The Best Stainless Steel Cookware Sets for Stovetop Rice Cooking
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Your Ultimate Guide to Stainless Steel Cookware Sets for Cooking Rice
When choosing the best cookware sets to purchase for your household, you’ll first have to decide what type of kitchenware you’ll get. Out of all kitchenware types, stainless steel is considered a must-have due to its consistent heat distribution, which is ideal for cooking rice.
These long-lasting sets are convenient, easy to find, and can greatly aid you in your cooking process. Investing in the right stainless cookware set is one of the first measures you can take to get both product longevity and kitchen work convenience.
If you have your heart set on getting the best stainless steel cookware for your family but aren’t sure what to get, you can read more below.
Which is the Top Stainless Steel Cookware Set?
Cuisinart MultiClad Pro Triple Ply Cookware SetThe Cuisinart 12-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set is a must-have for any home or professional cook. | Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Cookware SetThe Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set is second only to the MCP-12N in terms of overall features. | All-Clad Brushed D5 Stainless Cookware SetIf you’re up to splurging for quality cookware, the Brushed D5 is one of the best cookware sets to own in terms of quality. |
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Let’s Go Over Each Top Stainless Steel Cookware Set
#1: Cuisinart MCP-12N MultiClad Pro Triple Ply Cookware Set
The Cuisinart 12-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set is a must-have for any home or professional chef. This top stainless steel cookware set is considered the best out of this list for its simple maintenance, dishwasher-safe pots, bright stainless steel, and tight-fitting covers.
The MCP-12N is meticulously engineered for exceptional performance and long-lasting durability. An aluminum core is included in the triple-ply design of the set for heat retention and even distribution.
This cookware’s rims are tapered for simple, mess-free pouring and the set may be used on any cooking surface, including an induction cooktop. The pans are also oven-safe up to 550 degrees F.
A 3-quart saucepan with a lid, a 1.5-quart saucepan with a cover, an 8-inch skillet or fry pan, a 3.5-quart sauté pan with a lid and helper handles, a 10-inch skillet, an 8-quart stock pot with lid, and a steamer insert with lid are all included in the stainless steel cookware set.
Whether you’re sautéing vegetables, making stir fries, simmering sauces, frying meats, or more, this set is one that you can rely on.
Pros and Cons of the Cuisinart 12-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Triple Ply Construction ✔️ Polished and smooth cooking surface ✔️ Oven safe up to 550 degrees F ✔️ Sauté pan has helper handles ✔️ Induction compatible ✔️ Heat Surround Technology | ✖️ May slightly warp after prolonged use |
#2: Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set
The Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set is second only to the MCP-12N in terms of overall features. The stay-cool handles of this Calphalon set provide heat resistance, and its structure boasts long-lasting sturdiness along with its modern style.
The dishwasher-safe finish of this stainless steel cookware set from Calphalon makes cleanup a breeze. The base can distribute heat evenly for superb browning and searing on a range of different types of stoves, such as electric ranges.
This Calphalon set includes an 8-inch skillet, a 10-inch skillet, a 7-quart saute pan, a 1.5-quart saucepan, a 2.5-quart saucepan with a lid, a 3-quart saucepan with a lid, and a Dutch oven.
All pieces of the Calphalon set are oven-safe up to 450°F, so you can simply transfer your food from stove to oven without any worries. Convenient etched measurement markings, pour spouts, and straining lids make it possible to make pan sauce and other meals efficiently.
Pros and Cons of the Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Impact-bonded aluminum base ✔️ Convenient measuring marks ✔️ Stay-cool handles ✔️ Tempered glass lids ✔️ Oven-safe up to 450 degrees F | ✖️ Loses their glossy finish after several use ✖️ While safe to use with dishwashers. hand-washing is recommended to clean Calphalon pans to prevent warping |
#3: All-Clad Brushed D5 Stainless Cookware Set
If you’re up to splurge for great kitchenware, the All-Clad Brushed D5 Set is one of the most excellent stainless steel cookware sets to own.
