Reviews of Excelsteel 7 Piece 18/10 Stainless Steel Cookware With Encapsulated

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List Price: $129.99
Sale Price: $44.54
Today's Bonus: 66% Off

I gave this product five stars because it's an excellent deal for the price. I highly recommend them and I'd buy them again in a minute. But there are a couple of things to know. First, nowhere did anyone give the sizes, so here they are: 1 qt. covered saucepan, 2 qt. covered saucepan, 5 qt. covered dutch oven, 9½" frypan (dutch oven lid fits frypan). Next, these pans are THIN. One of them arrived with a small dent even though the packaging was intact (which means it was dented while being packed at the factory). I don't give a rat's rear about that, but I know it's a big deal to some. Even if yours arrive pristine, you'll dent them soon enough just in normal use. However, this set (bumps and all) will last a long time. 18/10 steel is the best for cookware. My advice is to throw away all of your non-stick cookware, as the parts of the surface that are no longer in the pans are now in your (and your family's) bloodstream. Eat healthy and live a long, happy life!

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I absolutely do not use non-stick pans they are totally not safe for cooking food as teflon or whatever else they put on it comes out into your food bit by bit and gets into your body. I was on a budget and did some research on the type of pots used in good resturants. 18/10 stainless steel is the best type of pot you can get to cook with and though the make/brand, etc may be different, under $50 for a 7 piece pot set is amazing. The chef's equivalent to this set can run your in the thousands, and honestly, just like cameras, the quality of food is not dependent on the price you pay for your cookware. I can sear scallops and make coq au vin in these pots just a well as any other pot. It is all about how good a cook you are. I use these everytime I cook and put them in the dishwasher and they are still good after everyday use for the past 6 months, AND even if it decides to fall apart on me within a year or two, it has paid for itself in delicious cooking.

Update: 10/22/2011

I have been frying, sauteing, boiling, washing, scrubbing these almost everyday since I bought them, and they are still going strong.

Update: I love these pots so much that I bought a set for my sister for Christmas. I use them everyday and they are still in perfect condition.

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This is a serviceable set of cookware for the budget conscious. I bought it because I prefer not to cook with non-stick cookware and didn't want to spend a fortune. So far so good--cleans up nicely with a wool pad and has a level bottom so works well on my glass cooktop. A friend has a set of stainless that is not level and is difficult to use on a glass cooktop.

Honest reviews on Excelsteel 7 Piece 18/10 Stainless Steel Cookware With Encapsulated

Decent cookware set that is value for money, beats buying individual similar quality cookware at the stores. I like that the handles are welded such that heat transfer is minimized so you don't really have to use a pot holder unless they have been sitting long on the stove.

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I'm very glad to have this product. The stainless steel is really not-sticky, and the heat is very well distributed. I have even cooked eggs in the pan and they are absolutly not sticked, much more better than my last teflon pan! And without toxic residues :) Plus, the set looks very pretty. I recommend it!

Best Global GSF-17 - 2 1/2 inch, 6cm Bird's Beak Curved Peeling Knife Deals

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List Price: $42.00
Sale Price: $41.95
Today's Bonus: $0.05 Off

Among my assorted bird's beak paring knives, this one has a special place. There's no hiding place for any transfer of salmonella bacteria from poultry to produce, for this knife is made of a single piece of steel, and the solid handle has good weight. (Not all knives in this line have a solid handle.) Furthermore, it stands up to use and abuse, unlike any other knife I've ever had.

I bought mine in a specialty knife store (which has since gone out of business) close to ten years ago. After a nameless family member helped out in the kitchen, it seemed to have disappeared, and I mourned for this little knife. Turns out said family member had accidentally dumped it in the composter, along with a small mountain of vegetable waste. I boiled it and it rejoined the household.

Comfortable to hold, it does a variety of paring tasks well in the kitchen. Slipperiness mentioned in reviews of other knives in this line has not been a problem. Weight and balance are excellent. I like the completeness with which it can be cleaned.

If you have a kitchen or flower garden, you'll find good uses for it outdoors as well. I grow edible ginger, as well as the kind with flowers. For cutting the rhizome from the plant, this can't be beat. I also use it when it's time to thin the heliconias and strip old leaves off lilies.

In perusing reviews about other knives in this line, there appears to be concern about sharpening the Japanese-made steel. I use a Chantry knife sharpener and find it brings this knife back to an acceptable edge.

BOTTOM LINE: If you like the bird's beak style of paring knife, you are likely to find a use for this one. Amazon's price is excellent. I paid about twice the amount and would recommend it even at that price. If you've never tried a bird's beak paring knife, this one is reasonably priced and especially versatile for the reasons mentioned.

