Review of Cuisinart 14-Piece Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized Cookware Set

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List Price: $299.99
Sale Price: $194.00
Today's Bonus: 35% Off

My wife kept complaining on how whichever cookware she buys none last for long and that the quality is not good. So I was put in charge on finding a good set that will do the trick so I kept on looking on Amazon.com for a set that is not over 200 dollars but is top notch and guess what? I nailed it! She is so happy with them its amazing. Finally finally I can go into the kitchen and talk to her without hearing about how bad the kitchenware is today's days.

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I love these pots and pans! I have used them several times since getting them and have not been disappointed at all! They cook even and clean up is a breeze! You can cook scrambled eggs or even omlets in them without having to worry about them sticking to the pans. It is an easy wipe out with a soft cloth to get the cooked eggs out. All of the pots and pans are very well made as well. My only complaint is that the handles on the lids do get hot when you frying stuff in the pans.

UPDATE9/15/2013I bought these pots on February 10, 2013. I was in love with them until I recently discovered my large frying pan started having problems with the nonstick liner coming off around the edges. I contacted Cuisinart and it took them THREE days just to respond to my email. I thought that since these are supposed to have a 1 year warranty on them, I would get it replaced with no problem. However, I received an email that basically in many not so nice words that if (mine were not!!) these pots were used on HIGH heat (cuisinart said I would have to PAY to have them inspected to determine defect, etc$7-$15 per item) that they would not be replaced. I was also informed that I would have to pay AGAIN to ship my pots and pans to them and also pay for return S&H. Whats the point of these having a warranty if you cannot use it? I have literally babied (soft dish rag, no metal utensils, no soaking in hot/warm water, immediately cleaned after use. etc.) my pots and pans in hopes that they would last a lifetime but I guess I was wrong!! I am NOT happy especially with how much I paid for this set and even more so that this was my first NEW set of pots and pans that I have ever received/bought in the 8 years of marriage!! I am so disappointed that these are starting to mess up after just 6 months of twice per week use!

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I own this cookware set for more than 6 months now and I am absolutely love it. It cooks food evenly with low medium heat and cleaning is so pleasant and I would definitely recommended this to a friend.

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Even though a bit too big for a normal household(you might not use the whole set), I believe it was an investment well made. The pans are stronga tad too heavy, perhaps. The heat spreads evenly, heats up quick,

The handle bars are very strong, with two bolts attached to the panmaking sure that the handle won't rotate in its own axis.

I love 'em.

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I did alot of research and there are so many combinations of cookware your head will swim! Anodized is far superior to mid grade hard enamel. I only wanted to buy one more set. I got delivery the next day and didn't have to pay special, they just did it, awesome! I love my new set!

Presto Pressure Canner Steam Gauge Review

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List Price: $19.99
Sale Price: $17.43
Today's Bonus: 13% Off

I was rehabing an older 21qt cooker and wanted to make sure I had a good working gauge. Worked and fit like a charm. Nice high quality piece.

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I ordered a guage replacement for my pressure cooker and it did not come with the nut to attach it to my canner. The nut for my old one does nto fit due to years of use and a different thread. I still can't use my canner!

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Too bad this company did not send a simple thing like a nut that would fit the threads on the gauge. Even better Presto could make all of their gauges universal so replacing it would be easy instead of frustrating. Who knows if I can find a nut to fit, but if not that means I have to make a trip, and could just as well have bought the gauge at a hardware store. Next time!

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I installed this on an old, 1930's National pressure canner, model 7..Had it tested at the Extension Office for correct pressure, to find it was 1/2 pound off...I can live with that...

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The pressure gauge was what came with this mid range canner...so it was what I expected. However I must admit I did expect it to arrive with the nut and washer to attach it to the lid. Had to send my husband out to the hardware store before I could start canning! Best to read the description of your purchase more carefully. I know I will be!

Review of La Paella Enameled Steel Paella Pan

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List Price: $11.20
Sale Price: $7.25
Today's Bonus: 35% Off

This is my second paella pan from La Paella. The first one I bought for a dinner party. It is quite large 24 inches in diameter and occupies all four burners on my stove. But what a hit it was! Now we serve paella fairly often for company. It's a great dish if your kitchen is open to the entertaining area because the making of the paella is part of the fun, and your guests will appreciate the dinner that much more. The paella was delicious, and the La Paella recipe that came with the pan was quite easy to follow (we made the seafood one). My large pan is a carbon steel pan, which works great just make sure you dry it well after washing so it doesn't rust. La Paella Carbon Steel Paella Pan, 24-Inch My new smaller pan (16") is enameled steel, which I like because there's no extra maintenance after washing and no risk of rusting. It's perfect for our family of four. La Paella Enameled Steel Paella Pan, 16-Inch

