Carri in Florida sent this picture of her Blue Cornflower Collection.
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Where is your Corning Ware??
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"My Collection" Monday - A Clutch of Cornflower
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Coincidental Cornflower Collection - My Unintentional A-series Cornflower
I have said many times that I was never interested in collecting the A-Series Cornflower, at least not past the roasters... Cause you can never have too many roasting pans. There were more pieces made in the P-Series, and the P-series is the older of the two (being pre-1972) so I was all good with just concentrating on the original model series.
Be that as it may, I sort of "fell" into a slew of A-series over the space of a couple days and it was all REALLY inexpensive. My resolve completely crumbled.... SO, this is my completely unplanned collection of A-series Cornflower.
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Top Shelf: A-18-B on A-21-B on A-76-B sitting on an 11x15 White Counter Saver that I stretched across the top, so I could add the roasters to the photo.
Second Shelf: A-8-B in A-10-B
Third Shelf: A-1-B on A-3-B on A-84-B
Bottom Shelf: A-1 1/2-B on A-2-B, on A-5-B
Not shown... A-22 Electromatic Table Range. (I can only balance so much on my shelf)
Granted, I am still missing the infamous A-21-B-N (late model A-21 Roaster with handles on each end), but it will happen... :)
Oh, that little blue box on the top, is the metal rack (A-21-R) that Corning made to fit all 3 of the A-series Roasting Pans.
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Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
Be that as it may, I sort of "fell" into a slew of A-series over the space of a couple days and it was all REALLY inexpensive. My resolve completely crumbled.... SO, this is my completely unplanned collection of A-series Cornflower.
Top Shelf: A-18-B on A-21-B on A-76-B sitting on an 11x15 White Counter Saver that I stretched across the top, so I could add the roasters to the photo.
Second Shelf: A-8-B in A-10-B
Third Shelf: A-1-B on A-3-B on A-84-B
Bottom Shelf: A-1 1/2-B on A-2-B, on A-5-B
Not shown... A-22 Electromatic Table Range. (I can only balance so much on my shelf)
Granted, I am still missing the infamous A-21-B-N (late model A-21 Roaster with handles on each end), but it will happen... :)
Oh, that little blue box on the top, is the metal rack (A-21-R) that Corning made to fit all 3 of the A-series Roasting Pans.
Where is your Corning Ware??
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Captivatingly Clad CorningWare - My N-Series Rangetopper Collection
I think these have been the hardest Cornflower pieces to get my hands on..... The N-Series RangeToppers (being the aluminum clad bottoms) were only produced for a few years between 1979-1982 (possibly 1983) before they were supplanted by the S-series RangeTop line, which were missing the Aluminum bottoms (the skillets have waffling on the inside) There are extremely difficult to find (in Cornflower), and when found, usually command a premium price; which I am loathe to pay.
I will admit that I have resorted to eBay a couple times, but only when it was a really good deal... However, that always comes with casualties due to lack of common sense when packing something made of "glass".
But here it is... 1 year in the making... My N-series Rangetopper Collection. All of mine have the exposed aluminum bottom except for the 2 1/2 quart which is a 2nd generation piece when Corning began encapsulating the aluminum within the Pyroceram instead of simply cladding the bottom. This one piece is significantly easier to clean... That's all I gotta say about that.
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Top to bottom.......
Top Shelf: N-1 1/2-B (1 1/2 quart Sauce pan) on N-2 1/2-B (2 1/2 quart Sauce pan)
Middle Shelf: N-1-B (1 quart Sauce pan) on N-8 1/2-B (8 1/2 inch Skillet) on N-10-B (10 inch Skillet)
Bottom Shelf: N-5-B (5 quart Dutch Oven)
I can only guess as to why Corning decided to add Aluminum to their Corning Ware pieces. Granted, the only safe way to cook in aluminum is to have a layer of pyroceram between it and your food.
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
I will admit that I have resorted to eBay a couple times, but only when it was a really good deal... However, that always comes with casualties due to lack of common sense when packing something made of "glass".
But here it is... 1 year in the making... My N-series Rangetopper Collection. All of mine have the exposed aluminum bottom except for the 2 1/2 quart which is a 2nd generation piece when Corning began encapsulating the aluminum within the Pyroceram instead of simply cladding the bottom. This one piece is significantly easier to clean... That's all I gotta say about that.
Top Shelf: N-1 1/2-B (1 1/2 quart Sauce pan) on N-2 1/2-B (2 1/2 quart Sauce pan)
Middle Shelf: N-1-B (1 quart Sauce pan) on N-8 1/2-B (8 1/2 inch Skillet) on N-10-B (10 inch Skillet)
Bottom Shelf: N-5-B (5 quart Dutch Oven)
I can only guess as to why Corning decided to add Aluminum to their Corning Ware pieces. Granted, the only safe way to cook in aluminum is to have a layer of pyroceram between it and your food.
Where is your Corning Ware??
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Percolator Progeny Promulgation - The Corning Ware P-119 Percolator and It's Descendents
In 1958, Corning released it's first percolator.... The P-108 (8 cup) and the smaller P-106 (6 cup)
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By 1959, Corning faced a problem with said percolators..... The original design was completely constructed of Pyroceram and, due to the cumbersomeness of the larger 8 cup pot (seen above), the spouts would chip inevitably get chipped.
As a consequence, Corning discontinued the original P-106 and P-108 in 1960 and replaced it with the P-119 (9 cup) and P-116 (6 cup) model. These percolators were endowed with a stainless steel collar and rim that eliminated the possibility of chipping during washing. This would, however lead to the infamous recall that Corning was forced to make due to the method of attachment being less than reliable (but there is more to the story and the recall is not all inclusive... though eBay and Etsy would have everyone believe so)
The issue lies in the fact that not ALL P-119 & P-116 Percolators are created equal...... There are actually 2 Generations of these first stainless steel spouted pots.
