how the food is prepared-roasted, broiled, fried.
An oven-proof thermometer may be inserted into the food at the beginning of the cooking time and remain there throughout cooking. The temperature indicator will rise slowly as the food cooks.
Instant-read thermometers are not designed to stay in the food during cooking. If you are using an instant-read thermometer, pull the meat or poultry out of the oven far enough to insert the stem about 2 inches into the thickest part of the food but not touching bone; the temperature should register in about 15 seconds.
Other Safety Tips
Reheating Foods: Reheat thoroughly to a temperature of 165 degrees F or until hot and steaming. Soup and gravies should be brought to a rolling boil.
Serving Foods: When holding or serving a buffet, hot cooked foods must be held at 140 degrees F or higher. Cold foods should be held at 40 degrees F or lower.
Clean Up: After each use, wash the stem section of the meat thermometer thoroughly in hot, soapy water.
Minimum Internal Cooking Temperatures
Now comes the part that is most important—the minimum internal temperatures that foods must reach to be considered safe to eat, no matter how you prepare them.
Fresh ground beef, veal, lamb, pork 160 degrees F
Beef, veal, lamb-roasts, steaks, chops
Medium rare 145 degrees F
Medium 160 degrees F
Well done 170 degrees F
Fresh pork-roasts, steaks, chops
Medium 160 degrees F
Well done 170 degrees F
Ham
Cook before eating 160 degrees F
Fully cooked, to reheat 140 degrees F
Poultry
Ground Chicken, Turkey 165 degrees F
Whole Chicken, Turkey 165 degrees F
Breasts, roasts 165 degrees F
Thighs and wings Cook until juices run clear.
Stuffing (cooked alone or in bird) 165 degrees F
Egg dishes, casseroles 160 degrees F
Leftovers 165 degrees F
Information courtesy the U. S Department of Agriculture Food Safety and Inspection Service
Home of the finest quality stainless steel cookware you can buy!
If you're looking for professional quality stainless steel cookware and bakeware look no further. SFY offers you the very finest stainless steel cookware, silverware and bakeware you will ever use. Top quality stainless steel cookware allows even heat distribution that helps prevent burning and allows food to cook more completely as well as cook faster. Many of our pieces include steam control valves which allow for waterless cooking, a healthier way to cook that also requires less heat. This also allows stack cooking which allows you to start your main course, your vegetables, etc., then when the steam control valve lets you know its time you simply stack the units on top of each other to finish cooking.
Our line of kitchen equipment also includes bakeware, steak knives, carving knives, silverware, silver and silver plated serving utensils, kitchen gadgets, food preparation aids, electric skillets and pressure cookers. Once you're done cooking your great meal you can serve it on one of our silver serving dishes. In addition to fine silverware, we also offer silver service sets, and silverplated and goldplated flatware for your entertaining needs. And if you need to decorate your living room for that after dinner chat, we can help there too, from mantle clocks to grandfather clocks.
So have fun! Cook on the very best stainless steel cookware your hard earned money can buy, and discover how easy cooking is supposed to be. And be sure to check out our other neat stuff while your at it!
วันอาทิตย์ที่ 24 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2554
Should I Buy Stainless Steel Cookware?
There are many different choices for individuals looking for the perfect cookware for their kitchen. One of the most popular choices for the average consumer is stainless steel cookware. It is easily one of the most widely recognized and well known types of cookware, and is a favorite of many individual cooks. But is it the best choice for you? What makes this cookware so great? It is worth the price? These are questions that this article will help to answer so you can make an informed decision.
First off, what exactly is stainless steel cookware? Stainless steel is an alloy, or a combination of metals, that mixes basic iron with chromium, nickel, and some other minor metals. The chromium is what provides rust protection and an extra degree of durability. Nickel also provides extra rust protection, and adds the "highly polished" look that is often attributed to this cookware. The bottom of pans often have copper or aluminum added to increase the pan's ability to conduct heat, since one of the disadvantages of the pans are that they are poor heat conductors. Another important factor to consider is that there are high grade levels of cookware, and then there are lower quality levels of cookware. My advice is if you decide to buy this type of cookware, don't skimp: the high quality is a huge difference over the lesser varieties.