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I ordered this pan to try some paella recipes from allrecipes.com. I had doubts when the big box arrived but I followed the recipe and the instructions in the enclosed booklet and made a visually beautiful and wonderfully tasty dish. I, like another reviewer, made the seafood recipe. I had scallops, shrimp, clams and mussels ready (I haven't conquered squid yet). I used medium grain rice as booklet advised in its detailed instructions that included the tip that long grain rice does not absorb the flavors as well. The pan took up two burners on my electrical range but worked so well distributing the heat across the dish that I do not regret the addition of this pan to my crowded kitchen. The pan is attractive enough to hang on the wall.

Paella is a new favorite and easy choice to fix, especially when we entertain. The pan make the meal a conversation piece.

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We are delighted with our paella pan. We hosted several other couples to a memorable dinner and the paella we put together in our paella pan was a wonderful surprise to several of them. It brought back memories of the past for some and for those to whom this was a new experience, it introduced them to one of the delights of another culture. The presentation of the colorful, aromatic paella was greatly enhanced by the pan.

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I've been making paellas over a year now. I learned from a spanish friend. Paellas, valencia style, should be made with very hot fire (direct over fire) traditionally using wood, but I use my gas grill.

this means food and rice WILL stick to 99% of paella pans sold in amazon. with these enamel paellas, no matter what you do, nothing will stick.

so these are the real thing, what you would get if you order in a spanish restaurant.

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I bought 2 pans from this brand, a 12" for my family of 2 and 16" for entertaining friends. I have used the 12" pan and my first attempt at paella was a success, thanks also to the mini pamphlet included. It is also easy to clean and very low maintenance, no sweat in cleaning the socarrat. However the product could be improved a little more, the handles don't have protective rubber so don't accidentally touch it with your bare hands while hot!

Buy Lenox Simply Fine Chirp 4-Piece Dessert Plate Set

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List Price: $72.00
Sale Price: $41.90
Today's Bonus: 42% Off

I understand the Chirp Salad Plates they have a bird on them. But, these plates???? They should have a more detailed drawing to justify the price.

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I love me some Chirp China. Such a beautiful pattern/set and these plates only complete that beautiful set. As gorgeous and as true to color as the original place setting. They could be a teeny tiny bit bigger but are still large enough to do the dessert job. Love 'em!

Reviews of Casa Moda S'Mores Maker with Ceramic Round Tray

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The item is overall great, since I used to have one like that before. However, the metal top bends slightly during the very first use, which, of course, the instructions explain that it's a feature, not a defect ;-). Also, unfortunately the seller mailed the item without the forks what a disappointment!! So I have to use forks from my cheese fondue set which work just as fine. Other than that, I'm happy with the purchase.

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This is a great product that let's you have a little "summer" fun inside during the dead of winter.

Granite Ware 6704-4 Saucepan Set, 1-Quart and 2-Quart Reviews

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Hey, don't get me wrong, these are great pans but no covers! I guess in the modern world it's like that.

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Bought as a gift for my mother.

Half of the bottom of the 2 QT pot is rusted.

1QT Pot seems fine, doesn't matter since it is sold as a set.

Item will be returned to Amazon.

Even though Amazon has a great return policy and great customer service, I wish

there was some way they could prevent companies from selling junk.

Exremely disappointed, especially since it is a gift that must be returned.

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I just love my 2 pans! They are perfect to use when cooking on a sterno stove and others small stoves. The small one holds a can of soup easy and heats up fast. The 2qt pan works great when cooking for 2. Another reason I like them is because I have the full set of the Granite ware in blue and red. I even found them in brown on 'Lehmans'. Give them a try.

Honest reviews on Granite Ware 6704-4 Saucepan Set, 1-Quart and 2-Quart

I was very disappointed that I wasn't able to use these pots on my new ceramic top stove. I wish they would have put that information in the description. When I went to return them, Amazon gave me a credit and told me not to bother sending them back! What customer service! I'll be donating them so that someone can get some use out of these. I previously had a granite ware pot and loved it.