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Generation 1 (first released in 1960) is the one that is not only glued, but clamped as well... This is evident from the bolts that actually hold the band onto the pot. These are usually easy to identify because the bolts are, more often than not, exposed.
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This is due to the fact that the little black plastic "cover" has been lost over the years. These pots ARE 50 years old, so it was bound to happen at some point in the pots history.
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If you remove the bolts, you will discover that these 1st generation pots are both epoxied and clamped. Even if the glue is compromised over the years, the handle and band are still secured around the top of the pot... Though your coffee may still leak out from under the band if the epoxy is worn out.
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At some point, though I am not sure when at this point, the handles were modified. I suspect that customers were complaining about that small plastic cover piece getting lost. This little changes led to the second generation of the P-119 & P-116 Percolators.
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Unlike Generation I, Gen II's solid handle was affixed to the stainless steel band before the whole assembly was glued to the top of the pot. This is evident by the lack of any screws and the small hole on the underside of the pot handle.
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Thus began the irritating, and sometimes shocking, tendency for the pots to separate from the handle assembly and liberally bath the unsuspecting host's or hostess's leg in a deluge of hot coffee.
This tendency towards separation is what began the recalls of the Corning Ware Percolators. The list of recalls is somewhat extensive and includes not only stove top percolators, but Electromatic ones as well.... They are as follows:
Stove top percolators:
P-116, P-119, P-146, & P-149
While the original P-106 and P-108 from 1958 & 59 are completely safe for use, it wasn't until the release of the P-166 (6 cup) and P-169 (9 cup) in the early 80s that they became "safe" again. (because they are Pyroceram pots with a stainless steel band and handle that is clamped around the pot)
Electromatic Percolators:
P-6-EP, P-23-EP, P-80-EP, P-280-EP, P-480-EP, & P-1210-EP
Sadly, there is not a single Electromatic Percolator made that it truly safe for use. Though it can be argued that the P-23-EP (the original model) is "safer" than the others, they are ALL glued together. It is just that the epoxy they used was different on the first P-23-EP pots, while consecutive models have the the less stable epoxy type.
If you are a hardcore collector, you probably have a few of these setting around and may even be using one or two of them. I would advise extreme caution when using, the tendency for separation from repeated heating and cooling can be somewhat alleviated by using both hands when pouring your coffee. Simply hold the handle in one hand and support the bottom of the pot with your other hand (using a pot holder of course).
Happy Perking!
Where is your Corning Ware Percolator??
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As a consequence, Corning discontinued the original P-106 and P-108 in 1960 and replaced it with the P-119 (9 cup) and P-116 (6 cup) model. These percolators were endowed with a stainless steel collar and rim that eliminated the possibility of chipping during washing. This would, however lead to the infamous recall that Corning was forced to make due to the method of attachment being less than reliable (but there is more to the story and the recall is not all inclusive... though eBay and Etsy would have everyone believe so)
The issue lies in the fact that not ALL P-119 & P-116 Percolators are created equal...... There are actually 2 Generations of these first stainless steel spouted pots.
This tendency towards separation is what began the recalls of the Corning Ware Percolators. The list of recalls is somewhat extensive and includes not only stove top percolators, but Electromatic ones as well.... They are as follows:
Stove top percolators:
P-116, P-119, P-146, & P-149
While the original P-106 and P-108 from 1958 & 59 are completely safe for use, it wasn't until the release of the P-166 (6 cup) and P-169 (9 cup) in the early 80s that they became "safe" again. (because they are Pyroceram pots with a stainless steel band and handle that is clamped around the pot)
Electromatic Percolators:
P-6-EP, P-23-EP, P-80-EP, P-280-EP, P-480-EP, & P-1210-EP
Sadly, there is not a single Electromatic Percolator made that it truly safe for use. Though it can be argued that the P-23-EP (the original model) is "safer" than the others, they are ALL glued together. It is just that the epoxy they used was different on the first P-23-EP pots, while consecutive models have the the less stable epoxy type.
If you are a hardcore collector, you probably have a few of these setting around and may even be using one or two of them. I would advise extreme caution when using, the tendency for separation from repeated heating and cooling can be somewhat alleviated by using both hands when pouring your coffee. Simply hold the handle in one hand and support the bottom of the pot with your other hand (using a pot holder of course).
Happy Perking!
Where is your Corning Ware Percolator??
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A Renaissance in Cookware - Corning Ware Renaissance Limited Edition Gift Line
Over the last year, I have written up many posts on Corning Ware patterns in order to provide some semblance of a record for the online community. The whole idea stemmed from the myriad patterns I kept running into during my quest for my own favorite pattern, being "Wheat". There has been one pattern, however, that has eluded me over the last year... Actually, it has been eluding me since 2007 when I first found out about it.
Renaissance. The limited edition Gift Line pattern from 1970 (The year they began printing "For Range and Microwave" on the bottom). The pattern is an etching of a Swedish seaport.
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These are the 2 pieces that I own now... The P-84-B (4 quart Sauce Pot)
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and the P-2 1/2-B Sauce Pan
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Other pieces in the line (that I personally do not own yet) include a 1 3/4 quart sauce pan (P-1 3/4-B), 9 cup stove top percolator (P-149) and a Broil and Bake Tray (P-35).
