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This wish is great. We got it as an alternative to a metal one because we didn't want to scratch up our new pans. It works great.
Showing posts with label pink cookware set. Show all posts
Showing posts with label pink cookware set. Show all posts
Sunday, December 28, 2014
Review of Amco Nylon Whisk
I don't need my kitchen tools to look perfect (although I think this whisk does look great), I just need them to work well. Amco's whisk does work well. The stainless steel handle feels good in my hands, the nylon whisk is flexible yet strong. I can prepare all my sauces and gravies in my non-stick cookware without worry. I like this product!
Friday, December 26, 2014
Review of Fiesta 18-Ounce Jumbo Bowl
List Price: $11.50
Sale Price: $6.50
Today's Bonus: 43% Off
These bowls were everything I hoped they would be...they are a beautiful, bold red color
The bowls are about 4 1/2 inches across the top and almost 3 1/2 inches deep so they hold a large serving of soup or chili.
I love the shape of the bowls not too wide, but deep something you can hold in one hand (easy to drink out of also!)
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I needed some bowls for a party where I was serving soup. These were perfect size, not too big, not too small and in a shape that was good for picking up and getting the last drop. Unlike most soup dishes that are flatter, these are nice and deep and perfectly palm size. Great for chili or other soupy type menus.Good deal on price too, perfect for what I needed.
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This is my first experience with Fiesta Ware. I love the vibrant colors, and the finishes are excellent. Service with Amazon is exceptional as usual.Honest reviews on Fiesta 18-Ounce Jumbo Bowl
I like these, however i wish they were bigger. i probably wanted the gusto bowls instead!Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Fiesta 18-Ounce Jumbo Bowl
A really great addition to our Fiesta collection. This bowl is the perfect size for soup, ice cream, etc. Also great as a small mixing bowl when cooking.Saturday, December 20, 2014
Review of Cuisinart 14-Piece Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized Cookware Set
List Price: $299.99
Sale Price: $194.00
Today's Bonus: 35% Off
My wife kept complaining on how whichever cookware she buys none last for long and that the quality is not good. So I was put in charge on finding a good set that will do the trick so I kept on looking on Amazon.com for a set that is not over 200 dollars but is top notch and guess what? I nailed it! She is so happy with them its amazing. Finally finally I can go into the kitchen and talk to her without hearing about how bad the kitchenware is today's days.
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I love these pots and pans! I have used them several times since getting them and have not been disappointed at all! They cook even and clean up is a breeze! You can cook scrambled eggs or even omlets in them without having to worry about them sticking to the pans. It is an easy wipe out with a soft cloth to get the cooked eggs out. All of the pots and pans are very well made as well. My only complaint is that the handles on the lids do get hot when you frying stuff in the pans.UPDATE9/15/2013I bought these pots on February 10, 2013. I was in love with them until I recently discovered my large frying pan started having problems with the nonstick liner coming off around the edges. I contacted Cuisinart and it took them THREE days just to respond to my email. I thought that since these are supposed to have a 1 year warranty on them, I would get it replaced with no problem. However, I received an email that basically in many not so nice words that if (mine were not!!) these pots were used on HIGH heat (cuisinart said I would have to PAY to have them inspected to determine defect, etc$7-$15 per item) that they would not be replaced. I was also informed that I would have to pay AGAIN to ship my pots and pans to them and also pay for return S&H. Whats the point of these having a warranty if you cannot use it? I have literally babied (soft dish rag, no metal utensils, no soaking in hot/warm water, immediately cleaned after use. etc.) my pots and pans in hopes that they would last a lifetime but I guess I was wrong!! I am NOT happy especially with how much I paid for this set and even more so that this was my first NEW set of pots and pans that I have ever received/bought in the 8 years of marriage!! I am so disappointed that these are starting to mess up after just 6 months of twice per week use!
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I own this cookware set for more than 6 months now and I am absolutely love it. It cooks food evenly with low medium heat and cleaning is so pleasant and I would definitely recommended this to a friend.Honest reviews on Cuisinart 14-Piece Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized Cookware Set
Even though a bit too big for a normal household(you might not use the whole set), I believe it was an investment well made. The pans are stronga tad too heavy, perhaps. The heat spreads evenly, heats up quick,The handle bars are very strong, with two bolts attached to the panmaking sure that the handle won't rotate in its own axis.
I love 'em.
Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Cuisinart 14-Piece Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized Cookware Set
I did alot of research and there are so many combinations of cookware your head will swim! Anodized is far superior to mid grade hard enamel. I only wanted to buy one more set. I got delivery the next day and didn't have to pay special, they just did it, awesome! I love my new set!Saturday, November 22, 2014
Buy Bodum Chambord Enameled Cast Iron Wok With Glass Lid
I purchased a cookbook the Steamy Kitchen Cookbook by Jaden Hair. In this book she reviews the various types of woks and how to select the correct design for your stove. She highly recommended a cast iron wok and when I was looking through Amazon's options this wok stood out because it is not only functional, but the enameled outside, makes it a stunning piece of cookware. I've never cooked with cast iron and found that this wok is perfect for the Asian cooking I am learning. Heat distribution is even. The lid actually works for steaming and there is a rack that can be used to keep the food warm, while cooking other items. The wok is very heavy just be aware of that fact and you will love your new wok.
The secret to wok cooking is high temperature. The problem with most homes is that most gas ranges go up to maybe 20,000 BTU, with some high end ranges going a little bit higher. Electric ranges putting out 1500 watts really aren't that great either. Higher price point home ranges such as Viking, Wolf, Kenmore Pro, and KitchenAid all offer ranges with higher BTU gas burners that could work very well if you want to spend that kind of money. The Wok Shop in San Francisco sells a Hurricane Portable Stove which can be hooked up to propane tanks or natural gas, and puts out 35,000 BTU.
What has worked for me is to pair a cast iron wok with an induction cooktop. My basic set-up is a camping type cast iron wok with a round bowl on the inside and a flat bottom. Lodge Pro Logic 14" Cast Iron Wok, Black, Bayou Classic 7437 12-1/2-Inch Cast Iron Wok, Mr. Bar-B-Q Cast-Iron Wok, and Stansport Cast Iron Wok or Stir Fry Skillet will all work fine. I have the Stansport model. You can even try the Joyce Chen 23-0001, 14 inch Lightweight Cast Iron Wok. Mine is paired with a Max Burton 6000 1800-Watt Portable Induction Cooktop, Black, but any of induction cooktop will do.
