Which Pots & Pans Should I Have in First Kitchen?

Q: As a newlywed, I just moved into our new apartment and I’m trying for set up my kitchen. I don’t have much experience on cooking but love to try. What pots and pans should I buy?

A: Before buying cookware, think about this: What do you cook? This is the most important question because it will tell what pieces you really want. Though, the set is particularly cheaper, you don’t need to buy whole set.
Another issue, stainless steel or nonstick pans? If you plan to cook more, we recommend investing in good stainless steel cookware. However, you can mix stainless steel pieces with nonstick pieces, especially skillets, for easier cooking.
Basically, these’re essential stainless steel pots and pans you’ll surely use for a couple to small-size family:

• a small (2 to 4 quarts) sauce pan,
• a medium (4 to 6 quarts) sauce pan,
• a medium (3 to 4 quarts) covered sauté pan,
• a big enough (5 to 6 quarts) stockpot; however, if you opt for 6-quart sauce pan, you may consider skip this piece for saving budget, and
• a big enough (10 to 12 inches) skillet or fry pan.

Notice that, these pots and pans can be found in basic 10-piece cookware set, so you may choose one from nice sets around here. If possible, select good quality of ‘Clad’ cookware for higher cooking performance, such as Cuisinart MultiClad Pro, Calphalon Tri-Ply, Cook’s Standard Multi-Ply Clad and Calphalon Contemporary. However, if you budget is tight, encapsulated disc cookware is the second best. We recommend Calphalon Classic Stainless Steel, Cuisinart Chef's Classic and T-fal Ultimate Stainless Steel Copper Bottom.

Well, you may consider buying additional pieces, such as a couple nonstick pans, a casserole pot for making nice braises and stews or a steamer for a steamer for healthy cuisines.