Cheap Circulon Infinite Hard Anodized Nonstick 6-Quart Covered Chef Pan

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List Price: $140.00
Sale Price: $79.95
Today's Bonus: 43% Off

This pan is a big improvement over the original Circulon pot I have with the deep circular grooves. This pan has shallow bumps on the pan bottom that are extremely easy to clean. This particular chefs pan is a great size for meals for 4. I love the high straight sides. The pan is heavy for me so I cannot easily lift it or toss ingredients using one hand. The heaviness is the biggest negative for me over the wok I had that this replaces. The reason for the weight is a layer of stainless steel on the bottom of the pan, which is very flat. The lid is also stainless steel and tight fitting. I cook over a budget electric range and the pan is reasonably even heating. I have not noticed the handle getting hot at all, but I have not used very high heat on this pan because it so far does not seem to need it. The non-stick performance has been great, and the pan cleans up very easily. I always hand wash and have not tried in the dishwasher. The pan with the handle seems a little big to fit efficiently in a dishwasher. I like this pan so much that I am going to buy more of the Circulon Infinite cookware.

UPDATE: I have had this pan over a year now and it continues to perform well. I only use wood or nylon utensils with the pan, never metal. The "non-stick" has held up very well, but I always wipe a small amount of oil onto the pan with a paper towel. Just enough to coat the bottom there should be no visible oil. Just a sheen. I have moved to a gas burner, and the pan still cooks very evenly. The bottom is still dead flat. This pan gets used at least 3 times a week for everything from braising, frying, sauteing, and stir frying. I still highly recommend this pan.

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I have a 10 piece set of Infinite Circulon, but this extra pan is the most useful of all. You can brown meat right in the pan, add liquids and veggies (it is 6 quart size), and put it all right into the oven. It heats evenly with a Stainless Steel bottom, and never sticks on top of the stove or in the oven (safe up to 500 degrees). Clean up takes just minutes, or these pans can even go into the dishwasher.

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Yes, this chef's pan works so perfectly on an induction cooktop. For those wanting to know, yes, the base will comfortably fit within your induction cooktop's 12-inch maximum diameter requirement, if you have one.

After more than five months of cooking with thisCirculon Infinite Circulon 6-Quart Covered Chef Pan with Helper Handle wonderful piece of cookware, I must agree wholeheartedly with others here. It is terrific!

First, I was thrilled to be able to use it on the induction cooktop I had purchased earlier. Still amazed at how very fast this combination of tools will produce tasty, quality results.

As others have attested, cut way down on any oils or fats you use. Am still cutting down. I like extra virgin olive oil for flavor in my cooking. I probably only need 1/2 teaspoon or less now. You cannot believe how you don't need any oils at all for browning in this pan.

Yes, it's an "everything pan". Perfect size for family stovetop casseroles, super for hearty soups and stews, and more. I haven't used it in the oven yet, but would feel confident about its performance there.

This pan heats more evenly than any I have owned. It is a fine, handsome, solid piece of construction. It does have weight, but it feels good and has a thoughtfully sculptured elongated handle, plus a helper handle to make lifting the pan nearly effortless for most members of the family.

Those handles do stay cool on top of the stove. The lid is a nice weight, as well. It provides a tight fit and is made of quality stainless steel, like the handles. Haven't had to use a potholder on the lid yet, either.

Best money I have spent on any piece of cookware. Cleanup involves a swish or two with hot, soapy water and rinse. Though you can put this in the dishwasher, why waste all that hot water and energy?

Highly recommend.

Honest reviews on Circulon Infinite Hard Anodized Nonstick 6-Quart Covered Chef Pan

I'm trying to replace my 12 inch covered saute pan. Every one I get warps and doesn't sit flat on my glass-top stove. My current pan has developed a crack in the Teflon and is starting to stick, so it's got to go. The reviews of this pan lead me to give it a try, and I'm glad I did.

The stats are just plain off on this listing. "6 x 16 x 5 inches; 11 pounds; 9 lb shipping weight" ?! Apparently its some sort of chimney tube that gets lighter when you ship it!

The reality is: the pan is about 11 inches (28cm) in diameter, plus a little bit for the flare at the top. The box label calls it a 6qt/5.5L/28cm pan. It's just over 4 inches deep. The long handle adds 9 inches of length, and the helper handle another 2-1/2 or so. The steel/aluminum disk on the bottom is dead flat, 1/4 inch thick and 9 inches in diameter. There is no way a stove is going to warp it. It is heavy at over 4-1/2 lbs for the pan plus about 1-1/2 lbs for the lid. The box says it was made in Thailand.

Circulon includes a "Lifetime Customer Satisfaction Guarantee" and suggests you visit their website or call their customer relations number 800-326-3933 if you have any problems. The use and care instructions warn against leaving an empty pan over too high heat, which can burn the nonstick coating and release toxic fumes (a known issue common to all non-stick cookware; never cook over 500F with non-stick surfaces!) It doesn't otherwise say not to use oils in the pan, just not to overheat them. Keep in mind that most cooking oils will smoke above 375-400F, so you have an easy way to tell when its getting too hot.