The secret here is that the cast iron gets very hot, very fast with induction. The only thing that is better is to use a cast iron wok over an open flame; like on a campfire when you're actually camping, a UniFlame WAD820SP 34-Inch Slate & Marble Firepit with Copper Accents in your yard, or a couple of logs lit in your Weber 751001 Gold One-Touch 22-1/2-Inch Kettle Grill, Black. It will get hot enough that you will see smoke rising from the wok, and your fried rice will actually sizzle, pop, and jump in the wok. That is "wok hei". Wok Hei is the flavour, tastes, and "essence" imparted by a hot wok on food during stir frying. To impart wok hei, the food must be cooked in a seasoned wok over a high flame while being stirred and tossed quickly. This is the secret to a good dry-fried beef chow fun or fried rice that doesn't stick and clump. With good wok hei, you could pop corn.
This wok has a ceramic glazed exterior much like you would find on very expensive La Creuset items. The exterior is extremely easy to clean, and should not require much beyond wiping with a wet sponge. As for cleaning the inside, do not use soap. In Chinese restaurants, the woks don't leave the range. The cook simply adds hot water, turns the flame up, and brushes the inside with a Paderno World Cuisine Traditional Bamboo Wok Brush, 10-Inch. The excess water is brushed out towards the backsplash where it runs into a gutter. The wok heats up again, and is wiped with a clean towel. Now it's ready to make the next dish. It is simply not practical to fling water against the wall and let it pool up under and behind your stove at home. So carry the wok over to the sink, wipe it up with a sponge or brush under running water, wipe with a clean dry towel, and return it to the stovetop. When the wok heats up again, add a thin layer of oil and let it cool off.
Now why did I buy this if I've already got a regular cast iron wok? Because I'm stupid. My girlfriend liked the pretty color, and I couldn't say no. But I've got to say that this is not all fluff. It may come in pretty colors, but cooks just as well as my other woks. Just don't take it out to the back yard, build a fire, and cook over an open flame. It's just too pretty for that.
Real Chinese cooks will want a Joyce Chen 31-0066, Nonstick Steel Dome Lid for 14-Inch Wok, Joyce Chen 26-0012, 3-Piece Bamboo Steamer, 12-Inch, and a Weber Smokey Joe charcoal grate (approximately 10"). The bamboo steamer is self explanatory. You can put the charcoal grate into the wok, fill with water to within an inch of it, then place plates of food on the grate, cover with the dome lid, and steam.
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I cook Chinese food everyday so wok is my most important cookware. Had purchase many nonstick wok through the year but always end up buying different wok the next time because the nonstick surface either peel or scratch later. I decided to give this one a try. I just love it! It is very heavy so it's kind of hard to wash but it balance good when I stir fry, I don't need to hold the handle as I cook or pour the food in the plate, and it works very good for stir fry. I'm not good with word in English, but I can say this is the BEST wok I've ever own.Best Deals for Bodum Chambord Enameled Cast Iron Wok With Glass Lid
I've had this (or maybe an earlier version) for around 10 years(?), and it's fantastic. It's solid, very heavy (doesn't move even with vigorous use on a smoothtop), cleans up well (avoid soap!), even looks nice. The mass of cast iron is a big win when stir-frying; the temp won't drop as much when new food is added. The flat bottom works great with electric ranges/smoothtops, and also with induction.Honest reviews on Bodum Chambord Enameled Cast Iron Wok With Glass Lid
For those of us who are fans of Chinese food, we know that most dishes are done in a wok. Steaming, searing, stir frying, deep frying, braising, and even soups are made in the wok. The wok itself, is simple enough. Either carbon steel or cast iron. But as Danny Kaye found out, any reputable Chinese restaurant has a special kitchen built around the wok; and that wok, and it's own special kitchen, comes from Robert Yick in San Francisco. These woks are up to 30" in diameter and the burners can fire up to 150,000 BTU.The secret to wok cooking is high temperature. The problem with most homes is that most gas ranges go up to maybe 20,000 BTU, with some high end ranges going a little bit higher. Electric ranges putting out 1500 watts really aren't that great either. Higher price point home ranges such as Viking, Wolf, Kenmore Pro, and KitchenAid all offer ranges with higher BTU gas burners that could work very well if you want to spend that kind of money. The Wok Shop in San Francisco sells a Hurricane Portable Stove which can be hooked up to propane tanks or natural gas, and puts out 35,000 BTU.
What has worked for me is to pair a cast iron wok with an induction cooktop. My basic set-up is a camping type cast iron wok with a round bowl on the inside and a flat bottom. Lodge Pro Logic 14" Cast Iron Wok, Black, Bayou Classic 7437 12-1/2-Inch Cast Iron Wok, Mr. Bar-B-Q Cast-Iron Wok, and Stansport Cast Iron Wok or Stir Fry Skillet will all work fine. I have the Stansport model. You can even try the Joyce Chen 23-0001, 14 inch Lightweight Cast Iron Wok. Mine is paired with a Max Burton 6000 1800-Watt Portable Induction Cooktop, Black, but any of induction cooktop will do.
The secret here is that the cast iron gets very hot, very fast with induction. The only thing that is better is to use a cast iron wok over an open flame; like on a campfire when you're actually camping, a UniFlame WAD820SP 34-Inch Slate & Marble Firepit with Copper Accents in your yard, or a couple of logs lit in your Weber 751001 Gold One-Touch 22-1/2-Inch Kettle Grill, Black. It will get hot enough that you will see smoke rising from the wok, and your fried rice will actually sizzle, pop, and jump in the wok. That is "wok hei". Wok Hei is the flavour, tastes, and "essence" imparted by a hot wok on food during stir frying. To impart wok hei, the food must be cooked in a seasoned wok over a high flame while being stirred and tossed quickly. This is the secret to a good dry-fried beef chow fun or fried rice that doesn't stick and clump. With good wok hei, you could pop corn.
This wok has a ceramic glazed exterior much like you would find on very expensive La Creuset items. The exterior is extremely easy to clean, and should not require much beyond wiping with a wet sponge. As for cleaning the inside, do not use soap. In Chinese restaurants, the woks don't leave the range. The cook simply adds hot water, turns the flame up, and brushes the inside with a Paderno World Cuisine Traditional Bamboo Wok Brush, 10-Inch. The excess water is brushed out towards the backsplash where it runs into a gutter. The wok heats up again, and is wiped with a clean towel. Now it's ready to make the next dish. It is simply not practical to fling water against the wall and let it pool up under and behind your stove at home. So carry the wok over to the sink, wipe it up with a sponge or brush under running water, wipe with a clean dry towel, and return it to the stovetop. When the wok heats up again, add a thin layer of oil and let it cool off.
