"Lillly" > wrote in message
...
> I am buying some good cookware for my 25 year old daughter. She cooks a
lot
> but is not a professional.
>
> 1) What opinion do you all have about the various brands of upper level
> cookware (All Clad, Calaphion, Viking, Cuisinart etc.)?
>
> 2) What opinion do you all have about types of material (anodized
aluminum,
> multi-clad, cast iron +/- porceleinc.)?
>
> 3) Where is the best place to shop?
>
> Thanks

If money is not a problem, All Clad Stainless is the best cook ware
available, IMO. I have been cooking for many years and I have not met any
cookware better. It is expensive, but well worth the price.

You have stainless steel outside and inside the pans. Between these layers
is a layer of aluminum that goes from the bottom to the top of the pans. The
evenness of heat is excellent. The lids and handles are excellent.

If you want to spend less, I highly recommend the inexpensive Farberware
"Classic" cookware. It is all that a cook needs. All Clad is for the person
who is a very enthusiastic cook or a professional. The difference is there,
but not really noticeable to anyone except a very experienced cook.
Farberware "Classic" is all that most folks would ever need.

Some recommend to NOT get sets of a cookware. That is often valid. However,
if the recipient's current cookware is of poor quality, a complete set of a
quality cookware is a good idea.

The reason put forward for not getting a set is that individual cooking
utensils depend on the cook's use. True, but flawed. A decent cook needs:

1) An excellent basic set of cookware.
2) A set of inexpensive (easily replaceable) non-stick frypans, mostly for
eggs.
3) A small selection of enameled cast iron "Dutch Ovens" (I recommend
LeCruset). I say small, but I recommend as many as you can afford and have
space for. From 3/4 qt. to 6 qt. is essential for me.

You also asked about anodized cookware. I have several pieces of anodized. I
detest it. It is impossible to get a clear look at the contents because of
the darkness of the interior. It is unpleasant to use. Nasty useless
stuff!!! (I don't like it <giggle>)

Charlie