Contempo Non-Stick Paella Pan with Lid
I was excited to see a Circulon 14" pan at a reasonable price. I have a 12" nonstick Circulon fry pan that I have used for years and it's held up great. My Circulon cookware is very thick, the 12" fry pan is about a 1/4" thick and has never warped. I was expecting the same construction quality form this new 14" pan.
Unfortunately, this new 14" Circulon pan is very thin, about 1/8". I don't expect it to stay flat very long. I do like the nonstick interiorit is the type that feels a little bit gritty when you run your finger over it and I have noticed that this type of coating seems to hold up better than the ultra smooth, glossy coatings in other pans.
The lid is nice, clear glass, but it is slightly smaller in diameter than my older Calphalon and Tramontina pans, so not really interchangeable between the three.
My search for a really good 14" pan goes on.
Edit:
I've had this pan for a few months now and wanted to update my review. The good news is that it has not warped. Although it is very thin, it is holding up great. It has pretty much been my everyday pan, used for everything from eggs and bacon to fried pork chops. The nonstick coating is still like new and I have no problems with the pans construction or performance.
But, I still don't like the pan. I don't like the shallow sides, and I don't like the dainty little handles. I want a pan that's big, brawny, deep, and has a long, fat handle to match.
And I may have finally found my pan. My local Calphalon Outlet store just got a new shipment that included the Calphalon Unison 14 inch Frying Pan. It's big, heavy, deep, and has a great handle. Only thing missing is the lid. Fortunately, the lid form this Circulon pan does fit it just fine. The only quibble I have with the Calphalon Unison 14" pan is that the bottom is not perfectly flat. It makes no difference on my gas stove, but might be an issue for glass cooktops. The Calphalon Outlet store had a big discount on this pan (really big discount) and I wonder if the not-quite-flat bottom was the reason it was at the outlet store.
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Although this Circulon product has sometimes been described as an "everyday pan" in truth it is a really fantastic Paella pan.I would not have considered buying a non-stick paella pan from anyone other than Circulon.The high/low grooves make it metal utensil safe and based on experience with other Circulon products the quality is top-notch and it should last nearly forever.Although it isn't likely I'll ever use this pan in the oven, it is oven-safe to 400 degrees F.My only complaint is that it is not dishwasher safe.Truth be told, it can be cleaned in the dishwasher without harming the non-stick coating, but it will eventually ruin the beautiful anodized finish (I learned this with my Circulon round grill pan).Circulon has introduced a line that is safe in the dishwasher but this pan is not from that line.As it is, the pan is very easily cleaned with a few swipes in warm soapy water.
This is my idea of a perfect paella pan.The more traditional carbon steel pans need a fair amount of care, they must be seasoned and re-seasoned after each use.Traditional paella pans have a slightly rounded bottom which is great on a gas burner for paella or on gas stoves.My stove is the very flat glass (ceramic?) top which needs to have a pan with a very flat base.When I make paella I always start with a little olive oil in the pan.My paellas don't stick to it and even the crusty bits come up easily.The includeded lid is a bonus as I like to cover my paellas as they rest a few minutes before serving.
I did see on reviewer who thought this pan was thin and seemed surprised it had not warped on her.The pan is perfect as it is with excellent heat distribution and with the Circulon quality it will not warp unless mis-used.Do I work for Circulon?No.I do own a number of Circulon pieces and have been happier with them than with any other brand of cookware (except for the not dishwasher safe part).
Great Pan and Great Value.
Read Best Reviews of Contempo Non-Stick Paella Pan with Lid Here
I got this for larger dishes that wouldn't fit in my 12 inch skillet. I was torn between this and several pans but chose this one because it had a lid. It doesn't really do what I bought it for because when I stir larger meals The contents of the pan usually spills on my stove. Very annoyingWant Contempo Non-Stick Paella Pan with Lid Discount?
I LOOOOOOVE this pan it is totally nonstick & super easy to clean. Heats evenly & my favorite part is how large the cooking area is.
Kalorik Heart-Shaped 1000-Watt Non-Stick Wafflemaker, Stainless/Black
My favorite aspect of this maker is, regardless of how long one leaves a waffle on the waffle maker, they will seldom burn; they just continue to get crispier, and a bit more golden-brown. I have yet to see a burned waffle on this waffle maker, even after accidently leaving one on for 10 minutes or more. Also, it heats up quickly, so it's ready to make waffles in only a couple of minutes
My only disappointmentwould be when I've made berry-waffles, because of the berries, the waffles can stick to the top or bottom, as opposed to coming straight out as they normally do. Also, it can leave residue behind, which makes it difficult for the non-stick to work. However, it does return to its non-stick abilities after a couple times of using regular batter. To abate the small hassle, I no longer put any berries (or the like) into the batter I use.