I did get the wood handled cradle with the P-84-B, which is how it originally came. The smaller saucepans were paired with the chrome "Royal Buffet" candle warming cradles. I don't particularly care for the wood handled cradle with this pattern, as it covers up too much of the design. I will probably opt for the Platinum Cradles when I use my Renaissance pieces. Which will only be for "uber" special occasions.
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One thing of note, is the special lids that came with the Renaissance pieces (and "Nature's Bounty" in 1971). They have pebble a texture on their underside.....
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as opposed the the non-pebbled standard lids (left)
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Where is your Corning Ware??
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Renaissance. The limited edition Gift Line pattern from 1970 (The year they began printing "For Range and Microwave" on the bottom). The pattern is an etching of a Swedish seaport.
I did get the wood handled cradle with the P-84-B, which is how it originally came. The smaller saucepans were paired with the chrome "Royal Buffet" candle warming cradles. I don't particularly care for the wood handled cradle with this pattern, as it covers up too much of the design. I will probably opt for the Platinum Cradles when I use my Renaissance pieces. Which will only be for "uber" special occasions.
Where is your Corning Ware??
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In The Beginning - Corning Ware 1st Generation BPE (Before P# Era - 1958-1959)
So I have been photographing various chunks of my Corning Ware collection over the last couple of months. This was for a 2 fold reason. Firstly, I really didn't have anyplace that I could spread it all out and photograph everything all at once and second, well... there is only so much room for a photo on a blog post and I would have to stand back so far to get it all in that you probably would not be able to see much of anything except a bunch of little blue cornflower shaped dots.
Be that as it may, I decided that I was going about this the wrong way. I should have been organizing my collection by Era and/or generations. You see, there are several "Generations" of Corning Ware and those generations can be grouped together into Eras. To make matters even more confusing, some of the patterns within generations can be broken down into "Editions"... Such as the Floral Bouquet pattern. This is further complicated by the fact that there are separate "series" runs that occur for a short time within a generation that are retired, but then resurface again later... So lets just start at the beginning...
In the first Era (AKA: Fin Lid Era), which encompasses 1958 - 1961, there were actually 2 generations of Corning Ware.... an embossed bottom generation and a blurry blue ink generation... but today I am going to concentrate on Generation 1 (numero uno) from 1958 thru 1959.
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In the beginning of the beginning there were no P, B, W, N, A, C, S, DC, F, G, U or L model numbers.. You see, Corning was unsure how well their cookware would be received by the American housewife, so they made a limited number of pieces for the initial release in the fall of 1958 to test the waters..... These would be the 1 quart, 1 1/2 quart and 1 3/4 quart saucepan with fin lids (similar to the Pyrex FlameWare design) along with the 10 inch skillet topped with the infamous pyroceram lid adorn with more cornflowers. With only 4 pieces, it was pretty easy to keep track of what was what, so no model numbers were really needed at this point.
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Corning Ware was such a hot seller, that by Christmas retailers were screaming for more. So, in spring of 1959 Corning unveiled 2 additional skillets (9 inch and 7 inch with fin lids), a 2 1/2 quart Saucepan and the famed 8 cup & 6 cup pyroceram lipped percolators (which would later be referred to as P-108 and P-106).
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All these pieces, percolators aside, have an embossed stamp on the bottom stating either "Corning Ware" with a volume measurement or, in the case of the skillets, width in inches. (7 inch skillet-top, 1 3/4 quart saucepan-bottom)
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or simply "Corning Pyroceram" with no other identifying marks. (bottom of 2 1/2 quart)
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There ARE alpha-numeric characters embossed on the pieces as well, as is evident above with the A-19, D 16 and B-34, but these are by no means model numbers... they are glass mold numbers used for quality control purposes. The model numbers we all know and love would not surface until the second Era of Corning Ware in 1962 (3rd Generation) with the the P & W series followed shortly in 1964 by the B-series (and the C-series for Centura coordinated casseroles)
So there you have it.... The 1st Generation of the 1st Era of Corning Ware.
Where is your Corning Ware??
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Be that as it may, I decided that I was going about this the wrong way. I should have been organizing my collection by Era and/or generations. You see, there are several "Generations" of Corning Ware and those generations can be grouped together into Eras. To make matters even more confusing, some of the patterns within generations can be broken down into "Editions"... Such as the Floral Bouquet pattern. This is further complicated by the fact that there are separate "series" runs that occur for a short time within a generation that are retired, but then resurface again later... So lets just start at the beginning...
In the first Era (AKA: Fin Lid Era), which encompasses 1958 - 1961, there were actually 2 generations of Corning Ware.... an embossed bottom generation and a blurry blue ink generation... but today I am going to concentrate on Generation 1 (numero uno) from 1958 thru 1959.
So there you have it.... The 1st Generation of the 1st Era of Corning Ware.
Where is your Corning Ware??
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South of the Border With Corning Ware - Tres Leches Cake
My youngest brother's Birthday is on Sunday and this is the cake he has been requesting every year for the last 3 years....
I will admit, that I have never baked a Tres Leches cake in Corning Ware before, but I was looking for a way to streamline the process a little and reduce the amount of dishes that were required. The only real difference, is that the cake took about 5 minutes longer to bake. Other than that, it worked out perfectly. I will be doing it this way from now on!
One thing I cannot stress enough is that this cake should always be assembled on a plate with a rim. The Stabilized Whipped Cream (whipped cream with gelatin) is capable of absorbing some of the moisture from the milk soaked cake, but may not be able to contain it all. If the cake becomes too warm it is possible that the milks it has been soaked in will begin to weep out from underneath the Whipped Cream. Better to play it safe than have a mess all over your table.