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First thing to note, if you've not used a bird's beak before, is that this is a specialty function knife. Don't buy it before you get (at least) a few other kitchen knives, especially a parer/utility and chef's knife. Some relatives have come over and tried to use it in conjunction with a cutting board and quickly set it aside--which is fine because they were getting ready to slice a finger off.

I've used it for fluted mushrooms, which is still more work than I'd like, and it does the job fine. It also works well with paring hand-held fruits and vegetables, but not being an expert, I still prefer the conventional gizmos for that.

Where it excels for my wife and I is in cutting up poultry. We usually buy our birds whole. The only time we carve is Thanksgiving. The rest of the time, whether before or after cooking, the knife of choice is this Global bird's beak. It is a veritable joy to disencumber our fowl of their appendages and such. "A hot knife through butter" as the saying goes, applies perfectly here. A whole bird is easily sectioned into six to twelve pieces in seconds. A cleaver can work as fast, but we're more joint-finders than makers, and the small knife and no-cutting board approach works great for us--less space taken, less washing, less mess. The curved point and shorter blade make the non-cutting-board approach such a good choice--I sure wouldn't recommend this technique using those 10-inch "broadswords." Of course a good chef's knife can work well too--you gotta have them, but this Global is perfection.

Sharpening takes extra time and care, but it rarely needs it--keeping a razor edge for at least half a year with about once-per-week use.

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I'm not going to spend a lot of time discussing this knife as it is very much the same quality of knife that you would expect from Global. Just like all Global knives, it is a solid, one piece knife that has a razor sharp edge that stays sharp longer than most other brands of knives.

I originally bought this knife for use in culinary competitions, and it's one of those knives that really doesn't get a whole lot of attention, but sure is handy when you need it. I use it primarily to tourne potatoes. The shape is designed for that purpose, and the knife is therefore often described as a "tourne knife". Sure, you could use it to complete many different tasks from food to general house hold needs, but I wouldn't pay $30 to use it as an all purpose knife when there are so many cheaper options out there.

If you're less interested in the uses of the knife and more curious of the quality of the knife, feel free to read one of my other reviews on Global knives. I use them every single day at work, and I have very little interest in exchanging them for any other brand.

Honest reviews on Global GSF-17 - 2 1/2 inch, 6cm Bird's Beak Curved Peeling Knife

This was a gift and it received extremely high ratings from the recipient! She and her husband couldn't say enough about it!

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I use this knife daily in my Bistro to open plastic bags, cardboard boxes, cut meat, and more. I only wish that it came with a sheaf. Very sharp!! Balanced blade.

Cheap Gibson Colorsplash Westmeade 3-Piece Pasta Cooker Set

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List Price: $49.99
Sale Price: $38.77
Today's Bonus: 22% Off

I got this for my daughter because she has a red kitchen. It says it is dishwasher safe yet and she has used it once a week since the end of Feb (probably the total number of times being 10) and yet the paint is chipping. I can't return it at this point and Amazon doesn't stand behind it, so do yourself a favor and just get a stainless steel pot, skip the cool colors....they aren't worth the extra price!!!

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This is a good starter piece for any kitchen! The pot is just the right size for making a dinner portion for three or four people, less if you are a big eater!

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never again will i purchased a painted stainless steel pot. first time i used this pot it was a bit too close the burner next to it and consequently got a palm-sized black burn mark that i can't remove. wish i could've returned it. this purchase was a mistake. i got it for to add a pop of color to my kitchen (wanted to get a whole set of yellow), so rather than throw it out or continue to use it, i've let it add color to my kitchen by sitting on a prominent shelf (burned side facing inward, of course).

i would not recommend this product.

Honest reviews on Gibson Colorsplash Westmeade 3-Piece Pasta Cooker Set

I really like this pasta cooker and the color looks nice on my stove.

Only problem I have with it is the size. That has nothing to do with the pot I'm just not finding it as easy to manage from a wheel chair as I thought I would.

For that reason I will find a good home for it.

Cheap Emile Henry Flame Top Round Oven

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List Price: $180.00
Sale Price: $89.95
Today's Bonus: 50% Off

I had put off buying a dutch oven for quite some time, just because they are always SO heavy and SO expensive (the good ones, anyway).

I was at Sur la Table looking at dutch ovens when I lifted the lid off a Emile Henry Flame Top and very nearly threw the lid backwards over my shoulder because I expected it to be about twice as heavy as it actually was. I was dubious; a ceramic dutch oven? It was on sale so I bought it, thinking that I could return it if I didn't like it.

I don't like it. I LOVE it. So far everything has cooked absolutely perfectly in it. The ceramic retains and radiates heat better then metal, excellently searing pot roasts and then simmering evenly on the very lowest gas heat setting. If my Flame Top went missing today I'd buy another one without hesitation. This is 100% heirloom cookware: it's going to be in your family, being used, for a long time.

