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Your kitchen may have a perfectly organized fridge, the latest air fryer, and plenty of counter space—but if you don’t have a quality cookware set, is your kitchen really complete? Whether you’re an experienced chef or still a little hesitant when it comes to making scrambled eggs, having a reliable cookware set can really make or break your cooking experience.
Years ago when I was moving into a new apartment on my own, I figured it was time to forgo my relative’s hand-me-down pots and pans, and finally invest in a set that was ready to stand the test of time in all of my cooking endeavors. I wasn’t looking for something worthy of a Michelin-starred restaurant, just a basic set that could deal with a cook who isn’t afraid to try new things and who often causes some commotion in the kitchen. After endless dirty dishes, plenty of dinner parties, and two wildly successful Thanksgivings, I can wholeheartedly say that the 13-Piece Tools of the Trade Stainless Steel Cookware Set from Macy’s is one of the best investments I’ve ever made for my kitchen.
While this scene rarely happens in my kitchen, I have whipped up a few major meals where I have used every piece in my Tools of the Trade cookware set.
The Tools of the Trade stainless steel cookware set comes with 13 pieces. First, the basics: a 1.5-quart saucepan with lid, a 2.5-quart saucepan with lid, a 5-quart stockpot with lid, a 9.5-inch saute pan with lid, and an 8-inch frying pan. The set also includes a steamer and three different cooking utensils—a large spoon, a spatula, and a pasta server.
How does the cookware look and feel?
My favorite item in the entire set—the 8-inch frying pan—has been used almost daily for the past two years.
As it says in the name, this set is made out of stainless steel. That includes the saucepans, stockpot, saute and frying pans, as well as the cooking utensils. The only parts of this set that aren’t stainless steel are the lids to each of the pots and pans, which are made of glass.
To put it simply, this set is made up of tools, not jewels. There’s nothing flashy or trendy about these stainless steel pieces. They aren’t meant to be beautifully displayed in your kitchen like a Dutch oven, or go straight from stovetop to table like the Always Pan. They’re here to do the dirty work, get the job done, and then relax in your sink while they wait for you to wash them.
This cookware set manages to be sturdy while still being light. I have no problem working one handed with the saute and frying pans. Even when I’m filling the saucepans or stockpot at my kitchen sink, I can easily transport them one handed back to my stovetop—a far cry from when I try making anything in a cast iron skillet.
An added bonus to not being an extremely bulky set? All of the pots and pans can fit in one cabinet in my kitchen, along with my Dutch oven and another stockpot. This set is a perfect solution if you have a kitchen with limited storage space.
Is it easy to use and clean?
The pots and pans in the Tools of the Trade set are wildly easy to use and clean. Lightweight and compact, I’ve had the frying pan, saute pan, and both saucepans simmering on my stovetop before, with plenty of room to spare.
I’ve found that putting these pots and pans in the dishwasher is usually just a waste of time and precious dishwasher space, so I always opt to hand-wash after I cook with them. Though I’ve had success with throwing other stainless steel pans into the dishwasher before, my Tools of the Trade set never looks (or feels) clean after going through a cycle. Instead, I recommend using a food scraper—truly one of the greatest kitchen investments of all time—and a quality kitchen sponge to get any stubborn stains off quickly.
- Has everything you need for a basic cookware setup
- Large utensils are included
- Pots and pans can be easily stored
- Lightweight and easy to care for
Tools of the Trade Nonstick Aluminum 12 Piece Cookware Set Comparison Video
FAQ
Does tools of the trade have aluminum?
What are tools of the trade pots made of?
How can you tell if cookware is aluminum?
Are pots made out of aluminum?
Who is tools of the trade cookware?
Welcome to Tools of the Trade Cookware! We are a leading company dedicated to providing high-quality cookware and kitchen tools to professional chefs and cooking enthusiasts alike. Our extensive range includes top-of-the-line pots, pans, knives, and utensils, designed to enhance your culinary experience.
Is tools of the trade a good cookware set?
If you’re looking for a no-fuss stainless steel cookware set that includes all of the basic pots and pans, the Tools of the Trade cookware set is for you. It’s ideal for any level of cooking ability, though truly beneficial for someone piecing together their first kitchen or someone just starting to hone their culinary skills.
Are tools of the trade pots & pans easy to use?
The pots and pans in the Tools of the Trade set are wildly easy to use and clean. Lightweight and compact, I’ve had the frying pan, saute pan, and both saucepans simmering on my stovetop before, with plenty of room to spare.
Does tools of the trade cookware work with induction?
Yes, the Tools of the Trade Cookware works with induction. It also works with all other heat surfaces – electric, glass-top, and gas. Where Can I Buy Tools of the Trade Cookware? Tools of the Trade cookware sets are available at Macy’s Department store, Macys.com and on Amazon. What is the Warranty on Tools of the Trade Cookware?