- 1). Match your cookware to your oven top. For instance, you need a ultra-flat piece of cookware if you own a smooth-top range. Many pieces of cookware look flat, but you have to test the flatness by laying a piece of cookware on a flat surface. Even on an electric range, imperfections in the cookware will cause the piece to wobble.
- 2). Decide if you want specialty pieces or a general-cooking set. A broad assortment of specialty pieces allows you to prepare specific recipes in pieces made to serve specific purposes. General-purpose cookware costs less, and many times will serve your purposes just as well.
- 3). Test the weight of each piece. You will have to lift each piece, probably many times. Make sure the piece does not weigh so much that it hurts your arm. Make sure the handle grips firmly in your hand and that it doesn't feel like you might drop it.
- 4). Make sure the price fits your budget. Shop around. Cookware costs $15 to $60 per piece or more, and $100 to $500 for a set. Even if you can't find sales, you can often find an identical piece of cookware or a set cheaper at another retailer or through an online source.
- 5). Look at the care instructions. Some non-stick skillets, for instance, have a coating that requires non-scrub cleaners. Some pots have a galvanized coating that may tarnish if you use lemon or citrus cleaners. If you purchase cast iron, you'll have to warm, then oil, the surface to season it. Different cookware often requires different cleaning methods to keep it like new.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -