Showing posts with label cia cookware. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cia cookware. Show all posts

Saturday, December 27, 2014

Reviews of Magefesa Provence Blue Gloss Enamel On Steel 7 Inch, 9 Inch & 11

Magefesa Provence Blue Gloss Enamel On Steel 7 Inch, 9 Inch & 11 Inch Fry Pan Set
Customer Ratings: 5 stars
List Price: $69.99
Sale Price: $58.04
Today's Bonus: 17% Off
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Orderd these to replace some aluminum based non-stick ones that were wearing out. I've converted all my fry and sauce pans to stainless steel they wear better and you don't have to worry about the aluminum leaching into your food while you cook. So far they work very well no sign of non-stick coating loss, and the heat transfer is excellent. They also have a nice sturdy feel to them. They are an excellent buy for the price highly recommended.

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Wednesday, December 10, 2014

Cheap Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d'Expert 1350-Watt Electric Skillet

Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d'Expert 1350-Watt Electric Skillet
Customer Ratings: 4.5 stars
List Price: $191.00
Sale Price: $144.22
Today's Bonus: 24% Off
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I had the older version of this skillet. It was half the price but only came with one pan. I loved it. The nonstick coating was virtually indestructible. I used metal utensils in it all the time and never got so much as a scratch. Well, I became so confident in the strength of the coating that I used a steak knife to cut a steak in half while it was in the pan to see if it was done. It wasn't knife proof. I guess I could have just ordered a replacement pan from Zojirushi, but I decided to buy this EP-RAC50 instead. It's better than the old one was. It's a little bigger, a little nicer looking. But I really like having the two pans. I can brown meat for spaghetti in the grill pan, and then boil noodles in the other. I don't even use the stove top anymore. You don't have to worry about pans being centered on the burner or sitting flat. Plus you have much more precise control over the temperature. It heats very evenly and the thermostat seems to be very accurate. I also like the fact that the nonstick coating is NOT Teflon, which is carcinogenic. And it's much more durable than Teflon. I don't need to use oil or butter because nothing sticks. Not even eggs. It wipes clean with a dry paper towel! Another nice thing is that you can remove the pan from the base so there's less chance of burning your food when it's done cooking unlike with some cheaper skillets where the pan and heating element are one unit. If this skillet breaks, I'll buy another one. It's worth every penny.

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Gets hot quick.

Keeps the heat it is set for.

Looks good.

Very easy to clean.

Steaming food works great.

Cooks to perfection (so far).

Glass top makes it "fun" to use and see the cooking process.

A 2lb. meatloaf made in this pan was the best I've eaten and I didn't have to use the oven.

Next up is: Roast chicken and baking.

Wish:

1. That the pans were perfectly flat. The pans slope slightly to the outer edges and more oil is needed to compensate for the depth of the oil at the center. So trying to cook with less oil is difficult because the oil gathers toward the edges.

2. Hope they can make a Wok like pan insert that can be purchased as an option.

3. That the cover be tight fitting with the vent in the cover.

Other than that the product is the best electric skillet I've used.

I would recommend it to anyone.

How does it hold up after 6 months of use Feb. 2010 thru July 2010:

1. I only use wood and plastic utensils but the Pans scratch very easy and $77 plus to replace just one pan.

2. The manufacturer won't stand behind the pans unless you send it back to them for evaluation.

3. Even though the pans scratch, they clean-up without scrubbing. Very easy....

3. Contacting the factory rude.

4. Pans are not flat is still my biggest issue.

Still, the Zojirushi is the best and most versatile electric fry pan I've used.

I use it at least 4 to 5 times a week and I would but it again.

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I wish I had this in my apartment living days! I got this as a present for a hotpot party from my husband.We were expecting 12 people over and I'd been using my cusinart fondue pot (which has worked when it's 4 to 6 of us). I have another electric skillet but it's old, cheap and not reliable. Hubby got this and (1) sticker shock, holy crap! (2) wow it's big! it's really big. I had thought about returning it b/c of the cost. I'm glad I didn't.

We used this as our non-spicy hot pot. Poured some seasoning, broth and water, bam ready in a matter of minutes. It boiled the broth. I was surprised. So this is great for a decent size group of people. It didn't burn my food it kept the broth at a stable temperature. The meats/foods were cold (refrigerated/frozen) but we didn't notice any drastic temperature changes. Even heating for all uses (steaming, boiling, pan frying)

It's also a pretty looking machine, very easy to use, very easy to clean! Non-stick for real and just a wet soapy sponge, and everything comes off. The nonstick coating is still working even after all the abuse of metal utensils, chopsticks, spatulas, whatever.

SAFE! If you happen to knock/trip on the power cord it'll pop off magnetized so you don't have to worry about the whole pot going with it. The handles on the pot stays cool even if the pot is boiling.

UPDATE:

I've steamed a whole fish (4lbs)!! I used the steamer rack with some ginger and scallions, let the water heat up, put the fish in, 10 minutes later, the softest, silkiest tender fish ever. It looks big at first but it's perfect even for 2 people

Steamed tofu with ginger/scallions same as above, also delish.

Soups easy peasy, used the large pot, browned the meat, threw in the veggies, then stock done!

Green Chile browned my meat and caramelized onions, threw in all the other ingredients and seasoning let this sucker simmer for a day...meat is so tender and flavorful, the chile was a hit.

Use the shorter pan to brown potstickers

Temperature settings are great! I haven't used my crockpot since we've gotten this it actually COOKS the food not just keeps it warm.

ENDLESS POSSIBILITIES

Honest reviews on Zojirushi EP-RAC50 Gourmet d'Expert 1350-Watt Electric Skillet

I bought this pan in March, and now that I have had it for almost a year I feel I can honestly say, 'It does everything as advertised'!