Please note, that I did not attempt this cake in the 8 inch Round Cake dish (P-321). There was a very good reason for this. This particular Tres Leches Cake does not respond well to the radial cutting that is required for slicing a round cake and when if comes to batter volume, an 8 inch square is equivalent to a 9 inch round, not an 8 inch round, so technically, the P-321 Round pdish is too small. Besides, it's Hip to Be Square. (and the square pans are significantly easier to find)
I will admit, that I have never baked a Tres Leches cake in Corning Ware before, but I was looking for a way to streamline the process a little and reduce the amount of dishes that were required. The only real difference, is that the cake took about 5 minutes longer to bake. Other than that, it worked out perfectly. I will be doing it this way from now on!
One thing I cannot stress enough is that this cake should always be assembled on a plate with a rim. The Stabilized Whipped Cream (whipped cream with gelatin) is capable of absorbing some of the moisture from the milk soaked cake, but may not be able to contain it all. If the cake becomes too warm it is possible that the milks it has been soaked in will begin to weep out from underneath the Whipped Cream. Better to play it safe than have a mess all over your table.
Please note, that I did not attempt this cake in the 8 inch Round Cake dish (P-321). There was a very good reason for this. This particular Tres Leches Cake does not respond well to the radial cutting that is required for slicing a round cake and when if comes to batter volume, an 8 inch square is equivalent to a 9 inch round, not an 8 inch round, so technically, the P-321 Round pdish is too small. Besides, it's Hip to Be Square. (and the square pans are significantly easier to find)
Tres Leches Cake
Parchment, Butter & Flour, for cake pans
7 large Eggs, separated
2 cups AP Flour
2 tsp Baking Powder
1 tsp Salt
1 cup Granulated Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla Extract
3/4 cup Whole Milk
For the "Milks"....
14 oz net wt (1 can) Sweetened Condensed Milk
12 oz (1 can) Evaporated Milk
1 cup Heavy Cream
For the "Frosting".....
3 cups Heavy Cream
2 TB Confectioners' Sugar
2 tsp Gelatin (1 pkg or Knox Gelatin)
2 TB Water
2 Corning Ware Square 8 inch Cake Pans (P-322)
1 French White 4 oz Ramekin or Centura Custard cup
1 Corning Ware Petite pan (P-41 or P-43)
1 Pyrex 4 cup Measuring Pitcher
optional - Pyrex Mixing Bowls
Cut 2 pieces or parchment to fit in the bottoms of the P-322 square 8 inch cake dishes. (they do not need to cover the entire bottom of the pan.)
Meanwhile, place Egg Whites in a bowl and beat them until they hold firm peaks.
Mixing the Milks and Soaking the Cake.....
While the cakes are baking, whisk 1 cup Heavy Cream with the Sweetened Condensed Milk and the Evaporated Milk, together in a Pyrex 4 cup pitcher (this will make it easier to pour over the cakes)
Make the Stabilized Whipped Cream.... (This is important, if the cake begins to "weep" milk, the gelatin in the whipped cream will help absorb it)
Bloom the gelatin in a small French White 4 oz Ramekin or Centura Custard cup for 5 minutes.
Place any reserved whipped cream in a pastry bag and pipe some simple decorations. (You can also sprinkle with Coconut if you like - Do not decorate with Pineapple until right before serving, the bromelain in the pineapple will break down the gelatin and you will have a soupy top)
mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm!
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Mysteries Of Corning Ware - Corning Holiday Design P-93-B
I have discovered another Corning Ware mystery. I don't make it a habit of collecting the "Holiday Season" designs, except when the year is significant such as the year I was born (1969) or the year I graduated from High School (1987) or some such other year of significance in my life. But when I saw what the model # was, and what the shape was, I had to have it. For I have never seen this particular piece before, nor have I read any information about this piece in either of the "codecies" (AKA: books) used by we Corning Ware collectors.
Behold... The 2 1/2 quart round (and handled) saucepan
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Otherwise known as the mysterious P-93-B.
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Due to the nature of the design, I can confidently state that it was produced in 1965. (Just call me Capt. Obvious?) but other than that, I can tell nothing.
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I have searched the internet and found absolutely nothing. I am not even sure that it originally came with this lid. Then again, since the Buffet Servers were released in the previous year... if Corning was "testing" a new shape, chances are they simply used a lid that was already in production. (Corning was very good at not "reinventing" the wheel)
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I have no idea if this was produced outside of the "Holiday" pattern or not. So there may or may not be a Wheat or Cornflower piece as well. Black Trefoil was discontinued in 1965 so I doubt there would be a piece in that particular pattern. (then again, stranger things have happened)
Your guess is as good as mine. I have looked for P-94, P-92, P-91, P-90 (in case there were other sizes) but all to no avail.
If anyone has any information regarding this particular model and whether it was produced in any other pattern or if it is simply a special piece for the holidays, I would appreciate it.
Where is your Corning Ware??
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Behold... The 2 1/2 quart round (and handled) saucepan
Your guess is as good as mine. I have looked for P-94, P-92, P-91, P-90 (in case there were other sizes) but all to no avail.
If anyone has any information regarding this particular model and whether it was produced in any other pattern or if it is simply a special piece for the holidays, I would appreciate it.
Where is your Corning Ware??
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Guacamole on the Half Shell? - My P-Series Shell Oil Avocado Medallion Collection
In late 1970 or early 1971 (it is not known for sure which date is correct) the Shell Oil Company's Credit Card Division began offering a special pattern of Corning Ware to it's card carrying customers. The "Shell Oil Medallion" pattern, as it has become known, was available in either Avocado Green or Cornflower Blue until 1974. Thus, the pieces available span the P-series as well as the A-series cut over in 1972. This brings on a few problems when trying to determine exactly WHAT pieces were made.