I'll have to use it before I can speak to the longevity. There are plenty of good reviews for that here anyway. I expect to be pleased enough to look for the 10-piece set and replace all of my old, mismatched cookware in the near future.

May 2011 update 8 months and I still love the pan. I did get the 10-piece set as a Christmas gift. Have not managed to damage the non-stick on any of them. They can be washed in the dish washer without harm. Always come out clean as new. Great pan, and a great set.

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I got this pan when I got my Circulon Infinite Induction Cooker. The conductivity of the aluminum with the induction capability of the stainless disk make a great cook pan! I deep fry, stir fry, saute before braising, braise, boil for pasta, etc., etc., etc! Clean up is a snap! It quickly became my favorite cook pan because I don't have the "hot spot" problem with it that I have with some other pans using and induction burner. I use primarily All-Clad, but I now intend to buy other Circulon Infinite cookware. And guess what, I used to hate Circulon cookware!

Best Fox Run 10-Inch Metal Potato Ricer Deals

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List Price: $16.99
Sale Price: $14.27
Today's Bonus: 16% Off

This is not a bad ricer but the fact that it comes with 2 different bottome plates is a nuisance. The plates can flip up while you are ricing and larger chunks slip though. My old ricer, some 40 years old, is so much better as the ricer bucket is in one pice -unless you really need two different size holes in the bottom of the bucket, DON't BUY THIS RICER. Find one which is all in one piece.

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I like that this potato ricer has interchangeable discs with different sized holes. It seems reasonably well made, but is a little hard on the hands. One of my favorite uses for it is in making banana bread. I don't like chunks of banana, so this really helped smooth out the texture. Not only would I buy this again, but have already done so, once for my mom and once because I misplaced the discs.

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I didn't buy this to rice potatoes, in fact I don't even eat potatoes, but I love making "potato" pancakes using shredded zucchini instead of potatoes. I read somewhere you can use a potato ricer to squeeze the liquid out. I bought this for that purpose. When I first got it, it worked great and I gave it 5 stars. But after a couple months, I have discovered that buying it was a waste. The handle is weak and bends after a short time and then you can't use it anymore. I have used this thing less than 10 times and it is already bent beyond usability. Now I need to find a better heavy duty one. Spend more and get a better quality item.

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For both the casual and the serious cook, the 10-inch Fox Run metal ricer does what it is intended to do and can easily handle large or small kitchen ricing jobs. Changing the ricer heads is simple and the unit is easy to operate and to hand wash/clean after use which is how I recommend users clean the item. I would be hesitant to wash the unit in a dishwasher since dishwasher powders tend to be harsh and they will probably etch or otherwise tarnish the metal. The company shipped the item quickly.

Linda

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Terrible quality! I can not believe why others gave 5 stars. We got 2 because we looked the the good rating. But when items come, it is terrible built. We can not even press the handle because of bad quality and design. Now, we need to pay for the postage and send them back. Waisting time and money for this!

Discount Frieling USA Sitram Profiserie Saucepans

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List Price: $54.00
Sale Price: $38.28
Today's Bonus: 29% Off

If you'll be displaying your lovingly polished saucepans on a rack above your head, get the All-Clad Stainless 3-Quart Saucepan or Bourgeat Sauce Pan w/ Cast Iron Handle 7.1" & Lid and be happy. For the rest of us whose kitchens aren't showcases, the Sitram Profiserie is the pan to have. It has served as my primary saucepan for seven years of daily cooking with absolute success. Its thick aluminum base gives excellent heat distribution, but since the sides are un-clad, the weight is much more reasonable than the two alternatives mentioned above. The lid (sold separately) is also lightweight ("cheap," if you will) but exceedingly well-designed, with a small vent and slight conical shape to direct condensate back onto the food.

Since it is certified to 1000 degrees F and designed for induction cooking, I have boiled it dry on multiple occasions and the bottom is as flat as the day I bought it. When that happens, I am also grateful for the stainless steel interior, which can be cleaned with sandpaper should the situation warrant (I recommend 120 grit to start, followed by a smoothing pass with 600, all wet-dry, of course). The hollow handle allows you to pick it up no matter how hot the bottom of the pan is, and the expertly curled lip pours without a single drip. The performance of this pan is such that I don't use a double boiler to make custard in it!