It can get REALLY HOT, or simply keep the meal warm.

No more 'hot spots' is one of my favorites! The pans heat evenly.

I love having two pans. I have used it for everything from soup to stir fry.

It has earned the title of 'Super Pan' in our house!

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I needed a new electric skillet, and didn't want to go another round with the uneven heating and flaking nonstick coating I've come to expect with the "disposable" $30 skillets from the usual sources. So I decided to drop some $$$ and get one that would be a real piece of cookware instead.

The Zojirushi arrived, and I was first surprised at how really large it is. I have normal kitchen cabinets, and I wasn't sure I could even find a place for to put it. But I figured that's a small price to pay for quality, and moved on to the instruction manual.

This electric skillet is a workhorse that will do far more than I expected from just a skillet. And there are instructions for all of it. But then I came to the "Care and maintenance" section.

It turns out that, the main pot must be hand washed--no dishwasher. Call me lazy, but that's a dealbreaker for me. It also requires a rubdown with vegetable oil to prevent rust, and rust is a dealbreaker even without calling me lazy. Finally, storage instructions were very clear that things had to be stacked in a particular order to avoid bending this or warping that.

To sum it up, I returned the skillet. It looks like it's really versatile and appeared to be extremely high quality and worth the $150 purchase price if you're comfortable with the service you must provide in return.

I recommend a visit to the website where you can download the instruction manual before purchasing.

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Oneida Gourmet Pro Hard Anodized Saute Pan Review

Oneida Gourmet Pro Hard Anodized Saute Pan, 8-Inch
Customer Ratings: 4.5 stars
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I purchased this pan because I already owned the 8 inch pan and loved it. So easy to clean and you don't need to use a lot of oil or butter to saute because nothing sticks to this pan. It is also not very heavy so it is easy to handle and the cushioned handle makes it a pleasure to use. I cook a all the time and this pan is a must have in my collection of cookware.

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After going through many teflon coated pans (my kids NEVER would take proper care of them, throwing them in the sink with forks and knives on top, storing them with other pots in them), I broke down and tried this one.

WOW! Very non-stick, and very durable!

I saw some reviews that said it was not very non-stick. My works great! I cook eggs every day, without any problems whatsoever. I would recommend a light "curing" (heat with some oil in it) before your first use.

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I purchased this pan and kept it for about a month, having used it two times. The first time (I used it both times for a fried egg) if carefully placed on a gas burner, was okay. The nonstick surface worked well. The second time I used it the handle being so much heavier than the pan tipped over when the pan is not exactly centered on the gas burner. I actually find it hard to believe that this pan was ever actually used in a kitchen before being manufactured. It is totally off-balanced. The handle is much too heavy for the light weight pan. Or as my husband concluded, the pan is much too light for the handle! In any event, I did return it to BB&Y. And I might addno questions asked.

Honest reviews on Oneida Gourmet Pro Hard Anodized Saute Pan

I cook a lot, and I'm happy with the pan (weight, handle, cost).

Only con is the base of the pan is a touch smaller than it should be, resulting, on my stove top, the pan sitting at an angle if not positioned 'just so.'

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This pan is indeed very useful, especially when you cook small portions for kids.

Non stick and easy to clean.

Can be used in the oven up to 400F degrees.

But (the reason for 3 and not 5 stars) it is hand wash only...

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Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Nordic Ware Microwave Omelet Pan 63600 Cookware Microwave Review

Nordic Ware Microwave Omelet Pan 63600 Cookware Microwave
Customer Ratings: 4.5 stars
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I wanted this for something that cooks eggs quickly and is easy to clean. I can happily report it is both. Clean up is a breeze! For the 3 or 4 dollars, why not buy it?

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Works well but must flip it over after 1 min or one side done before the other side and omelet will be dry on one side and runny on other side. Never used one before so just learning. Bad thing about product there are no instructions on how to use; just have to experiement.

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I ordered and received 2 Omelet Pans. I am satisfied with using the product. However, 1 had a crack at 1 of the hinges. The root cause appears to be design/manufacturing/assembly problem due to interference at that area. I was unable to get a replacement due to out of stock by the supplier.

Honest reviews on Nordic Ware Microwave Omelet Pan 63600 Cookware Microwave

I bought this item as a single serving rewarming tray, for half-sandwiches, servings of casserole, etc., rather than for it's intended purpose. I have made an omelet in it and it works just fine. I like it.

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This product works great with whole eggs, however, I only use egg whites due to a yolk allergy so it doesn't work very good. It's kind of a mess.

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Saturday, November 29, 2014

Best Lodge Pre-Seasoned Skillet, Black Deals

Lodge L10SK3 Pre-Seasoned Skillet, 12-Inch
Customer Ratings: 5 stars
List Price: $27.50
Sale Price: $24.27
Today's Bonus: 12% Off
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I own several Lodge cast iron products and use them everyday. I have 3 teeneage boys that enjoy cooking, and after they destroyed a few teflon coated pans, I decided I would go heavy into cast iron. These pans are indestructible. You can use them in the oven or stovetop, and if you keep it seasoned properly food will not stick. Also, to avoid sticking problems, you may want to remember to allow the pan to get hot before applying oil or food.

As to seasoning, the Logic line now comes preseasoned. But don't make a big deal about this. To season a cast iron skillet simply coat it lightly with oil and bake it for a half hour or so. I have also seasoned these skillets on the stovetop. Cast iron is also great because it does not easily scrap like stainless steel and aluminum pots. Aluminum pans are painful to me, as my teeth fillings react to the aluminum. With cast iron, you won't have this problem. I also take my Lodge pan camping and set it right over the coals to cook. No melted handles or scorched bottoms to mess with.