It has a gorgeous and easy-to-maintain brushed interior and stainless-steel lids. Aside from its smooth aesthetics, the All-Clad stainless steel cookware set is also built for heavy-duty use.
The five-ply construction with alternating stainless steel and aluminum layers of the set provides it with warp-free durability and extraordinarily uniform heating that avoids hot spots and prevents uneven cooking.
It’s compatible with all cooktops and is oven and broiler-safe, with temperatures of up to 600°F. The set also has heat-resistant stainless-steel handles and is permanently fastened with stainless-steel rivets.
It’s easy to clean as well; simply soak them in warm, soapy water for 15 minutes and you’ll only need a quick scrub to keep this stainless steel cookware set spotless.
This stainless steel set contains an 8-inch skillet, a 10-inch fry pan, a 1.5-quart saucepan with a cover, a 3-quart saucepan with a lid, a 3-quart sauté pan with a lid, and an 8-quart stock pot with a lid for cooking in large batches.
Pros and Cons of the All-Clad Brushed D5 Stainless Cookware Set
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Heat-resistant handles that offer a comfortable grip ✔️ Five-ply construction ✔️ Oven and Broiler-Safe up to 600°F ✔️ Flared rims for drip-free pouring ✔️ High quality build ✔️ Easily cleans with warm soapy water | ✖️ Expensive |
#4: Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper Stainless Steel Cookware Set
The best stainless steel cookware sets are popular because of their durability, yet most sets can have a somewhat basic appearance. This kitchenware collection overcomes that problem because it has a gorgeous hammered copper exterior providing warmth and elegance to the kitchen.
This stainless steel cookware set is fully cast and riveted for long-lasting strength and durability and the rolled sides make it simple to pour out liquids and minimize spills.
The Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper Stainless Steel Set has an aluminum core sandwiched between two alternating layers of stainless steel that provides consistent and even heating across the hot pan.
It is made with the highest standard of stainless steel that retains taste purity and has good heating capabilities for searing meat and making sauces. Its lids also fit snugly to keep moisture and taste in.
Pros and Cons of the Lagostina Martellata Hammered Copper Cookware Set
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Beautiful hammered stainless steel exterior ✔️ Tri ply construction ✔️ Rolled edges for easy pouring | ✖️ Copper color might come off after several use |
#5: Viking Professional 5-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Unevenly cooked food is the worst thing to eat. Not only is it unpalatable, but it can also cause stomach issues. Therefore, kitchenware with good heat spread is a must for any kitchen. With Anolon Nouvelle Stainless Steel Pots and Pans Set, you’re in for a treat with an evenly cooked meal.
The stainless steel cookware set contains items in sizes you’re likely to use and it’s dishwasher safe. It also features a multi-metal base for optimal heat distribution.
The deep-seated steel lids seal in heating and moisture, while the elegant handles are dual-riveted for strength and include unique flat-rivet technology. The polished structure of this set of cookware is built with copper for optimal heat regulation.
A 1.25-quart saucepan with cover, a 2.5-quart saucepan with lid, a 3-quart sauté pan with lid, a 6.5-quart stock pot with lid, an 8-inch French frying pan, and a 10.5-inch French frying pan, are all included in the set.
The Viking stainless steel cookware set is oven-safe to 500°F and works on all stovetops, including induction.
Pros and Cons of the Viking Professional 5-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Commercial grade quality ✔️ Constructed with five layers of premium stainless material ✔️ Induction compatible ✔️ Dishwasher safe | ✖️ Very expensive |
#6. Misen 5-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set
A well-constructed kitchenware set can help take your cooking performance to the next level. This cookware set from Misen is crafted using 3.0mm thick, five-ply high-grade steel and aluminum, offering high heat retention and making it ideal for sautéing, shallow frying, steaming, and even baking in the oven.
Included in this Misen set are a 10-inch pan, a 12-inch pan, a 3-quart sauté pan, 6-quart rondeau, and an 8-quart stockpot. There are also a 2-quart saucier pan and a 3-quart saucier pan, perfect for melting butter or boiling up mac and cheese.