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We're replacing our cooktop with an induction model, which means replacing a lot of pots and saucepans.

The stuff you get from Target and Walmart is very flimsy, and if you cook at all, you know you've got to continually buy new non-stick cookware. (Even the new ceramic-coated ones kiddos....that garbage is no better than the Teflon it's supposed to be such an improvement on. It chips VERY quickly. Same story, different batch of crooks.)

Anyway, the stainless steel eliminates the frequent fryer program, if you can find a good, well made brand.

This Sitram Profiserie line fits the bill.

It ain't pretty. The handles are spot welded on the pan, which I consider a minimum requirement (as opposed to having those great honking rivets running through the pan that catch all the food and are a hassle to clean), but they are attached with very small welds, and the welds sometimes show inside the pan. They look like they wouldn't hold a full pot of water, but I filled it to the brim and had no trouble with the handle breaking from the weight, so it's all good.

The bottom of the pots are heavier than the sides, making the pot itself stable at high heat....it shouldn't warp. (And I did boil it for several minutes at highest heat to test it out.) The sides are thinner, reducing the weight of the pan. Also good. (You fill a Le Creuset with water and it takes two people to lift the pot, and I rarely have a sous-chef on hand.) The handles are hollow and stay cool enough to handle without burning yourself at high heat.

The bottom is un-shiny and ridged/rough. Like I said, not pretty. And the lid is just thin solid metal demi-cone. (I like to check the progress without lifting the lid sometimes, so I prefer glass tops. Just personal preference.)

But these are going to be the work horses of the new collection. They are a bit more expensive than Bed Bath and Beyond stuff, but less expensive than Sur La Table offerings, and they look like they will last a good long time. They work great with Induction.

If they were attractive as well, they'd get five stars, but for the purpose, they don't have to be attractive too. So 4½ stars for these and I will be buying more.

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I read about this company's pan many years ago in "The New York Times". The author raved about its durability and how easy it was to clean. It holds heat evenly, too. All of these claims have been substantiated by me. I have made many puddings in it without burning any of it on the inside bottom of the pan. I use this pan at least twice per day and bought another one, also. My first pan is about 2 years old and going strong. It far surpasses my other Revere and Farberware pans.

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This is a handy little saucepan. Very versatile. Lightweight with a large diameter handle. I especially like the curved lip that makes pouring very easy. Love this pan.

Addendum to previous review: I have used this pan weekly since purchase. It has recently begun to collect water in the hollow handle. Just a warning for future users. Drain pan upright before storing in cabinet or you will ruin your cabinet bottom. It has otherwise been a fantastic pan.

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I recently bought this pot and love it. Heavy bottom, handle stays cool, cooks evenly and cleans beautifully in the dishwasher. Happy to find a reasonably-priced pot made in France, not China.

Best Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 3-1/2-Quart Round Braiser Deals

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List Price: $305.00
Sale Price: $239.95
Today's Bonus: 21% Off

I decided to try my first Le Creuset around 6 months ago because I had heard such great things about the cookware: lasts so long you pass it down, great results, easy to clean and take care of for cast iron.

They were all true and then some. I started with the almost 11.75 inch skillet. It worked fantastic. It is fairly non-stick to start with and then it just gets better. I know some people season their Le Creuset. Following the instruction booklet, I don't. I then got a dutch oven for whole chickens, pot roasts, stews, soups, and that has been fantastic.

To round out my collection I was looking for a casserole. Now you can get 'bakers' and casseroles from Le Creuset that are not cast iron. I specifically wanted cast iron because of my previous great experiences. I was pleased to find this and the cover was a big plus. I bought the previous version of this item with the plastic knob that only go to 350. If you get one of these at a sale and you are not sure I would replace it with the stainless steel knob that goes to 500 plus degrees.

I would recommend this over the skillet for a few reasons. It has deeper sides and holds a greater volume. A regular meal at our house has become roasting bone in chicken breasts with potatoes, carrots, and other vegetables. The extra depth and sloped sides holds more and holds liquid in. The cover adds more versatility.

Using this is fantastic. Super easy to clean. If anything is sticking just soak in warm water for 10 minutes and it falls right out. If really tough a little soap will work. Distributes heat so evenly I never burn anything. Inherently a 'green pan', you will never have to worry about additives or coatings or chemicals. These are pricey. But our food has never tasted better. Can pots and pans make food taste better? Yes. We just get more flavor cooking in these. As an added last bonus the lid fits well on our skillet. I never thought I'd be a 'cast-iron' guy but I hadn't used these. I will be trying more braising and will probably try fried chicken soon. I am sure it will be fantastic. This is a skillet plus and can fry, bake, braise, or probably any cooking method you can think of. Pricey but worth it and it will last a lifetime or more.