Now why did I buy this if I've already got a regular cast iron wok? Because I'm stupid. My girlfriend liked the pretty color, and I couldn't say no. But I've got to say that this is not all fluff. It may come in pretty colors, but cooks just as well as my other woks. Just don't take it out to the back yard, build a fire, and cook over an open flame. It's just too pretty for that.
Real Chinese cooks will want a Joyce Chen 31-0066, Nonstick Steel Dome Lid for 14-Inch Wok, Joyce Chen 26-0012, 3-Piece Bamboo Steamer, 12-Inch, and a Weber Smokey Joe charcoal grate (approximately 10"). The bamboo steamer is self explanatory. You can put the charcoal grate into the wok, fill with water to within an inch of it, then place plates of food on the grate, cover with the dome lid, and steam.
Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Bodum Chambord Enameled Cast Iron Wok With Glass Lid
Just got this last week. The black color one for $61, very good price. You need to check Amazon constantly for price update. The wok is good quality, and relatively lighter than other cast iron wok(like lodge). Use it once on a smooth top, good result. In order to get the "wok hay" you need to preheat at least 5 minutes. I use hot water and pad to clean before next dishes.Saturday, November 15, 2014
Buy Progressive International Collapsible Cupcake and Cake Carrier
I bought this a few weeks ago because I'm always making cupcakes and never have an easy way to bring them anywhere. Most cupcake holders hold 12 cupcakes or crush the frosting. The other problem is that most holders take up so much room when you need to store them that it's not worth having them in the first place. This holds 24 cupcakes and has enough headroom to prevent frosting mishaps. It also has an ingenious collapsible design to allow it to take up less than half its original height. I'll break down the positives and negatives:
POSITIVES:
Collapsible, space-saving design
Holds 12-24 cupcakes you choose! Use one tray for 12, 2 trays for 24.
Included cupcake trays are nice to look at, easy to clean, and have finger-holes to allow easier removal of individual cupcakes
Cupcakes have enough headroom on both levels for mounds of frosting or decorations
Use it with cake instead of cupcakes if you want by just removing the trays altogether.
NEGATIVES:
The included cupcake trays don't interlock with the base in any way. They actually slide around quite a bit until you put the cover on. This creates a problem for loading and for unloading. If they had made a small groove that the tray could have sat in or a way to lock them in place without the cover, it would have increased the stability of the trays for loading and unloading. NOTE: They don't move when you put the lid on, only with the lid off!
I doubt the handle is going to be strong enough for holding heavy cakes. I don't honestly expect to hold a cake caddy by the handle, though some cakes can weigh a lot and I'm not going to trust a handle with my time-consuming precious baked masterpiece. I always carry from the bottom. Still, the handle has the very important job on this cake caddy of being able to expand the thing from collapsed to full.
Requires a fair amount of strength to uncollapse.
Kind of ugly. The red band is really not a nice color. I would have preferred it in white. It really goes with nothing it's not Christmas red, it's more of a maroon, but even then, it's not REALLY maroon, either. It's just not pretty and it looks dated now, it's going to look even more dated in a few more years.
Cupcakes could flip sideways/over if you're not careful. I had no mishaps bringing cupcakes where they needed to go because I was very careful, but bringing the cupcakes home I was less careful and some of the leftovers flipped on their sides.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this. The trays are made of high-quality plastic that doesn't stain (black food coloring sat on it for 7 days and came right off without even any soap). The locks feel secure. The space-saving design sets it apart from every other cake caddy on the market. And it can hold 24 cupcakes without much trouble. Even though it's ugly and the trays slide around initially, I think it's a pretty good product.
The carrier is cleverly designed, but it's cheaply made. The raised cupcake tray stands on slightly wobbly stilts, attached to the lower cupcake tray. The lower cupcake tray doesn't actually attach to the base. As a another commenter pointed out, the situation is stabilized by the lid being in place, so it shouldn't be a problem if you're careful while loading it up.
The collapsing action is okay. The red rubber in the middle folds down so the carrier is only half height for storage, but it's firm enough that it shouldn't accidentally fold down and crush your baked goods, though you should not try to rest anything on top of the carrier. It would have been better if there were stabilizers to keep this from being an issue, but it's a small risk. (I haven't been using it long enough to know how much the rubber will soften with use.)
The only terrible feature for me was the one that left me standing in my driveway mourning ruined cupcakes when the cheap handle broke the first time I used it. It wasn't even full. There's really no excuse for this. The carrier is designed to be carried by the handle. With a replacement handle, the carrier is a good one. If not for the lousy handle, the carrier would have been worth another star or even two, but as it is, it is a product that has ruined many people's days and will ruin many more.
I probably wont buy any more products from Progressive. I wont trust that they don't have any other vital and stupid flaws.
I have to say I'm very happy I did. I have not had any signifigant issues with this carrier. The cavet is though, I've never tried carrying it by the handle and double, triple check the locks. I would recommend not carrying this by the handle.
I have used this close to 20 times to transport cupcakes to work and parties. Cupcakes are very easy to manage in this carrier I have not had any lost "frosting" or decorations ruined and I'm known to load the frosting and decorations on the cupcakes! I even used the carrier (minus the cupcake trays) to transport a petite wedding cake (high top cake for bride and groom). I used this for my cake decorating classes all summer too. Every time it worked as designed.
There are two issues I have with this carrier I would share with someone contemplating purchasing this. First, as noted by others, the cupcake trays do not lock into the bottom of the carrier. It's snug once the carrier is locked but I did have an almost wreck when the cupcake tray moved a little on me when I was filling the bottom tray. The second issue would be the "collapsable" feature and this is more of a worry / concern. I've been watching it very carefully and the carrier does not show any wear; however, I'm nervous this material will eventually give preventing its use and/or comprimise the structural integrity of the carrier. I try not over "collapse" / store without collapsing it if I'm going to use it within a week which goes against the main reason I purchased this one. Again, this is just a fear at this point.
I would love to have seen this with a mini-cupcake tray option too. They have been pretty hard to transport without lossing a few each time.
Overall I would recommend purchasing this carrier if you're a frequent cupcake / round cake baker with the disclaimer don't carry it by the handle and double check the locks whenever you start to transport something in this carrier.
HOWEVER, this is most certainly better than any other carrier I have tried myself and I've had severalthey just don't carry so many cupcakes or ones that have piles of beautifully decorated cupcakes without compressing and messing up all your work! The stands are great for display as well if it's not a particularly fancy eventif so I would transfer them to a tree etc...but quite nice for taking to your office etc.can just take the top off and they are beautifully ready for people to take them out one by one without messing up the others due to the finger cutouts that others mentioned.... and Yes a cake WILL slide around and ruin your work as well as cardboard certainly slides on plastic but I have found this to be a concern on any carrier and I just cut out a piece of rug backing or the same design of shelf liner or the like. It works perfect and you don't see it!!