I would recommend, or even buy this waffle maker, for any number of friends or waffle aficionados. I have most certainlygot my money's worth out of this machine so far, and anticipate many more delicious "Waffle Wednesdays".
This waffle maker works very well.There are several settings for cooking at different temperatures.The waffles cook evenly.MAYBE the not so heavy top grid is forgiving of varying amounts of batter, because I got very little overflow, and all the waffles were complete except for the last waffle in a batch when there was too little batter for a whole waffle.I like the simple light weight design of this waffle maker as opposed to some that are clumsy to use.When the waffle maker is plugged in, a red light comes on.You wait until the green light comes on to put the batter in.I think maybe the red light coming on again is supposed to signal when the waffle is cooked.I wait until the waffle has stopped steaming and then check it.It's either done then or pretty quickly after.I'm not sure about the red light for that.Anyway, I found this waffle maker to be easy to use to make very good waffles. P.S. I really like waffles made from a yeast sponge or sour dough starter, because they are nor bitter like those made with baking powder.I just take the sponge or some starter and mix in milk, egg, some more flour, a little sugar, a pinch of salt, and then it's really ready to use right then.
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I bought this waffle iron as I had fond memories of eating heart-shaped thin waffles with strawberry preserves during a trip to Norway many years ago, and this seemed to have the best reviews of the irons that make this type of waffles.
The good:
The waffle iron cooks evenly, and produces thin and well-browned waffles.
The bad:
The waffles stick.A lot.I've tried Pam, I've tried brushing the griddles with a variety of different oils and a pastry brush, I make sure it's fully pre-heated before use, I use wooden utensils to avoid scratching, but whatever I do, some part of the top of the waffle sticks.
Once you get them unstuck, the waffles are tasty and perfectly cooked, but boy is it annoying to have to pry them loose every time.
Read Best Reviews of Kalorik Heart-Shaped 1000-Watt Non-Stick Wafflemaker, Stainless/Black Here
I am very, very happy with this waffle maker.It heats up quickly, cooks the waffle quickly and evenly.Because of the heart shapes of the design, you can cut one waffle into smaller ones if necessary and you wouldn't necessarily know they were cut.Otherwise, one large waffle is great too.The unit cleans up easily.Just be careful not to pour too much batter onto the hot griddle. I have found that just 1/2 Cup is plenty so it doesn't squish out and run down the side after closing the lid. Then your clean up is easier than ever!Perfect waffles every time and we don't have to wait too long to cook them.Its a quick process.
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I love using this waffle maker.It's simple to use and works well for the person who is preparing a waffle breakfast for 1 to3 individuals. The settings are also easy to use which will allow you to brown the waffle to your desired level also.Cleaning the waffle iron is easy which makes using it even better.
Anolon Advanced Bronze 11-Inch, 5-Quart Covered Sauteuse with Glass Lid
The one thing I would say is, silicone coated handles are a really nice feature and this pot doesn't have them. But, that being said, we still love the pot.As it turns out, this pot is a "Promotional" item given to people hosting parties, or some such thing.It is not as heavy as the other items in the full set.Additionaly, it lacks the "rubber" lid handle.This handle is just metal and gets very hot.Otherwise, it is a fine pot.I would rather have had the item though.
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I have purchased 8 of these in the regular non Bronze color. It is an excellent everyday piece and I was sorely disappointed when the two new Bronze ones I ordered arrived. These pans are not completely flat and slightly protrude up in the center. Both have the same exact defect so I'm hesitant to send them back for an exchange. I am returning them as I have an electric cooktop that doesn't allow for even cooking or frying. The original ones I purchased were so good that I bought them for my parents, and an aunt and we have all used them far in excess of all other pots combined. I am ordering the original non Bronze model as replacements.Read Best Reviews of Anolon Advanced Bronze 11-Inch, 5-Quart Covered Sauteuse with Glass Lid Here
The pan is great, wish it had been deeper and more of a stockpot, we did not read all of the description when purchasing. Handles require hot pads.Want Anolon Advanced Bronze 11-Inch, 5-Quart Covered Sauteuse with Glass Lid Discount?
Anolon Allure 10-Piece Cookware Set
We bought these pans a little over one month ago.So far we really love them.Not only do they look great, they cook evenly and are really easy to clean up.The sizes of the pans in this set was just right for us also.We really love the covered saute pan.I spent a lot of time searching online for the right set, at the right price.We got a great deal on this set at Amazon.I would highly recommend these pans and can not thing of anything negative to add.