There are several advantages to using this type of cookware. For one, it is extremely durable and can last years and years. It is also extremely hard, its non porous meaning you won't have to worry about cracks, leaks, or spatters. It also has a smooth surface that is dent and scratch resistant, is usually easy to clean, and it is actually easy to keep that brand new look.
There are some disadvantages to it as well. For one, it is a poor heat conductor, which is why the pans have to be coated with copper and aluminum to help cooking. This means that if speedy cooking is a big deal with you, then you should look at other cookware. Good stainless steel cookware also has a relatively high cost, which is always an issue in shopping for anything. While it is extremely easy to clean, the outside tends to discolor with very high heat, and extensive exposure to salt water can also damage the pans by causing pitting. While the heat discoloration can be cleaned off to an extent, if appearance is always an issue, then this cookware may or may not be worth the purchase depending on the amount of work you're willing to put into upkeep.
For many people, it is a great addition to the kitchen. For others, cast iron may be a better choice. Always look at the pros versus the cons, and decide which on each side are more important. Since there is a trace amount of nickel in the cookware, those with a rare allergy to nickel should NOT eat from it. Otherwise stainless steel cookware can be a great addition to any person's kitchen.
Stainless Steel Cookware Set Reviews
Stainless steel cookware set reviews are done on each and every particular pot and pan in the cookware set as well as on the complete collection together. The actual overall performance of each and every utensil is considered and debated among experienced testers. Considerations are made on just how evenly every utensil disperses temperatures on natural gas and electric ranges, the design of the individual cookware, the convenience of use, number and sizing of pots and pans, ease of cleaning along with the complete price of the set. Making use of a complex formula, a winner is chosen. The winners within the budget and luxury cookware ranges are detailed below.
Performing the best in the budget cookware class is a ten piece Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless Cookware. This collection includes 7 of essentially the most common size pots and pans and three tight fitting lids. Unique tapered rims prevent spills plus the well-designed stainless steel handles continue to be cool for convenient use. These are dishwasher safe for effortless cleaning and can be employed in broilers or ovens up to 550 F. The stainless steel encased aluminum foundation disburses heat evenly across the bottom of the pot providing an even cooking area.
In the luxury cookware group, All-Clad Stainless Cookware in a ten piece set took the honors. The big difference is in the inner design of the cookware with a heavy aluminum core sandwiched in between a stainless steel cooking surface area and a magnetic stainless steel bottom. The heavy-duty core stretches across the bottom and up the sides towards the rim, dispersing heat uniformly throughout the pan and its sides. This is in particular helpful on gas ranges where the gas flames caressed the external rim of the pan's base. Costing just about 5 times as much, gourmet cooks may well gain from this additional luxury of even heat to the pot's rim.
Buyers making use of stainless steel cookware set reviews to buy the very best must take into consideration their own cooking style. Buying a cookware set with the proper size pots is critical for easy usage. Most collections can be purchased with saucepans in 1-1/2 and 2 quart sizes. Saute pans and Dutch ovens vary significantly; saute pans within the 8 inch, 10 inch and 12 inch range are standard, with or without lids. Dutch ovens range from a 3 quart capacity to a 5 quart size.
The real benefit in stainless steel cookware is the accurate taste of food; this kind of cookware is nonporous and does not insert any kind of foreign materials during cooking. Expert chefs value this characteristic as they will be able to completely control the flavor. Health conscious men and women insist on this safety factor.
Utilizing stainless steel cookware set reviews to help make buying decisions is sensible. Professionals rate each and every collection and choose the ones providing the best value for the investment required.
Stainless Steel Cookware: Every Cook Should Own It!
Stainless Steel Cookware
Does every cook really need a quality set of stainless steel cookware? We’re all familiar with the idea of an investment, and that’s exactly what your cookware is: an investment. You will use a good set of stainless steel cookware for many years, and it will genuinely provide a culinary return on your investment. Let’s look at a few of the top reasons to invest in stainless steel cookware.
