Le Creuset Stainless Steel features 3 Ply construction: Steel/Aluminum/Steel for even, all-around heat distribution with no hot spots. 18/10 exterior make it ideal for all cookware surfaces including induction.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless-Steel 12 1/2 Inch Nonstick Fry Pan
I have been buying my fry pans at a restaurant supply but got tired of the declining quality. This is a very good product. As always, let cool before putting under the water or you will warp the pan bottom I am sure. This is a very sturdy product with a superior non stick finish. I will let you know in five years or so if it held up to my expectations. By the way, it holds a whole meal for a family. I really like that versus two or three skillets of cooking, trying to keep the first and second warm while you finish the last. This will be a good purchase for you.
Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless-Steel 12 1/2 Inch Fry Pan
Perfect for entertaining or larger families, this large fry pan will easily accommodate multiple servings. A full aluminum core eliminates hot spots, allowing the entire surface area to be used. Gently sloping sides make turning foods simple and easy, and a precision pour rim allows for spill-proof pouring.
Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless-Steel 2-Quart Covered Saucepan
Le Creuset Stainless Steel features 3 Ply construction: Steel/Aluminum/Steel for even, all-around heat distribution with no hot spots. 18/10 exterior make it ideal for all cookware surfaces including induction.
Fagor Induction-Ready Cast Aluminum 11 Inch Skillet
Fagor’s New Cast Aluminum cookware is induction ready, allowing for a high level of efficiency and savings when used on an induction cooktop. Cast aluminum’s superior heat conductivity provides uniform heating and cooking on any type of cooktop (gas, electric, radiant or induction), preserving the nutritious qualities and flavors of the prepared food while reducing energy consumption. Craving a juicy burger? This high performance 11 inch skillet maintains the natural flavors, juices and nutrients of your meals. The high walls help reduce splatter.This cookware is guaranteed to never warp thanks to its single piece casting process and extra thick base. The double layer high-grade nonstick coating is scratch resistant and ensures durability: no peeling, blistering or cracking, and long lasting luster.The simple yet modern design offers versatility and convenience in any kitchen;use it as a vessel to cook or even as a stylish serving dish! Excellent handle design: non-slip colorful grip handles, removable for easy storage even in the smallest of kitchens.
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Fagor 4-Piece 8-Quart Multipot
It appears that the pasta insert is deep enough to be covered with approximately 4-quarts of water. That is plenty for a large family pasta feast. The reason I rated this 4-stars rather than 5 is that I normally cook thin spaghetti and where I would prefer a 2" solid band around the bottom of the pasta insert (to butt the dry pasta against), there are more draining holes. This means some of the pasta will try to escape through the draining holes, especially if you follow the Fagor cooking directions and place the insert already loaded with dry pasta into the boiling water.
This Chinese manufactured pan was deeply embossed on the underside and indicated the pan may be used for induction cooking. At $21.95, I am going to order several more as (super economy sized) stocking stuffers! :o)
Fagor Home Canning Kit
love the funnel! Very sturdy and durable. The canning rack fits into one of my smaller stock pots which is nice for smaller batches. This is a nice set. They include a book with some recipes and color pictures. Beware if you've never canned before, The pictures under the "steps for pressure canning" were taken by someone who had no clue. Step 2. shows jar of food with someone removing bubbles, step 3. wipe rims of jars... shows empty jar turned upside down with someone wiping it, step 5 shows how the magnetic lid lifter works... except they are using it after the ring is on!. Anyway this is a great set anyway.
Fagor Duo Stainless-Steel 4-Quart Pressure Cooker
I LOVE this cooker!!! It saves me time, work, money, nutrients, cooks 3-10 times faster. You can put food in even if not defrosted [although microwaves help that issue]. They make the best stews, soups, sweet and sour ribs, chili, puddings, cheese cakes etc. You can buy a really inexpensive cut of meat, put in your spices, some water and wine, and in less than 20 minutes it is fork tender. Whenever I have a recipe that calls for cooked chicken [like enchiladas], I buy the less expensive whole chicken, put it in the cooker and in 15-20 minutes it is falling-off-the-bone tender.
This one comes with a double locking system and two levels of pressure; one for veggies and grains; the other for more dense foods like dry beans, meats or squash. I would never be without one again. I'm going to order the companion 6 quart that Fagor makes for those larger meats and veggies!