All in all I give this at least 4 stars and the only reason it's not five is because for five stars I expect shear perfection :)
Hope this helps!!
psnot sure why one person said it was ugly? I don't really care what the cover looks like to begin with but I will say that I have actually gotten several compliments on it! :)
POSITIVES:
Collapsible, space-saving design
Holds 12-24 cupcakes you choose! Use one tray for 12, 2 trays for 24.
Included cupcake trays are nice to look at, easy to clean, and have finger-holes to allow easier removal of individual cupcakes
Cupcakes have enough headroom on both levels for mounds of frosting or decorations
Use it with cake instead of cupcakes if you want by just removing the trays altogether.
NEGATIVES:
The included cupcake trays don't interlock with the base in any way. They actually slide around quite a bit until you put the cover on. This creates a problem for loading and for unloading. If they had made a small groove that the tray could have sat in or a way to lock them in place without the cover, it would have increased the stability of the trays for loading and unloading. NOTE: They don't move when you put the lid on, only with the lid off!
I doubt the handle is going to be strong enough for holding heavy cakes. I don't honestly expect to hold a cake caddy by the handle, though some cakes can weigh a lot and I'm not going to trust a handle with my time-consuming precious baked masterpiece. I always carry from the bottom. Still, the handle has the very important job on this cake caddy of being able to expand the thing from collapsed to full.
Requires a fair amount of strength to uncollapse.
Kind of ugly. The red band is really not a nice color. I would have preferred it in white. It really goes with nothing it's not Christmas red, it's more of a maroon, but even then, it's not REALLY maroon, either. It's just not pretty and it looks dated now, it's going to look even more dated in a few more years.
Cupcakes could flip sideways/over if you're not careful. I had no mishaps bringing cupcakes where they needed to go because I was very careful, but bringing the cupcakes home I was less careful and some of the leftovers flipped on their sides.
Overall, I would definitely recommend this. The trays are made of high-quality plastic that doesn't stain (black food coloring sat on it for 7 days and came right off without even any soap). The locks feel secure. The space-saving design sets it apart from every other cake caddy on the market. And it can hold 24 cupcakes without much trouble. Even though it's ugly and the trays slide around initially, I think it's a pretty good product.
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If you buy this carrier, replace the handle even if you don't plan to carry it by the handle. The provided handle is a tragic accident waiting to happen. Just make sure that the replacement handle is designed so it wont slide down into the carrier and drape in your frosting.The carrier is cleverly designed, but it's cheaply made. The raised cupcake tray stands on slightly wobbly stilts, attached to the lower cupcake tray. The lower cupcake tray doesn't actually attach to the base. As a another commenter pointed out, the situation is stabilized by the lid being in place, so it shouldn't be a problem if you're careful while loading it up.
The collapsing action is okay. The red rubber in the middle folds down so the carrier is only half height for storage, but it's firm enough that it shouldn't accidentally fold down and crush your baked goods, though you should not try to rest anything on top of the carrier. It would have been better if there were stabilizers to keep this from being an issue, but it's a small risk. (I haven't been using it long enough to know how much the rubber will soften with use.)
The only terrible feature for me was the one that left me standing in my driveway mourning ruined cupcakes when the cheap handle broke the first time I used it. It wasn't even full. There's really no excuse for this. The carrier is designed to be carried by the handle. With a replacement handle, the carrier is a good one. If not for the lousy handle, the carrier would have been worth another star or even two, but as it is, it is a product that has ruined many people's days and will ruin many more.
I probably wont buy any more products from Progressive. I wont trust that they don't have any other vital and stupid flaws.
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I bought this for a cake decorating class I was taking. I used it twice and when I was carrying my beautifully decorated cake out of class the second night the carrier handle broke and the cake dropped to the floor. If I would have known the handle was made so badly I wouldn't have bought this item. Don't waste your money!Honest reviews on Progressive International Collapsible Cupcake and Cake Carrier
I wasn't into cupcakes until a little challenge came up at work about 18 months ago and since then I've been experimenting ever since with about 400+ cupcakes baked under my belt. I realized I needed a carrier for transporting cupcakes to work and parties since the hobby seemed to be sticking to me for more than a minute. I preferred the collapsable design but the mixed reviews of this carrier prevented me from purchasing it until about 6 months ago.I have to say I'm very happy I did. I have not had any signifigant issues with this carrier. The cavet is though, I've never tried carrying it by the handle and double, triple check the locks. I would recommend not carrying this by the handle.
I have used this close to 20 times to transport cupcakes to work and parties. Cupcakes are very easy to manage in this carrier I have not had any lost "frosting" or decorations ruined and I'm known to load the frosting and decorations on the cupcakes! I even used the carrier (minus the cupcake trays) to transport a petite wedding cake (high top cake for bride and groom). I used this for my cake decorating classes all summer too. Every time it worked as designed.
There are two issues I have with this carrier I would share with someone contemplating purchasing this. First, as noted by others, the cupcake trays do not lock into the bottom of the carrier. It's snug once the carrier is locked but I did have an almost wreck when the cupcake tray moved a little on me when I was filling the bottom tray. The second issue would be the "collapsable" feature and this is more of a worry / concern. I've been watching it very carefully and the carrier does not show any wear; however, I'm nervous this material will eventually give preventing its use and/or comprimise the structural integrity of the carrier. I try not over "collapse" / store without collapsing it if I'm going to use it within a week which goes against the main reason I purchased this one. Again, this is just a fear at this point.
I would love to have seen this with a mini-cupcake tray option too. They have been pretty hard to transport without lossing a few each time.
Overall I would recommend purchasing this carrier if you're a frequent cupcake / round cake baker with the disclaimer don't carry it by the handle and double check the locks whenever you start to transport something in this carrier.
Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Progressive International Collapsible Cupcake and Cake Carrier
First off I DO agree that the handle was in retrospect rather cheap as it broke for me too... BUT not until I had transported at least 3 heavy fully decorated cakes and several times with cupcakesI fully agree with many here that mentioned that you would (or should) NEVER rely on the handlea plastic one at thatto transport something that you spent SO much time and love on and that is basically irreplaceable unless you SOMEhow have the time to start alll over again :) I am SO sorry for those of you who experienced such a nightmare! But I have always tried to learn a valuble lesson from such disasters! This is a very very heavy dutyand heavy carrier so the handle clearly wouldn't be enough to hold it when full of something so heavy and dense as cakes/cupcakes....I always (thankfully) held it by the bottom and used the handle to help hold it upright and steady. My handle DID however break though when my husband used it to pull out the top from the collapsed state. I say above that I wish I had read these reviews to know this would certainly happen so we could have 'babied' it for a bit longer. He assures me we can fix it as you do need something to pull it out from the collapsed position.HOWEVER, this is most certainly better than any other carrier I have tried myself and I've had severalthey just don't carry so many cupcakes or ones that have piles of beautifully decorated cupcakes without compressing and messing up all your work! The stands are great for display as well if it's not a particularly fancy eventif so I would transfer them to a tree etc...but quite nice for taking to your office etc.can just take the top off and they are beautifully ready for people to take them out one by one without messing up the others due to the finger cutouts that others mentioned.... and Yes a cake WILL slide around and ruin your work as well as cardboard certainly slides on plastic but I have found this to be a concern on any carrier and I just cut out a piece of rug backing or the same design of shelf liner or the like. It works perfect and you don't see it!!
All in all I give this at least 4 stars and the only reason it's not five is because for five stars I expect shear perfection :)
Hope this helps!!
psnot sure why one person said it was ugly? I don't really care what the cover looks like to begin with but I will say that I have actually gotten several compliments on it! :)
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Discount Rivierra Embroidered Design Tablecloths
List Price: $49.99
Sale Price: $44.00
Today's Bonus: 12% Off
This is a beautiful tablecloth. We get lots of compliments on it. It drapes really nice, the material is on the thicker side and the stitching is really pretty.
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This tablecloth was much prettier than the picture. It was top quality. Got it for my sister, for Easter celebration, and was so beautiful on the table. She and everyone ther loved it!Best Deals for Rivierra Embroidered Design Tablecloths
This tablecloth is of amazing quality for the money. It is exactly as pictured and sized. Highly recommend this product.Honest reviews on Rivierra Embroidered Design Tablecloths
I was excited to receive this tablecloth based on the rave reviews. However, the picture did not show the embroidery in much detail. I was expecting fine detailed embroidery, but instead there are very large stitches that look rather clunky. Sad to say, I sent it back and now will look for something I can see in person before buying.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Rivierra Embroidered Design Tablecloths
This is a lovely tablecloth, but not as nice as I had imagined. It really was a good piece for the price.Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Mauviel M'Heritage M150B 6526.22 8.6 Inch Round Frying Pan Reviews
List Price: $215.00
Sale Price: $214.95
Today's Bonus: $0.05 Off
Beautiful, impeccable quality. A perfect size for a good fried steak (or anything) or a spanish omelette, which is what I use it for most of the time. If you live alone, this is your perfect frying pan for quick, single serving foods.
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Sometimes I just have to cook on medium heat. When I do, I reach for a pan with a high copper content. I finally decided to turn the copper content all the way up to "11." So I bought a Mauviel M'Heritage M150B 8.6" Round Frying pan.The Mauviel M'Heritage M150B 8.6" Round Frying pan works great for a little light duty cooking. These pans are a decent compromise in that they are copper pans that have a thin stainless steel liner. Stainless steel and copper have wildly different reactions to salts and acids, so you'll want to watch what you are doing. Just read the directions that come with the pans and it'll last forever.
Wednesday, September 10, 2014
Best Medelco 12 Cup Millennium Style Carafe, Black GL312 Deals
List Price: $12.99
Sale Price: $10.99
Today's Bonus: 15% Off
We broke our carafe on our old Gevalia C-60A coffee maker. It's not a common model, and we almost bought a new coffee maker because of the hassle of finding a replacement. However, took a gamble and bought this carafe, though our model wasn't listed as working with this carafe and it fits!!
You'll need to use the short lid adapter, included in package. The fit was still a little tight, though workable my husband got creative though, and shaved a millimeter off the top of the plastic lid with an exacto knife. Now it fits in place perfectly! Giving all 5 stars to product, though, since the company didn't advertise it as fitting our coffee maker and isn't responsible for our shenanigans with sharp pointy objects.
Its dimensions are as follows: Height with Tall Lid: 6.63", Height with Short Lid: 6.01", Diameter of Pot: 5.98", Diamater of Base of Pot: 4". Check the product fit list on Medelco's website if you're not sure if your coffee pot will work with this model (can't post due to review guidelines, but it's easy to find via Google).
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Fits my Hamilton Beach Michael Graves coffee maker fine, but I wish the original carafe was still available. It is easier to clean, though, so that's a huge plus.Best Deals for Medelco 12 Cup Millennium Style Carafe, Black GL312
We purchased this model since it was the only replacement carafe for our Kitchen Selectives coffee maker. It works very well in that capacity. My complaints are these:1. The lid does not snap on easily and will fall off as you're pouring if it is not.
2. The cup markers on the side are incorrect. Twelve is about 3/4 the way up the pot, but you have to nearly fill it to make twelve cups.
3. The design of the lid and handle allows steam/hot air from the pot to escape near the handle. If you're pouring, it will burn your fingers. I've learned how to hold it so that doesn't happen, but it isn't how one would naturally grasp a coffee pot.
Honest reviews on Medelco 12 Cup Millennium Style Carafe, Black GL312
This glass carafe is a good replacement for my Black & Decker Model#DCM2160B. I believe this replacement glass carafe is good as it gets without paying some ridiculous price or actually replacing the whole coffemaker! Every coffeemaker I have ever owned always spills when pouring. This one is no different. This replacement carafe comes with 2 different lids to fit the different models they recommend. Although my Black & Decker coffeemaker was not menttioned it worked out perfectly. Until someone makes an unbreakable glass carafe, it only deserves 4 stars which is still a good thing. No matter what, glass carafes has to be handle with care.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Medelco 12 Cup Millennium Style Carafe, Black GL312
Sunbeam has discontinued the Heritage coffee maker and the replacement pot, so I was really happy to find that this fits perfectly. And it comes with 2 tops to fit different coffee makers.Sunday, August 31, 2014
Stansport Black Granite Cookware Review
List Price: $20.99
Sale Price: $15.72
Today's Bonus: 25% Off
I didn't read the description closely enough before I bought these so I was a bit surprised at how TINY they are. But that's my fault. But I've used them and they work well enough for what they are. The handles are annoying to me because they just won't stay in one place. Other than that, they're not bad. The cup is a useless, cheap piece of plastic. I don't even know where it is anymore... I probably tossed it.
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This set was a gift and my son was very happy with the size, quality and weight. Will be great for hikesBest Deals for Stansport Black Granite Cookware
This set is very small. Even the biggest pot is not is not enough for a spaghetti dish. I usually cook for 2days or more. If you're like me, this is not enough, def. But I think i can use for warm-up something.The quality of non-stick is quite good. You can use the pan for 1 suny-side-up. Still, I'm not gonna recommend this.