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I bought theses pans after reading about all of the Calphalon and every other -on.I didn't want to spend a fortune and figured these would last longer now that the last of the kids is about out of the house, since I can take better care of the pans if I'm the only one cooking with them.These pans are beautiful and the handles feel awesome in your hands.These are definitely pretty enough to hang from a rack.Even though they have the durable non-stick interior, I have noticed some slight surface scratches from a spoons, and I am making an effort to use nylon, wood or silicone utensils.Another reviewer stated she put them in the dishwasher, although a lot of these pans say they should be hand washed. They are SO easy to clean up, I just quickly hand wash them, swipe a towel around them and put them away.If you do get dark spots on the outside bottom of the pan from something burned on, a little Bon Ami on a damp rag removes it and it leaves the finish perfect!
I loved these so much I even did a search for another of the 3-qt. pans because we use it so much!! Found one on eBay, and it was 3-qt., but when I got it, it was shorter and a little wider...I think they called it a saucier. This was even better because they all still stack well since the two pans aren't identical dimensions.This set sells on eBay for well over $200, so this is a buy, although I had my set sitting in my shopping cart for so long while I made up my mind, the price had gone down every time I looked at it and I got them even way cheaper than this!!
Couldn't be happier!Buy them...you'll love them!
Read Best Reviews of Anolon Allure 10-Piece Cookware Set Here
These pots are wonderful.They look good and cook great.Would definitely buy again.I've had these pans for years and I still love them. The handles are ergo friendly for easy pickup by anyone. More importantly they are VERY affordable. They have survived the dishwasher for years and still look new. If I need something heavier I go with what the pros use (vollrath) and continue to save money.Am I Cookin'! 7 Piece Superior Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Winco Red Removable Sleeve Only - for 7 and 8 inch Fry Pan
Ozeri ZP-20GL Green Earth Frying Pan Lid, 8-Inch
Now that I have the lid I can cook ground beef, and onions, for a Shepherd's pie.I also use the pan for making my favorite dish, which is an Indian curry.
The lid is tempered glass, and has a really neat vent area, for allowing the steam to come out.It is silver in color, the same as the rim of the lid, and has a hole in the middle, with 4 smaller ones around the outside of it.The lid fits perfecting into the Green Earth Frying Pan.
Now when I am cooking my pork chops, I can sear then in the pan, and transfer the pan, and lid, into the oven.As long as I keep the temperature down to 392 F or below, it is ovenproof.I normally cook my chops at 325 F.
When using the lid, the black handle/knob, which is on the top, stays cool, making for easy cooking.
I can watch my food cooking through the clear glass lid.Before I would have to check my food, by taking off the lid, to ensure it didn't run dry.
I always wash my pots and pans by hand.However, this lid is suitable to go into the dishwasher.
I was sent the 8" Green Earth Frying Pan Lid, by Ozeri for my personal use. I was under no contract, or obligation to write a review, or to write a favorable one if I chose to write one.
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The lid fits the 8 inch Green Earth frying pan perfectly (I'm writing a separate review for this) and is very sturdy, as well as easy to clean. It sounds silly, but the whole pan and lid set looks so stylish that I keep it on my stove at all times, along with a beautiful red dutch oven. Aside from the fit, I like that the handle is very sturdy and stays cool (being sufficiently far away from the glass) making it easy to take the lid off with one hand, while stirring with the other. I have used lids before where the handle is either heat-conductive, or it is too close to the lid which heats up so it requires a quick touch or using a pot holder. Anywho, definitely would recommend the product.Read Best Reviews of Ozeri ZP-20GL Green Earth Frying Pan Lid, 8-Inch Here
Great lid. Fits my T-Fal pot like it was made for it. This lid has a slight inward taper on the rim so that it will fit almost any 8 inch pot or pan just like factory made, no matter what the brand. Ozeri got the lid to me ahead of schedule and I could not be happier with them or the lid. Buy it, you'll like it.Want Ozeri ZP-20GL Green Earth Frying Pan Lid, 8-Inch Discount?
This is a glass lid with a metal edge installed which forms the lip to correctly fit the pan.It has a small vent installed in the glass.
The noted design problem is that there is a narrow space between the glass and the lip where the lip steps in to be the correct diameter to fit the pan.Any food that gets into the narrow area between lid glass and lip is difficult to remove, at least with hand washing.If not removed this could become a health hazard.IMO the lid would be better if all glass construction at the edges or if the glass was smaller in diameter so that the metal edge did not include the step-in and resulting narrow food trapping gap.As is the lid works fine but is a PITA to clean thoroughly, particularly if there has been any boil over or splatter into the noted gap area.
This also applies to the 12" lid which I have and presumably to the 10" size too.
Deep Fry Pan, 8-Inch, Black
All-Clad 51125 All Clad Stainless-Steel 12-Inch Fry Pan with Lid
This pan was recommended by America's Test Kitchen, and I can see why. It is the best pan that I have ever used. It is very even heating and has a large, useable cooking surface. It cleans up well with Barkeeper's friend cookware cleaner. It looks as good as it cooks. The pan is normally $130 without the lid, so at this price it's a bargain. Don't think twice, it's well worth it.
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I bought this 12 inch All Clad skillet based on the reviews, the fact that it came with a lid, the price was great at Amazon.My landlord replaced my old 4 burner stove with a smooth top, and I needed to replace my 40 year old copper bottom Revere Ware because the bottoms were rounded.
I've been using my new All Clad pan for two orthree weeks now and really like it, although I must admit I did have a learning curve to go through.The first time I used it, I burned the food and really made a messof the inside of the pan.The temperature was way too high.It cleaned up nicely, though.I just used a little water with baking soda and let it soak for a while, then Barkeepers Friend and it was as good as new.
After experimentingfor a while, I findif I cook at medium temperatures, everything turns out great and there's minimal sticking.
The balance of the pan is good, and weight is also good for it's size, but when the pan is full it's a little heavy.If I could make one suggestion on how to improve this product, I would say add a helping handle.Over all, I'm very happy with this purchase.I would rate this pan4.5 stars.
Read Best Reviews of All-Clad 51125 All Clad Stainless-Steel 12-Inch Fry Pan with Lid Here
After using this frying pan I will no longer buy the non-stick pans.This pan cooks so even and browns up so much better.I've purchased top of the line non-stick pans in my life only to be dissappointed shortly after I buy them.This pan is also beautiful.It shines up great.The lid is a plus.It is clear so you can see right thru it.Since I bought this pan and I like it so much, I also plan on widening my collection of the All Clad brand.The only down fall is the price.But if you shop around like I did, you will be able to find a pretty good deal.
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In my zeal to pick up an All Clad 12" skillet WITH cover, I ignored all the posts declaring this poor quality.Oops.Not only did I buy one, but two.They arrived and when I took them out of the box, I noticed very course circular buffing in the steel around the edges--like a really bad wax job on a car, only these marks were in the metal.The rim around both pans was sharp!I felt my old All Clad skillets, and they are all smooth, perfectly shiny, nothing to notice.And that's their beauty.But these...impostors are horrible!They are, indeed, lighter in weight.All Clad should be ashamed of themselves for putting their name on them.It really cheapens the brand.Anyway, to anyone who is even remotely thinking of buying these, SKIP IT.
Did I mention that Amazon rocks, easy returns, no biggie.I lost $8 shipping.I deserve it.
Joie de Vivre 50162 Mini Fry Egg Pan with Nonstick Surface
I would have never bought this pan if I had seen the reviews here, but I bought it on an impulse at a cookware outlet and I'm so glad I did! My pan doesn't have any of the problems (hot handle, peeling nonstick) that the other reviewers here have experienced. I suspect that since those earlier reviews the pan has been redesigned by the manufacturer.
Whatever the reason, I absolutely love it! It's the only pan I've ever found that is the perfect size (4") for english muffins and orowheat sandwich thins. Honestly, I'm a rather practical person, so I generally don't buy things with little characters on them, but this pan has ended up being the most-used pan in my kitchen. It's perfect for making scrambled egg sandwiches, so I use it several times a week.
If the handle starts heating up or the nonstick peels off, I'll update this review, but in over six months of weekly use, it's performed like a little champ! And, over time, the cartoon egg on the handle has grown on me, it seems kind of shocked or amazed... perhaps because it has to watch me cook an egg!
BTW-The secret to light, fluffy scrambled eggs is to use a low heat and stir constantly.It takes a little longer, but it is so worth it.
Enjoy!
Claire
PS It always makes my day to know that people find these reviews helpful. So, please vote (The "Was this review helpful to you: Yes or No" buttons) and leave a comment if you'd like, even if it's just to say, "Hi!" I respond to all comments so feel free to ask a question about the product. Also, when you leave a comment, I will go to your reviews and pay you the same courtesy.
While cute, this little pan is difficult to use. There's no room to use a spatula, so you'd better like the eggs cooked through you can't flip for over easy, and the egg white is too deep to do sunny-side up. Also the handle gets hot and the little plastic egg bit is not enough to grip, so you have to use a potholder. Plus, it's so small that it won't fit any normal-sized burner another burn risk to your fingers.
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Although somewhat of a novelty item, it does produce perfectly round shaped fried eggs. I have had the best results by spraying it with oil and when I want to flip the egg, I loosen the edges with a spatula, slide it out of the pan and on to the spatula then flip it back into the pan.
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I must admit, I'm shocked at all of the one-star negative reviews on this pan. This little thing is great!Firstly, I'm certain that 99% of the perceived issues with this pan are because people aren't using it correctly. For starters, LOWER your heat. This is a really small pan and heats up very quickly.As such you can't expect it will act the same as a much larger pan. The first time I used this I made the same mistake and put the heat where I would for a larger pan.I had the same problem with the egg sticking.But then I lowered the heat and presto the pan worked great!Now I realize the pan heats very quickly and only minimal heat is necessary. I spray some cooking oil in the pan, let it heat for a minute and then add the egg.It slides off easily every time now. Realize, too, that non-stick coatings will deteriorate quicker under extreme heat.