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Let me start by saying we have a kitchen full of 20+ pieces of Calphalon Hard Annodized Commercial cookware. I was always of the opinion that quality cookware carried a price that was justified by the performace of the cookware. So I thought if I wanted cast iron I should look at LeCreuset... wrong! Lodge blew that theory out the window! I can't express how well this simple pan works. Let it get hot and it will hold the temp like nothing else, oven to cooktop. I finally decided to get a good cast iron skillet after hearing Alton Brown (Host of Good Eats ...TV Food Network ...) rave about cast iron for the last few years. He steared me to Lodge, Lodge's web site (lodgemgf.com) told me about the pre-seasoned "Logic" line. This stuff makes cast iron simple. No messing around with seasoning a new pan. Simple care instructions. And clear instructions to reseason should the need occur. At the price these pans sell, there is no excuse to not have one, (or more) in your kitchen. It will soon become your favorite pan. I bought a 5 quart Lodge Logic Dutch Oven at the same time and it is fantastic as well!

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Sorry for the long review for the short review, count the stars!

I'm a bit of a purist. I always season my cast iron new, or used (hey, I don't know WHAT someone else used that old piece of cast iron for maybe cleaning auto parts). I sand it down to bare metal, starting with about an 80 grit and finishing with 200.

Then I season. The end result is a glossy black mirror that puts Teflon to shame. There are two mistakes people make when seasoning not hot enough, not long enough. These mistakes give the same result a sticky brown coating that is definitely not non-stick, and the first time they bring any real heat to the pan, clouds of smoke that they neither expected or wanted. I see several complaints here that are completely due to not knowing this.

But there were a few pieces I needed (yes, needed, cast iron isn't about want, it's a need), and this was one of them, so I thought I'd give the Lodge pre-seasoning a try. Ordered last Friday, received this Friday free shipping, yay!

The first thing I noticed was the bumpy coating. The inside is actually rougher than the outside, and my hand was itching for the sandpaper, but that would have defeated the experiment. This time, I was going to give the Lodge pre-seasoning a chance before I broke out the sandpaper. So I scrubbed the pan out with a plastic brush and a little soapy water, rinsed well, put it on a medium burner, and waited. Cast iron tip number one give it a little time. Then give it a little more time. Cast iron conducts heat much more slowly than aluminum, so you have to have a little patience.

Then I threw in a pat of butter, and brought out the natural enemy of badly seasoned cast iron the egg. And, sure enough, it stuck but not badly, just in the middle. A bit of spatula work and I actually got a passable over-medium egg. Hmmm. But still not good enough. So I cleaned up the pan, and broke out the lard.

I have only one justification for using lard. I don't remember Grandma using refined hand-pressed organic flax oil, or purified extra-virgin olive oil made by real virgins. Nope, it was pretty much animal fat in her iron. A scoop of bacon grease from the mason jar beside the stove and she was ready to cook anything. Grandaddy wouldn't eat a piece of meat that had less than a half-inch of fat around it. "Tastes like a dry old shoe.", he'd declare if it was too lean. In the end, I'm sure their diet killed them, but they ate well in the meantime. Grandaddy was cut down at the tender age of 96, and Grandma lasted till 98. Eat what you want folks in the end, it's pretty much up to your genetics.

So I warmed up my new pieces, and smeared a very thin layer of lard all over them use your fingers. Towels, especially paper towels, will shed lint, and lint in your seasoning coat doesn't help things at all. Besides, it's kinda fun.

Here's cast iron tip number two season at the highest temp you think you'll ever cook at or higher. If you don't, you won't get the full non-stick thing, and the first time you bring it up to that temp you'll get clouds of smoke from the unfinished seasoning. I put my pieces in a cold oven, and set the temp for an hour at 500 degrees (F, not C). Yeah, I know, Lodge says 350. Lodge doesn't want panicked support calls from people whose house is full of smoke. Crank the heat up.

You have two choices here. You can put a fan in the kitchen window and blow smoke out of your house like the battleship Bismarck under attack by the Royal Navy, or invest in an oxygen mask. You will get smoke. You will get lots of smoke, especially if you're doing several pieces at once, like I just did. This is a good thing that's smoke that won't be jumping out to surprise you the first time you try to cook with any real heat. The goal is to heat until you don't get smoke, and in my experience, 500 degrees for an hour does that pretty well.

Let the pieces cool in the closed oven. Then re-grease and repeat. And repeat again. And don't glop the fat on. Just enough to coat. More thin layers are better than fewer gloppy layers. I managed four layers last night without my neighbors calling the fire department.

Seems like a lot of work? Look at it this way. It's a lifetime commitment. Treat your iron well, and it will love you right back like you've never been loved before. And this is pretty much a one-time deal, unless you do something silly.

The end result of my all-night smoking up the kitchen exercise? Dry, absolutely no stickiness, black as a coal mine at midnight and shiny but still bumpy could it possibly work with that rough surface?

I put the skillet back on a medium burner, put a pat of butter on and tossed in a couple of eggs. After the whites had set a little, I nudged them with a spatula, and they scooted across the pan. I'll be... it works. My wife came back from the store and wanted scrambled eggs. If there's anything that cast iron likes less than fried eggs, it's scrambled. But it was the same thing all over again. No stick. No cleanup. Just a quick hot water rinse with a brush in case something got left on the pan (I couldn't see anything, but hey), then I put it on a med-hi burner till dry, put a thin coat of lard on the pan and waited until I saw smoke for a minute. Let cool and hang up. Done.