Honest reviews on Stansport Black Granite Cookware
The set would not be bad aside from the fact that is SO SMALL! I gueess it is meant for camping trips... dont buy it if you're looking for something actully useful.Monday, June 9, 2014
KitchenGrips Single Layer Pot Grabber with Strap, Set of 2 Reviews
These Pot Grabbers not only work well, they clean up with a sponge.
I have purchased some for my adult daughter, so she won't take mine!
I have purchased some for my adult daughter, so she won't take mine!
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I have looked for these to come back. For awhile I could not find them to order. These are the only pot holders my husband, the chef will use. They are not bulky and work well on all types of hot items. If they need to be washed I just wash them right along with my dishes in my sink. They come out great.Best Deals for KitchenGrips Single Layer Pot Grabber with Strap, Set of 2
Replace older kitchen grips. So glad to find them. No kitchen should be without them. Versatile and superior in function.Honest reviews on KitchenGrips Single Layer Pot Grabber with Strap, Set of 2
These potholders look great, and the waterproof silicone rubber also acts as a non-slip surface. For things like handles on pots and lower temperature things, these work great. However, taking out a 400F pizza stone caused unbearable heat to be transferred to the hands. These are too thin to work for more than a couple seconds before the heat gets through, causing potential burns, or dropping the item on the floor. I ended up taking two pot grabbers, and gluing them together with Silicone RTV caulking.....the same caulking for bathrooms and tubs. The caulk can withstand heat to 450F, and is quite flexible. I would recommend to Duncan Industries to thicken the hotpad, or produce a ridged style that has minimal surface contact to the pot, casserole dish, or pizza stone. but the concept is a good one, so improvements are always a continuing process.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for KitchenGrips Single Layer Pot Grabber with Strap, Set of 2
Had this years ago from QVC and couldn't get them there anymore. Was lost-went on a hunt. Found themlove them.Sunday, June 8, 2014
Reviews of Polder Speed-Read Instant Read Thermometer with Presets, Silver
List Price: $20.00
Sale Price: $16.68
Today's Bonus: 17% Off
I believe I've had this thing less than a year. I'm having trouble with the On/Off button. I would like to easily turn it on when I want to use it and turn it off to save the battery when I'm done, but this has quickly become near impossible.
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I bought this for my wife about a year ago. It worked great until it appeared that the battery died. I replaced the battery, and now the symptoms are similar to before the battery died. I think it didn't really die, the button stopped working! Banging the unit (not recommended of course) seems to get it to work; taking the battery out like another reviewer said seems to work until it goes to sleep again.Other than that...the product is easy to use, clean, clear display, simple, clear buttons. The battery is inexplicably difficult to replace.
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I have 2 of these and neither of them will turn on or off using the button. I actually have to remove the battery. It will read the temperature, but it will continue to beep and does not shut off.Honest reviews on Polder Speed-Read Instant Read Thermometer with Presets, Silver
Needed this for a last minute Christmas present and they went out of their way to get it to me. I love this Thermometer and they make perfect gifts. Some people complain because it takes a few seconds to get the reading. "Get a life" So it takes 4 seconds instead of one...so what, it makes cooking a pleasure, has a nice covering and tells you what temp. each kind of meat should reach when you are grilling.Find helpful customer reviews and review ratings for Polder Speed-Read Instant Read Thermometer with Presets, Silver
I am kicking myself for accidently leaving my old no-name digital thermometer in the oven where the head melted. Had been using it for 6-7 years and I suppose it was from an era when even no name products were often manufactured with quality, because they weren't made in China. It even survived a dunk in milk while I was making yogurt; the screen clouded up, but it functioned again after drying out.As to the Polder, I got the white version of this at BBB instead of Amazon since I needed it in a hurry after ruining my other. Good thing I did as it's easier to return. Unpacked it; installed the battery, which was easy. It came on without my having to press a button. Then it wouldn't go off when I pressed the power button. Then it went off by itself after 30 seconds or so and is completely dead.
I've read reviews of just about evey other thermometer here and it seems they all suffer from the same bad quality control unless you want to pay $90; some work fine, but a substantial percentage of each model don't. I guess that's what happens when you surrender your manufacturing base to those who only push low price. I would have gladly paid an extra $5 or $10 if that's what it cost to get good quality. I almost got the similar OXO which was $5 more, but found that it had a number of complaints similar to mine. I've really liked my Polder timer, so I had more confidence in the Polder. My mistake. Don't know what to do now.
Tuesday, May 27, 2014
Review of Fagor Countertop Induction Cooking Set, 2-Piece
I like the design of this cooktop, the simplicity of the controls, size, operation, power cord, noise level, all very good. And the frypan was well built and attractive for a non-stick item.
I would like to give it a 5 star rating, but can't because the unit I received was defective, and the replacement unit was also defective (but in a different way). I would like to think I just got a couple of bad units, as with proper operation, it would be a great unit.
I was excited to receive the unit, I had been reading about induction cook tops for quite some time. I already had two pans, a small carbon steel wok, and a stainless steel (with magnetic heat disk bottom) omlete pan. Plus this unit came with a really great non-stick frypan with a bottom magnetic heat disk bonded to the bottom. So I knew I had the right cookware to use. I also had an electric meter to test the wattage draw at various settings so I could evaluate the performance with each setting.
Intial set-up was simple, plug it in, place a pan with a couple of cups of water on the unit, and hit the on button. It defaulted to the #5 setting, (specified as 800w) and with-in a couple minutes water was boiling. All pans performed in a similar manner, but I did note that the wattage varied by the pan, from 600w to 700w. I continued testing the lower settings, the wattage dropped some, heating seemed consistant, the lower two settings seemed to jump from .5w to 200 to 500 and back again, as expected from what the manual said. All was fine and good, I was pretty happy with the unit.
Then I tried the higher settings, with each of the pans. Other than a slight variation in wattage, results were the same. #6 jumped the wattage up about 100, #7 another 50w to 850w, but #8, 9, & 10 would surge from 600w to 1100w, water would boil ferociously, then not, then back again. If I tried adding more water (like one quart) it took forever to get it to boil, even on the highest setting. I was so dissapointed.
I reluctantly asked Amazon for a replacement, they were great, sent me out a new one in two days, I got a pre-printed return label, a great experience.
Then to test the new unit. I was so hopeful, but where the first unit seemed to work properly on settings #6 and lower, the replacement unit seemed to surge on all the power settings, and would never rise above 900w, even on the highest settings.
