Cuisinart 4193-20 Contour Stainless 3-Quart Saucepan with Glass Cover Instruction Manual

1. Product Overview

The Cuisinart 4193-20 Contour Stainless 3-Quart Saucepan is designed for versatile cooking. It features professional construction with an aluminum-encapsulated base for even heat distribution and a stainless steel interior that does not react with food. The saucepan includes a tempered glass cover and stay-cool handles for comfortable and safe use.

Image 1: Cuisinart 3-Quart Saucepan with its glass cover.

2. Key Features

• Superior Heat Distribution: Pure aluminum-encapsulated base heats up quickly and ensures even heat distribution, eliminating hot spots for consistent cooking results.
• Stay-Cool Stainless Handles: Designed to remain cool during stovetop cooking, providing a solid and secure grip. The handles are contoured for comfort.
• Tempered Glass Cover: A sleek, flat glass lid with a stainless rim seals in moisture and flavor. The glass is tempered for durability and lasting performance.
• Drip-Free Pouring: Tapered rims are designed to facilitate clean, drip-free pouring.
• Ultimate Cooking Versatility: Suitable for use on stovetops, in the oven (up to 500°F), and under the broiler. Lids are oven safe up to 350°F. Also freezer safe for food storage.
• Effortless Cleanup: The brilliant stainless steel construction is conveniently dishwasher safe.

Image 2: Cuisinart 3-Quart Saucepan on a stovetop with ingredients nearby.

3. Setup and First Use

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove all packaging materials and labels from the saucepan and its glass cover.
2. Initial Cleaning: Before first use, wash the saucepan and cover in warm, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly and dry immediately to prevent water spots.
3. Seasoning (Optional): While not strictly necessary for stainless steel, some users prefer to lightly oil the interior before first use to enhance non-stick properties over time. Heat a small amount of cooking oil over low heat for a few minutes, then let cool and wipe clean.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1. Stovetop Use

• Heat Selection: Use low to medium heat settings for most cooking tasks. The aluminum-encapsulated base provides excellent heat retention, so high heat is rarely necessary and can lead to scorching or discoloration.
• Matching Burner Size: Always match the saucepan's base diameter to the burner size to ensure efficient heating and prevent handle overheating.
• Adding Salt: To prevent pitting, add salt to liquids only after they have reached a boil or are hot enough to dissolve the salt immediately.

4.2. Oven and Broiler Use

• Oven Safety: The saucepan is oven safe up to 500°F. The glass cover is oven safe up to 350°F.
• Broiler Safety: The saucepan is broiler safe. Do not use the glass cover under the broiler.
• Handle Caution: While stovetop handles are designed to stay cool, they will become hot when used in the oven or under the broiler. Always use oven mitts or pot holders when handling a hot saucepan.

5. Care and Maintenance

• Dishwasher Safe: The Cuisinart Contour Stainless Saucepan and its glass cover are dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning.
• Hand Washing: For best results and to maintain the luster of the stainless steel, hand washing with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge is recommended. Avoid using steel wool or harsh abrasive cleaners, which can scratch the surface.
• Removing Stubborn Stains: For food residue or discoloration, a non-abrasive stainless steel cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water can be used. Apply, let sit for a few minutes, then scrub gently and rinse thoroughly.
• Drying: Dry immediately after washing to prevent water spots.
• Storage: Store the saucepan and cover in a dry place. To prevent scratching, place a cloth or paper towel between stacked pans.

6. Troubleshooting

• Food Sticking: Ensure adequate oil or fat is used and that the pan is properly preheated before adding food. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Discoloration/Blue Stains: This can occur from overheating or mineral deposits in water. To remove, use a stainless steel cleaner or a solution of vinegar and water.
• White Spots/Pitting: Often caused by adding salt to cold water. Always add salt after water has come to a boil or is hot enough to dissolve it. White spots can usually be removed with vinegar.
• Handles Getting Hot: While Cuisinart Contour handles are designed to stay cool on the stovetop, prolonged high heat or oven/broiler use will cause them to heat up. Always use oven mitts or pot holders in these situations.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

The Cuisinart 4193-20 Contour Stainless 3-Quart Saucepan comes with a Lifetime Warranty, ensuring unsurpassed durability and performance. For warranty claims, product support, or additional information, please visit the official Cuisinart website or contact their customer service department.

You can find more information and support at the Cuisinart Store on Amazon.