What kind of cookware should I buy?
I have been reading all kinds of reviews and just can't seem to decide. Stainless steel fully clad tri ply, aluminim and copper core????? I want even heat no cold or hot spots, durability and long term. I know the basics sizes I want now just need to invest. And not all clad...way out of my price range.
It depends on the pot/pan.
I have, for general cooking, stainless steel saucepans with a copper bottom, for more even heat distribution.
For a stock pot, I went all out and got a stainless steel, tall 12 qt pot with an aluminum sandwich base plate. This soaks up heat great, and evenly distributes it around the whole pot. Best stock pot I've ever owned.
I also am in love with cast iron. It takes a bit of "special" care, if you could call it that. The most important thing is to remember: NO SOAP. I know, it goes against what we've always been taught. But soap will ruin the cure you have. So no dishwashers, no soap to clean. Just hot water with a light scrubbing. I promise, it will be clean. If you use soap, it will have to be reseasoned. I give mine a reseason every year, just to be on the safe side.
And as for longevity...well, let me put it this way. I have a cast iron set that belonged to my great aunt, who is now in her 80's. And it works as well for me now as it did the day she got it. These things last FOREVER if you take care of it properly.
I have a cast iron griddle, 2 skillets (9 and 12 inches), and 2 dutch ovens, right now. I'm planning on getting more, though. Stuff can't be beat for price, evenness, durability, anything.
Only downside to it is weight. It is heavy.
You can find good cast iron at garage sales, flea markets, camping stores, and even some finer cooking stores now.
Hope this helps! 
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