It was so dissappointing. Since the unit is rated at 1600w, I think I just got two bad units. The first one worked so well in the lower settings, where one would do most of their cooking, but I need the ability to boil as well. So much promise, I really liked the unit, but the performance was not there for me.
I returned both units, and purchased an 1800w Duxtop unit. I will review it after another week of use, so far so good, I don't like the design as well, the lower settings are a bit hotter than I wanted, but lots and lots of heat at the higher settings.
UPDATE March 27, 2013
Received the replacement skillet today and we tried it right away. HOORAY the bottom is flat, meets the induction cooktop surface perfectly and cooking was as fast (or faster)than gas and heat distribution was 100%.Gyess the warped/bowed bottom was a fluke.
Updated rating to 4 star as the cooktop is really works well.
I would like to give it a 5 star rating, but can't because the unit I received was defective, and the replacement unit was also defective (but in a different way). I would like to think I just got a couple of bad units, as with proper operation, it would be a great unit.
I was excited to receive the unit, I had been reading about induction cook tops for quite some time. I already had two pans, a small carbon steel wok, and a stainless steel (with magnetic heat disk bottom) omlete pan. Plus this unit came with a really great non-stick frypan with a bottom magnetic heat disk bonded to the bottom. So I knew I had the right cookware to use. I also had an electric meter to test the wattage draw at various settings so I could evaluate the performance with each setting.
Intial set-up was simple, plug it in, place a pan with a couple of cups of water on the unit, and hit the on button. It defaulted to the #5 setting, (specified as 800w) and with-in a couple minutes water was boiling. All pans performed in a similar manner, but I did note that the wattage varied by the pan, from 600w to 700w. I continued testing the lower settings, the wattage dropped some, heating seemed consistant, the lower two settings seemed to jump from .5w to 200 to 500 and back again, as expected from what the manual said. All was fine and good, I was pretty happy with the unit.
Then I tried the higher settings, with each of the pans. Other than a slight variation in wattage, results were the same. #6 jumped the wattage up about 100, #7 another 50w to 850w, but #8, 9, & 10 would surge from 600w to 1100w, water would boil ferociously, then not, then back again. If I tried adding more water (like one quart) it took forever to get it to boil, even on the highest setting. I was so dissapointed.
I reluctantly asked Amazon for a replacement, they were great, sent me out a new one in two days, I got a pre-printed return label, a great experience.
Then to test the new unit. I was so hopeful, but where the first unit seemed to work properly on settings #6 and lower, the replacement unit seemed to surge on all the power settings, and would never rise above 900w, even on the highest settings.
It was so dissappointing. Since the unit is rated at 1600w, I think I just got two bad units. The first one worked so well in the lower settings, where one would do most of their cooking, but I need the ability to boil as well. So much promise, I really liked the unit, but the performance was not there for me.
I returned both units, and purchased an 1800w Duxtop unit. I will review it after another week of use, so far so good, I don't like the design as well, the lower settings are a bit hotter than I wanted, but lots and lots of heat at the higher settings.
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I attended a cooking class taught by the head chef at the Capital Hotel in Little Rock, AR and he used this device several time during the eveing. I bought one for myself and love it. I can just sit it on the count top and cook away without worrying about flames or heated coils. Just DO NOT USE IT ON A METAL SURFACE! think about it & you will know why! I am a house mother in a fraternity house and have a tiny apartment with no stove this is perfect. I would recommend it for anywhere, ex: camper. As long as you have electricity, you can have a stove right on the picnic table if you like. No flames to catch it on fire. Light weight, portable and works as well or better than gas. If you have caphelon sorry cannot use it on this device. But, any pan that a magnet will stick to will cook well. Try not to scratch it up as it is a glass surface device. Also you can use a razor blade scraper to clean up any big spills but they don't cook on the surface like other stoves and clean up is easier anyway. You can spread a cloth beneath it and throw it in the wash no counter to wipe. Yeah! I will even let my granddaughter cook on this device with supervision, of course.Best Deals for Fagor Countertop Induction Cooking Set, 2-Piece
I ordered this burner to use in our basement. We have a small kitchen area there with a microwave, but no means of actually cooking anything. I wanted this to mainly make some eggs to go along with toast for breakfast. Wow the eggs are ready by the time the toast is done and I start them both together. I only use the setting of 3, not sure how hot it gets on 5! I really like this product does exactly what it says it would do.Honest reviews on Fagor Countertop Induction Cooking Set, 2-Piece
received this 2 piece set about 3 weeks ago. Cooktop seems to work very well but the pan is a joke. All induction cooktops must be used with magnetic, flat bottom pans. If the pan bottom is warped it will not cook evenly. Our first attempt to use the set was to add about one inch of water to the pan to see how quickly it would boil. Well, the water boiled very quickly on most of one half of the pan but not at all on the other. We then tried to fry two eggs. Both fried but one was way overcooked and the other under cooked. When the pan cooled we wiped it clean and turned it over. The pan bottom is bowed on one half and misses contacting the cooking surface by from 1/8 to 1/4 inch. I contacted Fagor America and they requested I email photos showing the problem. I did the same day and was told they would get back with me by the next week at the latest. Well, they didn't. I called them today and they have not received any answer from their technical department, and its now been two full weeks. I said I need an answer by tomorrow or will return the cooktop set to Amazon. Its a real shame because the cooktop is worthless without proper cookware. We will be buying proper pans but wrongly assumed their included pan would allow sufficient testing before spending for new cookware. If we do get a correct replacement we will update the review accordingly.UPDATE March 27, 2013
Received the replacement skillet today and we tried it right away. HOORAY the bottom is flat, meets the induction cooktop surface perfectly and cooking was as fast (or faster)than gas and heat distribution was 100%.Gyess the warped/bowed bottom was a fluke.
Updated rating to 4 star as the cooktop is really works well.
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This a a fantastic appliance. It's easy to store, and a breeze to wipe clean not to mention very convenient. I have used it nearly every day since I got it. It has become an extension of my range. I have also taken it with me to pot luck dinners.Thursday, May 15, 2014
Reviews of Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 7-1/4-Quart Oval Doufeu Oven
List Price: $425.00
Sale Price: $329.95
Today's Bonus: 22% Off
I have several Le Creuset pieces and this is one of my favorites. Last night I prepared Boeuf Bourguignon on a very low simmer for hours. I refrigerated it in advance for this evenings dinner so all the herbs and flavors could marry. All I can tell you is my French husband was impressed. It is a joy to cook in this masterpiece! It can be used in the oven or on the stove. Ice cubes ontop are not mandatory as the very engineering of this oven seals nicely and locks in moisture; however, sometimes I do use ice for a little extra. The other week I made Chicken Adobo and it was so tender and succulent the meat melted off the bones. I must confess I purchased this for a lower price in Paris where I reside, but even if you decide to make this investment in the US I promise you if you love to cook like I do, you won't be sorry! You will be constantly dreaming about new and delicious dishes to be savored. It's a work of art. Everything comes out délicieux!