The only issue I've found is that it is necessary to have a narrower plastic spatula so you can get under the food to turn it.
Once you learn to use the pan, it is really a joy to use. The design seems to have been modified to correct the handle issue and I haven't had that problem at all.
For the money, it's a good buy !
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My wife loves for me to make her an "Egg McMuffin" kind of sandwich, except with egg whites only, and on a bagel, and with Virginia ham intead of Canadian bacon. I make one for her almost every morning befoe I go to work. I had been using these egg rings, which you lay down on a hot frying pan. They work sorta ok. But egg always leaks out because either no frying pan in completly flat, or the rings are not. I have not ever figured it out. Then along comes this pan. Seems to be the perfect size for the pefect round egg. And really, it is! The egg cooks up fine, especially if you keep the flame on low, which on most gas burners give you a flame ring the size of the bottom of the pan. This also seems to be just the right amount of btu's for proper cooking. Turning the egg over is a problem, but not a huge one. Best option is to let the egg do 90% of it's cooking on the first side, then use your smallest spatula to turn it over for the last 10 or 15 seconds of cooking. There is one fatal flaw to this pan. It is the handle! For starters, it is of an almost useless shape, too wide and too flat to hold comfortably, were the second problem not evident-the handle gets just about as hot as the pan! Now the makers have seen fit to afix a goofy egg character on the end of the handle, I suppose to insulate your hand from it's cooking temperature surface , but alas, it gets just about as hot as well. Having said all that, I still use the pan every day because it is the only one of it's size I have been able to find. And it does make perfect round eggs for that morning sandwich my wife must have!
Addendum: 7/11/2012The makers/importers of this pan seem to have read my complaint! ' The pan now comes with a re-designed , insulated handle which is so much better. I can now say the pan is just about perfect!
Update International AFQ-14 Quantum2 Coated Aluminum Fry Pan, Non-Stick, 14-Inch
Casabella Silicone Lid and Splatter Guard
Lynns Saturn 10 Inch Open Frypan
Rachael Ray Hard Anodized Nonstick 8-Quart Oval Pasta Pot with Glass Lid, Orange
I do understand that it being lightweight is a plus for a pasta pot, as it makes it easier to lift and pour...but I really was hoping it could do double duty like Analon's oval 5qt saute pan.Thankfully, though it tends to burn my soup, it does clean up easily!
I originally bought the 10 piece set and loved it so much that I keep adding on.This is my latest addition and I love it just as much as the rest.The pot is oval so that you don't have to break up your long pasta noodles and it has a pouring spout on the side for easy draining.It's also super easy to clean.
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I love this pot! I tell my husband that every time I cook something in it for him. It fits well on its burner when using another large pot on an adjacent burner. Its non-stick properties are excellentit washes beautifully. I am not really a big fan of the color orange, so I would have liked it to come with plain black handles instead of the bright orange color. These rubberized handles, however, stay cool to the touch, so it is easy to handle. The weight of the pot is goodnot too heavy to be difficult to lift when full, but not too light to feel flimsy or allow food to burn. It is a great pot for every day if you don't want to have to own too many pots, since you can cook pasta, soups, roasts, and stir frys in it. I may buy more to give as gifts to my son and daughter.
I love it, love it, love it. I use this all the time. It really gives you room in the pan to move your ingrediants around. It has a great pour spout on the side, and pasta cooks up so much better as it has room to move around in thepan. Clean up is a breeze. The handles have a great grip support that stays cool on the stove.
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I bought this pot after checking it out at a local department store to see if I liked the finish, weight, etc.I've had it for several weeks now and have used it to cook pasta, a large pot of soup, chili, etc.It heats evenly and cleans up quickly.In short, I love it.I especially like the fact that I can cook long pasta without having to break it or wait around for it to soften and be completely submerged.I have a standard electric stove and I find that if sauteeing meat or vegetables for soup I need to move the food around from the sides to the middle of the pan for even cooking/browning, but that's simple enough and no trouble.I noticed that one person noted that the pan was "stinky" when she used it.The first time I ran water in it to wash before using, it smelled funny, but after washing there has been no odor at all.This pan is also perfectly balanced for pouring and is heavy enough to heat evenly without being too heavy for my hands and wrists, which have weakened from years of typing and beginning arthritis.And I love the silicone handles.All in all, I'm very pleased with this pan. Amazon had the best price (got it on sale for $59.99) and shipping was fast.Bella Flame 12" Green Ceramic Coated Nonstick Fry Pan w/ Glass Lid by Amorè, Floral Pattern Textur
So easy to use and no hard cleanup , just a quit wipe out and there you go!