So. do I like the bumpy texture of the Lodge pre-season? Nope. Does it work? Yes, and contrary to my misgivings, it works very well. My wife pointed out that even some Teflon cookware has textured patterns in it. The Lodge pre-season isn't a perfect surface out of the box but it does give you a big head-start. After a night's work, my iron is ready to face anything, and you just can't beat that.

Lodge makes a great product. For the quality, durability, and versatility, you can't beat Lodge cast iron. Plus, it's made in America. I like that. If you've never experienced cast iron cooking, you've just been cheating yourself. Plus, the price, for a piece of lifetime cookware, is insanely cheap.

And my sandpaper is still on the tool shelf.

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I started buying an assortment of small Lodge skillets and serving plates. I really like the way that they keep food warm on the table which is especially useful for dinner parties when people are enjoying themselves and eating slower. In addition, they look pretty cool too, especially when you are serving rustic or country dishes.

I like the 6 1/2 inch skillet for both side dishes and entrées. In this short video I compare this size Lodge skillet to some of the other small pans. I also show a few of the dishes that I have made in it. I hope that this video review is helpful to you.

Old Dutch 008MB 5.5 Inch Round Matte Black Cast Iron Hobnail Trivet

Lodge Logic L5MS3 5 Inch Miniature Skillet

Lodge Logic 3.5-Inch Miniature Skillet

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I own three pieces of cast iron cookware, and this item is one of them... and among my favorite cooking implements, period. In fact, I use this skillet most of all, and it doesn't even have a place in a cabinet! I keep it on the stove permanently, for that is how often I use it.

Beware that cast iron is not a quickie-cooking component (it takes time for the iron to heat, and it takes experience to gauge the iron's "perfect temperature" for sensitive dishes), but for dishes requiring steady, even heat and for cooks who require durable cookware with easy clean-up, cast iron CANNOT be beat!

This skillet is going to last forever. Its care is easy: I scrub it with hot water only, and dry it with an old rag and apply a thin layer of vegetable oil while the iron is still hot... a year and a half later, it's still rust-free and delivering the reliable service I have come to expect and admire. No scratches interfere with its performance, as is the case with my allegedly-long-lasting Wearever nonstick cookware set (what a waste of money THAT was!). Heck, I even use my cast-iron skillet for CREPES, and that's saying something! Despite the pan's weight, it's an immeasurably better nonstick crepe-cooker than teflon. In fact, I use my cast iron cookware for everything from french fries to spaghetti sauce to eggs and bacon to french toast! It's a dependable griddle, skillet, grill, and pot, and it goes right from the stovetop and into the oven for maximum versatility.

I am an avid home-chef, and I can say without exception that my cast-iron cookware is the best kitchen investment I've ever made.

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Friday, November 21, 2014

Breville BCI600XL Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker Reviews

Breville BCI600XL Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker
Customer Ratings: 4.5 stars
List Price: $599.99
Sale Price: $367.99
Today's Bonus: 39% Off
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This Breville is a workhorse! I bought Jenis Splendid Ice Cream at Home book after I realized that the traditional egg based recipes weren't cutting it for my taste(I strongly urge others to do the same if ice cream is your thing).

This machine replaces my hardly used Kitchen Aid ice cream maker (the kind you freeze the bowl prior). We just didn't get along too well. I also like to make a few batches at a time which is prohibited by a bowl that needs a recharge after every use.

I was surprised how quiet this machine is in use. The controls are well thought out and it is built to Breville industrial-style standards. I found the included spatula useless and instead opted for a silicone spatula for removing finished product from blades and bowl.

Advice to those buying this machine Shave off 30 minutes of churn time by first chilling the hot cream in a covered smaller metal bowl placed in an ice+water filled larger bowl for 30 minutes. This greatly reduces wear/tear on the compressor and other components. You can chill in the fridge for a couple of hours instead.

I am extremely impressed with this ice cream maker.

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I am a Breville fanatic and love this machine. Its sleek and elegant styling with abundant features is a true technical marvel. Why then is this machine soooo close to perfection yet only incorporates a 1.5 Quart capacity and not 2 Quarts. I realize this machine's closest competition by Cuisinart Cuisinart ICE-100 Compressor Ice Cream and Gelato Maker is also a 1.5 Quart but this single detail ruined the experience for me....well...that and the mixing blade with its twist and turns that make getting the ice cream off that much harder.

For comparision, I have owned a Cuisinart 2 Quart freezer-bowl type machine before Cuisinart ICE-30BC Pure Indulgence 2-Quart Automatic Frozen Yogurt, Sorbet, and Ice Cream Maker and recently purchased a new one to test along side the Breville Smart Scoop. After 30 days of testing, playing, eatting (and probably gaining 5 pounds), I found myself having to make a very tough decision...keep the Breville Smart Scoop OR Cuisinart ICE-30BC.

In the end, the Cuisinart ICE-30BC with 2 Quart capacity, simplistic design of the mixing blade, and ease of holding the canister while scooping ice cream into a bowl won. The Breville Smart Scoop 1.5 Quart canister is just too small (and too cold to hold) for me. In addition the Breville has a column in the middle of the canister that allows the motor to spin the blade. The Cuisinart has a perfectly unobstructed canister making cleaning and dispensing a lot easier. Another frustration of the 1.5 Quart capacity is when the machine has churned a lot of air into the mixture and it expands beyond the top of the canister... which has happened even using Breville's recipes with amounts specific to using the 1.5 Quart canister. While this can also happen with the Cuisinart, having a larger capacity canister helps reduce this. Of course, you will want to pour less mix into the Breville to eliminate this problem.

Granted, I would select the Breville any day if I were going to make batch after batch of frozen treats since the Breville actually maintains its temperature unlike the Cuisinart canister that slowly thaws and needs to be refreezed between uses.