To address the complaint that the Flame Top retains odors, all I can say is that I never had this problem, but with two caveats. The first is that the reviewer didn't state if she seasoned her Flame Top as recommended by the manufacturer (instructions are both in the box and on the website). The ceramic glaze needs to be "set" by simmering either milk or water with dry rice in it before it's first real use. If this step is skipped and the pot is instead seasoned with tomato sauce, then I imagine there would be a problem. The second issue is that of tomato sauce in general. Highly acidic foods cooked in any lightly porous cookware are going to leave an odor behind, at least for a little while, that's why tomato-based sauces should always be cooked in steel. Like I said, I've cooked a range of stinky, odorous foods in my Henry pot and it doesn't smell at all.

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I've used a lot of different types of cookware through the years---cast iron, clad cast iron, aluminum clad, teflon coated, etc (both lower and higher priced). The FLAME TOP series are the only ones that can go in the oven, on the stove top, in the fridge, microwave, etc. Fantastic heat distribution with no hot spots or burning. Extremely easy to keep clean. Due to higher cost, I've accumulated a set over the recent past and have donated all of my other cookware! Buy one and try it, you WILL be amazed!

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I am completely satisfied with this product. I find that I am using it everyday for all of my cooking needs. I even cook rice in it! Fantastic for browning meat, draining and popping in the oven with other ingredients.

It keeps food warm through the whole meal, so going back for seconds is great.

Cleaning is a breeze. If anything sticks, just soak and it comes right out.

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I have prepared 2 dishes using this oven and I must say that I am thoroughly impressed. I prepared a swiss steak recipe by Alton Brown using some venison steaks and some sweet smoked paprika that I also ordered from Amazon. I also prepared a variation of chicken cacciatore by imitating a recipe by Rachel Ray using pine nuts as the coating. This oven cooks great and cleans up with no problem.

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I love this pot. I can't use the enameled cast iron pieces because they are too heavy, but this pot has great features that meet those needs for me. The red is a deep rich shade that is inviting to look at and to serve from. I found it more attractive than it appears in the picture, more old-worldly, as though you'd had it in your Tuscan Kitchen for a hundred years. The finish is smooth, but with a bit of texture which I find more appealing than the slick enamel finish of the cast iron pieces.

It's an ideal size for a pot roast, family sized casserole, chicken stew or even baking a large loaf of bread, all of which I've done so far. I've found it cleans easily when I first spray it with olive oil. It does get really hot so good pot holders are essential for handling it, but the side handles and the top handle are a good size and I've never felt insecure taking it out of the oven.

It is sturdier than I expected and after using it several times and running it through the dishwasher I no longer worry about it being fragile. I followed directions to 'season' it by boiling some milk in it before first use and have not had an issue with retained odor.

If, like me, you can't deal with the heavy cast iron pieces, you may find this is the perfect alternative. Highly recommended.

Discount Cuisinart GGT22-20 GreenGourmet Tri-Ply Stainless 8-Inch Open

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List Price: $70.00
Sale Price: $29.95
Today's Bonus: 57% Off

I'm glad the other reviewers have had such a good experience with this pan, but that's not been my experience, I wish it was but it wasn't. I purchased this (not from Amazon) for the reason most people do, trying to go green and stay away from chemicals. On that basis I guess its fine, but to call this pan non-stick is a real stretch. I would describe it as Non-Stick for a short time in the beginning or almost Non-Stick on some type of foods or Non-Stick for cooking eggs if you add lots of butter or oil to the pan. The pan does clean up easily thou and that's good cause half your cooked egg will still be there when you wash it. I own many Cuisinart products and have always been impressed with their quality and value. But this item does not even come close to meeting my expectations.

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I bought this because I have an induction range and needed new non-stick cookware. I really love this skillet! The non-stick finish is the hardest I've ever seen and the pan is heavy and heats evenly. Packaging is recycled. The handle is made from recycled steel. It's safe to put in the oven. It is petroleum free, PTFEand PFOA-free.

Now I'm here to purchase the 12 inch version.

Highly recommended.

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I love this skillet...wish I had a 10" one as well, and even a 12". No matter what the product, scrambled eggs stick a little. So it is with this one. However, it isn't really stuck, it just isn't incorporated into the eggs that come out of the pan. A quick wipe with a paper towel and the "stuck" eggs are gone.

I also like the fact that if you preheat it (don't get it too hot) it doesn't emit toxic fumes like standard non-stick materials.

The price is right, the product is awesome.