Misen also included a lid for each pan mentioned. Talk about having all the essentials in one package!
Each pan from Misen boasts a wide surface area, allowing you to put more food in it compared to other brands. To clean up this kitchenware from Misen, all you need to do is do some hand washing with a little dish soap or run it through the dishwasher for it to be spic and span in no time.
Pros and Cons of the Misen 5-Ply Set
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ 5-ply construction ✔️ 5 pieces in one set ✔️ Pans with wide surface area ✔️ Rounded handles ✔️ Hand wash for optimal results | ✖️ Pans can chip if scrubbed too hard |
#7. Hestan ProBond Collection
Handcrafted in Italy, the Hesta ProBond Professional Clad set features pans with a tri-ply body with a responsive pure aluminum core for optimum performance.
This collection features 10 pieces, including an 8.5-inch skillet, 11-inch skillet, 1.5-quart saucepan with lids, 3-quart saucepan with lid, 3.5-quart saute pan with lid, and 8-quart stockpot with lid among others.
They all have rounded bottoms, making them ideal for simmering, stirring, braising, blanching, and sauteing. The pans are compatible with cooktops and able to handle high heat up to 600 degrees F. The pans can also be used with a broiler or an oven.
The ProBond Collection features pans that are equipped with sealed, flared rims for drip-free pouring. They also have flush rivets for easy staking, nesting, and quick cleaning. Furthermore, the ergonomic handles provide a firm and comfortable hold whether you’re making food or serving.
Pros and Cons of the Hestan ProBond Collection
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
✔️ Includes 10 pieces ✔️ Tri-ply body ✔️ Can handle high heat up to 600 degrees F ✔️ Has flush rivets ✔️ Ergonomic handles | ✖️ Expensive |
#8. Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set
If you’re just starting out with stocking up your kitchen with the essentials and you’re hesitant to spend a lot of money on a set that you aren’t sure about, here’s one that’s light on the pocket and will get the job done.
Tramontina’s 10-piece Tri-Ply Clad set features steel pans that are crafted with a triple layer of aluminum sandwiched between 18/10 steel. This construction makes them great for stovetop use, and they’re induction-compatible too.
The pans have a mirror-polished exterior for easy clean-up, while the interior has a satin finish for a touch of style and elegance. The handles are riveted, adding stability and support when in use.
Additionally, this set from Tramontina is NSF-certified, meaning that the pans meet professional standards for equipment used in professional kitchens.
Pros and Cons of the Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 10-Piece Set
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Affordable ✔️ Best for induction stovetops ✔️ 10 pieces in one set ✔️ Easy to clean ✔️ Riveted handles | ✖️ Stockpot is too heavy ✖️ Handle rivets can be too large |
#9. Caraway 5-Ply Stainless Steel Pots & Pans
Living in a small household can mean that there’s not enough space to store a lot of things, or only making sure that you have just the necessities to keep your home free from clutter.
For those who reside in small spaces, those living alone or with a partner, or those whose families don’t exceed 3 people, a kitchenware set with 5 pieces of pans may be enough for all the cooking you’ll do.
This stainless kitchenware set from Caraway boasts 4 pieces of pans that are lightweight and can be stored easily. Crafted with 5 layers, the four Caraway pans hold heat efficiently, allowing anyone to make food up to medium heat.
According to Caraway, coating the surface with vegetable oil or butter before preheating ensures easy cleaning. Additionally, Caraway included a complimentary pan and lid storage to help keep your kitchen stay organized while saving space.
Pros and Cons of the Caraway 5-Ply Set
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Brushed steel texture ✔️ Includes storage solutions ✔️ Easy to clean | ✖️ Pricey for a small set ✖️ Handles can be difficult to hold |
#10. Le Creuset Tri-Ply Stainless Steel 10-Piece Set
If premium kitchenware is what you want for your household, Le Creuset is certainly the brand you want to set your eyes on. Featuring 10 pieces of pots and pans, this set from Le Creuset is crafted with three layers and a full aluminum center from base to rim, allowing for superior heat distribution.
