Best Cookware Set in Egypt: Granite, Tefal, or Stainless Steel?

Granite, Tefal, or Stainless?

• Granite: It is actually aluminum with a non-stick coating that looks like stone. Food doesn't stick, cleaning is easy, and the price is reasonable. Its drawback is that the coating scratches if you use metal spoons or steel wool.
• Tefal: The same idea, a non-stick coating on aluminum, but from a brand with an authorized agent and warranty. There are models with a base that works on induction.
• Stainless Steel: There is no coating to peel off, and it withstands steel wool, metal spoons, and years of use. But food sticks if you don't learn to heat it properly.
• Regular Aluminum: The cheapest and lightest, but don't leave acidic food like tomatoes in it for a long time, and don't store food in it in the fridge.

The Sizes You Actually Need

Most Egyptian homes use 3 sizes all the time: a small 16–18 cm pot for sauce, eggs, and milk, a medium 22–24 cm pot for vegetables and rice for a 4-member family, and a large 28 cm pot for stuffed vegetables (mahshi), pasta, and gatherings. A set containing these pieces is better than a 15-piece set where half the pieces won't be used.

The Stove Type

If you have a regular gas stove, any set will work. If you have induction, you must write "Induction" on the product page, otherwise the pot won't heat up at all. And some sets don't go in the oven because of the plastic handle, so if you make casseroles in the same pot, make sure to check this point.

To Make Granite and Tefal Last

• Use wooden or silicone spoons, and don't cut inside the pot with a knife.
• Don't heat an empty pot on high heat, and don't put it hot under cold water.
• Wash it with a soft sponge by hand, even if it says it is dishwasher safe.
• If the coating is badly scratched or starts to peel, change the pot.

How to Keep Food from Sticking in Stainless

Heat the empty pot on medium heat for 2 minutes, then put in the oil, then the food. Don't stir the meat or chicken as soon as you put it in: leave it until it browns and releases itself from the pot. And if sticking happens, a little hot water and bicarbonate on the heat removes anything.

Make Sure Before You Buy

• Read the piece list: "9 pieces" usually means 4 pots, 4 lids, and a pan, not 9 pots.
• Look at the sizes in centimeters, not just the number of pieces.
• Check who the seller and warranty are, and count the pieces as soon as the set arrives.