Cuisinart Cookware: A Review of Multiclad Pro

I bought a set of Cuisinart Cookware, the Multiclad Pro version several years ago. As a cooking instructor, I've had the opportunity to cook with most of the name brands. I also own a number of pieces from different manufacturers so I've had long-time experience with All-Clad, Calphalon, and Le Crueset. When my no-name set started wearing out four years ago I chose Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Cookware.

Manufacturer's Site

Description

• 18/10 stainless steel inside and out, aluminum core
• Available in 7 (MCP-7) and 12 (MPC-12) piece sets
• Stainless steel riveted handles
• Drip-free pouring rims
• Dishwasher safe
• Limited lifetime warranty

Pros

• Even heating across the pan's base and sides
• Handles stay cool
• Oven-safe
• Brushed aluminum exterior
• Low price relative to similar sets

Cons

• Not available with non-stick interiors (some other Cuisinart products are non-stick)

Price: 7-piece set $199 MSRP, 12-piece set $299 MSRP, available online for $169 - $225

I knew I wanted clad, stainless steel cookware to eliminate (or at least minimize) hot spots. I knew the handles had to be riveted because this was where my old set, that had welded handles, was giving out. I knew it had to be dishwasher safe, and finally, it had to be completely oven-proof.

In fact the only brand I hadn't tried was Cuisinart, which had just released its Multiclad line. So I ordered a single skillet and gave it a try. I used it solidly for a month and was impressed. It had good balance, a nice long handle that didn't get hot at all and was comfortable to hold, and it cleaned up beautifully. So I ordered a set.

At that time Cuisinart was offering a 10-piece set. I chose that and haven't regretted my choice for a minute. Over the past few years, I've gotten distracted and left an empty skillet heating on the stove at medium-high heat for 15 minutes with no ill-effect. I've gotten distracted and burned rice in a sauce pan (a favorite trick of mine). I've used the soup pot as a braiser in the oven with compete success, and I've had perfect control of a three-hour tomato sauce reduction in the sauté pan.

I've put this cookware through the wringer and it has proven dependable and consistent. With the occasional help of Barkeeper's Friend (a mildly abrasive stainless-steel cleanser) it looks as good as new. Best of all, it's about half the price of equivalent brands. Highly recommended.

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