Honest reviews on Cuisinart GGT22-20 GreenGourmet Tri-Ply Stainless 8-Inch Open

Needed to find a pan to use on my new glass cooktop. Delighted to find this Teflon substitute which is made without the bad chemicals of other non stick pans. Liked it so much, I bought another one in a bigger size.

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I looked for quite awhile trying to find a small nonstick pan that didn't have Teflon or other carcinogens. This pan works extremely well better than expected. I cook eggs with NO oil and they slide right off like in infomercials. The handle is at a good angle, the pan is attractive, and it works! Highly recommended!

Best Sassafras Little Cook Kid's Kitchen Tool Kit Deals

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List Price: $21.99
Sale Price: $20.20
Today's Bonus: 8% Off

This is really a good bag of stuff if you like to cook with your kids. I gave this to my son for his 5th b-day, as a "just between you and me" gift (we cook a lot together), and he was so excited. After a quick soapy wash, we rolled out pizza dough with the rolling pin, and he enjoyed every minute! Also bought a kid-sized red chef's apron and wrote Chef in Training with his name on the pocket!!

The tools come in a nifty little plastic zippered bag with handles, and you could hang or place it at the child's level. Overall, I was very pleased with this product, and so is my son!!

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I bought this for my 8 year-old granddaughter who "loves to cook!" I seriously debated keeping it for myself! These are very sturdy, grown-up looking utensils. I was quite impressed and pleased and she loves them!

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This little set is so cute and my daughter loves it! The cooking utensils are well made and just the right size for little kids. However, the bag that holds them is a piece of junk. Both of the handles on ours ripped off fairly quickly so now it is just a bag with a zipper and no handles it still works but it is too bad that the bag couldn't be as sturdy as the utensils. I still would recommend it for the toys but would find another container to put them in.

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The Sassafras Little Cook Tool Kit is a nice quality child-sized baking or cooking set for children interested in cooking. I purchased it to go along with a mother/daughter apron set and I am going to made a personal child-sized cookbook of my favorite family recipes. The Sassafras Little Cook Tool Kit will make it a perfect and personal gift for my 2 granddaughters, Sarah and Rebecca.

Grandma Carol

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"SANTA" brought this to my 3 girls for Christmas. Ages 6, 5 and 2. 6 and 5 year old Love these. 2 year old plays with whatever measurers we are not going to use. Which helps me out alot. They are the perfect sizes for children. They also do not fall apart like alot of stuff you buy kid size. We have made cakes, brownies, muffins, cookies, cupcakes and frostings and they are still perfect. Look forward to alot more baking with this great item. And I love the lil bag it all comes in. We just wash them up and drop them back in their bag when we're done with them. It is just the best.

Discount Frabosk two 9 inch 6 inch set Induction Heat Diffuser Plate

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I had to use my aluminum canner on the burner of our gas grill because I have an induction range. I can once again can in my air-conditioned kitchen. I would highly recommend these plates to anyone who has an aluminum canner or aluminum pots and pans and wants to continue to use them on their induction range or cooktop. I wish I had not waited so long to purchase these!!!

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Very happy with the purchase. Saved my good cookware from becoming yard sale fodder. Large diffuser works great. The small size, not so much. Requires longer cooking times at higher temps.

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they are ok for induction warming not cooking, great to melt wax, will not even fry bacon or boil water, better to buy pans that are made for induction cooking.

Buy Nordic Ware Square Mini Waffle Griddle

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List Price: $28.00
Sale Price: $18.74
Today's Bonus: 33% Off

I bought this pan to make large batches of gluten-free waffles. We have been buying them frozen from the grocery store, and they are not inexpensive. So I make a huge pile of waffles with the pan, freeze them between sheets of parchment and use them the same way we use the store-bought ones. I find it helpful to cover the pan for the first side of cooking. They come out with only one side shaped like a waffle, and they are smaller than the store-bought ones. I most like that we can make waffles without having to store a big waffle iron, which I would probably use like twice a year.

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Cuisinart MCP-12 MultiClad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set Review

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List Price: $670.00
Sale Price: $266.99
Today's Bonus: 60% Off

This is the set you want. Why? Here are some reasons. Some are about Stainless steel cookware in general, but all apply specifically to this set.

o Stainless steel is sanitary. You can get them perfectly clean very easily. (Commercial food processors are often required to use stainless steel for nearly everything that comes in contact with food.)

o Stainless steel cleans up nearly as easily non-stick cookware. You do clean it differently, however.

o These pans have an aluminum core wrapped on both sides by stainless steel. Stainless steel does not transmit heat quickly but aluminum does. Aluminum is soft and dents easily, stainless steel is hard and strong. This means you get the toughness of stainless steel with the even heat distribution of aluminum.

o Even heat distribution and rapid heating allows you use lower heat setting thus saving energy and reducing the chance of burning food.