I would be curious, however, to try the Cusinart ICE-100's specially designed gelato blade that incorporates less air compared to the single blade included with the Breville Smart Scoop.

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First I have to say that I paid over $400 when I got this at Williams Sonoma so the prices, as of this review, on Amazon are stellar (or maybe it has just gone down since it's introduction a year ago).

I have reviewed several ice cream makers, always looking for the holy grail to find one of ease in making, but the golden nugget of taste. Nothing beats this. Nothing.

For many reasons.

First, even if you cook your ice cream base for a custard, this has a pre cooling stage to cool it down for you (don't use it otherwise if it's not warm or your ice cream will freeze too fast on the sides only and stop before it is supposed to.)

More importantly, this is the only one I have found that whips up ice cream just like commercial ice cream so that it does not become a brick once you put it in the freezer and want to eat some the next day. The air being whipped in is what makes grocery store ice cream so light and fluffy. Hard to get in most home ice cream makers. This does it.

But, better, you get the homemade taste with no effort. All you do is push a button--you don't need to pre-freeze a bowl or add ice or anything. You just push a button. It becomes the freezer and the stirrer and everything in between. You can even choose a setting for gelato, frozen yogurt, and how hard or soft you want your ice cream!

Even better, you don't have to be there when it's done. If you are having a dinner party and want to serve cobbler with homemade ice cream, just pour in your ingredients and get it going--no need to worry about when it finishes as it will keep it frozen and cold until you are ready for it!

Some tips: I stir in my mix-ins like oreos or chocolate after it is done so they don't get crushed in the whipping.

Don't use artificial vanilla. It has alcohol in it. While you can use alcohol FLAVORS, using real alcohol will prevent your ice cream from freezing properly.

Whisk your ice cream first if it contains eggs then pour in. You may wind up with frozen egg yolks otherwise.

My favorite ice cream book is Ben n Jerry's.

The more cream you use, the faster it will melt at room temp, but the creamier it will taste on your tongue (using whole cream rather than milk).

Honest reviews on Breville BCI600XL Smart Scoop Ice Cream Maker

I can't say anything about reliability yet.

PRO:

It works, the controls are easy, it isn't overly noisy.

CON:

It is heavy and bulky lifting it out of a lower cupboard isn't something you do casually, some grab handles would have been nice.

Not a huge capacity. At 1.5 quart (1 liter) maximum, you're making two tubs of ben and jerrys, maximum.

The bucket is neither dishwasher safe, nor do they recommend you put it in the freezer, or use anything metal to scoop from it. So you need a chilled container ready to transfer the desert after it is done. Although it does have a keep cool option if you know it'll all be eaten. 1.5 quart is what you start with but by the time you're done transferring, you've lost a bit more.

I think they could have been a bit more generous with the recipe booklet, but no matter there is always the internets.

This is the first ice cream / sorbet / gelato maker I've used. The rotary dial selects at what consistency the churning will tend to stop, it offers Off, On, Pause (for mix-ins), and keep-cool. That's basically it.

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I have had many brands of ice cream makers ( Cuisinart, Kitchen Aid freezer bowl attachment and WhynterSno). This one is by far the best. It is so easy to use, easy to clean and makes the smoothest, creamiest ice cream ever! I think Breville has created the perfect machine!

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Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Discount Kai Stainless Steel Cooking Chopsticks #6186

Kai Stainless Steel Cooking Chopsticks #6186
Customer Ratings: 3 stars
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Well, the ones I got from JapanBargain are not the same as the ones in the picture. They don't have the metal cuff around the plastic where it meets the metal, and the packaging is different. The plastic is not as nice either. It seems like the exact same type that those annoying white plastic coat hangers are made out of, with characteristic seam/flash down side. And the handles on these are longer and more rounded while the ones pictured are more square.

That said, these ARE actually by KAI, and they ARE made in Japan. Just not the style I wanted, and handles aren't good. They do have a good quality knurling on the steel for about an inch near the tip, so that is slightly redeeming. Overall, not too impressive though. I feel deceived from the picture, and would have expected better from KAI since I have their knives and they are really good.

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Sunday, October 26, 2014

Buy IMUSA MEXI-1000-TORTW Tortilla Warmer Microwave Safe Base BPA-Free

IMUSA MEXI-1000-TORTW Tortilla Warmer Microwave Safe Base BPA-Free  8.5-Inch, Brick
Customer Ratings: 4.5 stars
List Price: $9.99
Sale Price: $5.99
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Anyone that's ever been to a Mexican-themed restaurant knows exactly what this item is. This particular one is fairly large and will hold my home-made 8" tortillas nicely. With a damp washcloth (folded twice) and a layer of wax paper on the bottom it will easily hold a dozen home-made 8" tortillas. To reheat tortillas just place the container with the washcloth, wax paper and tortillas into a microwave for 30 seconds to two minutes. (Amount of time depends on: number of tortillas, how cold the whole container is to begin with, and dampness of the washcloth.) Also keeps my tortillas in the refrigerator nicely for a surprisingly-long amount of time.

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This thing is good at keeping tortillas warm, but it's not deep enough for a batch of homemade tortillas. It will hold two 10 packs of store-bought tortillas that are thin, but the homemade tortillas, which I can never get as thin as store-bought, keep the lid ajar. The container is deep enough, but the bottom of the lid has a "dip" in it that presses against the tortillas and keeps the lid from closing tightly. What a shame. I guess I'll be purchasing the larger warmer.

