Have you ever wondered why that restaurant dish tastes so different at home? It isn’t just the recipe but the cookware you are using.
What you put on the stove or in the oven can make a big difference to your culinary creations. That is why having the right kitchenware to complement your cookware can elevate even the simplest of meals.
Whether you are cooking a daily dinner or a special feast, the quality of your pots and pans matters. Below we will break down the basics of buying cookware.
Have a budget
You will find cookware of different budgets in the market. So, first, set your budget and then pick your product accordingly. Along with the budget, look into the features of the utensil for the best buy.
Choose your pieces
If you are building a set of cookware from scratch, depending on how you cook and how many people you cook for, you will want an assortment of skillets and pots, a stockpot and lids.
In boxed sets, manufacturers count a lid as a piece, and it might fit more than one piece of cookware in the set.
A set that contains more pieces might not be the smartest choice if you use only a few and the rest take up space in your cabinet. It is important to note that utensils and even a cookbook can count as pieces of a set.
Consider the size of your kitchen
If you have limited storage space, a smaller cookware set may be the best option for you. On the other hand, if you have a large kitchen and plenty of storage, you may prefer a larger set with more pieces
Consider heat conduction
Another factor one must keep in mind while buying a utensil is heat conduction. Different metals have different heat conduction qualities.
Pick cookware that evenly spreads the heat, making your cooking process faster and more efficient.
Feel the cookware
Sometimes we shop online, but if you can, handle the cookware at a retailer. See how it feels in your hand. If it is heavy, think how much heavier it will feel when it is full of food.
Make sure that the handles are easy to grasp and that the pot or pan is well-balanced. Check that the handle attachments are tight and sturdy.
You can also check if the cookware can be cleaned in a dishwasher.
Consider maintenance
How much trouble will it be to keep your cookware set looking good? Although a row of copper pans may make an impressive display on your kitchen wall, it takes a lot of effort to keep them bright and shiny, whereas stainless steel cookware sets require very little.
Aesthetics matter
Your cookware can and should be a part of your kitchen decor. Ensure that the colour and the structure of your cookware boost the look of your kitchen, adding new dimensions to it.