o Handles stay fairly cool, better than most cookware I have used.

o Dishwasher safe, unlike most non-stick pans.

o Oven-safe. Like to grill that steak then broil it to get it tender? Or you need to bake that stuffing then keep it warm? Use one pan!

o Pans are a little bottom heavy. They will not tip as easily as lighter weight pans, even empty or with a large spoon hanging off one side.

o Pans are well balanced and not too heavy. Want to flip those pancakes or toss those grilled onions, these pans give you fine control. They have been excellent for every use I have put them through.

o Lids are interchangeable and fit well! The lids even fit the skillets which is great if you are making grilled sandwiches. Note that lids may seem loose, especially when pans are cold. Remember that as pans get hot, their shape can change. Also, you do not want a perfect seal as you can make a bomb just by boiling water. Thus the lids need a little room to vent steam as well as accommodate changes in the shape of the pan.

If you have a gas range, consider using a flame deflector. This is good advice for ANY type of cookware.

Personally, I have owned the high quality non-stick stuff as well as stainless steel cookware. The non-stick stuff is quite over-rated, it does not clean up any more easily than the stainless pans. None of my non-stick Analon and Caliphon stuff has lasted more than six or eight years. The only stainless steel pot I ever had I got from my mother back in 1979. It is in great condition and looks like I bought it last month.

Unfortunately, some researches recently have linked some of the binding agents in non-stick cookware to cancer, so perhaps, to be safe, avoid the complex chemical treatments of the non-stick stuff and go for simple stainless steel.

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For those of you considering upgrading your cookware to professional grade stainless steel, look no further.

I've owned this 12 piece set for over a year, and can't offer enough praise. It still looks brand new (use Barkeepers Friend to clean it). It heats evenly and quickly, retains heat for a long time, sears and browns well without burning, handles comfortably, cleans up easily and looks great! I'm fortunate enough to have several different types of cookware to compare. My cookware includes: All-Clad, JC Penny Elite (5 ply Copper Core), Chefmate tri-ply, Hard Anodized non-stick and Cuisinart Tri-Ply Copper.

In my opinion, the All-Clad Stainless Steel line is much overated. Its great cookware, but has no rolled edges for easy pouring without making a mess, and I prefer the handles on just about any other brand. All-Clad's materials and construction are the same as the other premium lines, with the exception of the rolled edges. Incidentally, staunch supporters of All-Clad make inferences of inferiority when speaking of other brands such as Cuisinart, stating "its made in China". I have two All-Clad pans hanging on the pot rack right now, one made in China, and the other made in Indonesia. Most of their line is made in the USA, but premium cookware made overseas (including some of their own lines)is not inferior!

The Chefmate Tri-Ply in direct comparison to the Cuisinart cooks and handles about the same with a slight edge in cleaning ease. The Chefmate has a true mirror finished interior, but overall isn't as heavy duty. The Stainless Steel lids are also a lighter gauge. Its been discontinued.

The JC Penny Cooks Elite 5 ply Copper Core is fantastic cookware, and the equal of the All-Clad Copper Core in every way except the handle. The handle of the Elite is far superior to All-Clad's. In comparison to the Cuisinart, its very comparable in performance, but quite a bit heavier. Its original price was about 2-3 times the cost of the Cuisinart. It too has been discontinued.

The Hard Anodized non-stick cookware is fine, convenient to use, even heating, and now relegated to camping. It doesn't brown foods like Stainless Steel does. The non-stick fininsh WILL wear off, and render the cookware somewhat useless with daily use.

The Cuisinart Copper Tri-Ply is fantastic and really the only competitor for the Multiclad. It looks fantastic, cooks fantastic and gives you an ever so tiny advantage in temperature control over the Multiclad. The pots and pans are the same configuration as the Multiclad, albeit with an outer layer of Copper instead of Stainless Steel. The handles are different as well, but both styles of handles are cool to the touch and comfortable to hold. I enjoy the Copper and don't mind the few minutes it takes to polish, but if you don't want Copper and the extra effort, the Stainless is perfect. I only use the Copper when preparing special dishes for company or when I need specialty pans such as Sauciers for Risoto or sauces. Otherwise, I rely on the Multiclad for daily use.

Incidentally, I have no afilliation with any of the above cookware brands. I am in the food service industry (restaurant design and build) and have the opportunity to speak with many chefs. You'd be very surprised by how many of them use Cuisinart Multiclad or Copper tri-ply at home. I'd say its a 50-50 split between All-Clad and Cuisinart for their home use.

With so many high end brands after your hard earned dollar, you can buy similar quality and performance, but there is no better value than Cuisinart Multiclad. It's heirloom quality and will be your last cookware purchase.

Update:

I reviewed this cookware set some time ago, and thought it appropriate to write an update. I've been reading through all the reviews that have been written since my first review, and everyone seems to say "as good as All-Clad".

I DISAGREE!

Cuisinart Multi Clad isn't as good as All Clad; IT'S BETTER! I have both All Clad and Cuisinart as well as other brands of high end cookware including Tri Ply, Five Ply Copper Core, Copper etc. Here are my reasons for declaring Cuisinart the winner:

o Rolled edges on the Cuisinart eliminate dribbling down the side of the pan as experienced with the All Clad. All Clad top of the line Copper Core does have rolled edges as well, but their stainless line that directly competes with the Cuisinart does not. In daily use this makes a huge difference.

o The Cuisinart handles are far superior to the All Clad. The Cuisinart remain cool enough to touch without pot holders, and their ergonomic shape and angle are very comfortable when shaking, flipping, tossing and moving the pans. The All Clad handle is thrust up at a sharp angle which is somewhat awkward, and the handle itself is uncomfortable.

0 The Cuisinart can be used on induction ranges. The previous Multi Clad line wasn't designed for induction ranges, but the Multi Clad Pro is and therefore no more advantage to All Clad in this respect.

0 The Cuisinart line cleans up easier than All Clad. I've cooked eggs in both All Clad and Cuisinart pans using the same prep and cooking mediums. In fact, I've cooked one egg per pan using the same burner without altering the gas flow. Eggs stuck slightly in the All Clad, and not at all in the Cuisinart. The Cuisinart's interior is slightly more highly polished than All Clad, and I suspect this to be the reason. I was able to repeat the same results with skin-on chicken, fish and other troublesome foods. Deglazing and clean up is just easier with the Cuisinart.

o Some All Clad pieces don't come with lids! You have to purchase a lid as an option. I have nearly every piece of Cuisinart, and each came with a lid (skillets are the exception).

o Cost. Cost isn't the only factor here. However, if two products perform similarly and will last virtually forever, why pay way more for one based on brand prejudice? The product that performs the best should be the clear winner regardless of price. Therefore, Cuisinart wins outright, and the fact that the entire 12 piece set costs less than most All Clad single pieces makes it a remarkable value.

In conclusion, Cuisinart has better design and construction, both ergonomically and practically (rolled edges and handles), easier clean up and maintenance, and out performs All Clad.

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...with the right pot.

When I was checking into buying more high-quality cookware a few years ago, I was totally sold on AllClad, but then a friend of mine whose job at the time was to test kitchen cookware (if you can believe that!) told me I should check out Cuisinart's MultiClad line instead. Turns out it's had the same features (and add-ons) as the AllClad I was so in love with (stainless steel wrapped around an aluminum core), but without the major price tag that comes with the "AllClad" name.

So I got the Cuisinart line and absolutely have loved it ever since I've even been adding to my collection every year or so.

As far as comparing it to nonstick cookware...well, I still have some nonstick pieces, but I don't use them much a little bit of Pam Cooking Spray, and I haven't had any trouble. It also comes with great cleaning instructions...in fact, mine still look almost new even though they're a few years old.

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Update September 2010... I just wanted to add that I've had this set for almost 10 years of heavy use now and still love them. When I follow the cleaning instructions, they look new. I'm still adding to my collection and highly recommend.

Honest reviews on Cuisinart MCP-12 MultiClad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

This is a great set. I looked at Calphalon, All-Clad & Emeril (and others) before deciding on these. I have an All-Clad pan and yes they are great. But for a Stainless steel set like this, the All-Clad, Calphalon & Cusinart Multiclad are all made the same way. They all have stainless interior and exterior with an aluminum core that runs from the bottom up the sides. Cheaper sets like Cuisinart's Chefs Classic or Emeril's, only have the aluminum core on the bottom of the pan with little or no core on the sides.

The Multiclad, tri-ply, etc. sets will all perform basically the same way. However the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro is in my view an outstanding set of pans and they work great. I cannot see any reason to pay $100-$350 more for a set of pans that are basically the same thing. And, if you look at them closely, the Cuisinart Multiclad pans have a nicer more polished interior finish than Calphalon. That means they stick a little less and are easier to clean. The other benefit of stainless is it's dishwasher safe as well, but I usually hand wash. I've only had this set a few weeks but I've used most of the pans. And I've been so impressed by them that I have also purchased a few additional Cuisinart Multiclad pans to complete my set the 4 Qt. sauce pan, the 5.5 Qt. saute' pan and their double boiler. I like the 4 Qt. size when I want to boil water but don't want to use a big pot. And just to let everyone know, I also have an old Cuisinart 12.5" skillet and it still looks and works great. I've used it on gas and electric stoves and it just works great. One other thing about these pans, you don't need to set the heat above medium for most cooking and to boil water, I only need med-high. I'm very happy with Cuisinart and I know these are the last pans like this I'll ever need to buy. I do own a few non-stick pans as well but I really don't use them that often now that I have these.

Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Cuisinart MCP-12 MultiClad Pro Stainless Steel 12-Piece Cookware Set

My girlfriend and I did a huge amount of research when we were looking into buying a cookware set, and we found the Cuisinart Multiclad Pro to be by-far the best compromise between quality and price. They're substantially cheaper than, for example, the All-Clad MasterChef line, and they have a stainless steel exterior which is generally preferrable to aluminum for cleaning (dishwasher safe, among other things). We've been cooking hard with them for a few months now, and they've been awesome so far.

Notes:

1. Don't confuse these with the Cuisinart Chef's Classic line. Chef's Classic is cheaper, with thin, stainless-steel sides and an aluminum plate inside the bottom only. Multiclad Pro is fully clad -aluminum in the bottom and all the way up the sides for more even heating, sandwiched between stainless steel on the inside and outside for durability and corrosion resistance.

2. Neither of the Cuisinart lines will work on an induction cooktop. If you have an induction cooktop or you're thinking of getting one someday, you may want to look elsewhere -the All-Clad Stainless line might be your best bet, but they cost an arm and a leg.

Scanpan IQ Fry Pan Reviews

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $133.00
Sale Price: $99.95
Today's Bonus: 25% Off

Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program This pan has been very very good. It is very well constructed and has an even heat inductance. It's heavy, but has a very comfortable handle and the non-stick surface has been the best I've ever used. This is certainly the most expensive pan I've ever owned, so I cannot comment on its performance next to other pans in it's price range, but it FAR out performs my previous fry pan (a $50 Calphalon pan from Target). In the end, my only real concern is the price. So far, I really do feel it's been worth it, but only time will tell. If the pan holds up well under extended use then it will prove to be a wonderful product worth the high price.

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Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program I've owned a few Scanpan pans over the years. I also recently purchased a new ceramic glass top range and have slowly been replacing my cookware. Scanpan makes some of the best, long-lasting pans on the market. The IQ 10.25-inch fry pan is no different.

Quality and craftsmanship is something that Scanpan takes seriously. The pan is Pfoa-free and while it's safe for metal utensils, I've never used them on my non-stick skillets. I always use silicon or plastic utensils and I always hand wash them. Even though they almost always say dishwasher safe I just never like putting expensive items like this in the dishwasher. If you keep care of it, the pan will last a long time. With that said, the pan has gotten a bunch of use and has cooked all types of food. It has held up considerably well. It's not easily scratched and surface (inside and outside) maintains its finish.

I've not had any problems with food sticking in this pan or any other Scanpan that I've owned. Cooks evenly and works on smooth glass top surfaces (as well as most other cooking surfaces). Clean up is a snap.

The fry pan is oven safe up to 500 degrees. I find the weight of this particular pan to be of medium weight. Certainly not heavy, but not the lightest I've ever held. On the lighter end, somewhere in the middle. Of course, something of this quality is bound to have some weight to it, but it's still easy to handle and use. My only gripe with Scanpan are the sizes of some of their pans. At 10.25-inch, you'll likely find that most of your existing lids are not going to work.

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Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program This is a solid, heavy pan. Strange instructions to heat first then add oil. Not sure why. Heats very fast. Handle is comfortable but I don't love the plastic feel. Although heavy, I did acquire a dent pretty quickly...maybe one of the kids dropped it. The non-stick is excellent. I would highly recommend this.

Honest reviews on Scanpan IQ Fry Pan

Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program Love this pan!

Heats evenly, cooks beautifully with oil or dry -even made pancakes to test the heat conductivity, cooked them perfectly! Even better than my griddle designed to cook pancakes. This pan would be ideal for crepes also.

This is a fairly shallow pan, lower edges/sides than any other saute pan I have ever owned, I really love it -easier to remove eggs, pancakes and other delicate items. While the sides of pan are not deep enough to stir fry large amounts of veggies like fresh spinach or chard, it works great for most everything else including onions, asparagus, bell peppers, eggs and sauces.

The handle has a nice padded grip, easy to hold and the overall weight of the pan is very good, not so heavy it gives me carpel tunnel, but sturdy and solid quality -the thickness of the bottom of the pan keeps the base perfectly flat, even tho my oven burner isn't! And the non-stick coating may be the best quality I have ever used.

Excellent!

