Been a long time since I baked beans. I just finished off a 3 lb tub of Amish baked beans I got at Meijer for $5, and I’m satiated for now. I like beans. Very good for you. You’re right about All Clad. I think I got 4 pans for less than $400. It was the best deal I could get at the time, and I really wanted All Clad. Their non-stick sautée pan didn’t last very long. I don’t think any Teflon coated pad does.
I was just telling my brother I know a lot about cooking, but I’m a mediocre cooker. I think my biggest problem is following recipes to the T. I’m reminded of an old cowboy cook on PBS who cooked with a Dutch oven over an open fire who used to say if it smells done, it’s done.
Actually, the smell idea is a very accurate way to judge whether food is done or not. And not following recipes is probably a sign that you are an intuitive cook. So you, in fact, may be a very good cook. I’m in culinary school at the moment and find it somewhat stultifying.