All-Clad Brushed Stainless D5 3-Quart Casserole with Lid and Steamer

great 3qt casserole, but steamer feels cheap
This combination package is made of two items that can be purchased separately at a slightly higher price:

* All Clad d5 Stainless Brushed 3Qt Casserole with Lid
* All Clad 3Qt Steamer Insert

The d5 brushed stainless steel finish on the 3Qt Casserole screams "quality" and the pot seems very well constructed. It has a heavy weight and a precision machine feel.

Unfortunately, the steamer insert is no match for the 3Qt casserole. Instead of the d5 stainless finish, it is has a cheaper-looking shiny finish. The rivets on the handle seem much cheaper and crude in comparison. My first thought was that perhaps there was an assembly error at the factory and the wrong steamer insert was placed into the package. But after more research, I realize that there was no mistake. All Clad has coupled their quality "made in America" 3Qt casserole with a significantly inferior "made in China" steamer insert.

I returned it for a refund.
Expensive but well worth the investment
Yep, these ain't cheap but if your serious about your cooking and enjoy your time in the kitchen whisking up your favorite recipe you should consider investing in high quality cookware.

For years I hesitated and settled for good quality imitations such as the Emeril's cookware but finally decided to treat myself to the real thing and find out if they are worth the high prices. Yes they certainty do. No hot spots, better results at lower heat, tight lids that allow even lower heats due to fantastic heat retention (just use a higher initial temperature put the lid on and reduce to low/medium and you get a better result than having to use med/high on other less efficient wares)

I got the same satisfaction than when I decided to buy chef quality knives ... Once you cut and dice with a "real pro knife" you know why it cost $250.

I think of these pots as an investment and a heirloom to pass on to my kids. These things are so well built that you know they...
Quality 5-ply product for induction cooking with steamer
Finally a top quality steamer that can be used on an induction stove. Medium sized, easy to handle but not too big. Expect to be steaming spinach for 2-4 people regular in there. Double handles will help to spread out the weight, when water is full in the bottom. Looking forward to this set being an always available in my kitchen for small and larger tasks.
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