Showing posts with label cuisinart. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cuisinart. Show all posts

11/21/2011

Cuisinart GG-12 GreenGourmet Eco-Friendly Nonstick Hard Anodized 12-Piece Cookware Set Review

Cuisinart GG-12 GreenGourmet Eco-Friendly Nonstick Hard Anodized 12-Piece Cookware Set
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
We have now been using this set for 6 months. When we first received and began using them, the pans were perfectly nonstick so that food including eggs could be cooked without any oil, and cleaning was fast and easy. Unfortunately this is no longer true -- the pan we've used most often now requires oil in order than food doesn't stick, despite hand-washing and following the manufacturer's other directions. If no oil is used, the pan is like a traditional pan and not only does food stick, but the pan requires prolonged soaking and scrubbing to get it clean. You must also be careful not to stack the pans (chipping and scratching).
The pan handles do not get hot, but the lid handles do, so be prepared to use a potholder to move the lids.
The set must be hand-washed and handled carefully to avoid chipping, but this is not a problem for us.
I would have rated the set 5 stars had it retained its nonstick performance. The loss of the nonstick capacity and the subsequent difficulty with cleaning the pans drops my rating to two stars.
1/3/10 Edited to add: We've now been using this set for a year and I've noticed several minute to small chips out of the cooking surfaces of more that half the pieces. We do not use metal utensils (silicon only) and are careful with cleaning and storing. One piece has also absorbed the smell of the food that was cooked in it. I am now looking for a different set of cookware, and regret buying this one. While I prefer a "green," eco-friendly product, I think this one needs some improvements in quality and design.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart GG-12 GreenGourmet Eco-Friendly Nonstick Hard Anodized 12-Piece Cookware Set

Get everything you need to cook up delicious, healthy meals for your family with this 12-piece set of Cuisinart Green Gourmet Hard Anodized Cookware. Cuisnart's new energy-efficient and eco-friendly Cermica nonstick surface more than just reduces your carbon footprint--this nonstick coating also allows for easy food release and the ability to use less fat while cooking as well as for use in the oven for browning. This 12-piece set includes an 8-inch skillet, 10-inch deep fry with cover, 1.5-quart saucepan with cover, 2.5-quart saucepan with cover, 3-quart everyday pan with cover, 6-quart Dutch Oven with cover, and a steamer insert that fits the 2.5-quart saucepan.
The pans deliver superior heat conductivity, requiring less energy to achieve the desired cooking temperature. Harder than stainless steel, the skillet's hard anodized exterior is dense, nonporous, and highly wear-resistant for extra durability and professional performance as well as quick and even heat distribution. Additionally, the securely riveted stay-cool steel handles are manufactured using 70 percent recycled stainless steel and is oven-safe to 500 degrees F, so food can be browned on the stovetop then transferred to the oven to finish cooking.
Cuisinart's GreenGourmet cookware is designed with an exclusive Cuisinart Ceramica nonstick surface, which features a petroleum-free, ceramic-based coating that is applied at a temperature one half that of traditional nonsticks. The coating does not contain PTFE and PFOA, substances often used in nonstick cookware that have raised health concerns over the years. It was also developed using manufacturing techniques that reduce harmful carbon emissions by consuming less energy. The coating is also water-based, unlike other nonstick coatings on the market, which are solvent-based. In addition, Cuisinart's cookware has a scratch-resistant nonstick surface that won't peel off. The new cookware conforms to FDA and European RoHS standards for environmentally sound products.
These pans should be hand-washed with a mild detergent, and they carry a limited lifetime warranty against defects. Cuisinart also gets some green cred from the packaging, which is made from 100 percent recycled materials and is printed using 100 percent biodegradable soy ink. --Agen G.N. Schmitz
What's in the Box One 8-inch skillet, one 10-inch deep fry (with cover), one 1.5-quart saucepan (with cover), one 2.5-quart saucepan (with cover), one 3-quart everyday pan (with cover), one 6-quart Dutch Oven (with cover), and a steamer insert that fits the 2.5-quart saucepan From the Manufacturer
Cuisinart GreenGourmet Hard-Anodized Cookware Series Cuisinart GreeenGourmet hard-anodized cookware.