How do you know, though, whether you’re looking at a good set of stainless steel cookware? A good place to start is by finding out what the core of the cookware is. If you’ve ever had any problems with your cookware like hots pots, when your cookware’s surface heats unevenly, then odds are the problem was the core of your cookware.
A good set of stainless steel cookware will have an aluminum core, a copper core, or both. Both of these materials are great conductors and what this means for you is that your cookware is going to heat evenly, it’s going to respond faster when you adjust the temperature knob, and it’s just overall going to be more energy efficient on account of the core causing your stainless steel cookware to require less energy to heat. It’s really a good idea to invest in a set of stainless steel cookware with one of these cores, and, if you decide to go ahead and make this investment, you should also make sure that your new cookware has the core extending into the sides. It’s for the same reasons we’ve already discussed, providing this feature to more areas of the cookware provides even better results.
So now you know to look for cookware with a good core to make the actual cooking of the food a bit easier on you, but what about finding cookware that cooks well but is low maintenance? Well, that’s the beauty of this stainless steel cookware. You should be able to find a good set of cookware with a good core that has nice dishwasher safe handles. I don’t need to tell you how much simpler it makes things when you can just drop your cookware into the dishwasher and not have to worry about pulling it out with a broken or missing handle.
Finally, you really need to look at the composition of your stainless steel cookware. You’re going to want to look for some cookware that says it has an 18/10 composition. These numbers refer to how much of your cookware is chromium and how much is nickel. These elements are what make your steel “stainless”. This 18/10 composition is a good number. It means your cookware isn’t going to rust and it’s going to be very difficult to scratch.
There are a handful of manufacturers that produce cookware in an affordable price range that meet all of these criteria. You’ll definitely want to take a look at Cuisinart and KitchenAid. Both of these manufacturers produce a set of stainless steel cookware that meet all of the above requirements without a ridiculous price tag. Anyway, I hope you enjoy your new cookware; there’s no better way to improve your kitchen experience.
วันเสาร์ที่ 23 กรกฎาคม พ.ศ. 2554
Cleaning Stainless Steel Cookware
I own some very nice stainless steel cookware. As with cooking, if you really want to enjoy cooking to it's fullest, having nice cookware is essential. I personally try to invest in All-Clad cookware.
When I first started acquiring my cookware more then five years ago, I was experiencing difficulty trying to keep my shiny new stainless steel cookware clean. Over the past couple of years, I scoured the Internet for information for proper methods of cleaning stainless steel cookware. Everything I found was either "Don't use scouring pads" or "Use XYZ cleaner".
Then, I got yelled at by my girlfriend concerning dirtiness one of my stainless steel sautéing pans. (I used it only on camping trips for sautéing fresh caught trout over campfires. I considered at the time, the carbon buildup on the outside and inside, unclean able. I also considered carbon excellent for dietary needs if I cooked and ate anything bad. ;-) Well, she grabbed a green scouring pad and made most of the black carbon disappear. Now, after time of learning how to care for my cookware, the black residue is entirely gone. Depending on good of a cook a person is, this can be either a good or bad thing!
What Works for Me
Green Scouring Pad
This works best and only on the inside of the pans surface. Hey, if you're really going to cook, you're going to have some wear on the inside of the pan's surface anyways! Get over the bad feelings of scratching up the inside of the surface of your shiny new All-Clad stainless steel. Try using the green scouring pad only in circular directions, or go with the grain and reserving going only against the grain when you absolutely need to. I try never using a green pad on the outside as this will show on the mirrored polished surface. Using the green pad on the bottom of the pan is also usually OK. Since my stove has all electric burners, I'm glad my cookware remains quite clean on the outside. Adding 4+ tablespoons of baking soda and a couple drops of water greatly increases the scouring action of the green pad.
Vinegar
Vinegar is great for keeping the any stainless steel cookware shiny. Vinegar is also a great rinse agent.