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I absolutely adore this cookware. My friend told me how often she uses this multi-purpose brasier, so I bought one. It's so beautiful that I leave it out on my cooktop. I use it several times a week. It's perfect for sautéing and one pot meals. After my disastrous relationship with All-Clad, I am enjoying using a quality piece from a company that you can count on.

You can sear, then use the seasoned brasier to cook other vegetables and it cleans up quick and easily.

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Below is my original one star review. After speaking with amazon and explaining that I had received this cookware damaged three times they gave me a 40% discount as a credit. In the end I feel the problem is Le Creuset packaging specifically of their braised. Dutch ovens packaging includes pieces of cardboard that prevents the upside down lid from being scratched by the pot rim. I appreciate amazons willingness to find solution that I was pleased with. So, in the end its kind of like getting my much wanted pieces of cookware as a second but in the special order color I wanted. What are the chances of that!

I highly recommend not ordering Le Creuset from Amazon. I've sent the same piece back more than a few times because of damage. It appears that plastic tabs that should protect the tops from the bottoms are often missing in shipping. This causes the enamel side of the lids to scratch against the top of the pan or pot section. Some areas of the Le Ceuset are not fully enameled. Amazon are you selling seconds or has Le Creuset's craftsmanship gone down hill? Regardless there is no excuse for the plastic protective tabs to be missing. I'm very disappointed especially considering these are very expensive pieces expected to last more than a life time. I love you Amazon but please do better insuring that your partners check merchandise. Dear Le Creuset, please provide better protective packaging for you beautiful cookware and step up your quality checks in manufacturing!!!! Some of us poor saps work really hard to save our nickels and dimes to buy your classic cookware.

Honest reviews on Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 3-1/2-Quart Round Braiser

UPDATE 8/29/13 I am giving an update because of the few negative reviews posted stating that they had trouble cleaning Le Creuset. Last night I made a Potato/Kohlrabi Gratin which really turned out excellent in spite of my mishap. I don't know what I was thinking, but I filled the liquid/cheese mixture up too high in my 3.5 Qt. Braiser which caused an overflow in the oven. I started the gratin out with the lid on so that the potatoes and kohlrabi would steam in the liquid so when it bubbled over not only was the sides and bottom of the braiser a mess, but so was my lid. I took the lid off so that the dish could continue to cook and brown, however, that made the overflow on the outside of the braiser also brown and stick more to my pan. Since I was browning at 415 you can imagine the browning on the outside of the braiser. My pan had quite a crust on it inside and out and especially on the rim. I let it soak for about 15 minutes in hot water with Dawn and then starting the cleaning. For what the pan looked like I really did not have that much trouble cleaning off all of what was stuck on it. I used Dawn and a Doobie scrub pad and before I knew it my pan was like new. Maybe I worked on it for about 5 minutes or so...on and off. Many pans would require allot more elbow grease for such a job and much more time. This overflow took the most time to clean up of any of my cleanups on LeCreuset enameled cast iron cookware. Also, yesterday, I roasted a major batch of our fresh picked tomatoes in my 5 qt braiser where again I had a good amount of browning (no overflow) which I want. Again, I am roasting at about 425 for a good hour + and my cleanup for that was minutes. I soaked the pan for a few minutes in hot water and Dawn. I suds up and rinsed several times and the pan was like brand new. I don't know what could be easier. The Le Creuset line of enameled cast iron cookware is just a gem. It is not delicate or difficult to clean. Anyone who likes to cook should consider at least trying one piece and then go from there. I warn you that more than likely you will want more and they are pricey, but well worth it!

FIRST REVIEW: I purchased the 3 1/2 quart LeCreuset braiser in December, 2009. I have had the 2 1/4 quart for many years and love it. Since purchasing the 3 1/2 qt I am using it constantly and don't even put it away, but leave it on the stovetop. I've done eggs over, omelets, roasted vegetables, baked pasta dishes, caramelized onions and allot more and the pan is wonderful. As far as roasting veggies in the pan you won't get a better flavor to the vegetables. Even after caramelizing onions over a flame for quite a while the pan required barely any effort to clean. There is a previous review stating that LeCreuset is delicate which is ridiculous. This line is far from delicate and the truth is that the line is a workhorse. If you have sticking you are cooking at too high a temperature. Should you have sticking just soak in hot water with a little Dawn and the pan should wash right up. The style of the braiser is invaluable and I can't imagine anyone not using this pan constantly. I have at least a dozen pieces of LeCreuset and the line is wonderful. If you can spring for the money give it a try. If you are able to purchase LeCreuset and All Clad you won't be disappointed. Check out the new All Clad d5 line which right now is only sold at Williams Sonoma.