I have several brands and this one is one of my Favorites..You cant go wrong with this Fry pan.If I could rate more than 5 stars on amazon, I would rate this Fry Pan 6 stars!!
This is one excellent fry pan, heats up quickly, cleans easy, looks delicate with all the etching inside and outside of the pan.
Not only do they look artistic, they also help disturbing heat evenly all over the pan.
I am so glad I bought this fry pan.This fry pan is a perfect weight for easy use.Super no stick!Not only healthier but even with the size of this pan it is easy to "toss" stuff in it.The textured surface really does help to distribute sauces more consistently throughout.I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND this to anyone looking for a great fry pan.i hate cooking and hate cleaning even more so i was happy to buy this. this is a great pan ,nothing sticks and cleans good in dishwasher. sometimes if you make certain things like pancakes you can see the design on the food, its pretty cool.
Cuisinart FCT33-28H French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 5-1/2-Quart Saute Pan with Helper Handle and C
The French Classic is by far the nicest looking.The mirror polished outside of the pans is like a chrome bumper on a classic car.Interestingly, you can get reproductions of chrome bumpers done in polished stainless steel.They hold up very well, and scratches can be polished out of them.I assume the same can be said for these pots.The French Classic line also has nicer handles.They are cast steel, versus stamped, and are thus more substantial.They are unique, and artistic.They also have a flat spot that extends out a bit from the pot, before the first hole.Others, including the Multi-Clad Pro line have a handle that branches into a Y shape before it attaches to the pot.This Y shape lets spilled food run down the side of the pan and stick in the Y, which is hard to clean.The French Classic's handle is a solid piece for about a half inch out from the pot, forming an easier to clean ledge, instead of a tight, food catching triangle formed by the pot wall and the Y shape.Finally, the French handle is attached with noticeably smaller rivets, which are also smoother, meaning they will be easier to clean.The MCP's rivets look like...well they look like they were made in China, slightly rough and misshapen.
Let's talk lids.They both are non-magnetic polished stainless, as opposed to the pots themselves, which are magnetic.They aren't the same materials, though.The MCP lid is thinner and softer.Heck, a regular kitchen towel left swirl marks on it when I dried it.The same towel did nothing on the French lid.I would say that the Frenchie fits tighter because the rim of the pot isn't rolled like the MCP. Let's talk handles.The MCP handle (and lid) shows finger prints much easier than the French handle (and lid).There is a difference in polishing technique that has somehow resulted in a better surface on the French line.This will pay off as the pots get used.
The MultiClad line has two functional advantages over the French Classic, though.First, the lips of the pots are rolled outward, making it a bit easier to pour from them. I don't do that very often, so it's not a factor for me.Second, the outside is two tone.Most of the pot is brushed stainless, but the top half inch and the lid are mirror polished.The brushed stainless might wear better than the entirely polished (except the bottoms) French Classic outsides, although you can polish a scratch out of a mirror finish, but not a brushed finish.Appearance wise, it's a matter of taste, but I can tell you the unique handles and mirror polish of the Frenchie is striking.
On to cooking performance...they seem the same to me.Both have the same weight, construction and interior material and finish, which are identical to the other brands.So far, I've cooked steaks, taco meat, oatmeal, bacon and eggs in these two pans.A little soaking and a light scrubbing with a dish rag gets them clean.Not much harder to clean than the outgoing Circulon non-stick stuff.I did notice a slight haze developing on the inside that I couldn't clean off with a soapy rag, but a very light with Bar Keepers Friend® Cleanser & Polish: 12 OZ took care of that.Basically, both lines seem to be easy to clean, except for the fingerprints and swirl marks mentioned above.As for heat transfer, well they both worked at least as good as the old Circulon anodised aluminium, and I don't have to worry about non-stick coatings or aluminium leaching.One advantage over the non-stick is that you can get caramelization to form on the food and the pan when you saute a steak or some onions.Deglaze the pan with red wine or liquid of your choice and reduce it down to a nice sauce.The steak I made in this pan with mushrooms and onions in a red wine sauce was one of the best steaks I've ever had.
Ok, so which line is better, the French Classic or the Multi-Clad Pro?Which set will be brought in to replace the Circulon set?Hmmm...performance is the same.The Frenchie price is a bit higher, but not much higher if you shop around.Appearance is definitely different between the two lines, and I feel that the artistic handles and polished look of the Frenchie are a cut above anything else on the market, at any price.The MCP's two toned look is also nice, but side by side they look cheap compared to the French line.
Sounds like the French Classic is the one to get, right?Maybe.The problem with this line is the lack of selection in it.They just don't have many different types of pans in it.They only have one medium sized sauce pan, and it's only two quarts, for example. Where's the 3 and 4 quart sauce pans that are available in the MCP line?They do have a nice 4.5 quart Dutch Oven in the set that you can't get in the MCP.Beyond that, the only other French choices you can get besides this large pan being reviewed is a 6 quart stock pot, a 12 inch skillet, and non-stick versions of the open skillets.I read that this line hasn't been out for a year yet, so maybe more items will become available soon.