Using Bar Keeper's Friend (or other XYZ Cleaner)
I've finally succumbed to using the powdered Bar Keeper's Friend. If you rinse the item well, you should be able to avoid any chemical residue tastes.
I'm usually reluctant using anything corrosive for cleaning my stainless steel cookware. The reasoning, these chemicals will seem to require several heavy vinegar rinse cycles, and then if I'm lucky, my cooking won't taste of any unusual cleaners. On a side note, the heavy cleaners seem to strip down the surface and will sometimes leave my cooked food with a metallic taste. Whether the metallic taste is due to residue of the cleaners, the stripped surface, or just me, who knows. If you must, I prefer the powdered version of Bar Keeper's Friend as it's a citric acid based cleaner with minimal chemical odor. My advice here, avoid them if you can.
Dish Washing Method
I prefer hand washing everything lightly using a natural soap and using an automatic dishwasher with a vinegar only rinse. The reasoning behind this, I've spent many years eating with dinnerware having automatic dishwasher detergent buildup. No matter how I tried, I would still have spots or other sticky residue.
Situations you might encounter
Brown Residues
Most times when cooking with oils such as Olive Oil and Safflower, the oil will turn to a brown sticky or solid residue at the bottom of the pan. Cooking with butter versus oil, butter is much easier cleaning at the cost of adding saturated fat. If this happens, especially with oils, you can add some water and boil until the residue lifts. Another method I'm just now starting to like, adding about 4+ tablespoons of baking soda with a couple drops of water and using the green scouring pad method noted above. The baking soda is very effective aiding the green scouring action.
Water Spots
Water spots on the outside shiny surface can be avoided by drying after it's been washed. Using vinegar, either straight or within your rinse cycle will also help.
Burned Food on the Inside
Avoid this as this costs time and effort to undo. But occasionally, this will happen. Fill the pan with water and boil until the material has lifted. (I was once advised to boil my cookware after adding automatic dishwasher detergent -- don't do this. Again, cleaners tend to be very corrosive and their vapors emitting during the boiling process are probably just as unfriendly.) You might have to go through several complete full water boil cycles while in between each boil cycle, scrap any loose material from the bottom of the pan. If it's really bad, after 3-5 cycles, there might still be a thin black cake layer at the bottom. After cooling the pan, use the green scouring pad method, aggressively if you must, in a circular patter. If needed, put the item through more water boiling cycles if you have time. I usually try to alternate between boiling water, lightly scraping with a spatula, and using a green scouring pad.
Burned Food on the Outside Shiny Surface
Tough luck here. This is one thing you should really avoid and you should never leave the kitchen to watch TV or surf the Internet while cooking! You can use baking soda along with a soft clothe and rub vigorously. But since it's the outside, probably using a favorite XYZ cleaner might be OK. But just ensure the item is put though several vinegar rinse cycles to ensure any cleaning residue accidentally acquired on the inside of the item is definitely rinsed completely. (If you think I'm being paranoid, just try omitting the rinse steps and making a 5+ gallons of "from scratch" Viennese Beef soup and finding it has a strong metallic taste to it!) If you have black carbon inside some grooves, submerging the item into boiling water will eventually loosen the black carbon.
My Eggs Keep Sticking!
Eggs sticking on a sauté pan commonly happens more so with olive oil then butter. You can easily find the scientific reasoning why the eggs (or any other item being cooked) sticks to a sauté pan on the Internet.
You can read further into this answer, or you can just do what I do now. I simply apply a pea size amount of butter in the hot sauté pan and simply wipe the excess out. I would imagine this would work fine if you're on a low fat or no dairy diet.
