Considering Cookware

The amount of quality cookware in the marketplace has grown immensely over the years. Cast iron was the original quality piece, but over the years we have been introduced to copper bottom pots, aluminum pots and pans, and teflon coated cookware. The non-stick cookware industry has become huge since it was introduced. All of these products, when used and treated properly, can be of very high quality and last a very long time.

Founded over 26 years ago, TTU Store (Table Tops Unlimited) is a leading manufacturer and distributor of high quality, unique cookware and serveware items. Online shoppers of the TTU Store can browse through an eclectic variety of cast iron skillets, pots, pans, plates, mugs, kitchen utensils and much more. TTU's cast iron cookware items are especially popular because of the many benefits of cast iron, including the ability to provide a lifetime of safe use. In addition, cast iron safely heats to high temperatures and heats up uniformly to better cook meats and vegetables. For those who don't want to deal with "seasoning" their cast iron pots and pans prior to cooking, TTU Store also offers convenient porcelain-enamel coated cast iron pieces that provide non-stick properties, as well as the durability of cast iron. TTU is also the exclusive manufacturer of the distinctively striped Sedona mugs featured on the hit ABC TV show, Two and a Half Men. With these Two and a Half Men mugs, fans of the show can bring a little piece of the show into their lives.There is non-stick cookware that distributes heat well but it comes at a price. There are expensive non-stick brands that do conduct heat properly and cook evenly. Cast iron does this naturally so even the "lower grade" brands will perform well.In my mind, heat distribution is the most important aspect of a good piece of cookware. When put on a stove with direct heat, a quality piece of cookware should distribute the heat throughout the entire piece. Cast iron cookware is, again, by nature, built for it. The iron conducts heat throughout, and the thickness makes the heat even. It also holds heat very well. Most non-stick pans are made of lightweight material and are fairly thin. This leads to quick heating, but not evenly. Uneven heating means uneven cooking.Most cookware in this day and age will satisfy the basic everyday home cook. However, in looking at what I feel are the most important aspects of cooking, cast iron cookware has an edge of the modern non-stick equipment. From a cooking standpoint, cast iron is more durable and holds heat as well as, if not better than, anything else. If properly seasoned, cast iron can be just as easily cleaned as the most expensive non-stick cookware. It seems that the old stuff may be just as good as the modern day equivalentOn the other hand non-stick cookware is not as durable as cast iron. If treated properly, it can definitely last for a long time, but it is a lot of work. Non-stick cookware cannot be scratched. Nothing but wood or plastic spatulas. Unfortunately, if one is cooking with a very hot skillet, even the latest plastic implements will melt slightly. Storage must be done carefully. Stacking pot and pans can create scratches which will inevitably lead to food sticking to the pan. When food begins to stick, the pan is finished. Unlike cast iron cookware, which can be re-seasoned, once a non-stick pan is scratched and losing it's coating there is nothing to do except get a new pan.5. Open your windows because there is going to be some smoke.Over years of use, my cast-iron skillets have become old friends. Although I would never choose to replace them, if I had to (let's say an astute kitchen thief broke in and recognized my skillets for the treasures they are), I could buy new skillets, season them well, and have some new old friends.

Most cookware in this day and age will satisfy the basic everyday home cook. However, in looking at what I feel are the most important aspects of cooking, cast iron cookware has an edge of the modern non-stick equipment. From a cooking standpoint, cast iron is more durable and holds heat as well as, if not better than, anything else. If properly seasoned, cast iron can be just as easily cleaned as the most expensive non-stick cookware. It seems that the old stuff may be just as good as the modern day equivalent

Author: Scott Patten