Here's what I think I'm going to do...I think I'll use another 20 percent off coupon at BBandB, which will bring the price of the French set down to $240.I'll keep my large 3 and 4 quart Circulon sauce pans for the few times I need one, and wait to see if a large sauce pan comes available in the French line, or maybe I'll stumble across one I like in open stock of another line, maybe even the Cuisinart MCP194-20 MultiClad Pro Stainless-Steel 4-Quart Saucepan with Cover.The deciding factor?They just seem better made. Made in France, not made in China like the MCP line and most other low to mid priced brands out there on the market.Received my Cuisinart French Classic 5.5Qt Saute Pan today, and it seems like a very nice product.However, the product appeared brand new in the package, but there were several burrs (appearing to be tooling marks) in the rim of the pan.They weren't a big deal, but when paying almost $100 for a single pan, I expect the final product to be flawless.Otherwise, the pan looks magnificentpolished stainless on the sides and matte on the cooking surface and the bottom.Very heavy and a nice handle.Just be careful when you receive the product and check it for manufacturing defects.Other than that, I have no doubt this product will provide years and years of faithful service.This is very high quality.They are quite thick, are great conductors of heat, and will hold up well.The exterior finish is gloss, and it will become scratched with time, but it's not on display, it's for cooking.The lip is not rolled, and it may be a bit difficult to pour sauce.That's not a bad thing, just a note.It's much easier to clean with a plain edge anyhow.
This pan is easy to clean, and looks great! I will be buying more in the future!!
Received it very quickly also.We chose this pan for a few reasons, one was that it was stainless steel, but what was really nice was the fact that it was advertised as being light weight.My wife and I have wanted to get a pan or dutch oven that could be put in the oven to cook or use on the stove, but dutch ovens are so heavy.So we got this to do our stir frys or whatever else where having deep sides would be a good benefit.
It works great and we use it frequently.The construction is good too and YES it is NOT made in China!!!! It's made in France!! The handle does not get hot and the extra grip on the side is really helpful.
It's a great piece and worth the price.We expect to keep this cookware for many many years over.
Cuisinart FCT-10 French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set
I'll admit to being a bit leery prior to purchase. Only announced in June of 2011, this line was an unproven commodity. We were leaning heavily toward the All-Clad stainless line. I decided to order the 1qt saucepan of the French Classic Cuisinart cookware to compare. After that we were sold.
Pros:
Induction compatible, which was a must for us as we plan on upgrading to an induction cook top.
Handles more comfortable than All-Clad (an individual thing I'm sure. Try them both if you can to see which you prefer.)
Price compared to other what I would call "better quality" lines of cookware like All-Clad, Viking's Pro line, ...
Interchangeable covers. The stock pot, dutch oven, and sauté pan all use the same size lid, and it also fits the 10" skillet.
Cons:
Selection. You can get a piece of All-Clad cookware in every size and style imaginable. Only a few pieces available in this line. But if what they offer is all you need...
Pouring. The non lipped style doesn't lend to pouring from pot or pan neatly. A guide spoon is needed if pouring slowly from a fuller pan. The plus side of that is well fitting lids.
A nice set overall that we're very pleased with. I'm no pro and have never really needed a Windsor, Sauteuse, or Paella pan. :)Awesome set. Fast to heat up. Even heating. Foods don't stick. Comfortable handles. Great look and mirror finish all for hundreds of dollars less than all clad.
Buy Cuisinart FCT-10 French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set Now
I recently purchased this set and just love it!I have the cuisinart gourmet green for non-stick cooking and it's terrific as well.My mom used Waterless stainless cookware for 40 years (I have that set) but this Cuisinart French Classic has it beat.Even heating, non-stick and easy clean up.It's nice to be able to cook on lower heat settings with fantastic results!
Read Best Reviews of Cuisinart FCT-10 French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set Here
I purchased this 10-piece Cuisinart cookware set to replace a set of Revere ProLines that are falling apart (literally, the copper bottoms are dropping off). I thought my ProLines were pretty good, but the quality of the Cuisinart French Classic far surpasses what I've been using, with triple-thick walls, stainless form-fitting covers, and a nice balance in the hand with contoured handles. They are on the heavy side, but I like a substantial pan, they feel durable and I don't doubt they will last a lifetime. They heat quickly and cook evenly with less heat because of the aluminum core.A few (minor) complaints: The large rivets for the handles on the inside of the pots are a little hard to clean up, but that doesn't affect my overall love of the cookware.Then they recommend plastic or wood utensils to preserve the glossy interior.I don't care so much about the insides, so I'll continue to use metal utensils on my cookware.I would have also liked to have seen another saucepan or two in this collection, but there are pieces that can be purchased separately.