One solution is merrily ensuring your sauté pan is thoroughly heated. One might think, "Oh, I'll just turn the heat on high and within 2 minutes the sauté pan should be heated." No it's not thoroughly heated. The surface within the vicinity of the burner will be hot while the outer areas are much cooler. So when the food item is added, the sauté pan cannot uphold a constant temperature because the surrounding conductive surfaces are still not hot enough, even though the surfaces around the burner were preheated. As such, I will preheat my sauté pans at 20%. (Setting the dial one notch above your lowest setting. On my electric range, the dial has 1-10 settings, this is a setting of two.) I preheat for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This ensures the sauté pan is thoroughly heated and prepared for the temperature to drop when food items are added while not being to hot for olive oil. When the item is added and the outer areas preheated, the core will return more readily to the previous heated state because it has the help of the preheated outer areas. One more thing, I leave the eggs out on the counter during the preheating session so they warm slightly. And to thin them, I sometimes use a little hot water with taking caution not to scald them by using a whip.
Another problem more frequently encountered, we all like to overload our pans. Only sauté small amounts at a time will allow the to stay evenly heated and not drop significantly in temperature.
Final Thought
After cooking chicken, turkey or beef and finding burned stuff at the bottom of the pan, one has to ask themselves, "Wow! That's going to be tough cleaning!" or I'll bet that tastes good if I make a gravy out of it!". Making a double reduced gravy is probably the best thing. First deglaze with your favorite wine or water. As Alton Brown says, first deglaze with water then add the wine in later. Or, I'll sometimes forget and deglaze with wine without thinking and then dilute with water. Reduce. Strain. Remove excess grease while you have the solution in a container. Then put it back on the stove and reduce again. Preferably, rather then listen to my poor advice, search Google for a better double reduction grave recipe.
Cooking pots - Should I Buy Stainless Steel Cookware?
Every cook knows that having a good set of cookware is important. Cookware can influence the taste and appearance of food. It can also affect how well food cooks. Cookware can also make it easier or harder for you to make your favorite dishes.
There are many options in cooking pots. One of the most popular choices is Calphalon. Cookware has many advantages that make it a good choice. It also has some disadvantages that may turn away some cooks. Get to know a little more about all clad cookware so that when you shop for that next cooking pot, you can choose the right one.
What Is the Best Type of Cookware
Cast Iron can be alloy or a combination of different metals. Usually it is a mix of alloy, iron chromium and nickel. The different metals are what give stainless steel cookware its properties. Stainless steel does not often rust and is fairly durable, which are traits that come from the metal chromium. More rust protection and shine come from nickel. Copper and aluminum are usually used on the bottom of the pot to help with heat distribution.
There is a range of different cookware. Some is high quality and some is of lower quality. Usually, when it comes to stainless steel cookware it is better to choose high quality because it performs much better. Higher quality stainless steel cookware is usually made to minimize the disadvantages of stainless steel.
Best Pots Pans to Buy
Part of the reason why homes all over the world have stainless steel cooking pots is the advantages of stainless steel. As you will see, this metal combination has many positive attributes that make it nice for use in cookware.
Stainless steel is very durable. Most cookware will last for years, even through vigorous use. It has a smooth, hard, non porous surface which protects against cracking, scratches and other damage. It is also very easy to clean. The surface texture makes it easy to get all the grime off the pot. Being easy to clean helps the cookware keep its nice new look for years.
Disadvantages of Stainless Steel
On the flip side, stainless steel does have some thing that may make it not the perfect choice for cookware in your kitchen. However, in many cases, cookware is treated or altered to help minimize or completely get rid of the disadvantages. Still, they are worth mentioning.
Stainless steel is not good at conducting heat, so most cooking pots will have a coating of copper or aluminum on the bottom to assist with heat conduction. However, coating will still not help to heat up the pot as fast as some other types of metal, so if you need quick cooking then you may not want stainless steel. If you are concerned about getting a good quality pot then you better be ready to pay quite a bit since high quality stainless steel is costly. Stainless steel also has a tendency to discolor on the outside. It also can obtain damage if repeatedly exposed to salt water. Lastly, stainless steel almost always contains some amount of nickel, so it should not be used by anyone with a nickel allergy.
Overall, cooking pots is still one of the top selling cookware types. You have to weigh the advantages and disadvantages so that you can decide for yourself if stainless steel will work for your needs.
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