The Le Creuset pans are lightweight with a mirror-polish stainless exterior. They also contain titanium to prevent scorching, discoloration, and corrosion especially, whether at medium-high heat or extremely high heat. The pans also have ergonomic handles for quick and comfortable movement over the stove.
Le Creuset kitchenware is known for its iconic three-ring lids, and those are also included in this set. They have easy-grip knob stabilizers for a tight fit, as well as a steam vent to prevent overflow.
Pros and Cons of the Le Creuset Tri-Ply 10-Piece Set
Pros | Cons |
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✔️ Tri-ply body with an aluminum center ✔️ 10 pieces in one set ✔️ Oven-proof up to 500 degrees F ✔️ Comes with lids that have the iconic three-ring design | ✖️ Expensive ✖️ Internal rivets need extra attention when cleaning |
Are Stainless Steel Cookware Sets Good?
Back in the day, stainless sets had a poor reputation in the cooking world, being a terrible heat conductor that leaves hot spots in pans. But as technology advanced, so did the construction of stainless sets through the process of cladding, which is sandwiching a more conducive metal like aluminum, copper, or other materials in between layers of steel.
Kitchenware made from this material, along with an aluminum or copper core, is a great option for any kitchen. Several excellent stainless kitchenware manufacturers offer good kitchenware at an affordable price, and they are available in various sizes and styles to satisfy any personal preferences you may have.
Additionally, since stainless steel is commonly used in high-grade kitchenware, there is something for everyone in the market, from five-ply stainless steel frying pans to nonstick skillets and Dutch ovens.
Stainless steel is long-lasting, is mostly oven- and dishwasher-safe, can withstand high heat searing, and has even heat spread. In terms of durability, it is extremely sturdy and will survive for a long time regardless of how frequently it is used. It is also scratch-proof and rust-proof, so there’s little to worry about these sets regarding aesthetics. You can even use metal utensils on them, though it is not recommended.
Unlike cast iron, stainless kitchenware doesn’t react to acidic foods. This means you can make tomato sauce or other acidic meals and leave them in a steady simmer with no worries about the copper core kitchenware leaving a metallic taste to your dish. Furthermore, stainless kitchenware stays hot even when cold ingredients are added into it.
They can also be used in induction cooktops, an induction stove, and other cooking surfaces like gas and electric cooktops.
What Type of Stainless Steel Cookware Is Best?
Stainless steel grades are frequently imprinted on kitchenware, with 18/10 being the most regularly used grade for the best kitchenware. This fraction indicates the ratio of chromium and nickel in the alloy used — for example, 18/10 includes 18% chromium and 10% nickel and will resist rust while maintaining its gloss and polish. If you’re purchasing a set, it’s best to aim for the aforementioned grade.
What is the Best Thickness for Stainless Steel Cookware?
The grade of steel used in the kitchenware is an important factor to consider when choosing a set for your household. However, another key factor to consider is the thickness of the pan itself. The thickness of the kitchenware is closely related to its performance.
Lower-end stainless kitchenware is often around 0.5mm thick, but a high-standard pot or pan with even heat production and high-temperature resistance should be roughly 5mm thick. In short, the thicker the material is, the better the heating capability and how good your food turns out.
Weight is typically an excellent indicator of the grade of a pot or pan since this indicates that more materials were utilized in its making. Thicker, heavier pans are also less prone to dents and damage, contributing to the set’s overall longevity.
What Is the Healthiest Stainless Steel to Cook With?
Is stainless steel cookware safe and non-toxic, you ask? Kitchenware with stainless steel construction is mostly safe to use but sets with higher grades are considered the safest. For example, carbon steel, triple-ply construction pots and pans are far safer to use than the normal lower-graded aluminum center or copper core.
This is because lower-grade stainless pieces can still be corroded after frequent use, which can lead to metal particles leaking into your food.
Which Is the Best Brand for Stainless Steel?
