The market is filled with numerous varieties and brands of cookware to choose from that we often get confused on which ones to buy. Often, we purchase an entire set of cookware, without even knowing the different functions of the other pots, pans, etc. and what they really ought to be used for. So, we end up with a lot of clutter and unused cookware in the kitchen which is a complete waste of precious money aside from the fact that it will be occupying valuable space.

Before you go on buying any cookware or a cookware set for that matter, you should assess your needs on whether you need to buy only a few pieces or your requirements need for you to have a complete set. I will mention here some of the most common cookware and what they are basically used for so that you would know which ones to buy and which are more useful on your end.

Skillets or popularly known as frying pans are shallow and are best used for sautéing vegetables as well as searing and cooking meat. Pressure cookers are useful in tenderizing meat and it easily cooks the food. Stock pots are used for making soups and stocks. Casserole pans are used for making casserole. They are commonly made of Pyrex or ceramic. The great thing about casseroles is that they double also as a serving dish. A wok is popularly used in Chinese type of cooking. This is used for stir frying vegetables and small pieces of meat. It cooks food in high heat with little amount of oil. If you enjoy making grilled sandwiches, pancakes or French toast, why not opt to buy a griddle. The most popular types of griddles are the electric ones and those that are Teflon coated. A double boiler is one that is made of two pots with a smaller pot sitting on top of a larger one that is filled with water. If you enjoy grill food, you could also purchase an indoor grill that saves you the expense of an outdoor grill. It also offers the advantage of being less messy. Saucepans are deep round pans used for creating sauces, stewing and simmering.

If you want to have one of each kind you could choose to go for cookware sets. It is usually cheaper than if you were to buy all the items on the set individually. But I would suggest that if you wouldn't have any use for the other kinds; purchase only the ones which would be highly useful for you.