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Click here for more information about Cuisinart GG-12 GreenGourmet Eco-Friendly Nonstick Hard Anodized 12-Piece Cookware Set

11/08/2011

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 14-Inch Open Skillet with Helper Handle Review

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 14-Inch Open Skillet with Helper Handle
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Despite the bad reviews, I also tried this pan. It is awful - DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY!
To address issues other have had -
(1) It was perfectly flat out of the box, but warped as soon as medium heat was applied. Probably because it is so thin. Note the 10" crepe pan weighs as much as this monster of a pan, and appears to be at least 3 times thicker.
(2) It is way too thin to heat evenly - I think our heavy duty cookie sheets are just as thick! To check it out, I used an infrared thermometer and found out that once the hottest part of the pan reached about 350 (ideal for things like eggs and pancakes), there were parts that were 75 degrees cooler. This means burnt eggs and raw pancakes. Yum.
The size would probably make a good chicken fryer for a large family, but it has no top, so I'm not sure what you really could do with it, so mine went back today.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 14-Inch Open Skillet with Helper Handle

Inspired by the French kitchens, Cuisinart began making professional cookware over 30 years ago.Constructed of the finest materials available, to perfectly perform all of the classic cooking techniques. Cuisinart continues its commitment to superior quality and innovation with our Chef's Classic™ Non-Stick Hard Anodized Cookware.The finest material are crafted into a full and functional line of classically shaped pieces.An extremely durable exterior with a smooth, hard anodized finish creates a look of professional elegance to complement any kitchen. Designed from the inside out for today's healthy lifestyles, this collection is constructed with 100% aluminum-free Quantanium nonstick cooking surface reinforced with titanium.Nonstick 14" skillet provides a healthful, fat-free browning and frying options: ideal for fried eggs or fried chicken for the family.

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11/06/2011

Cuisinart GreenGourmet 10-Inch Round Griddle/Crepe Pan Review

Cuisinart GreenGourmet 10-Inch Round Griddle/Crepe Pan
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
We have had the 10" griddle for 2 weeks. My husband uses it almost every morning. How do I clean it? Rinse it out with a little dish soap! This is the best piece of non-stick cookware I have ever owned. It is so much better than the old Teflon, and easier on the environment.
07-24-09: Here's an update, Gang. We have two of these now, and they are still going strong. Do not put these in the dishwasher. My son made that mistake, and ruined his little griddle.
04-15-10: Another update. We still use these almost every day. The surfaces are still great.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart GreenGourmet 10-Inch Round Griddle/Crepe Pan

Cook up a variety of breakfast favorites any time of day with this 10-inch round-shaped crepe/griddle pan. Measuring approximately 11 by 17 by 3-4/5 inches, the unit provides a wide flat surface with straight sides that neatly contain ingredients. Use the pan for anything from eggs or silver-dollar pancakes to omelets, crepes, and much more. As part of Cuisinart's GreenGourmet Hard Anodized line of cookware, the pan combines an earth-friendly design with high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting performance with reduced impact on the environment. The cookware's hard-anodized aluminum construction heats up quickly and evenly, which means less energy required to achieve the desired cooking temperature, and its exclusive, scratch-resistant, ceramic-based nonstick coating (PTFE/PFOA-free and petroleum-free) helps reduce oil consumption and preserve the environment--plus it's applied at a temperature one half that of conventional nonsticks, and it won't peel off. Furthermore, its nonstick interior ensures effortless food release without the need for excess butter or oil, which means lower fat cooking options and quick cleanup. The pan's riveted stainless-steel handle stays cool to the touch on the stovetop and is made from 70-percent recycled stainless steel. Even more, Cuisinart uses packaging made from 100-percent recycled materials and printed with soy ink. Oven-safe up to 500 degrees F and safe to use under the broiler, the cookware cleans up easily by hand and carries a limited lifetime warranty. From the Manufacturer
Cuisinart GreenGourmet Hard-Anodized Cookware Series Cuisinart GreeenGourmet hard-anodized cookware.

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10/25/2011

Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless 6-Quart Saucepot with Cover Review

Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless 6-Quart Saucepot with Cover
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I've cooked with, burned bone dry, and cleaned regular All-Clad almost daily for years so I am pretty familiar with its performance. I'm happy to report that this first Multiclad of mine performs similarly: boils quicker than regular pots with minimal hot spots, and cleans easily. [...]
Instead of going cheap or being a complete All-Clad copy cat, Cuisinart decided to throw in some improvements:
- Longer side and lid handles for cooler handling
- Brushed finish on exterior that goes about 3/4 of the way up hides scuffs
- Impeccable finish. Can't say the same for an All-Clad sauté pan which I payed full price for :(
- Better quality stainless steel? Maybe I just got a good batch, but the luster seems to suggest higher chrome content
Great offering Cuisinart! Keep up the quality and continue to be cost competitive vs. All-Clad and I will be back to supplement my cookware collection with Multiclad individual pieces. And BTW, this 6 quart is indispensable if you are cooking for 3-4 people.


Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless 6-Quart Saucepot with Cover

From the Manufacturer
Enjoy the Fine Art of Cooking
Inspired by the great French kitchens, Cuisinart began making professional cookware almost 30 years ago. Constructed of the finest materials available to perfectly perform all of the classic cooking techniques, Cuisinart cookware continues a long tradition of excellence.

Our commitment to quality and innovation continues with our MultiClad Pro Stainless cookware, designed to meet the demands of gourmet chefs everywhere.

Unique triple-ply construction joins a brushed stainless steel exterior, a pure aluminum core that provides even heat distribution, and a stainless steel interior, for optimal performance. MultiClad Pro Stainless lets you celebrate the fine art of cooking.

What is MultiClad Pro Stainless Cookware?
Premium cookware that features professional triple-ply construction - a core of pure aluminum bonded to a stainless steel interior and a brushed stainless exterior - a fusion of the best materials for cooking offering unsurpassed performance. Heat Surround technology maintains even heat distribution along the bottoms and side walls of the cookware, eliminating hotspots. Premium stainless steel cooking surfaces do not react with food or alter natural flavors.

The Cuisinart Details
Designed to provide professional gourmet cooking results, this collection offers perfect heat and perfect results, every time.

The Choice of Professionals Aluminum core heats and cools quickly for precise temperature control. Heat Surround technology provides even heat distribution along the bottom and up the side walls of the cookware. Stainless steel interior is ideal for delicately simmering sauces. Perfectly sautéing vegetables, browning meats, or boiling several servings of pasta.
Covers Seal in Nutrients Tight-fitting stainless steel covers seal in food's natural juices and nutrients for healthier, more flavorful results. Covers are dishwasher-safe.
Drip-Free Pouring Rims are tapered for drip-free pouring.
Professional Results Stainless steel cooking surface does not react with food or alter food flavors. Great for classic cooking techniques like sautéing, frying, browning, searing and slowly simmering delicious sauces.
Superior Heat Triple-Ply construction includes the unsurpassed heat conductivity of a pure aluminum core. It insures maximum heat retention and even heat distribution, eliminating hot spots.
Perfect Balance Exclusive Cool Grip handles stay cool on the stovetop. Handles with unique thumb rests are riveted for perfect balance and ultimate control when lifting and pouring.
Triple-Ply Construction Brushed stainless steel exterior Pure Aluminum Core for even heat distribution Stainless steel interior


Why make our best your best?
The MultiClad Pro Stainless Cookware Collection is designed to meet the culinary needs of the most demanding gourmet chefs. Its triple-ply construction facilitates effortless cooking and first-class results, enabling even the kitchen novice to whip up meals with a gourmet flair that will delight the whole family. Whether a menu calls for sautéed pork medallions, a slow-cooked Manhattan chowder, or spicy sun-dried tomato sauce that simmers all day long, Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Stainless Cookware makes cooking it a joyful experience. Discover the gourmet chef in you, and get ready to cook your best.


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10/24/2011

Cuisinart 66-17 Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 17-Piece Cookware Set Review

Cuisinart 66-17 Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 17-Piece Cookware Set
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
This is a beautiful set of cookware and, I think, a great value...I paid $189.99 for 17 pieces, 15 of which are pots, pans & lids and 2 inserts..for pasta and for steaming. I like that there are 2 of the same size lid. You always get 1 lid that fits 2 items in the set and I would always use them at the same time and only be able to cover 1. No worries with this set--there is 1 lid for each. Also, I did a lot of price shopping before I picked this one and it's the only brand that calls it 17-piece and gives you all cookware. Every other set I saw that was over, say, 10 pieces-- the extra was knives or plastic utensils vs pots and pans. If it was 17 pieces, 7 to 9 of them were bowls, utensils, knives, etc. Rip offs for the prices they charged. And finally..the outside is nice and smooth, not ringed or otherwise textured...makes for nice cleanup and hopefully they'll stay nice looking longer than their predecessors. The ONLY thing I'm not thrilled with is that the lid handles do get warm...even hot. The pot and pan handles don't, but the lids definitely do. But for the price and quality? I have potholders.... Otherwise I would give it 5 stars. What the heck..5 it is!

