Calphalon Contemporary 11-Piece Cookware Set: A Comprehensive Review
The Calphalon Contemporary 11-piece cookware set is a popular choice among home cooks and professional chefs alike, offering a perfect blend of durability, performance, and style. This comprehensive review will delve into the key features, benefits, and drawbacks of this highly-rated cookware set, helping you make an informed decision.
Key Features of the Calphalon Contemporary 11-Piece Set
The Calphalon Contemporary 11-piece set includes essential pieces to cover a wide range of cooking needs. Here's a breakdown of what you'll find in the set:
- 1.5 Qt. Saucepan with Cover
- 3 Qt. Sauté Pan with Cover
- 8" and 10" Open Skillets
- 11" and 13" Multi-Ply Stainless Steel Skillets with Cover
- 3 Qt. Multi-Ply Stainless Steel Dutch Oven with Cover
Hard-Anodized Exterior and Stainless Steel Interior
The exterior of the Calphalon Contemporary cookware is made of hard-anodized aluminum, which is more durable and resistant to corrosion than regular aluminum. This material also provides even heat distribution, ensuring that your food cooks evenly. The interior features a stainless steel cooking surface that's easy to clean and resistant to warping and rust.
Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Construction
The multi-ply stainless steel construction of the Calphalon Contemporary set ensures excellent heat distribution and retention. The three layers of stainless steel, aluminum, and stainless steel work together to provide even heating and prevent hot spots, while the stainless steel exterior ensures durability and easy cleaning.
Stay-Cool Handles and Secure Lids
The Calphalon Contemporary set features stay-cool stainless steel handles that remain comfortable to touch even when the pan is hot. The handles are also securely riveted to the pan for durability. The set includes tempered glass lids that fit securely and allow you to monitor your food as it cooks.
Benefits of the Calphalon Contemporary 11-Piece Set
The Calphalon Contemporary 11-piece set offers several benefits that make it a worthwhile investment:
Durability and Longevity
The hard-anodized exterior and stainless steel interior of the Calphalon Contemporary set ensure that these pans can withstand daily use and maintain their performance over time. The secure riveted handles and sturdy construction further contribute to the durability of the set.
Versatility
The 11-piece set includes a variety of pans and pots that can accommodate different cooking techniques and dishes. From sautéing to boiling, simmering to braising, this set has you covered.
Even Heat Distribution
The tri-ply stainless steel construction and hard-anodized exterior of the Calphalon Contemporary set ensure even heat distribution, preventing hot spots and ensuring that your food cooks evenly.
Easy Cleanup
The stainless steel interior of the Calphalon Contemporary set is easy to clean and resistant to warping and rust. The tempered glass lids are also dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.
Drawbacks of the Calphalon Contemporary 11-Piece Set
While the Calphalon Contemporary 11-piece set has many positive features, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider:
Weight
The hard-anodized exterior and tri-ply stainless steel construction make the Calphalon Contemporary set heavier than some other cookware options. This may be a consideration if you have mobility issues or prefer lighter cookware.
Price
The Calphalon Contemporary 11-piece set is an investment, with a higher price point than some other cookware sets. However, the durability, performance, and versatility of the set make it a worthwhile investment for many home cooks.
Calphalon Contemporary 11-Piece Set vs. Competitors
When comparing the Calphalon Contemporary 11-piece set to other cookware sets, it's clear that the Calphalon set offers a unique combination of durability, performance, and style. The hard-anodized exterior and tri-ply stainless steel construction set it apart from other sets, while the variety of pieces included in the set makes it a versatile choice for home cooks.
Care and Maintenance of the Calphalon Contemporary Set
To ensure the longevity of your Calphalon Contemporary set, it's important to follow proper care and maintenance guidelines. Here are some tips:
- Hand-wash the pans and pots with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Avoid using steel wool or harsh chemicals.
- Dry the pans and pots thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots and rust.
- Store the pans and pots in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat sources.
- Season the stainless steel cooking surface periodically to maintain its non-stick properties.
By following these care and maintenance tips, you can ensure that your Calphalon Contemporary set maintains its performance and longevity for years to come.
Conclusion
The Calphalon Contemporary 11-piece cookware set is a high-quality, durable, and versatile option for home cooks and professional chefs alike. With its hard-anodized exterior, tri-ply stainless steel construction, and variety of pieces, this set offers excellent performance and even heat distribution. While the weight and price point may be considerations for some, the Calphalon Contemporary set is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a long-lasting, high-performing cookware set.
