"Barry Bean" > wrote in message
.. .
> wrote in news:1112794578.767247.178590
> @g14g2000cwa.googlegroups.com:
>
> > So here's the question. I want to buy a new set of pots and pans. I
> > know some don't like sets but for me they are easier and cheaper.
>
>
> But you don't really need a set. What you need are 3 or 4 basic pieces.
> Two or three stock pots (small, medium, and large) and a good flat
> skillet/sauce pan/frying pan/flat wok will be a great start, and you
> don't have to buy them all at the same time. You have pots now, right? So
> start off by replacing the worst or most used one, and fil in as needed.
> Also, your old pots are still usable, so they can be used for backups or
> when you need to feed big crowds.
>
> And in the long run, you're better off buying a few expensive pieces that
> last for 20 years than you are buying cheap stuff that has to be replaced
> every couple of years and doesn't cook well.
>
I know everyone says you don't need a set or cookware, and they offer many
logical reasons not to buy one. Here are two points that I will add to that
conversation. First of all there is no rigid definition of "set" in
relationship to cookware. The basic set of WP cookware is exactly what you
describe, a few basic pieces. They are things that anyone would use. Then
there is the gigantic set that includes all sorts of special items that
would get very little use in most kitchens. So a set can be a few
utilitarian pieces or a bunch of nearly useless crap.
The second point is that you can often get a set of cookware for a
substantially reduced price over buying from open stock. I got a 16 piece
set of cookware for $145. If I bought just the few pieces that I would
definitely use on a daily bases from open stock, it would have cost more.
That seems like a no-brainer. I have a couple covered casseroles that I
probably only use one a week and could live without. However, there were
essentially free and I am no worse off for having them. I could have used
them as a gift and still be ahead financially. Sometimes getting a set of
cookware if the thrifty thing to do.