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart 66-17 Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 17-Piece Cookware Set

17 -Piece Chef's Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized Set includes:1-1/2, 2- and 3- saucepans with covers, 8-inch, 10-inchand 12-inch covered skillet with helper, 4- quart saute with helper and cover, 9- quart stockpot with cover, 7-3/4-inch steamer insert with cover, 9-1/2-inch pasta insert

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10/05/2011

Cuisinart WM-SW2 Dual-Sandwich Nonstick Electric Grill Review

Cuisinart WM-SW2 Dual-Sandwich Nonstick Electric Grill
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
The product does exactly what it is billed to do: it grills sandwiches quickly. The problem is that the grill is very small, so normal grocery store bread is way too big and it hangs out the side. In addition, if you want to make a bigger sandwich, i.e., stacked with several ingredients, the lid will not close and lock without Herculean strength and the risk of burning yourself. It does OK with two small pieces of bread and a small amount of cheese. But, for that, it's just as easy to heat up a nonstick frying pan. It would be, however, handy for students in dorms or others with no access to a stove.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart WM-SW2 Dual-Sandwich Nonstick Electric Grill

Grills 2 items at a time like sandwiches, omelets and French toast. Features lock-down lid positions plates to evenly grill both sides, ready to cook and ready to eat indicator lights, raised ridges in cooking plates seal edges of bread or omelets to keep ingredients in, nonstick baking plates wipe clean in seconds, deep pockets and cord storage.

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9/20/2011

Cuisinart CPC-600 1000-Watt 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker, Brushed Stainless and Matte Black Review

Cuisinart CPC-600 1000-Watt 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker, Brushed Stainless and Matte Black
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
First, I was a pressure cooker nut from before. I used my mother's 1930/40's Presto's until I couldn't get seals for them. When I saw this digital pressure cooker I bought it instantly. I loved it so much that I gave one to my daughter, my sis and my sis-in-law, (we're all foodies). I was cooking stuff I hadn't made in years. We ate like kings! All of a sudden, caput. I get online and search and right there on Amazon, Bobby Mac "Micronaut101" describes my very own problem! So no more trying to make the bloody thing work! I call the Cuisinart 800 number prepared to go the distance according to the reviews I've read and I describe my problem, how much I love the machine, how I've seen the problem reported on Amazon and therefore it's a known quality issue and I want a new machine. OK, she says, what's your address? No "did you send in a warranty" or anything else. Bingo, 7 - 10 days I'll have a new pressure cooker. How cool is that? Oh, and "We're sorry for the inconvenience. Have a great day." Yehaa! Let's hear it for Amazon and reviews!
[[editing review as of 6/4/09: pressure sensor wouldn't set pressure and pressure cooking wouldn't start. Cooker would get to boiling but pressure wouldn't lock the cooker and begin cooking. Little red button wouldn't come up to close opening. I would wiggle the button with a skewer or knife point to get it to pop up to close pressure hole. Hope this helps.]]
And I'm writing this so that others who may get one of those recalcitrant pressure cookers that slipped through the quality assurance check can know that they will get a new pressure cooker with the press of the number buttons. Cuisinart has decided to stand behind this one product, at least.
BTW, all of us are previous users of pressure cookers so we really appreciated the ability to sear the meat in the cooker. My family has used the Cuisinart cookbook for the pasta e Fagioli, Cuban Black Bean Soup, Chicken with Herb Dumplings and the "outstanding" Creamy Rice Pudding" And, in fact, the Rice pudding cooked so quickly that my sis didn't think it was done when the timer went off and over cooked it! Her second batch was superb. We also like Lorna Sass's "Cooking Under Pressure" and "Pressure Perfect"

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart CPC-600 1000-Watt 6-Quart Electric Pressure Cooker, Brushed Stainless and Matte Black