Personally, I have a deep seated love for the P-series era of Corningware anyway, so I only collect pre-1972 pieces. It helps that the Petite pans, Pie Plate, Roaster and Loaf pan retained their P-series designation, even during the A-series era, post 1972. Thus, there are technically MORE P-series pieces than there are A-series ones.
Thus far, I have been able to find the following pieces in Avocado Medallion......
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This includes the P-2 1/2-B, the P-9-B, the P-41 Petite Pans, the P-332 Roaster, the P-315 Loaf Pan as well as the P-81 and P-82 Menu-ettes. Sadly, I know the P-83 out there as well, cause I sold one 3 years ago on Ebay. (I can be SUCH an idiot sometimes!)
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As far as the infamous 2 books are concerned... Neither mentions the Menu-ettes at ALL. The P-309 Pie plate (I know for a fact it exists in blue) isn't mentioned either.
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However, Kyle lists a P-1.5/A-1.5, a P-10/A-10 skillet, an A-84 (4 quart), though he states that it's a 5 quart, and a P-43 Petite pan, but doesn't mention the P-41s which are in my photo above. I would have thought it might be a typographical error in the book, but I have seen a photo of a P-43 petite on the corellecorner.com web site. Randy & Debbie mention the roaster and the loaf pan, along with 2 covered saucepans, but not the sizes, as well as a skillet and a petite pan (instead of both sizes).
The basic point, is that I don't think anyone knows for sure which pieces were actually made in this pattern.... I don't think they made the large roasters (P-21 & P-76) but you never know... As I stated, neither of the books mentions the Menu-ette set or the pie plate, so your guess is as good as mine.
As far as the A-series pieces go, I know that production included an A-1 1/2-B as well as an A-8 skillet (I have them for sale on Etsy right now.)
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Where is your Corningware??
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Personally, I have a deep seated love for the P-series era of Corningware anyway, so I only collect pre-1972 pieces. It helps that the Petite pans, Pie Plate, Roaster and Loaf pan retained their P-series designation, even during the A-series era, post 1972. Thus, there are technically MORE P-series pieces than there are A-series ones.
Thus far, I have been able to find the following pieces in Avocado Medallion......
The basic point, is that I don't think anyone knows for sure which pieces were actually made in this pattern.... I don't think they made the large roasters (P-21 & P-76) but you never know... As I stated, neither of the books mentions the Menu-ette set or the pie plate, so your guess is as good as mine.
As far as the A-series pieces go, I know that production included an A-1 1/2-B as well as an A-8 skillet (I have them for sale on Etsy right now.)
Where is your Corningware??
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Amber Waves of Grain - My W-Series Wheat Collection
The Wheat pattern seems to be an enigma. Stories abound about how this was the original design in tended to grace the sides of Corning Ware pieces, but the final design wasn't ready, so the Cornflower took it's place in 1958 and stuck. Most of these stories end with the fact that the Wheat pattern was revisited years later and released to a limited market (Bon Marche stores in the Pacific NW) in a limited number of pieces for only couple of years before it was discontinued again.
I am not buying this story anymore.
I have found WAY too many pieces that prove that production of this pattern began in 1963 (possibly 1962) and lasted at least until 1969, but more likely all the way through to 1971. I also do not believe the pattern was restricted to the West Coast, since I see a LOT of Wheat pieces being sold on eBay and Etsy that are located in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Florida or New York.
Unlike other patterns printed on traditional square Corning Ware pieces, Wheat has it's own model designation (W-series vs. P-series), though the handle lugs are the same size as the P-series pieces. To date I have never found a piece in the Wheat pattern with A-series sized lugs (1972).
This is my Wheat collection as of October 2014.... It is still not complete, as there are several pieces I know exist, but still need to track down.
The Basic Cookware Pieces.....
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Back-left: W-2 1/2-B (2 1/2 quart Saucepan) with W-17 (2 quart Double Boiler insert), W-10-B (10 inch Skillet), W-16-B (11 inch Skillet), W-34-B (4 quart Dutch Oven)
Front-left: W-1 3/4-B (1 3/4 quart Saucepan), W-1-B (1 quart Saucepan), W-4-B (1 1/2 quart Baker), W-1 1/2-B (1 1/2 quart Saucepan)
The Menu-ettes and Petites.....
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Top-left: W-81-B (1 pint Saucepan), W-82-B (1 1/2 pint Saucepan), W-83-B (6 1/2 inch Skillet)
Top-right: W-41-B (12 oz), W-43-B (22 oz) both with P-41-PC (Plastic Cover)
The Bakeware and Misc. (which gives me a potential end date for the pattern)
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Back-left: W-105 (8 cup Teapot), W-103 (3 cup Teapot)
Back-center: W-309 (9 inch pie plate), W-322 (8 inch Baker), W-35 (Broil and Bake Tray)
Back-right: W-65-B (2 quart Saucemaker), W-64-B (1 quart Saucemaker)
Not Pictured - W-104 (6 cup teapot) which is still in a box mixed with other things and not labeled so I have not been able to find it.
The P-309 Pie Plate (back center) was released in 1967 while the P-322 Square Baker (middle center) was not released until 1968.
