Set aside the fact that this matchup looks as if it is straight out of a Marvel vs. Capcom videogame. This is a valid matchup considering how some people prefer tradition over innovation or vice versa. Cooking purists have their stories to tell about their cast iron pots and pans.
While the new age of cooks prefer to live in the present and use modern weaponry of culinary excellence. Cast iron and stainless steel are as different as they come. Here's the tale of the tape. The decision is up to you.
Stainless Steel Cookware
* Appearance
This is the first thing that you will notice is the stark contrast of appearance between the two. The cast iron cookware is proud of its rustic appeal while the stainless steel is boisterous with its glimmer. With its tradition running for hundreds of years, cast iron enjoys the advantage of being able to stand the test of time with minimal changes to its properties.
The relatively newer stainless steel is understandably preferred by younger generations who never had the pleasure of cooking with their mom's traditional black cookware. However, it is worthy to note that the cast iron pots and pans are making an advance to gain the nod of the visual crowd. Now available with double enamel, it is providing us with eye candies as well. This choice will all boil down to personal preference.
* Technology
Stainless steel is understandably the beneficiary of the present wonders of technology. One look at it and you'll know that it was developed by advanced technology with the end users in mind. Tri-clad stainless steel/aluminum has become very popular in the last 20 years because of its sleek appearance and cooking reliability. However, don't scoff at its older cousin. Sure, it's produced with 1800's technology, but it's proven to be effective time and again.
* Maintenance
Traditional black cast iron pans need to be seasoned every now and then to prevent them from rusting and to preserve their non stick qualities. But this effort is all worth it. It protects and delivers results. Seasoning provides non stick qualities that some say is second to none. Colorful enameled cast iron does not need to be pre-seasoned. On the other hand, a stainless steel pan's appearance depends on its shine. Using a non abrasive cleaner can do wonders to maintain its shine and remove any stains. Hot soapy water is the best for stainless steel. To prevent water spots dry with a soft dish towel. But, traditional cast iron should be washed with hot water and very little detergent, and then dried on the stove at a low heat.
* Results
There is a reason why cast iron is still here even with the advent of futuristic cookware. It has provided families with results. There is also a reason why the stainless steel is very popular. Both have the ability to conduct heat evenly. Both have the flexibility to deliver results for almost any type of demand. Although the non stick properties of a seasoned cast iron pans can do wonders, the versatility of the stainless steel cookware cannot be ignored.
In your perfect kitchen world, you should have both.
Each type of cookware has their cooking specialties. Each of your recipes specifies how the ingredients should be cooked -- stove top or oven or a combination of both. A variety of pots and pans - cast iron, stainless steel, copper, or ceramic - is really the best. Select the best product for the specific application. However, just like in any other decisions, it will still come down to your preferences and needs.
It's also advisable to shop around and hold it in your hands. Sometimes, sparks do fly between you and that pan that's destined for you. But also, remember the shopping and buying are different activities. Once the choice is made then look for the better place to obtain it.
Black Friday Rachael Ray Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set, Orange 2011 Deals
Nov 15, 2011 06:51:31
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Black Friday Rachael Ray Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set, Orange Feature
- Set includes 1-1/2- and 3-quart covered saucepans, 8-quart covered stockpot, 8- and 10-inch open skillets, and 10-inch covered saute pan
- Satin-finish stainless steel with aluminum-capped bases
- Stay-cool, grippy silicone handles in cheerful orange hue; riveted for durability
- Glass lids allow for at-a-glance monitoring
- Oven-safe up to 400 degrees F; hand wash; limited lifetime warranty
Black Friday Rachael Ray Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set, Orange Overview
This cookware set is an exceptional value, including all of the pans needed to equip your kitchen with the most used cooking pieces. As the set contains only basic pieces, you'll really use each and every pan. It includes saucepans for whisking a homemade sauce or cooking your morning oatmeal, a big stockpot for soups, stews or boiling pasta, and skillets (probably the most used pan in any kitchen) that will help you turn out perfect crepes or a simple grilled cheese sandwich. The set also includes a saute pan, a wide, straight-sided pan that can perform many of the functions of a skillet but features deep sides for extra capacity, perfect for one dish meals. Start your dish in this pan by sautéing onions and browning meat, then add your liquid and other ingredients into the same pan to finish on the stovetop or in the oven.Black Friday Rachael Ray Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set, Orange Specifications
A satiny sheen and touches of color give Rachel Ray's 10-piece stainless-steel cookware set a stylish look that's also functional and durable. Included in the grouping are an 8-quart covered stockpot, 1-1/2- and 3-quart covered saucepans, 8- and 10-inch open skillets, and a 10-inch covered sauté pan. Stainless steel is a popular all-around cooking material because it heats quickly and evenly, while the aluminum-capped bases add energy efficiency and excellent heat retention. Plus, the metal doesn't react to acidic foods, resists corrosion and scratches, and cleans easily with just a sponge.The cookware set also features high-arching handles covered in grippy orange silicone that stay cool on the range and are oven-safe to 400 degrees F. Riveted on for strength, they won't warp, bend, or break no matter how heavy the load or how often used. Glass lids also keep the chef informed on what's happening inside the pots without letting heat, nutrients, or flavor escape. A nice starter set that's both versatile and inclusive, this collection is perfect for a new homeowner or as a smartly polished upgrade to a worn, gathered-over-the-years menagerie. It's backed by a lifetime limited warranty. --Kara Karll
What's in the Box
1-1/2- and 3-quart saucepans with lids; 8-quart stockpot with lid; 8- and 10-inch skillets; 10-inch sauté pan with lid. 10 pieces total.
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