Pros
Eco-friendly
Good looking design
Fits well on smooth top stoves
Handle stays cool
Leaves nice grill marks
Easy cleanup
Relatively inexpensive
Heats evenly
Very non-stick
Great for various foods like pancakes, French toast, chicken, and fish
Good heat distribution
Performs well on various cooktops including glass ceramic
Non-toxic ceramic coating
Excellent customer service from Cuisinart
No warping
Durable
Cons
Not entirely flat on the bottom
Susceptible to surface damage if stored improperly
Finish wears off over time
Main Product Advantages
9 Aesthetics
The cookware set has a sleek look, with reviewers noting its attractive design. Despite minor issues like discoloration after dishwasher use, the overall appearance remains a positive point.
9 Eco-Friendliness
The eco-friendly ceramic-based non-stick coating is less toxic than traditional Teflon (PTFE) coatings, making it a healthier option for cooking.
9 Customer Service
Cuisinart provides excellent customer service, replacing defective products and offering additional appliances as compensations.
9 Cost-Effectiveness
The cookware set is relatively inexpensive compared to other options, providing good value for money, especially given its eco-friendly features.
8 Non-Stick Performance
The non-stick surface performs well, making it easy to cook and clean. However, over time the effectiveness may decrease, leading to increased cleaning effort.
8 Cleaning
Easy to clean initially, but over time, the non-stick surface may require more effort. Proper care, such as avoiding abrasive materials, is necessary to maintain performance.
8 Compatibility
Works well on various cooktops, including smooth top stoves. However, it is not ideal for high-heat cooking and has limitations on oven-safe temperature.
7 Heat Distribution
The pans generally distribute heat evenly, but occasional issues like rivet failures can cause concern. Some users have also experienced problems with varying heat requirements.
7 Weight
The pans are lightweight, which is convenient for handling, but also raises concerns about durability and stability for heavy cooking tasks.
6 Durability
While the material holds up well initially, there are mixed reviews about the long-term durability, with some noticing the surface wearing off or discoloration over time.
Product Review: Cuisinart GG-12 GreenGourmet Hard Anodized 12-Piece Set, Black/Stainless Steel
Cuisinart GreenGourmet Hard-Anodized Nonstick Cookware Series draws inspiration from the prestigious French kitchens. With over 35 years of experience in professional cookware manufacturing, Cuisinart constructs their cookware from the finest materials to perform all classic cooking techniques efficiently. The GreenGourmet line upholds this tradition by going green, aligning with the trend among home cooks.
Nonstick Coating for Any Kitchen Task
The GreenGourmet cookware boasts an exclusive Cuisinart Ceramica nonstick surface. This ceramic-based coating is petroleum-free and applied at half the temperature of traditional nonsticks, ensuring it lacks PTFE and PFOA. These substances have been linked to health concerns, making this cookware a healthier option.
Moreover, its manufacturing process reduces harmful carbon emissions by utilizing less energy. Unlike solvent-based coatings, Ceramica is water-based. The cookware's scratch-resistant surface ensures its durability, and it conforms to FDA and European RoHS standards for environmentally sound products. It's recommended to hand wash these pans using mild detergent.
Eco-Friendly and Efficient
The Cuisinart GreenGourmet stands out not just for its cooking performance but also for its eco-friendliness. The packaging is made from 100% recycled materials and printed using biodegradable soy ink. The cookware’s superior heat conductivity allows for energy-efficient cooking, requiring less energy to achieve the desired temperature.
The hard anodized exterior, which is harder than stainless steel, ensures quick and even heat distribution. It is dense, non-porous, and highly wear-resistant, granting the pans extra durability. The securely riveted stay-cool steel handles, made from 70% recycled stainless steel, offer professional performance and are oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
Included in the Set
The 12-piece set includes:
- 1-1/2-quart saucepan with cover
- 2-1/2-quart saucepan with cover
- 3-quart everyday pan with cover
- 6-quart Dutch oven with cover
- 8-inch open skillet
- 10-inch deep fry skillet with cover
- Multi-steamer
Product Features
The GreenGourmet’s riveted stainless stick handles stay cool on the stovetop, and its petroleum-free ceramic-based nonstick interior helps conserve oil consumption. It also features the exclusive Cuisinart Ceramica Nonstick Technology, making it both oven and broiler safe. The handles are made from 70% recycled stainless steel, adding to its eco-friendly credentials.
Healthy Cooking and Easy Cleaning
This cookware set eliminates the need for oil or butter to prevent sticking, promoting healthier cooking. Energy-efficient cooking is achievable by selecting the appropriate burner size and ensuring flames don't extend up the sides of the pan. Maintenance involves letting the cookware cool before cleaning with hot soapy water and a sponge or soft dishcloth.
Durable Cookware for a Lifetime of Great Meals
With proper care, the Cuisinart GreenGourmet cookware offers long-lasting performance. Hand washing after each use typically suffices, but for heavily greased pans, soaking in hot sudsy water is recommended. Seasoning pans twice a year by applying vegetable oil and baking them helps maintain optimal performance. Avoid stacking to prevent chipping of the ceramic interior.
Conclusion
The Cuisinart GG-12 GreenGourmet Hard Anodized 12-Piece Set, Black/Stainless Steel, is a superior choice for eco-conscious cooks who do not wish to compromise on performance. Its innovative nonstick technology, efficient heat conductivity, and durable construction make it a versatile and reliable addition to any kitchen. With proper maintenance, this cookware set is designed to offer a lifetime of excellent cooking experiences.