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I'm constitutionally incapable of spending $300+ for a single pot, but I was lucky enough to walk into an outlet store with money burning a hole in my pocket and found it at 40% off. The delightful sales lady greased the skids with a long, intense conversation about no-knead bread recipes, for which this pot is utterly perfect. She and I hand-picked the lid with the most perfect fit. I will never regret the decision.(The recent flood of cheap, Chinese Le-Creuset-wannabee cookware is very welcome, providing excellent value, but I haven't yet seen a Chinese doufeu, and if I did I would expect the lid to fit poorly.)
But it wasn't until I got it home and read the included recipe book that I realized just what it was I had. A recipe for Poulet aux Olives calls for 2 tbs white wine and the juice of one lemon, NO OTHER FLUID. The recipe would be impossible in an ordinary pot without the tight seal and the ice-assisted constant rain over the ingredients.
[Update: My household doesn't always have ice cubes, so I got inventive: I put the lid in the freezer and filled it with water. I now keep several doufeu-shaped ice slabs in my freezer ready for use any time (see image, above).]
To any cook worth his salt, recipes are just a hint. With this drop-dead-gorgeous tool (mine in cobalt blue) now in my quiver, my horizons have expanded. What a shame they don't include a recipe for lamb shanks, eh? Never mind: I have the shanks warming on the counter as I write, and the osso buco recipe points in the right direction...
[Update: I've now made quite a few things in it, and my delight just gets more intense. Last night a marinaded pork vindaloo was about to get put in a slow cooker with a cup or two of water. Instead, I put it in the doufeu with no added water at all, turned the heat on at Low, and 2 1/2 lb of pork happily bubbled away for two hours in 1 cup of crushed tomatoes and six tablespoons of white wine vinegar. The end result was the densest, richest vindaloo I've ever made, and I'm really looking forward to serving it tonight.]
When you tire of Rachael Ray and her yummo can opener, contemplate one of these and the truly excellent recipe book it comes with.
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I went to an outlet store looking for a 7qt dutch oven. The sales lady brought this to my attention and I am glad she did. It's more expensive than a dutch oven of the same size (although I got a pretty good discount for it, on top of the outlet price), but I like the look of this better and it's just such an interesting piece of cookware. I have used it to make a soup and a stew and both came out well. I don't believe the same dishes can't be made in other pots, but this definitely made the cooking fun. It's such a beautiful cookware.The word 'doufeu' came from two French words that mean 'slow fire'. The lid is shaped so that you can put ice or cold water in it during cooking so the steam coming up inside the pot can meet the colder lid, condensate and drip back into the pot. This supposedly help with water circulation and retention while stewing/roasting meat. Supposedly this method of cooking was invented when a good cut of meat was hard to come by and people had to be creative about tenderizing poor cut. I don't have experience to prove that's effective, but I like the fact that the lid can be used by itself to bake a small portion of corn bread, potato casserole, apple crisp, or pretty much anything. You can also flip it over to use the other side to broil a piece of meat and have the fat drip in to the groove around it. Although the surface area is not very big so I don't suppose you can cook much at a time. Just something fun you can do I guess.
Overall I am glad I finally got a dutch oven and such an interesting one! I'd call this a chef's toy instead of a necessity. If you have the money to spend I'll highly recommend it. I like the fact that this has a life time warranty. But for the price I'd better not need it anytime soon. :)
Honest reviews on Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 7-1/4-Quart Oval Doufeu Oven
The first Doufeau Oven I received from Amazon arrived in an unmarked white box (inside of an Amazon packing box), which nowhere on it said Le Creuset, instead of the normal heavy gauge orange cardboard boxes which say LC and show the item image. Not only was the white box not taped closed (someone had obviously opened it previously and returned it), so it was not sealed and protected--and it slid out of the white box during shipping and was tossing about, loose inside the Amazon shipping box. Shocking! It was cracked in 5 places, chipped with huge chunks out and gouges so big that one could see the cast iron beneath the enamel, in numerous places. It was a disaster. In addition to the terrible flaws and damage, the plastic pieces and cardboard that normally separate and protect the heavy cast iron lid from the bottom, were nowhere to be found, nor was any paperwork. This was obviously a factory second which someone had previously returned, and Amazon didn't even inspect before they sent it back out. I called Amazon and they promptly sent another one to me, with free overnight shipping. This time--much to my dismay, they sent it completely unprotected, without ANY surrounding Amazon packaging whatsoever--and it arrived in its original Le Creuset (orange this time) box, battered and ripped and filthy from shipping, with merely a shipping label slapped on it and a tiny "Heavy Item" sticker on it. For the love of God. MIRACULOUSLY, the Doufeau was mostly intact, with a small chip in the enamel at the very top of the bottom pot's lip. Which I can live with, because this was the last one in stock (and the only reason I got it at Amazon was because no one else had it) and I have heard the horror stories about returning LC, only to get replacements that have even more damage. So I am keeping it. In the big picture, I can't believe Amazon ships such high-end, delicate, expensive cookware in such a sloppy, haphazard, disrespectful and careless way. As others have said and I will repeat here, you take a big risk when ordering Le Creuset from Amazon, for a myriad of reasons--including their inconsistent shipping and packing methods. I have purchased all of my other LC pieces from a competitor that begins with a Z, who also has free shipping and returns--but with a 365 return policy, which Prime does not. They know how to package LC with care and respect, how to protect the product, and I have received each piece from them in impeccable, pristine (and not seconds or second-hand quality) condition. I highly recommend shopping with them, instead, for LC products. Amazon does a lot of things fairly well (although their packing is all over the place with everything), but LC cookware it does not. As far as the Doufeau goes--it is gorgeous and I can't wait to cook in it. The reviewer who said it is poorly designed and has a "slick top," is incorrect. (That was just to justify her accidental breakage to get the warranty replacement. It is impeccably designed.) There is nothing slick or loose about it, and it fits perfectly into the bottom pot like a puzzle piece with an interlocking depressed portion. And it is not as heavy as you would think! It's a dream.The 2 stars are for Amazon in this case (I should give them 1), to alert you to go elsewhere, if you can. 5 Stars for Le Creuset and the Doufeau.
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And she is cooking some amazing things with it. So glad we got this pot. Well worth the investment. Truly.
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