1/11/13 Updating my earlier review. Basically...I am reviewing all 3 of the LeCreuset Braisers (a/k/a buffet casserole). At the risk of sounding uppity, I would say all that know me would regard me as a extremely good cook. I have all 3 sizes of the LeCreuset braiser with my latest being the 5 quart which is great. These braisers are invaluable. Yes..the 31/2 & 5 qt carry a little weight, but afterall...they are cast iron. I cannot understand some reviewers of LeCreuset calling these products "delicate" & "hard to clean" as it makes no sense. There is nothing delicate about LeCreuset. Although I mention that I have all 3 of the braisers, I have many other pieces that I constantly use for all kinds of things. These products are work horses in the kitchen and clean up beautifully. I don't care what gets stuck to them...a little soaking with some Dawn dish detergent and you barely have to wipe. If you have heavy duty browning stuck to this cookware you may need to give a slight rubbing, but nothing of any consequence. As an example...yesterday afternoon...1/10/13...I roasted allot...and I mean allot...if sliced up beets in my 5 quart braiser to which I add many other ingredients to the beet mix. I roasted at 410 for about two hours...because I had so much....with the lid on until the end when I then do the last 20 minutes with the lid off. Yes...there was significant browning on the bottom and sides of the braiser which one would have looked at and thought that it would be time consuming task to get all of this off. Truly...after removing the beets I soaked the braiser in hot water with Dawn detergent for maybe 5 minutes at the most and then with the rough side of my sponge I was easily able to lift all that had stuck and my braiser looked like brand new again. I would suggest not to listen to the reivewers who give LeCreuset negative comments and at least give one piece a try and a good piece to try is one of the braisers. I would start with the 3 1/2 quart or if you like to roast high quantities of food go for the 5 qt. Also, the dutch ovens are fabulous. Remember, there are people who nothing can please them....nothing....so I would not pay much attention to the negative LeCreuset reviews. Chefs all over the world use LeCreuset and Chefs are not investing in very expensive equipment that is delicate and is a problem to clean.

Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 3-1/2-Quart Round Braiser

I absolutely love this pan. It cooks evenly, is a great size for the oven as well as the stove top and I will be cooking with it often. But my favorite thing is the color. My entire house is in purples and it matches my kitchen perfectly.

Reviews of Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 5-Quart Oval French Oven

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List Price: $350.00
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Since the early 1920's Le Creuset has been doing it right. Making some of the worlds finest and most versatile cookware. For most anyone who loves to cook owning a Le Creuset enamel pot should be an essential.

These pots retain an even heat like no other and regardless of what you're preparing the results are exceptional. There's an old adage which I find to be true and that's the food you prepare is only as good as the ingredients you use and cookware used to prepare it. Along side of quality knives or at the very least one high quality chef knife a Le Creuset pot will reward you over and over again with a lifetime of durable and always impressive performance.

Known for their outstanding results with braising and searing a Le Creuset pot is perfect for stewing, steaming and saute.

They easily go from cook top to oven for finishing and to table top for serving. Unlike other enamel coated cookware these pots with proper care won't chip, crack or burn. Recently I left this very pot on the stove at far to high a temperature burning the bottom terribly. I thought it was ruined. But an overnight soak in soapy water and the burned on "cement" came off without a hitch.

Personally I prefer the oval shape. It's perfect for oblong roasts, whole chickens, Duck and so on. I may have finally discovered the secret to my Mothers exquisite pot roast which I've been trying to re create for decades it was in part anyway due to the pot!

The brown meats and veggies wonderfully and hold an awful lot of food which all cooks evenly.

Le Creuset come beautifully packaged with instructions for proper care a recipe booklet and a booklet of techniques.

As for the cherry color, it's deep and rich with wonderful dark shadows, it reminds me of an enormous ripe Bing cherry. It's a gorgeous pot that will help you serve up equally gorgeous food, time and time again.

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I have owned this French oven for a couple of years and it still is one of my favorite pieces of cookware. I have cooked stews, Sunday gravy, jambalaya, and my wife has even made rice crispy treats on occasion in this pot. I have used it on gas and electric without any problems. It takes a little bit more time to heat up but it much easier to clean than a normal pot. The only con is the weight for some folks, but other than that the quality of this piece is outstanding.