Reduce time spent in the kitchen preparing meals with the help of this 6-quart electric pressure cooker--it cuts cooking times up to 70-percent when compared to traditional stovetop cooking methods. The unit traps steam inside, which builds up pressure to create hotter temperatures, and its tight seal locks in heat, moisture, and flavor, as well as vitamins and minerals for exceptionally healthy, great-tasting meals like soup, chili, and other one-dish entrees. It also works well for cheesecake and custard, because dessert should never be left off the menu. The unit's push-button controls and easy-to-read digital display eliminate guesswork, while its precision digital thermostat regulates temperatures. Choose from preprogrammed settings for high- or low-pressure cooking, browning, simmering, sauteing, and warming. For safety, the cooker must be fully locked for pressure to build, and it will remain locked until the pressure inside drops to zero. Other highlights include a 99-minute timer with an LED countdown display, cool-touch side handles, and a nonstick cooking pot that cleans up easily by hand or in the dishwasher. A dishwasher-safe trivet also comes included. Housed in brushed stainless steel, the 1000-watt pressure cooker measures 12-1/5 by 12-1/5 by 13-1/5 inches and carries a three-year limited warranty.

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7/26/2011

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 12-Inch Round Grill Pan Review

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 12-Inch Round Grill Pan
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I love this pan! As someone who truly enjoys cooking, I have several types of 'skillets;' cast iron, non stick annodized, and enameled cast iron. Each has its particular talents in the kitchen.
I wanted a grill pan. After doing some research, I decided on this Cuisinart for two reasons: reputation and weight. I was also lucky to find it at a time when special pricing was featured.
The weight issue is important for me as I have lung disease that fatigues me rather quickly. This pan is managable! But of course, the object of buying it was grilling. I have done steaks, chicken, pork and salmon in this pan, and it conducts heat beautifully. The initial sear is exquisite. It is the grill pan for which I was hoping, and I could not be more pleased.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 12-Inch Round Grill Pan

Cuisinart's Chef's Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized Cookware:Professional Hard Anodized Exterior is harder than stainless steal!Dense, Non-porous, Highly wear resistant, smooth finish for easy cleaning.Quantanium non stick interior; Titanium reinforced non-stick cooking surface for lasting food release, healthy cooking and easy clean-up.100% aluminum free cooking surface, metal utensil-safe.

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Click here for more information about Cuisinart Chef's Classic Nonstick Hard-Anodized 12-Inch Round Grill Pan

7/20/2011

Cuisinart GreenGourmet 11-Inch Square Grill Pan Review

Cuisinart GreenGourmet 11-Inch Square Grill Pan
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
Since my old outdoor grill was recently retired, & this is not the time of the year to purchase a new one, I decided to buy this pan instead. I have to say that it does as good a job at grilling meat as my gas barbeque did. It grills vegetables & fish perfectly. Overall, I am very pleased with this item & would highly recommend it.

Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart GreenGourmet 11-Inch Square Grill Pan

Cook up delicious, healthy meals for your family with the environmentally minded Cuisinart Green Gourmet Hard Anodized 11-inch square grill pan, featuring Cuisnart's new energy-efficient and eco-friendly Cermica nonstick surface. But more than just reducing your carbon footprint, this new nonstick coating allows for easy food release and the ability to use less fat while cooking as well as for use in the oven for browning.
This compact 11-inch square griddle is great for quick breakfasts and on-the-go lunch sandwiches. This pan also delivers superior heat conductivity, requiring less energy to achieve the desired cooking temperature. Harder than stainless steel, the skillet's hard anodized exterior is dense, nonporous, and highly wear-resistant for extra durability and professional performance as well as quick and even heat distribution. Additionally, the securely riveted stay-cool steel handle--featuring a V-shaped base so that heat dissipates--is manufactured using 70 percent recycled stainless steel and is oven-safe to 500 degrees F, so food can be browned on the stovetop then transferred to the oven to finish cooking.
Cuisinart's GreenGourmet cookware is designed with an exclusive Cuisinart Ceramica nonstick surface, which features a petroleum-free, ceramic-based coating that is applied at a temperature one half that of traditional nonsticks. The coating does not contain PTFE and PFOA, substances often used in nonstick cookware that have raised health concerns over the years. It was also developed using manufacturing techniques that reduce harmful carbon emissions by consuming less energy. The coating is also water-based, unlike other nonstick coatings on the market, which are solvent-based. In addition, Cuisinart's cookware has a scratch-resistant nonstick surface that won't peel off. The new cookware conforms to FDA and European RoHS standards for environmentally sound products.
This pan should be hand-washed with a mild detergent, and it carries a limited lifetime warranty against defects. Cuisinart also gets some green cred from the packaging, which is made from 100 percent recycled materials and is printed using 100 percent biodegradable soy ink. --Agen G.N. Schmitz From the Manufacturer
Cuisinart GreenGourmet Hard-Anodized Cookware Series Cuisinart GreeenGourmet hard-anodized cookware.