There is a lifetime warranty on the French Classic line; Cuisinart appears to have their own repair center and offers a large variety of top-quality cookware should something need to be replaced.I cannot get Revere to honor their lifetime warranty on their ProLine pans, since they don't offer repair and they no longer make the line or anything comparable.
I highly recommend this cookware set if you are looking for something substantial and long-lasting.I would say these are on par with higher-end brands out there, and are relatively inexpensive compared to those.I'm very pleased with how they look, their durability, and how they cook.
Want Cuisinart FCT-10 French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set Discount?
This review will compare this set to a similar set available at Bed Bath and Beyond.For a general comparison to other brands of tri-ply, see my review of Cuisinart FCT33-28H French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 5-1/2-Quart Saute Pan with Helper Handle and CoverAs you can read, the French Classic is constructed the same or better than other lines of tri-ply, but I really like how it looks.It's cost is similar, or cheaper than most lines.It performs great, and compares well to my outgoing Circulon set.It's also probably the only thing I own that's made in France, and I like to buy non-Chinese(quality and slave labor issues) when possible, so that's worth something.
The set at BB&B costs $240 if you use one of their 20% off coupons, which is quiet a bit cheaper than this set.They are both 10 piece sets.Both come with the same 8 and 10 inch open skillets, and a steamer basket.Both have a 2 quart sauce pat.Other than that, there's quiet a bit of difference.The BB&B set has glass lids, while this set has stainless lids.My 5.5 quart Sauté Pan came with the stainless lid, so I can compare the lids.I prefer the glass.The stainless lids are so shiny that they show smudges easier than the glass.I also like seeing the food cook.They probably both seal equally, but because you can see the food through the glass, you don't have to lift the lid as much, so the glass effectively keeps in more moisture.
Another big difference is the 3 quart sauté pan, which lacks a helper handle on the BB&B set.I like pans with a helper handle, because it's easier to move them around.I also like how you can balance the pan over the sink on the two handles while you fill it with water to soak.I wish the BB&B pan had a helper handle.
The BB&B set's 6 quart stock pot is 2 quarts smaller than this set's.It would be nice to have the larger stock pot.Another big difference is this set offers a nice Dutch oven, while the BB&B set offers a 1 quart sauté pan.You can bet that you'll use the 1 quart saute pan more than that Dutch oven, and you can buy a nice Dutch oven with the $160 price difference, and a larger stock pot if you need one, though not from the French Classic line.I already had one, and I already had a large stock pot.Note that you can't buy the larger 8 quart stock pot or the Dutch oven separately in the French Classic line.You can buy the Cuisinart FCT19-14 French Classic Tri-Ply Stainless 1-Quart Saucepan with Cover separately, though.
I think the BB&B set is a good basic starter set, or a good set to buy to replace frequently used pans, like I did.You may already have the larger pans it's missing, or you can buy them with the price savings over this set.You may prefer the glass lids, as I do, or you may like the shiny metal ones on this set.The only thing this set has over the BB&B set for me is the helper handle on the 3 quart sauté pan.
You'll like either set, and both are great values when compared to other lines of tri-ply.I just think the BB&B set is a better value.In either case, consider if you will want to buy any other pans, and if you'll want them to match these sets, because there's hardly any open stock French Classic pieces.
Mauviel M'Heritage M150B 6535.25 10.4-Inch Crepe Frying Pan with Bronze Handle
For my first experience with the pan, I used the recipe for crepes that came in the box. The first (and all of the other crepes) came out beautifully and tasted heavenly. They were very light and turned the perfect color. And... it seemed to do better at the higher heat I was using than the non-stick pans I used prior to it.
I'm glad I didn't say anything about my new pan and the new recipe I used because I got an un-biased reaction to the consumption... they loved them!
Bravo! This one pan makes me want to try the other Mauviel (expensive) products.
I do want to mention that the handle did get hot. I could pick up the pan but if you have sensitive hands... you may want to use a pad or handle cover. And... clean up was easy but because I used a gas stove, the bottom of the pan quickly discolors (not to the point of ugly... just not completely the color it was when I took it out of the box). I'm sure that would go away if I bought the copper cleaner which I do intend on doing.
All in all... this pan made fabulous crepes!!!! I don't think you can go wrong and I'm glad I made the investment. I don't think I'll ever need to buy another pan.If you have ever used an allclad cookware, this will be a disappointment. Heat capacity is just not as good. With all clad, I heat the pan at medium heat and then reduce the heat to low. This pan will cool down when you reduce the heat...means you have to cook at high heat...means prone to burning, etc. I am going to return mine...and use a 10" all clad fry pan instead.
Buy Mauviel M'Heritage M150B 6535.25 10.4-Inch Crepe Frying Pan with Bronze Handle Now