All-Clad D5 Brushed 5 Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set 10 Piece w/ Frying Pans, Pots and Pans Set, Induction, Oven Broiler Safe 600F, Silver

We cook quite a bit in our house, so we went ahead and splurged on a quality set of pots and pans. We also upgraded to an induction cook top, so some of our mismatched pots and pans were in compatible with the new stove. This set rendered a perfect 10 compatibility with the induction elements. This D5 set has 2 layers of aluminum for quick, even heat distribution for better performance over the D3 series with only a single layer of aluminum. I personally preferred the brushed finish of the D5 set and the flared lips over the high polish outer finish the similar D3 set.We appreciate that these sets are fabricated in PA USA and are built with high quality materials. Since these are stainless steel finish, you can use metal tools without fear of damaging the cooking surface. You are free to use steel wool to clean up particularly stubborn food. While it may show some minor marring of the finish due to oxidation, you can buff it out with a bit of polishing. Stainless steel does allow for the searing of meat, but excessive heat can result in food sticking the bottom. I have found boiling some water in the pot afterwards for a bit quickly releases the charred food. If all else fails, you can always scrape it from the pan or use steel wool. We just add a bit of oil or butter to the pan when cooking for foods that tend to stick. This way we don't have to worry about harmful chemicals being released into the food or periodic replacement of pans as the non-stick finishes start failing. We plan to used these the rest of our life.it is nice to have a matched set that covers most of our cooking needs, and will just augment fill in a few gaps. We may buy a D3 dutch over in the future. Otherwise, I am very happy with my seasoned high carbon steel skillet (lighter than traditional cast iron) for easy food release. We are thoroughly enjoying this purchase so far.

A properly-equipped kitchen results as much from ELIMINATING all the low-utility items that every serious cook tries out from time to time as much as it does from ADDING the critical few tools that one truly needs to create memorable meals.For many cooks, this 10 piece set would be sufficient to fully equip the kitchen, especially if you cook mainly for 2-4 persons. Every pan and cover is the best of its type, effective and pleasant to use, while lasting a lifetime.The unusual handle design? We love it. It does in fact prevent slippage and the upper concave surface is perfect for fitting the handle of a spoon you’re using to stir the pan. All-Clad thought through this handle design. I’m mystified that this feature has detractors.The D5 pans definitely do pour better than the slightly differently designed D3 pans.The All-Clad D5 pans are heavier than most of the stainless cookware one finds on the market, but not unduly so—certainly lighter than Staub or Le Creuset cast iron and even lighter than the carbon steel pans from de Buyer.We have found these the most even-heating of all our cookware, and have been impressed that if the pan is heated first, oiled second and Maillard Reaction dynamics are followed, food can be cooked without sticking, almost as easily as it can on the best cast iron or carbon steel.But the D5 pans are more versatile than our cast iron and carbon steel pans, are better for sauces, are easier to clean and require less maintenance.If you appreciate ultimate-quality kitchen tools, I think you’ll be pleased with this D5 set.

We moved into a new house, and, lo&behold, it had an induction cook top. So, the old aluminum-bottom Farberware wasn't gonna cut it. I'd been wanting some real cookware anyway--our old set was from our 50-yrs-ago wedding presents, had served us well, but had some issues, chiefly cracking handles. You'd think you could get replacements, but not so. But I digress. These All-clad pans are the bomb. I don't care that much about their looks, but they look great. And they work better than any pots and pans I've ever owned. Just fabulous. Tight lids. Solid handles. Perfect balance. The no-drip edge really doesn't drip. And the heat distribution---wow, it's really outstanding. I'm used to my old cast iron pans, which are pretty great, but still have some hot spots here and there. Not these All-clads, they're about perfect.Yes, they're expensive. But in this case you really do get what you pay for. I'm sure there are good options for less. But I'll remember those terrible Farberware handles, and their ugly warped bottoms, for the rest of my life, and, I already can't remember how much I paid for the All-clads. I couldn't be happier with them.Incidentally, if you're considering induction--quit considering and take the plunge. I've been a gas cooktop guy all my life, and have hated every electric stove I've ever used. But induction is best of both worlds. You get instant heat, but easy clean. I can put a quart of water on one of these induction burners and it's boiling in a couple minutes. My massive cast iron egg pan is ready to go in the time it takes to get the eggs out. I often boil a little water on the stove to wash a dish or two, coz it's faster than waiting for the hot water at the tap. Good thing the smooth glass top is easy to clean, coz it's super easy to have a boilover. The heat comes on so fast and so hot; it takes some getting used to. I'll probably never go back to gas.

This is an incredible quality set. LOVE these pans. The investment is worth it because they will last you a lifetime. 10/10 recommend. They are very heavy though. It also is a learning curve to use stainless steel. Do your research first to see if they are right for you. There is a trick to using them.