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I have eyed up Le Creuset for ages but have always been hesitant to buy, because I was unsure if I would get my money's worth out of it. Oh how wrong I was about not getting enough use out it! I purchased the 5 quart oval, in cherry red, on a whim at an outlet. It's now my favorite piece of kitchen cookware. I have used this oval oven to bake bread, sear meat, make stew and soups, bake meat, make mac and cheese, and bake au gratin potatoes. It is just so darn versatile!

My favorite use is currently baking bread, since I have discovered no-knead bread is perfect for this piece. I was slightly concerned because no knead bread bakes at a very high temperature, higher than the recommended temp for the knob on the lid, but I called customer service and they said many people bake it at high temps with no issues, and also that I could purchase a stainless steel knob for high temperature baking, which I have done (getting it on the lid is a breeze.) If you want to keep the regular knob, I did not have any issues with it cracking at a 500 degree temperature. I just bought the stainless steel knob because I am paranoid.

One issue I had (which was totally my fault) is that I put olive oil in the pan at a higher temperature than I should have, as olive oil has a low smoke point. I turned my back for a few moments too long and ended up with a stain in the bottom of my pot. However, after reading online some fixes I boiled baking soda and water in the french oven, let cool, then scrubbed the stain with a baking soda/water paste with a magic eraser and it looks like brand new!

Honest reviews on Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 5-Quart Oval French Oven

This beautiful roasting pan arrived shattered. When I returned it, unfortunately, I had to select an alternative color that does not match my collection. With regard to the quality of Le Creuset, the collection is unsurpassable.

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I've upgrading a number fo cooking tools over the years but never would have believed how much better it is to cook with this if I had not experienced it first hand. Food cooks more quickly at lower heat levels and seem to actually taste better/flavors are somehow more "locked in". I have never tried the lower end of this brand or knock offs so I cannot compare but will definitely stick with this.

Buy Shun Pro Yanagiba Knife

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List Price: $225.00
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This is the second Shun pro yanagi that I bought. I bought my first one back in 2006 and that one, by far, is the best knife I have ever owned. All of the new design changes made them flaws in my opinion. As a kitchen professional, I value practicality over aesthetics everytime. The new laser etched pattern makes the knife more time consuming to keep clean. The new handle is shaped more like the japanese ones now, which is very slim and better suited for people with very small hands. I have average size hands, but I find that the original handle (much bigger in diameter) is more comfortable for me to use. The one thing that thankfully kershaw did not change is the blade shape and that is the only reason why I gave it three stars. The blade shape makes it very easy to glide through whatever I am cutting with ease and also the VG-10 steel along with its perfectly shaped one sided blade make it very easy to keep it sharp as well. I also got a wood saya for free by mail back in 2006 and now, no saya, that sucks!! Everyone that tried my original knife loved it, but sadly, I can't recommed this knife anymore because the new design makes it so different that those same people dislike the new one as well.

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This knife is perfect for slicing and preparing raw fish. I use it all the time when I make sushi (about once a week, sometimes more.) It does an excellent job and all the cuts are clean and do not tear the fish. The size is also great in my opinion, it is not too large or too small. The beauty of the knife goes without saying, it is wonderfully made and looks good in any setup. I fully recommend it if you are looking for a knife for sushi or any raw fish preparation.

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This is a great knife for slicing my home-made gravlax.

Sharp, well balanced, with good length for making clean-cut, thin slices.

Honest reviews on Shun Pro Yanagiba Knife

We have a couple of these types knives. Artistically they are a beautiful work of art but I don't purchase for the beauty alone. They work! These knives are sharp and stay sharp. While I haven't had a lot of time to really learn how to work with this one it is very good for soft vegetables and protein--meat, fish. It will slice the vegetables and fish as thin as you can make them. Ergonomically it is perfect for my hands. It is a fairly heavy knife, well balanced and very easy to use.

The price was very competitive and it shipped quickly. I am very happy and will purchase more of these knives--when I can afford them.

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This Knife is the perfect slicing Knife. It does everything I need it to do and more. This was a great addition to all my other shuns.

Reviews of Magefesa Bohemia-Priminute Stainless Steel 7-Piece Cookware set

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I know this set was only $40, but I was really hoping for a little better quality. I took one pot out and said nope so, I am returning the set.

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False advertising. This would do just fine for some people, but not for what I wanted it to do

We want something that will work we'll on an induction tabletop

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I just bought it 3 weeks ago. However, I really satisfy with the cookware set. It has a great quality. It is also easy to clean. I suggest you buy it.