Several top brands excel in crafting high-standard stainless steel cookware. Consider All-Clad which is renowned for its American-made, tri-ply construction. Many professional kitchens also use this brand.
Calphalon, Tramontina, Cuisinart, Viking, and Zwilling J.A. Henckels are also noteworthy options, each offering unique features and performance. Choose based on your specific preferences, budget, and desired features.
What are the Disadvantages of Stainless Steel Cookware?
Typical stainless steel is a poor conductor for heating. This means that on its own, a pure stainless construction doesn’t get hot as quickly as other metals such as aluminum or copper. However, even though this material is a poor conductor for heating and has poor heat spread, this isn’t an issue due to the aluminum or copper enclosed within the steel. The copper or aluminum used is placed to improve conductivity and dispersion and provide maximum heating retention.
Another con of stainless kitchenware is its surface. Unlike nonstick pans, a stainless pan will need additional oil to keep your rice and other food from sticking to it. If your kitchenware has a carbon steel lining, you’ll most likely need carbon steel seasoning wax or a little elbow grease to keep the kitchenware in top shape.
Is Stainless Steel Cookware Nonstick?
Most stainless steel cookware sets don’t have nonstick properties. Stainless kitchenware can sustain extremely high temperatures, great for melting butter and browning them, as well as allowing you to evenly brown steaks and other meat in them. Because they don’t have a coating like nonstick cookware, they also tend to last much longer.
The disadvantage is that you’ll have to pay a bit more attention when cooking, or else, you’ll have your dinner stuck in your kitchenware. Since they have a bare steel cooking surface that sticks to foods like eggs, chicken, fish filets, and others, using a small amount of oil and preheating them helps make them less sticky.
Wipe away any excess oil with a paper towel. If done correctly, stainless steel kitchenware can be nonstick and you’ll never have to worry about food sticking to your pans. If you’re doing this, ensure that you only rinse your pan with hot water and wipe it dry with a soft kitchen towel after each use to avoid damaging this layer.
How Do I Choose Quality Stainless Steel Cookware?
When shopping for new kitchenware, always keep in mind what your cooking needs are. Are you a culinary pro or a beginner? How many saucepans, fry pans, or sauté pans do you need to have a complete kitchen? Nothing is more headache-inducing than buying a set that doesn’t fit your kitchen at all.
Always seek the highest standard stainless steel cookware set that is durable and can survive the test of time. While this might be a bit heavy price-wise, it’s cheaper than having to buy new sets every year or so.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you keep things from sticking to stainless steel pans?
Temperature management is the key to preventing food bits and burnt bits from adhering to your kitchenware, whether stainless steel, ceramic kitchenware, or cast iron. Food sticking to the pan is usually caused by having too much or too little temperature. It is critical to preheat a stainless steel pan before adding frying oil.
To test kitchenware and see if they’re at the right temperatures, you can add drops of water. If the water droplets do not break apart and remain intact without evaporating, your pan is at the proper temperature. They will also begin to move around the vessel, almost as if they were mercury balls.
When cleaning, make sure not to use steel wool or other abrasive cleaning tools to clean your cooking tools, as this may worsen your pot’s sticky tendency.
How to clean stainless kitchenware?
While most stainless kitchenware can be cleaned using a dishwasher, it’s better to hand wash them to extend their usability as many chemicals can wear away their surface. First, remove any food and loose debris and let it cool slightly before washing them with warm water and a mild detergent.
For stubborn stains, use a little bit of baking soda, detergent, and a small amount of water to safely scrub the pan. Make sure to dry the pans fully using a soft kitchen towel to prevent watermarks and damage that sitting water can inflict.
Is it better to make food on stainless steel or a nonstick pan?
A nonstick pan is far easier to use than traditional stainless steel pans. If you’re a beginner chef, you’ll generally be better off acquiring a nonstick cookware set. It’s easier to use, works on both gas and electric burners, and is simple to clean.