Fagor Duo Stainless-Steel 6-Quart Pressure Cooker
I had a Kuhn Rikon and still have a Presto pressure cooker. I got rid of the Kuhn Rikon. I love the Fagor Duo. The Kuhn Rikon design is a real pain if you have an electric stove. It is probably almost acceptable if you have a gas stove. The Fagor models work equally well on either type stove. Also, along the same lines, the Fagor and the Presto designs are much more forgiving. You better plan on watching a Kuhn Rikon very closely -- especially on an electric stove -- but also on a gas range. It can get to an over pressure situation easily. Granted you will likely just blow out part of your gasket (the safety measure) if you get distracted. Who needs that? You better have an eagle eye and fast reactions to maintain a reasonably constant pressure inside your cooker with an electric stove.
You do lose some steam with a Fagor though typically much less than with a Presto model. (You lose nearly no vapor with a Kuhn Rikon -- that is about their only big selling point in my book.) The Fagor model uses a compressed spring to regulate pressure. The Presto uses a weight on top of a vent pipe -- this combination is called a jiggler valve -- to regulate pressure. To regulate pressure with a Kuhn Rikon you basically watch a rising spring loaded pressure indicator and adjust the heat as needed. Gas heat is more quickly adjustable than electric. You have to either hope for the best as you crank the heat up and down with an electric stove or play hop scotch between a too hot and a too cold burner. On the Fagor Duo there are two spring compression settings. You can cook at 8 psig or 15 psig. 15 psig is the normal setting used for most pressure cooking. For delicate foods, like fish, or if you are in no particular rush the 8 psig setting will come in handy.
Bottom line is I like the Fagor the best of the three pressure cookers I discussed, next I like the Presto. The Kuhn Rikon is built like a tank and it is an interesting design. I just don't like it as well as the Fagor's and I am a both a mechanical engineer and I cook for a hobby. I'd like to think my opinion is an informed one.
Fagor Induction-Ready Cast Aluminum 10.5 Inch Square Griddle
I was not about to buy all new cookware when I got my Electrolux induction cooktop. My pans worked fine, but I did need a griddle. I took a chance on the Fagor and I could not be more pleased. It does heat evenly and really does a good job on everything from pancakes to fish fillets. What do you know... something that actually does what it said it would...
Fagor Portable Induction Cooktop
I've had this cooktop for 3 months now and I'm really pleased with it. I bought it to see if I liked induction enough to spring for a whole cooktop when I replace my stove. All but one of my pans worked on it (if you have aluminum cookware you will need to go shopping). I mainly use All-Clad stainless, Lodge cast iron and Chantal enamel on steel cookware. I have an iron, flat bottomed wok that works great with it. It is FAR superior to a hot plate or extra burner. This little unit has become our main stove. I could see using just one or two of these in a cabin, kitchenette, dorm, etc. I've been pleased with my Fagor pressure cooker, so that's why I chose this brand.
What makes me happy:
-incredibly quick response, I think as good as gas
-less heat in the air makes the kitchen more comfortable and cooking is safer
-no charred mess from spillovers etc. Really easy to clean
-fabulous low temperature setting that is barely more than warm. It will melt chocolate beautifully on the lowest setting. No more fiddling with a double boiler.
-I like the timer feature. When the timer ends, it turns off the unit. That's a boon for a distracted cook.
-It's harder to burn things with this cooktop than with gas or electric. Partly because it's so responsive, but I really think it does a better job of maintaining a consistent temperature.
Things you should know:
-as another reviewer noted, there is a hot spot in the middle where all the action is. If you use a really big pan, you'll see where the heat is concentrated. However, I haven't had any actual problems with this. It heats even large pans quite well even though it says somewhere in the manual to use smaller pans.
-if you lean on the front edge it will tip. Sounds dumb, but I've done it.
-there's a brief learning curve to the touchpad controls. Maybe 3-4 days of having to think about it and now it's second nature.
I really hope that induction cooking gains a wider audience in the U.S. It's a fabulous technology that's ready for mainstream consumers.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless-Steel 1-1/2-Quart Open Saucepan with 8 Inch Whisk
Perfect for smaller servings of soup, sauces and vegetables, this 1-1/2-quart saucepan features Le Creuset's 3-ply stainless steel construction, and this pan comes with an 8-inch metal whisk--great for making delicious sauces right out of the box. Made using a high technology triple layer system, an aluminium core is sandwiched between two layers of premium quality stainless steel which includes a special magnetic steel making the pans suitable for use on induction. The multi-layering continues throughout the entire pan so that excellent heat conduction performance is guaranteed from base to rim. The brushed stainless exterior is easy to clean and resists fingerprints.
The pan is a great choice for saving energy thanks to its superb heat retention and distribution--only low to medium heat is needed for most types of cooking. It has a riveted handle for added strength, and the entire rim of the pan has a specially designed pouring lip to prevent drips and spills and is perfect for left or right handed pouring. It's ovenproof to 400 degrees F. Dishwasher safe, this pan is covered by a limited lifetime warranty.