The Electromatics (These give me the beginning date for the pattern)
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Back-left: P-12-ES with W-22 Skillet (flat ground W-16), W-6-EP (6 cup Percolator), W-53 (Self Timing Saucepan with flat ground W-4)
Front-center: W-54 (Immersible Warming Tray)
The P-53 Self-Timing Saucepan (right) gives me the beginning date for this pattern, as it was only available in 1963. Granted, the Electromatic Skillet P-12-ES (left) was released in 1962, so it is possible that the pattern was released earlier, but the Saucepan proves that the pattern was in production in '63
There are several other pieces that I know exist, but do not have in my possession for one reason or another. The 4 quart Sauce pot (W-84-B) and Deluxe Tea Kettle (W-57) I purchased were both broken during shipping. I have found every one of the Open Roasters (W-332, W-21 & W-76) as well as the Roasting Tray (W-19) and the Loaf Pan (W-315) at one time or another at the Thrift Stores, but each time I found one of these pieces, it had a big chip taken out of the rim, so I left them. I have seen the 8 inch Round Cake dish (W-321) in an antique store, but it was WAY too expensive. There are also 2 stove top Percolators (W-116 & W-119) and the 10 cup Electromatic percolator (W-80-EP). All of them are on the "recall list" because of their epoxied stainless steel rims.
There are several potential pieces that were possibly made during the Wheat Timeline (1962-1969) though none have been confirmed as of yet. These items would include such pieces as the original W-504 & W-508 Beverage Servers from 1965 or the original 10 cup Electromatic Percolator (W-23-EP) which was discontinued in 1966 in lieu of the W-80-EP.
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
I am not buying this story anymore.
I have found WAY too many pieces that prove that production of this pattern began in 1963 (possibly 1962) and lasted at least until 1969, but more likely all the way through to 1971. I also do not believe the pattern was restricted to the West Coast, since I see a LOT of Wheat pieces being sold on eBay and Etsy that are located in Pennsylvania, Virginia, Florida or New York.
Unlike other patterns printed on traditional square Corning Ware pieces, Wheat has it's own model designation (W-series vs. P-series), though the handle lugs are the same size as the P-series pieces. To date I have never found a piece in the Wheat pattern with A-series sized lugs (1972).
This is my Wheat collection as of October 2014.... It is still not complete, as there are several pieces I know exist, but still need to track down.
The Basic Cookware Pieces.....
Front-left: W-1 3/4-B (1 3/4 quart Saucepan), W-1-B (1 quart Saucepan), W-4-B (1 1/2 quart Baker), W-1 1/2-B (1 1/2 quart Saucepan)
The Menu-ettes and Petites.....
Top-right: W-41-B (12 oz), W-43-B (22 oz) both with P-41-PC (Plastic Cover)
The Bakeware and Misc. (which gives me a potential end date for the pattern)
Back-center: W-309 (9 inch pie plate), W-322 (8 inch Baker), W-35 (Broil and Bake Tray)
Back-right: W-65-B (2 quart Saucemaker), W-64-B (1 quart Saucemaker)
Not Pictured - W-104 (6 cup teapot) which is still in a box mixed with other things and not labeled so I have not been able to find it.
The P-309 Pie Plate (back center) was released in 1967 while the P-322 Square Baker (middle center) was not released until 1968.
The Electromatics (These give me the beginning date for the pattern)
Front-center: W-54 (Immersible Warming Tray)
The P-53 Self-Timing Saucepan (right) gives me the beginning date for this pattern, as it was only available in 1963. Granted, the Electromatic Skillet P-12-ES (left) was released in 1962, so it is possible that the pattern was released earlier, but the Saucepan proves that the pattern was in production in '63
There are several other pieces that I know exist, but do not have in my possession for one reason or another. The 4 quart Sauce pot (W-84-B) and Deluxe Tea Kettle (W-57) I purchased were both broken during shipping. I have found every one of the Open Roasters (W-332, W-21 & W-76) as well as the Roasting Tray (W-19) and the Loaf Pan (W-315) at one time or another at the Thrift Stores, but each time I found one of these pieces, it had a big chip taken out of the rim, so I left them. I have seen the 8 inch Round Cake dish (W-321) in an antique store, but it was WAY too expensive. There are also 2 stove top Percolators (W-116 & W-119) and the 10 cup Electromatic percolator (W-80-EP). All of them are on the "recall list" because of their epoxied stainless steel rims.
There are several potential pieces that were possibly made during the Wheat Timeline (1962-1969) though none have been confirmed as of yet. These items would include such pieces as the original W-504 & W-508 Beverage Servers from 1965 or the original 10 cup Electromatic Percolator (W-23-EP) which was discontinued in 1966 in lieu of the W-80-EP.
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
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J C Penney Exclusive Design, by Corning - My JCP-Series Collection
I know very little about this pattern, except what I have read off the bottoms of the dishes themselves. This slightly Scandinavian looking pattern may have an official name like "Needlepoint", "Candlewicking" or "Embroidery". Your guess is as good as mine. I usually just refer to it as the "J C Penney" pattern. The design appears to be printed in what I would call Khaki green (somewhere between avocado green and taupe.... closer to the color of army fatigues than anything else)
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Like the "Wheat" pattern, the J C Penney pattern has it's own model designation "JCP", even though it has P-series handle lugs. Also of note, and what makes the model numbers slightly different from the norm, is that the ending hyphen is missing. Thus, what would normally be a P-1-B or a W-1-B (in the case of the Wheat pattern), a 1 quart saucepan in the JC Penney pattern is marked as a JCP-1B with no hyphen.
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The only pieces I am currently aware of are the 1 quart (JCP-1B), the 1 1/2 quart (JCP-1 1/2B) and the 22oz Petite dish (JCP-43B)
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As you can see from the bottoms, this was a pattern made exclusively for the JC Penney stores sometime before 1972, when the handle lugs were enlarged. Since it has the proverbial "For Range & Microwave" printed on the bottom, my guess is that it began production in 1970. It is unclear if these pieces actually graced the store shelves, or if they were only available through the Catalog.