Stainless steel, on the other hand, is the way to go if you know what you’re doing in the kitchen. Since most stainless steel kitchenware is safe to use with ovens, this set is preferable if you do a lot of stove-to-oven cooking. If you have the budget, you can buy one stainless steel set and an extra nonstick fry pan.
Is Viking a good brand?
Yes, Viking is definitely a good brand with some of the best stainless steel kitchenware available on the market. While the price tag is nothing to scoff at, investing in a Viking stainless steel set is worth it due to its high-standard construction and even heating. However, it’s best to determine if the set is exactly what your current household needs based on your preferences and estimated usage.
Do chefs like All-Clad set?
While personal opinions may differ from person to person, All-Clad routinely receives excellent praise from home cooks and professional chefs alike. Users found the product fairly standard, the pans heated quickly, the flared walls of the pots were convenient for easy pouring, and the pans also passed the durability test.
What grade stainless steel cookware is best?
The best grade for stainless steel cookware is typically 18/10, which denotes a composition of 18% chromium and 10% nickel.
This combination offers a range of benefits that make it highly regarded in the culinary world. The chromium content provides excellent corrosion resistance, ensuring the kitchenware remains durable and free from rust.
Additionally, the presence of nickel enhances the strength and durability of the kitchenware, making it resistant to dents and scratches. One notable advantage is its non-reactivity with acidic or alkaline foods, preserving the flavors and standard of your dishes.
The non-porous nature of the 18/10 also makes it easy to clean and resistant to staining. Furthermore, it exhibits excellent heat retention properties, enabling even cooking and precise temperature control. When choosing a stainless steel cookware set, opting for the 18/10 grade ensures a high-standard product that meets the demands of both amateur and professional cooks alike.
What is the difference between ceramic kitchenware and stainless steel sets?
Ceramic kitchenware is made from clay fired at high temperatures with a ceramic glaze, while stainless steel kitchenware is primarily composed of iron, carbon, and chromium alloy. Ceramic offers non-stick properties but may be prone to chipping, while stainless steel is durable, corrosion-resistant, and provides good heating spread but may lack non-stick features.
Ceramic kitchenware is not designed to be used at the highest temperature of the induction cooker or any stove. If you’re making food with a ceramic vessel, make sure that you are only using it over low to medium heat.
The choice between them depends on your personal preference, cooking style, maintenance, and longevity.
Are all pieces in a cookware set essential to have at home?
A pan set can have a frying pan, sauté pan, stock pot, saucepan, braiser, and others. Sets can be more affordable than buying individual pots and pans but the truth is, not every item in the set gets used in the kitchen often.
When buying your pan set, always consider which ones you will cook with the most and which ones you don’t see yourself using often or at all. Sometimes, getting only a few pieces that you will use a lot can be your best bet instead of buying a 5-piece or 10-piece cookware set and only using 2 to 3 items.
Conclusion
Stainless kitchenware sets are an excellent investment since they will last for many years and can help you improve your talents. They’re also often less expensive than other forms of high-standard kitchenware, so the initial investment can be well worth it.
Before purchasing these, make sure they are easy to use without the need for extra effort and feel ergonomic. If you want a more efficient set, it’s best to purchase ones that are oven and dishwasher-safe. To make rice cooking even easier, you can use a rice cooker instead. Check out our site for rice cooker guides and reviews, as well as other rice-related news.

Editor’s Choice
Cuisinart MCP-12N MultiClad Pro Triple Ply Cookware Set
If you’re searching for the best standard stainless cookware set with the best value for everyday use, this starter set is for you.
The MCP-12N boasts a brushed steel exterior, a polished inner surface, a lightweight, robust aluminum center, and a polished surface that is stunningly simple and easy to clean.
This premium stainless steel cookware set also comes with tight-fitting lids that can self-baste the food as you make it and the cool-grip riveted handles allow chefs and home cooks alike to handle kitchenware without the use of towels.
This stainless kitchenware set contains a well-balanced collection of everything you need for all of your culinary masterpieces and won’t fail any chef’s cooking tests.