Chantal Cookware

Dramatic Color in the Kitchen

By Suzy Feine

When Hieda Thurlow founded Chantal Cookware Corporation in 1979, she revolutionized the color of cookware. From cobalt blue and crimson red to forest green and classic white, this stunning collection is designed for "cook and serve" ease; high-quality cookware that is elegant enough to bring to the table. True, Chantal cookware makes for a stunning presentation, but color is not the only thing going for this internationally produced line.

Chantal's tempered glass lids, stay-cool handles and high-quality Excalibur non-stick on enamel is recognized worldwide by chefs and amateur cooks alike. Each piece is constructed of high-quality enamel-on-steel and through a unique process, the steel becomes nonporous; oils cannot seep through and foods never come in contact with metals.

Manufactured in Germany, Chantal pots are stamped out of carbon steel, giving them a smooth finish and allowing for the adherence of high-gloss enamel colors. Next, up to three coats of enamel are applied and the pots are fired in a high-temperature furnace to seal the inner carbon steel, creating a nonporous surface. Finally, the pots undergo a rigorous series of tests in order to meet Chantal's high standards of quality.

The stainless steel attachments are manufactured in Scandinavia then shipped to Houston, Texas, where the cookware is assembled. Tempered glass lids are made in Japan and Thailand, distinguishing Chantal cookware as an internationally produced pot.

The popularity of Chantal's Cook & Serve line has led to a number of other color-coordinated items: fondue pots, heart-shaped bakers, ramekins, deep-dish pie pans and rectangular bakers round out the selection. In addition, Chantal offers a full line of ceramic bakeware, serveware, teakettles, stainless steel cookware, kitchen tools, coffee and tea products and accessories to complement their products.

You can find Chantal Cookware at fine department and specialty stores including Bloomingdale's, Crate & Barrel, Marshall Field's, Macy's, Bed Bath & Beyond and Linens 'N Things. Chantal can also be found in a variety of catalogs, including The Gourmet Catalog, Horchow, Kitchen & Home, Spiegel and Williams-Sonoma. To find a store near you call 1-800-365-4354 or go to www.chantalcookware.com

Want to see more?

• Espresso Yourself! Traditional and Modern Italian Espresso Sets
• French Cuisine: Bringing Home the Flavors of Provence
• Terra Cotta: Cookware for Every Day and Every Way
• Talk about it!