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Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
~~
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Which Came First, The Trefoil or the Variant? - My Entire Trefoil Collection (Pre & Post P-series)
I have posted about the Trefoil pattern before, but I think it's time to break the entire collection out. Not just the standard 1 3/4 quart & 2 1/2 quart Saucepans, Electromatic Skillet and the 3 percolators in the pattern that we are all most familiar with....
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I mean the whole kit and kaboodle.
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Meaning the "Standard" Trefoil and all it's variants. (for there are 2)
Made available in 1960 to catch a "higher class" consumer, Trefoil hit the market smack dab in the middle of the Pre P-series era (1958-1961). Thus, older pieces have the blurry blue ink print found on 2nd generation Corning Ware, which makes them pair well with Fin handle lids,
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while others are stamped with the standard P-series model # of the 3rd generation, meaning they deserve knob handle lids. (1 3/4 quart is the only "P-series" cookware piece I currently have)
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The P-139 and P-136 Stove Top percolators (1963-1965) seem to have only been available in the "standard" pattern, but the Electromatic Percolator (P-13-EP) predates the Stove top models by 3 years. (being available in 1960 along with the Electromatic Skillet) It is possible that it is available in the variant pattern.
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Speaking of Electromatic Skillets, the Trefoil Electromatic Skillet actually predates the Cornflower model by 1 year. Trefoil patterned Electromatics were available in 1960 while the Cornflower patterned version was not made available until 1961. It seems that ALL three variants were available at some point in Electromatic Skillet form. Since the Electromatic Immersible Warming Tray was not on the market until 1964, it is possible that a Trefoil pattern was never produced since the pattern was discontinued shortly after in 1965.
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It seems, at this time, that the "Scroll" variant (right), was only available on the Electromatic Skillet. (Note: that though the booklet has the "Standard" pattern and the box states "Trefoil" the skillet that came out of it, is a "Scroll" pattern one)
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Then again, I said the same thing of the variant on the left, but it appears that it was around from the very beginning because of this piece...
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The 10 inch Skillet with the Pyroceram lid. (which doesn't seem to be available in the "standard" pattern)
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It has the "Blurry Blue Ink" dating it to 1960-1961, along with the odd sized 1 1/2 quart that I found in this same variant.
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That being said, it appears that the only cookware available in the "standard" pattern, was the 1 3/4 quart, 2 1/2 quart, 11 inch Electromatic Skillet and, of course, percolators.
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
Made available in 1960 to catch a "higher class" consumer, Trefoil hit the market smack dab in the middle of the Pre P-series era (1958-1961). Thus, older pieces have the blurry blue ink print found on 2nd generation Corning Ware, which makes them pair well with Fin handle lids,
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
↧
"My Collection" Monday - Prepare to be Amazed!
I received some incredible Corning Ware collection photos from Bonnie in San Jose. I am in awe!
1 Liter/Quart Saucepans (Spice O' Life, Cornflower, Forever Yours, My Garden "Traditional", Shadow Iris, Sunsations, Fruit Basket, Shadow Iris, Rosemarie, Blue Dusk, Silk & Roses, Provincial Blue, Blue Velvet)
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1.5 Liter/Quart Saucepans (Fruit Basket, Lyrics, Spice O' Life, Symphony, Summerhill "Centura", Cornflower, 3rd edition Floral Bouquet, Autumn Meadow "Imoco")
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2 Liter/Quart Saucepans (Spice O' Life, Forever Yours, 3rd Edition Floral Bouquet., Oceanview, Fruit Basket, Orchard Rose, Shadow Iris, Country Festival, Wildflower, Pastel Bouquet, Provincial Blue, Abundance)
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3 Liter/ 2 1/2 Quart Saucepans (Trefoil, Forever Yours, Country Cornflower, Pastel Bouquet, Duck)
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5 Liter/Quart Sauce pot (Pastel Floral, Garden Harvest)
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Baking Dishes (Wheat, Cornflower, Cornflower roaster, Wildflower, Country Festival)
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Menu-ette Saucepans and Saucemakers (Spice O' Life Menu-ette, M-68-B Microwave Saucepot, Shell Avocado Medallion - 9 inch skillet and the Menu-ettes)
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Petite Pans (Lots of Cornflower, American Oil Star pattern, Fresh Cut, Spice O' Life, Peach Floral, Country Cornflower, Fruit Basket)
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Sidekicks & Baking Trays (Conventional and Microwave browning)
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Merry Mushroom (Corning Ware Round)
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Centura & Buffet Servers (Centura White Server and Butterscotch Round)
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Casual Elegance (White Flora)
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My Garden (on French White), Classic Black & Designer Casserole (April)
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Christmas pieces
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Grab-Its and French White
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Even the "Copy Cats" Anchor Hocking Cookware (pulled from the market in 1969), Mikasa Fire & Ice (by Narumi) and Arcoflam Nouveau from France (made For Princess House) with Pyrex Fireside tinted lid.
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WOW! Is all I have to say.
Where is your Corning Ware?? Seriously.... Send me pictures of your pride and joy pieces at corningware411@gmail.com
~~
1 Liter/Quart Saucepans (Spice O' Life, Cornflower, Forever Yours, My Garden "Traditional", Shadow Iris, Sunsations, Fruit Basket, Shadow Iris, Rosemarie, Blue Dusk, Silk & Roses, Provincial Blue, Blue Velvet)
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Where is your Corning Ware?? Seriously.... Send me pictures of your pride and joy pieces at corningware411@gmail.com
~~
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Flower Power! - My 1st Edition Floral Bouquet Collection
Though the Floral Bouquet pattern is covered in "the books". I think these dates refer only to the 2nd and 3rd editions of the pattern (1970-1975) at which point a larger selection of pieces were in production. 1st Edition Floral Bouquet, however, was originally released in the fall of 1969 as a Limited Edition Gift line, just like Platinum Filigree (1966), Renaissance (1970) & Nature's Bounty (1971).