With tortillas getting expensive AND being filled with hydrogenated vegetable oils, I finally found a SOFT tortilla recipe that I can easily roll out with a rolling pin. It's 3 cups of self-rising flour, 1 cup of warm milk and 5 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix it into a ball by hand or in a food processor. I don't even have to let them sit for 20 minutes. Just divide into 12 balls, lay a damp paper towel over them as you roll each out (roll from the center out) and then cook for about 30 seconds per side in a skillet. Other tortilla recipes were difficult to roll out and tasted hard like crackers.

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This product does what it says....Warms your tortillas. It may not be the most attractive design but it does what it is intended to do. For the price and the performance...why spend more on a fancy schmancy one?

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There are already several reviews which point out the advantages of this product. It keeps your freshly made tortillas warm at the table and lets you reheat the leftovers in the microwave if you have them later. Just include a wet cloth or paper towel to make some steam so that they don't dry out when they're reheated.

Several reviews have complained about the packaging and the difficulty of getting the glue from the label off the outside of the tortilla warmer once the label is removed.

I just bought one of these here at Amazon, and the good news is that in addition to being useful in the ways already noted, the label was not glued on. The tortilla warmer I received came packaged in a cardboard sleeve which simply slid off. Great!

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Great product, made in China like everything else, but what's up with the adhesive label covering half of one side. Tried soaking it in hot water, dish detergent, used the back end of a butter knife but NOTHING gets that label off without leaving an adhesice mess behind. Even using Goo Gone (a citrus solvent) it took a good five minutes of aggressive peeling and fingernail work to get it cleaned up. This was completely UNECESSARY! Wake up, Imusa, get a sticker that peels off please!

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Sunday, October 5, 2014

Best T-fal A8579784 Specialty Nonstick Dishwasher Safe 16.5 x 13.5 x Deals

T-fal A8579784 Specialty Nonstick Dishwasher Safe 16.5 x 13.5 x 3-Inch Roaster Cookware, Gray
Customer Ratings: 4.5 stars
List Price: $34.99
Sale Price: $32.06
Today's Bonus: 8% Off
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Best for roasting a turkey that I have ever found can lift the turkey out easily as well! Easy to make gravy in it and easy to clean

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I am a first time user of a roaster pan with rack. In other words, a newbie, when it comes to cooking anything. I determined to try and do a turkey this year for Thanksgiving but wanted to try and do it somewhat on a professional basis. Therefore having a utensil that a pro or semi pro would use. I ordered this roaster without the slightest idea as to what I was doing. It appeared on my doorstep in good order (Amazon is great when it comes to ordering and delivery...!). I found a recipe on the web on how to prepare and baste a bird and had at it. WOW! What a fantastic way to cook a turkey. It turned out great! Tasty and well done! I am doing another one shortly as well as a beef roast. I'm not sure as yet as to the durability of the unit but I did follow the instructions on how to prepare the unit by oiling it so we will see in time. Great roaster so far.

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This pan is well designed. Because it has the handles on the rack are on opposite sides of the pan handles it makes lifting the roast out of the pan much easier.

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I spend several days fishing the back country waterways of Quebec....primarily walleyes and then we fry them in a round non-stick frying pan sitting on top of a "turkey frier" propane stand.......trust me, the round pan we used to use can't compare to this new rectangular one.......the pan I just bought fits perfectly on top of the stand and your able to fry several more pieces without having them all scrunched up.......I am perfectly pleased......clean up is a breeze......no long handle makes it easy to store and pack. This method is a lot easier then deep frying.

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I was happy with this pan. Food definitely did not stick to it. It has only been used once, for roasting turkey parts on Thanksgiving. I wish that the handles didn't stick out quite so far, but other than that, it is sturdy and I believe it will last me a while. I probably wouldn't buy it again just because of the handles, unless all the other pans I was looking at were the same way, then I'd probably just buy this one again.

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Friday, September 19, 2014

Nordic Ware Naturals Sheet Baking Pan Review

Nordic Ware Naturals Bakers Half Sheet
Customer Ratings: 5 stars
List Price: $16.99
Sale Price: $10.97
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Be sure to read this whole review because there is a very happy ending!!

First the things I like...the pan is nice and heafty and well balanced. It's made in the USA. It heats evenly and does a great job baking cookies, and other dough items....actually everything I've baked on it. Now my big beef with this product! I wouldn't feel comfortable putting any food DIRECTLY on this pan. Every time you wash it...(and I do follow recommended instructions and wash by hand)...everything turns a muddy gray...the sponge, the rinse water, your hands, everything. It's even hard to wash the gray off your hands after your done. I hate that so just won't let food actually cook on the surface. I'll always use parchment paper. Don't trust all that gray metallic colored residue that comes off in the washing process.

Update Feb 20, 2012: I sent Nordic Ware an e-mail asking if they could explain the reason for all the gray metal color all over everything when I wash this pan. I told them I was very happy to buy a pan made in the USA and the product did perform flawlessly. I was just concerned about all the leaching of whatever it is. Never got a reply.

Update Nov 19, 2012: After almost a year someone commented on my feedback suggesting I try contacting Nordic Ware customer service again. Thank you Bon!! I felt it only fair to try again since so many people love this sheet. Low and behold I received a quick reply. After explaining the situation, they e-mailed a form to fill out and mail in. I just got an e-mail saying they received it, reviewed the information, and they're sending me a new pan because THE GRAYING I'M EXPERIENCING IS NOT NORMAL. I don't know what happened to my original e-mails but based on THIS customer service experience with Nordic, I'd say it was a flawless experience. The service was friendly, quick, and fair. As soon as I receive the new sheet, I'll wash it, use it, wash it one more time and then report back. I suspect it will be a totally different experience this time....the way we do it here IN THE USA!!!!