Le Creuset Stainless Steel features 3 Ply construction: Steel/Aluminum/Steel for even, all-around heat distribution with no hot spots. 18/10 exterior make it ideal for all cookware surfaces including induction.
Fagor Induction-Ready Cast Aluminum 23.5 Inch Griddle
Fagor’s New Cast Aluminum cookware is induction ready, allowing for a high level of efficiency and savings when used on an induction cooktop. Cast aluminum’s superior heat conductivity provides uniform heating and cooking on any type of cooktop, preserving the nutritious qualities and flavors of the prepared food while reducing energy consumption. Champion breakfast by preparing a complete menu of scrambled eggs, bacon and home fries for your family with this large griddle. The non-stick surface will make cleaning up a breeze! This cookware is guaranteed to never warp thanks to its single piece casting process and extra thick base. The double layer high-grade nonstick coating is scratch resistant and ensures durability: no peeling, blistering or cracking, and long lasting luster. The simple yet modern design offers versatility and convenience in any kitchen; use it as a vessel to cook or even as a stylish serving dish! Exceptional design with elevated handles for easier and safer gripping from the stove top. The elegant design allows the cookware to be used as a cooking vessel or as a stylish serving dish providing maximum versatility and convenience.
Fagor 4-Piece Egg Poacher Set
A very high quality piece of specialized kitchen equipment. Does a perfect job of poaching. The glass lid lets you moniter the cooking process and it's vented. Has a nice weight and the teflon cups keep the eggs whole.
It's as easy as making a soft-boiled egg.
If I had to do it again I probably would have bought the 6 egg model because now the whole family want's poached eggs.
Fagor Induction-Ready Cast Aluminum 17.5 Inch Griddle
Fagor’s New Cast Aluminum cookware is induction ready, allowing for a high level of efficiency and savings when used on an induction cooktop. Cast aluminum’s superior heat conductivity provides uniform heating and cooking on any type of cooktop, preserving the nutritious qualities and flavors of the prepared food while reducing energy consumption. Delight your family with delicious, healthy meals. Even at medium temperatures, your steaks will grill to desired level of doneness; you are sure to please even the most particular palate! This cookware is guaranteed to never warp thanks to its single piece casting process and extra thick base. The double layer high-grade nonstick coating is scratch resistant and ensures durability: no peeling, blistering or cracking, and long lasting luster. The simple yet modern design offers versatility and convenience in any kitchen; use it as a vessel to cook or even as a stylish serving dish! Exceptional design with elevated handles for easier and safer gripping from the stove top. The elegant design allows the cookware to be used as a cooking vessel or as a stylish serving dish providing maximum versatility and convenience.
Fagor Induction-Ready Cast Aluminum 10.5 Inch Square Grill
Fagor Induction-Ready Cast Aluminum 10.5 Inch Square Grill
I was seeking a better panini-maker than my electric waffle iron. I try to avoid too many special-purpose electrics, so I decided on a grill-pan & press.
I purchased this pan along with the Nopro Enamel Cast Iron Panini Press. They make a terrific pair! I can preheat the press on one burner, this pan on another to make beautifully crispy panini. It also works superbly for general grilling. It heats more evenly than my cast iron griddle, leaves nice grill marks, and the non-stick surface has not failed.
I mostly cook on a gas stove, but also own a portable induction burner, so more cookware to use that is a plus.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless-Steel 1-1/2-Quart Open Saucepan
Wifes become attached to one pan. We finally found another to share this often used position. Not too big, just right. Measurements on pan inside are also appriciated. Matches the rest of our pans nicely.
Fagor 8 Piece Tri-Ply Cookware Set
Set includes 10 inch open skillet, 1.5 & 3 quart covered sauce pans, stainless steel steamer basket & 8 quart covered stock pot
Fagor 9-Piece Silicone Dessert Kit
You can make desserts in this but it is flimsy and water can and does get into this during the cooking process. You can make the best desserts and other foods with this item. Sure you can make great cheesecakes but did you know you can also make casseroles in your pressure cooker? Well with this you can! Some members of the yahoo group pressurecookerrecipes love this thing and have posted rave reviews of it. Cleans up so easy you do not mind using it.
Fagor Pressure Cooking For Every Occasion Cookbook
Looking to get a great meal on the table, without a lot of time in the kitchen? Fast, foolproof, and extremely versatile, pressure cooking is the answer for every busy cook. Pressure Cooking for Everyone reveals dozens of techniques for getting the most out of your pressure cooker- plus dozens of elegant, restaurant quality recipes.