Buy NowGet 52% OFF

Click here for more information about Cuisinart GreenGourmet 11-Inch Square Grill Pan

6/06/2011

Cuisinart 77-17 Chef's Classic Stainless 17-Piece Cookware Set Review

Cuisinart 77-17 Chef's Classic Stainless 17-Piece Cookware Set
Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)
I bought these to replace some 6 year-old nonstick pots and pans which warped like....well, to make a long story short; this time, I am going Stainless-Steel! Although I would love to have an All-Clad set, but where else can you get a quality 17-Piece like this for more or less around $200 - and ships for FREE from amazon?
I have read many reviews (many negative ones) and this is my conclusion:
1.) Yes, 'Stainless-Steel' sticks! Not to mock this, but that's why 'Nonstick' cookware was invented - perhaps for the folks that do not know how to cook in stainless-steel. Easy remedy: return your set for a Nonstick set...if not, a little oil and lower your heat will do the trick. But, in addition to my stainless set, I will always have one nonstick skillet handy for my eggs (it's just much quicker and easier). But for searing and browning; there's no comparison to stainless-steel!
2.) Some complaint that the sides don't heat up compared to other brands: Yes they do, if you want to spend a little more $$ for the 'Multi-Clad' line. Also, unless you plan on cooking your food "on the sides", otherwise the encapsulated base heats evenly and works flawlessly for me.
3.) Stains, Marks and Colorful Swirls - If you use it to cook food, then expect the usual marks and normal wear - maybe even some tear. My solution for all of the above: 'BKF', OR unless you plan on displaying it for good.
The set:
There are TWO different 17-Piece sets available from the Chef's Classic line; the other one comes with a 2 qt. open 'Saucier' (and odd sizes for the rest) but I opted for this one because it is more versatile beginning with a 1.5 qt. Saucepan, then 2 and 3, a 12" Covered Skillet and for the Pasta Insert, etc, etc..
Again, for the money, they are as good as you can get. The product has a very solid feel to it and an even-weight distribution - light, yet heavy enough to do the task. Although I did find some minor flaws; like a few minor buffed-out scratches by the bottom edge between the encapsulated base on my 1.5 qt. The 'lips' on some of the larger pans (closer to the handles) seem to have bent down a bit; this produces a very small gap when the lid is covered, particularly on the 12" skillet where you can see an 'arch' effect with its lid on (the large lid is uneven on this one) and pressing it down once tends to reduce the effect. Though nothing significant, but it just appears to break that 'vacuum seal' and not so perfect tight-fit lid that was claimed by the mfg.
I have put all of them to a rigorous test for the '08 Christmas - '09 New Year's feast and they have performed very well. It cooks evenly on my old electric 'coil' stove top burner, although it could've been much better if I've had a gas range, this way I have more control of the cooking temperatures (very essential for heavy-bottomed cookwares).
Pros:
*Design - lip for spill-proof easy pouring.
*Good heat distribution (not great).
*Oven safe up to 450 degrees, that's high for a set priced like this.
*Handles: well balanced and stays cool no matter how long it's been on the burner.
*Most lids are interchangeable, especially for the 8" & 10" open skillets and they also fit other non Cuisinart that I have laying around.
*Nicely polished stainless-steel exterior and lids.
*Sturdy and well weighted/balanced.
*Well priced.
Cons:
*Workmanship and Quality Control (minor, this reduces one star).
*Slow to heat (especially the 9 qt Stockpot for cooking pasta compared to my other pot with the same amount of water).
*Pasta insert bottom sits a bit high (if sat lower, can prevent the use of more water so heat up time can be faster and to avoid boil-over spills).


Click Here to see more reviews about: Cuisinart 77-17 Chef's Classic Stainless 17-Piece Cookware Set

17 Piece Chef's Classic Stainless Set includes: 1.5-quart, 2-quart, and 3-quart saucepans with covers; 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch covered skillet with helper; 4-quart saute with helper and cover; 9-quart stockpot with cover; 20-cm steamer insert with cover; 24-cm pasta steamer

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