Update Dec 3, 2012: I have received the replacement half sheet. After washing several times I have no problem with gray residue. I'm convinced the first sheet I received was defective. This one is perfect...just what I expected from Nordic Ware. This is a company no one should ever be concerned about dealing with. They stand behind their products and, not only deliver quality products, but back them with quality customer service. I'm a believer.

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Sick of cheapie "cookie sheets" that buckle when you use them and only last a couple of years? Spend a little and get a pro 1/2 sheet pan. It's very sturdy and will probably last a home user a lifetime (heck, they last years in commercial kitchens). Fits in standard home ovens.

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Every single other cookie/baking sheet I've owned has made that dreaded "bong" sound within minutes of being put in an oven hotter than 300 degrees. It's annoying, it makes the food slide around, and it cannot be good for the pan to warp and unwarp like that. So this time I went looking for professional bakeware. I love Nordic Ware; they make quality stuff without charging you an arm and a leg. These work perfectly. They fit well into my standard home oven (plenty of space around it for proper air circulation), they brown my cookies beautifully on the bottom, and the rolled edge seems pretty sturdy. The only negative thing I will say is the gauge could be a little thicker. I'm used to Nordic Ware products being extremely heavy; and while these are certainly heavier than your average cookie sheet, they are not as heavy as I expected. Batch after batch of holiday cooking doesn't lie, however. Everything has come out perfect, so maybe the gauge isn't such a big deal after all.

Just a side note, whenever I cook something on any cookie/baking sheet, I always cover it in parchment or foil. It makes clean up easier, and spares the pans the greasy, ever-darkening coating of oil otherwise needed. I would suggest it personally.

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I just got two of these and it was love at first sight. They are heavy duty and are very well made.

Here's more detailed size information.

Inside dimension (where the food will go) 11.5" x 8.25"

Outside dimension 13" x 9.75"

unfortunately, it does not fit in my toaster oven.

11/15/11 update still use it and no rust (some cheap aluminum tends to rust. there are large stains from cooking, but i use them all the time. i love them and will get new ones when these go. i wash them in the dishwasher every time. so far, i've probably washed them 30-40 times. still love them.

2/1/13 update still no rust. large dark spots that are somewhat sticky even after they have been in the dishwasher. i use them often. tried to use EasyOff to clean it really well, but does not work as good as i hoped. But i use them for bacon, cooking fish, asparagus, etc.... would buy them again.

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I like these pans. I know there are several other models out there, but these are about as cheap as any and are made in Minnesota. The sheets are thick, haven't warped, and are perfectly nice in every way.

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Saturday, August 30, 2014

Buy Waring Pro Professional 40-Ounce Glass Bar Blender

Waring WPB05 Professional Kitchen Blender, Chrome
Customer Ratings: 3.5 stars
List Price: $100.00
Sale Price: $44.92
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My Grandmother had a Waring Blendor. My Mother had a Waring Blendor. Why did I have to BUY one instead of "borrowing" one of theirs? Because they gave them away to get "lighter", i.e., cheap, plastic blenders, back in the early eighties. Big mistake. My grandmother died before she had to replace hers, but my mother is on her third cheap blender now. I expect my Waring Blendor to last the rest of my life. Fortunately, I was able to get my grandmother's Waring Blendor Cookbook from the forties. The current model still has the powerful motor, heavy glass container, super-duper cord and top-quality switch that my grandmother's had, sixty-odd years ago.

I also picked up one at Goodwill to have an extra pitcher to make two kinds of frozen drinks when I have a party. It is about forty years old but still works great, and it was obviously used quite a bit. (I only wish I had found it before I bought a new one!) The container still fits the base on the current model.

Makes fruit juice like a juicer, makes the best milk shakes, daquiries, gazpacho; it can even whip cream for dessert or froth milk for fancy coffee drinks! You can make a thick, creamy milkshake with milk, a frozen banana, a couple of ice cubes, and a little chocolate powder. You can even pre-chill the container in the freezer to make sorbet.

The secret difference: this Blendor creates a tornado in the center of the container, ensuring that everything gets evenly mixed. According to my Waring Blendor Cookbook, this is because of the unique four-leaf clover shape of the container, the shape of the no-rust stainless blades, and the high-powered motor.

You can use a wooden spoon through the hole in the top to make sure ice cubes get properly mixed if you find that to be a problem. (If you add ice cubes one or two at a time to the container with liquid already in blending on high, you will have the smoothest frozen beverage you have ever had with NO leftover ice chunks.)

The easiest way to clean it is to fill it 1/4 to 1/3 full of water, add ONE drop of dishwashing detergent, PUT THE LID ON, blend, shake and rinse.

Sure, it is a little loud (brings back memories of my childhood!) and if you drop the glass container on your foot, you'll be sorry, for your foot, because the container probably will never break. Notice that none of the Waring Blendor's detractors suggest an alternative.

If it isn't in the MOMA collection of Twentieth Century Industrial Design, it should be.

Buy a Waring Blendor and you'll never have to buy another blender. And neither will your children.

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I'm not sure what's going on here, cuz half these reviews seem to say it works great. I decided to make a daquiri using the simple recipe of a Bacardi mixer, rum and ice. I've done this in an el cheapo Osterizer by pre-crushing the ice with an ice crusher. The selling point for this was that I could just put in the ice cubes and skip the extra step.

I heard the same loud noise, and the same funky smells, as other reviewers. Further, looking at the rubber-covered wheel on the base which is supposed to drive the blades, the rubber was peeled and disintegrated, and moreover, there were small chips of metal all over the place. After one use.

I have difficulty believing that this is just a fluke, especially with these other reviews.

I wouldn't call this product "Professional" at all, and I'm surprised that Waring is still trying to sell it.