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Fagor 3-in-1 Electric Multi-Cooker; pressure cooker, slow cooker and rice cooker
I purchased this to replace five slow cookers (Yes, I really had five), a rice cooker, and a Nesco roaster. When it arrived, I ran a water test which worked perfectly. The cooker heats quickly and then cooks on pressure and beeps when done. If not turned off, it goes to a warm cycle to hold the dish until you are ready. The next dish I tried was rice on the rice cycle. It is set for white rice and I was cooking brown rice so I just repeated the cycle twice after the first cycle. The rice turned out perfectly in 18 minutes. The removable pan is easy to clean since it is Teflon. I then put in the ingredients for black beans and set the timer for 27 minutes on the high pressure cycle. I punched start and walked away. The beans were done, tender and delicious! It used to take me 12 hours to cook beans in the crock pot! There is a brown cycle which heats up fast and can be used for sauteing items. I made a Mexican chicken soup and sauteed the onions and celery, threw in cubed raw chicken breast and browned, then added the rest of the ingredients for the soup except for the avocado which I added after the soup was done and cooked it on high pressure for 8 minutes. It sure didn't take me long to cook lunch that day! There is also a low pressure cycle for vegetables which I haven't tried yet. I can see that I am going to get lots of use out of this cooker. I think it is wonderful!
Farberware Classic Stainless Steel Bell Shaped Cookware
I love this set, it has everything you need for a family. This is my second set in my lifetime. The first is still as good as new but my father-in-law needed more pots and I gave it to him. The heat is evenly distributed in these pots & they don't wobble. They are very easy to clean.
Farberware Classic Stainless Steel 17-Piece Cookware Set
My girlfriend had been complaining for months how she needed new pots and pans. The old set just didn't measure up to the task at hand. This product is an outstanding replacement even if a bit on the heavy side. So far, after three uses I realize how superior the new pots are to the old ones. The eggs don't stick, the stew doesn't scorch and adhere to the bottom of the pot, etc. The pots even seem to grip whatever it is they are set on. I am overall very satisfied with this product and couldn't beat the price.
Farberware Classic Stainless Steel 15-Piece Cookware Set
We're happy with our 20-year-old Farberware stainless steel cookware, pre-dating the stainless steel capped base. The interiors are still like new. The lids are shiny and dent-free. The handles are faded, but remain tight with an occasional turn of a screw. We use it everyday.
We are equally pleased with the newer "Classic" pieces, especially with the added weight and improved appearance of the capped bases. We bought the 15-piece set, giving us some redundant pieces but at a better price than buying fewer pieces individually.
We like stainless steel for several reasons: It cooks well. We can use metal utensils. It lasts for decades. It's dishwasher safe without consequence. It looks good. It's heavy enough. It cleans up easily. (For occasional stuck on food, we simply blot out what's loose, add water, and bring to a boil. After a few seconds, the stuck on food wipes off easily.)
There's pricier cookware available, some with aluminum cores that extend up the sides of the pan, some with copper clad bases, some with handles rated to 500 degrees, some made of anodized aluminum, and some so heavy you can use it as part of your fitness program. After years of no-complaints with our Farberware Classic stainless steel, we can't see paying the premium prices for anything else. We don't use our cookware in the oven, so we're okay with our 350-degree handles.
One complaint with the set: The non-stick skillets are 100% ALUMINUM with a PLAIN exterior and NO heavy base cap. Per Farberware's own website (caps added for emphasis): "Aluminum stains easily and reacts with certain foods. A nonstick interior and PORCELAIN OR NONSTICK EXTERIOR prevents staining and food reaction. Nonstick aluminum is dishwasher safe. A PLAIN AUMINUM EXTERIOR may discolor in the dishwasher."
We use stainless steel for most of our cooking, but still prefer non-stick skillets for some things. We'd like the skillets in this set better if they at least had an exterior finish on them.
Follow-up: We gave away the aluminum skillets from this set and bought a set of Cuisinart stainless steel non-stick skillets to use alongside our collection of Farberware stainless steel.
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Vinturi Essential Wine Aerator
As wine breathes, it releases its intended aromas and flavors. Unlike time-consuming decanters, Vinturi’s simple gadget makes the aerating process easy and convenient. Simply hold it over a glass and pour the wine through, mixing the proper amount of air in the right amount of time. The result is a better bouquet, richer flavor, and smoother finish. Vinturi’s acrylic aerator stands six inches tall and two inches wide, is dishwasher-safe, and comes with a no-drip stand and travel pouch. During manufacturing, the material folds around rods and wraps back resulting in two slightly visible fold lines. These lines extend up from each air hole and are normal.
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