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Customer review from the Amazon Vine Program This has got to be the nicest non-stick surface I've ever used. I am not a master chef by any means. I like a lot of things extra well done and sometimes I accidentally burn stuff and have to scrub the charred food from my pans. The non-stick surface is like something that arrived from another planet. I can practically use one pass of a paper towel and get all the crud out of the pan. Unlike other non-stick surfaces, it's fairly easy to brown your food without adding a ton of butter. It's the only non-stick cookware I've ever used that advertises that the use of metal utensils is fine. We don't have an induction stove, so I cannot review that functionality but I've been very impressed with this light weight, but very durable pan. My other pans' lids fit this one perfectly as well. A fine piece of cookware for any kitchen.

Buy Signature Housewares Sorrento 9-Inch by 13-Inch Stoneware Baking

Customer Ratings:

I bought this to go with the Sorrento dish set. It matches the pattern and color exactly. One thing to note, however, the iron rack shown in the picture is not included with the dish.

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I bought the dish only, hoping to replace one I bought from Costco that was broken during a move. It does not fit in the iron holder. Still, this is a great dish, deep and heavy! and I use it often.

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My wife will be disappointed. It is a nice dish, but she specifically asked for a 9X13 dish, and I ordered it because it was listed as that size. It is larger in both dimensions.

Honest reviews on Signature Housewares Sorrento 9-Inch by 13-Inch Stoneware Baking

Received two so far. Both were actually larger than stated plus broken due to poor packing. Failed to meet my expectations!

Review of Berndes 12-Piece Tradition Cookware Set

Customer Ratings:
List Price: $399.99
Sale Price: $316.95
Today's Bonus: 21% Off

I placed two orders for the 12 peice set and both arrived with a handle broken off the top lid in the

box . The problem might be a 12 pc set in a 7 pcs set box . It appears the label is the only thing changed

between the two sets when packed out .

I did not want to return the 3rd set so I am waiting for the 7 piece set to arrive hopefully without any damage .

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Buy Lava Oval Series Enameled Cast-Iron Dutch Oven, 5-Quart

Customer Ratings:

This Dutch Oven is such high quality!

I bought this Dutch Oven in orange and the color is absolutely beautiful. Everything I cook in this pot heats evenly, and clean up is very easy for all of the one-pot meals we use it for.

It looks great sitting out on my stove and I know will be a family staple for decades to come. Don't be tempted by knock off Dutch Ovens, they are made in mass & do not even compare to the quality of Lava's cookware.

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Fox Run Madeleine Pan Reviews

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I borrowed this item from a friend after he had made several amazing batches of madeleines for his coworkers! It was so easy to use and came out great every time....even when not adhering to the strict recipe. I would love a nonstick one simply because it looks more elegant(costs $10 more), but as long as you spray the grooves with PAM, the madeleines pop right out! Although time consuming, melting butter and spreading it throughout the molds adds to the flavor 200%!

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My family loves madeleines but never made them because I needed the right pan. I followed Julia Child's recipe and made

sure all the molds were well buttered. I tried the flour-butter paint and plain butter paint and they both gave excellent

results. I would recommend these pans to anyone!Great pans+easy recipe=wonderful madeleines!!

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Works perfectly with my French recipe for Madeleines. I used Baker's Joy spray and when baked, the Madeleines fell out perfectly. I love it!!!!!

Honest reviews on Fox Run Madeleine Pan

I ordered two of these pans recently to bake spiced Madaleine cookies to impress our guests. Both pans were in perfect condition upon their arrival. I used them both for my first batch. Per other reviews, I buttered the pans (letting the butter sit on the pan during preparation) before pouring in the batter. Doing so allowed these pans to create the perfect Madaleine cookie! They were wonderfully moist and spongey with just a little crisp around the edges and bottom. The only note I have is that because these pans are tinned, be sure to hand wash and immediately dry them to prevent rusting. Luckily, they are very easy to clean so no soaking is required. I would definately recommend these pans for making impressive Madaleine cookies.

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I really love these pans. I just made a batch of madeleines and they came out perfect. Golden crisp on the outside and with the classic madeleine humps. Beautiful. I buttered them really well, put them in the fridge while the madeleines chilled, for about an hour and a half, then filled them and straight into a preheated, hot oven they went. Clean up was a breeze. I just let them sit under water for a minute and with a sponge and soap wiped them clean. No scrubbing necessary. Not a cookie stuck!

The only drawback, slight imperfection on craftsmanship. While washing I grabbed one of the pans from the bottom and felt a sharp pain on my finger. I saw that I had a long deep cut. Wondering how, I searched all of the dished in my sink (not many) and I knew it had to be the pans. Looking carefully, I found that one of the ends had not been curled propely and this was the culprit. Be careful when handling. I'll just take a pair of pliers and finish the job myself.

Anyhow, great pans!!! Highly recommended. Enjoy.