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We're a small restaurant (16 seats), serving dinner 4 nights a week, and we use the blender for soups, Caesar dressing, etc., once or twice a week, but never use ice in it or anything like that. We've had two of this same model now, and had the same problem with both of them. The black collar, the part of the base where you set the container, is plastic, and on both blenders has broken. The first time it lasted almost a year, and we figured that wasn't too bad -especially when you compare the cost to a true commercial/professional blender, which are $300+. Also, we really like the blender in terms of function, so we picked up another one. This time, the exact same thing happene, except that the collar cracked within 2 weeks!!

My other complaint is that I found Waring Customer Service to be disinterested & unhelpful -especially because I contacted them about buying a new model, not about problems with the one we had. I saw a model on their website but no purchasing info was listed; I emailed to find out where to purchase, and the rep seemed almost inconvenienced by my inquiry.

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As a blender, it works well, with the celebrated two speeds, which are more than adequate for my blending and pureeing needs. The design is pleasing, the base is well weighted and the container is easy to lift off and put back on the base. Having been exposed to the "twist and lock" Osterizers in the past, just plunking it down and clicking on the switch took a little getting used to, but I think I like it. The handle is the only thing that isn't up to the standard of the rest of the blender, it's slippery and not very ergonomic. I have held other, much more secure feeling and slipless handles, but on the upside, glass is easy to clean. It's also part of the whole "look" of this blender, so I don't expect the handle to improve anytime soon.

Take a look at it in the store before buying it, it's expensive, and you might get a better deal for your money with another brand. But if you would like something on the pretty boy side as well as functional, consider this model. If you're in this price range anyway, maybe the self-cleaning models without the whole blade/rubber gasket combo (as easy as it might be, this gets to be a pain for just a smoothie in the morning) might be worth a serious look.

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I have always thought highly of Waring blenders. I was so excited when I was finally able to afford one. But, when I received mine there were two gaps in the top where the pour-through portion of the cap goes. Each time I started the blender, liquid would shoot out through these two holes. I called Waring, and they sent me another top, but it had the same problem. I eventually sent it back. It also didn't crush ice that well.

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Saturday, June 14, 2014

Best Brentwood 7-Piece Non-Stick Aluminum Cookware, Gray Deals

Brentwood 7-Piece Non-Stick Aluminum Cookware, Gray
Customer Ratings: 3 stars
List Price: $59.95
Sale Price: $40.85
Today's Bonus: 32% Off
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I was worried because the price was very reasonable, but the pans are very nice. I especially like the glass lid.

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At first I was happy with this set, but after only a few uses the nonstick coating began to come off the saucepans and dutch oven. The frying pan seems to be doing ok for some reason but I'll be replacing it anyway after seeing how the other pieces in the set performed. I suggest avoiding this product and saving up for a higher quality set.

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Thursday, May 22, 2014

Best Staub 3.5 Quart Pumpkin Cocotte, Orange Deals

Staub 3.5 Quart Pumpkin Cocotte, Orange
Customer Ratings: 4.5 stars
List Price: $224.99
Sale Price: $159.95
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I received this as a present from my DH and it is far prettier than the pictures can show The enamel is lusterous and glows

It is both a functional cooking essential and art for the kitchen I am not a fan of the color orange but this is so pretty that I leave it out

just so we can look at it

I have both Le Creuset and Staub and several pieces of each has shown me that Staub has thicker enamel and is far far far easier

to clean ( Staub French ovens are amazingly easy to clean compared to LC)

It holds a surprisingly large amount and is versatile in what it can do

Buy it and buy some for gifts for your children It is a wonderful wonderful cocotte One can make the no knead bread without worrying

about the heat since this is rated for high oven temps since the youtube video said it was a cast iron knob which is brass plated ( not plastic)

I appreciate that it takes one whole day to make just one pot PLUS it is not made in China but it is made in FRANCE The beautiful beautiful

enamel is so far above the matte LC Chantal ( German enamal over steel) and Staub both have superior enamel thick and shiny and deeply glowing

Try both enamel over steel and try both the LC and the Staub in your kitchen Believe the noise about cooking in dutch oven excuse me FRENCH ovens

IT will change your food and it will change your cooking and everyone who eats at your house will be grateful

It is well worth the investment SKimp on going out to eat for a while and save up for this while it is still available You will not be sorry

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This pot is the most gorgeous thing! I can't even say how much I love this pot. The quality is old world exquisite, thank you Staub and the country of France for producing such a gorgeous, and useful product. It's so nice to find such quality. Dinners will be wonderful cooked in this pot. Now I can get rid of all my old junky pots as I am happily going about gifting myself with all the fine cookware I could never afford before. Ahhhh, there is something to be said for aging!

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I am very happy with this dutch oven. I hope my kids remember that Mom served dinner out of a pumpkin. It washes very easily with soap and water and cooks all manner of foods perfectly...Creme Brule French toast, Chicken and Rice, Baked Veggies...It is so pretty that I leave it out on the counter even when not in use. I worried about the fit being too small to cook for a family of 4 but it is jsut right. My first order arrived damaged and I was very disappointed as the color was scratched in several places, but amazon made it right, refunded me and I placed another order and that one is the one I am raving about. Worth the hassle and the money. I can't wait to make something for the Holidays in this. Happy cooking!

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I too received this item with three chips in the enamel. How disappointing as I have been wanting this item for a long time. It appears that the item was not very securely packaged...or perhaps I received the one that the other lady sent back!

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I own many staub pieces and absolutely love them ! This is the first one that I have to send back. I can't believe that they would try to pass off such a damaged piece to me. It had 3 large chips on it and is unusable. I must have got one of the ones that were returned. Really!!! just throw it out. Now I have to go through the trouble of returning it.

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