Designed for Professional Performance, Cuisinart Hard Anodized Non-Stick Does Not Disappoint…..
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
Cuisinart hard anodized non-stick cookware is a 14 piece cookware set. Here’s what’s included:
- 1.5 Quart Saucepan with Cover
- 3 Quart Saucepan with Cover
- 4 Quart Sauté Pan With Helper & Cover
- 9 Quart Stockpot w/ Cover,
- 8” Open Skillet,
- 10” Skillet with Cover
- 20cm Multi-Steamer Insert with Cover,
- 24cm Pasta Insert
While this review is for the Cuisinart hard anodized 14 piece set, this set also comes in a 11 piece set and a 17 piece set. Most home cooks will find the 14 piece is just right for their needs. If you love cooking or cook for a larger family, then do check out the 17 piece set. It includes an extra 2qt saucepan with lid as well as 12” skillet with lid which some people find very handy.
WHAT IS IT MADE OF?
This Cuisinart cookware has a triple layer construction. It has a hard anodized aluminum exterior, a pure aluminum core for fast, even heating and an inner non-stick Quantanium layer. Anodized aluminum is considered twice as strong as stainless steel so this makes the set very durable.
WHAT ABOUT THE NON-STICK COATING?
QuanTanium, the non-stick coating on this cookware set, incorporates a unique mix of titanium particles blended into the coating that stands up to almost anything. According to the company that makes QuanTanium, this blend with titanium also makes the coating very scratch resistant and more durable than other non-stick coatings.
All of the pans except the metal steamer insert have a non-stick finish.
Is Quantanium like Teflon?
In one word, the answer is Yes! Think of it as another brand of non-stick coating. But according to a user of Cuisinart hard anodized cookware, it is like ‘Teflon on steroids! ’ since she found the non-stick qualities to be superior to her Teflon pan. Quantanium, like MOST non-stick coatings, does contain the chemical PTFE which is also used in the making of Teflon. So if that is a consideration for you, then this might not be the right set for you. Consider one of the stainless steel sets offered by Cuisinart.
ANY COOKING PRECAUTIONS YOU SHOULD BE AWARE OF?
Excellent question! There are several things to point out in using Cuisinart hard anodized:
- Utensils: While the company declares these pots metal safe, they do recommend using plastic or wooden utensils to preserve the finish of the non-stick. In order to prolong the life of the non-stick, users advise against using metal utensils.
- Cooking Sprays: Don’t use cooking spray as that tends to spoil the non-stick finish.
- Heat: Never use these pots and pans on high heat. Cuisinart recommends low-medium heat for most cooking.
WHAT DOES IT LOOK LIKE?
The set has a very elegant look with a smooth, hard exterior and a smooth non-stick interior. The colour of both is black. The lids are tempered glass with a metal rim.
WHAT ABOUT THE HANDLES?
The handles are made of cast stainless steel and are riveted to the pans which makes them very secure. They are wide in design for a comfortable grip and easy hanging if needed. They stay cool on the cooktop.
Another advantage of stainless steel handles is that the pans can go into the oven as these pots are oven safe up to 500F. They would get warm in the oven though so use pot holders.
WHAT ARE THE LIDS MADE OF?
The lids are made of tempered glass.
IS IT EASY TO MAINTAIN?
The users of this Cuisinart hard anodized set almost unanimously agree that it is very easy to clean and maintain this set. Just make sure to cool the pans before cleaning. The company recommends to wash them with hot soapy water with a soft sponge or dishcloth and dry immediately after rinsing.
EASY POUR RIMS
The rims on these pots are specially tapered to allow for drip-free pouring.
CAN YOU USE THESE IN THE OVEN AND BROILER?
Cuisinart Chef’s Classic Non-Stick Hard Anodized cookware can be used in the oven or broiler up to 500 degrees F. It can go from burner to oven to broiler with no problem.
But just because the handles don’t get hot on the stove top, don’t assume they won’t get hot in the oven. Apparently some people do assume that because the pots come with labels warning about that and advising use of oven mitts!
IS IT DISHWASHER SAFE?
No, these pans should not be washed in the dishwasher as the chemicals in the wash can be abrasive to the exterior finish. Handwashing is strongly recommended. Good news is that users report that ‘clean up is a snap!’
CAN IT BE USED WITH INDUCTION COOKTOPS?
No, Cuisinart hard anodized non-stick cookware is not induction cooktop compatible.
DOES IT INCLUDE A WARRANTY
Yes, it comes with a lifetime warranty.
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING
This Cuisinart Cookware set has a lot of happy users who love their purchase.
ARE THERE ANY COMPLAINTS?
- Some people don’t like that it requires hand washing, however almost universally agree that it’s so easy to clean that this not such a big deal.
- The glass lids, while very helpful, tend to get hot during cooking. It’s advisable to use pot holders.
- Some people feel the need for a 12” skillet in the 14 piece set. That can be purchased separately or you can get the 17 piece set which includes it.
WHERE CAN YOU BUY IT
The best place to buy it is Amazon, they usually have the best price and ship the product in their Certified ‘Frustration Free’ Packaging.
Disclosure: I get commissions for purchases made through links in this post.