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Featuring a wrap around pattern of white flowers in "negative" due to a golden linen textured background print.
As with all of Corning's Limited Edition Gift Lines, only a "limited" selection of pieces were produced. In the case of the 1st Edition of Floral Bouquet, the only pieces manufactured were the 1 1/2 quart (P-1 1/2-B), 1 3/4 quart (P-1 3/4-B), the 2 1/2 quart (P-2 1/2-B) and a 9 cup Percolator (P-119). Just like the other Gift Lines, the Floral Bouquet was sold in a specially designed box.......
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and included a cradle; either the Royal Buffet black & chrome candle warmer cradles or a special plastic wood grain printed P-11-T trivet.
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As far as I know, even though there are 3 sizes of these trivets, as the bottom dimensions of all three pieces are different, they are all marked as P-11-T.
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So far, I have only succeeded in getting my hands on the one for the 1 1/2 quart, but the depression is much to big for the 1 3/4 quart and too small for he 2 1/2 quart. Remember, P-series Corningware is more tapered at the bottom than A-series... The taller the dish, the more the tapering. Thus, the 1 quart is wider at the base than the 1 1/2 quart, which is wider at the base than the 1 3/4 quart.
1st Edition Floral Bouquet started what would become a tradition for Corning's "Limited Edition Gift Lines", the "special" lids. While Renaissance and Nature's Bounty both had pebble textured lids, the 1st Ed. Floral Bouquet had a ceramic knob that literally screwed down onto a threaded stump on the top of the lid.
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The lid sizes are equivalent to the standard sizes. The P-1 1/2-B and P-1 3/4-B both have a P-7 C sized lid and the P-2 1/2-B has a P-9-C sized lid, just with the ceramic knob instead of a glass one.
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Now if I could only find the Percolator to match. (and a couple more trivets)
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
As with all of Corning's Limited Edition Gift Lines, only a "limited" selection of pieces were produced. In the case of the 1st Edition of Floral Bouquet, the only pieces manufactured were the 1 1/2 quart (P-1 1/2-B), 1 3/4 quart (P-1 3/4-B), the 2 1/2 quart (P-2 1/2-B) and a 9 cup Percolator (P-119). Just like the other Gift Lines, the Floral Bouquet was sold in a specially designed box.......
and included a cradle; either the Royal Buffet black & chrome candle warmer cradles or a special plastic wood grain printed P-11-T trivet.
1st Edition Floral Bouquet started what would become a tradition for Corning's "Limited Edition Gift Lines", the "special" lids. While Renaissance and Nature's Bounty both had pebble textured lids, the 1st Ed. Floral Bouquet had a ceramic knob that literally screwed down onto a threaded stump on the top of the lid.
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
↧
Harvest Time - Corning Ware P-series "Harvest" Pattern
In late 1969, after the Moon Landing and Woodstock, Corning released the 1st Edition of the Floral Bouquet pattern as a Limited Edition Gift Line, however, that was not the end of the story. This white ceramic knob lidded version, of what would become one of Corning's most beloved patterns, was accompanied by another special line of cookware.
That line was called "Harvest". (not to be confused with "Garden Harvest", a 90s A-series pattern)
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Like Butterscotch round, this "pattern" is a color enamel applied to the outside of the dish. What makes it special is the matching "harvest" colored ceramic knobs on the lids. This is one of the things that tied it in with the 1st Edition Floral Bouquet.
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The second thing was the color used. It's the exact same color used for Floral Bouquet's linen textured background, allowing for interchanging of the pieces.
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"Harvest" was only available in 3 sizes; the 1 quart (P-1-B), 1 1/2 quart (P-1 1/2-B) and the 1 3/4 quart (P-1 3/4-B) all came with a matching colored ceramic knobbed version of the P-7-C sized lid.
It is unclear if this was considered an actual "Limited Edition Gift Line" or not.
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Production continued after 1969, though the ceramic knobs were replaced with standard P-7-C clear glass knob lids in 1970. The pattern was discontinued completely in 1972 with the release of the A-series model Corning Ware.
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Be careful when shopping for "Harvest", for there are different colors of dishes. During this time there was a transition from the round Buffet Style Centura cookware to the traditional square Corning Ware. This is evident in patterns like "Evening Song", "Shangri-La" and "Summer Hill", which are all available on square Corning Ware pieces.
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Thus, there are solid yellow pieces out there with the mustard yellow color of the "Laurel" dinnerware pattern on them instead of the "Harvest" color. Needless to say, the ceramic knobs of the "Harvest" lids do not match the mustard yellow of Laurel dishes.
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Match your yellows carefully.
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
That line was called "Harvest". (not to be confused with "Garden Harvest", a 90s A-series pattern)
It is unclear if this was considered an actual "Limited Edition Gift Line" or not.
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
↧
The Passing of a Pioneer - Dr. S. Donald Stookey (1915-2014)
On November 4th, 2014, in Rochester New York, Dr. S. Donald Stookey passed away, at the age of 99. This is a sad day for those who collect one of his greatest inventions... Corning Ware.
Most collectors know the story of the "creation of Corning Ware", but I shall tell it again, for it is the story of a pioneer, the story of invention and innovation, the story of a legacy that would span 60 patents and result in his being inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2010.
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Dr. Stookey was born the oldest of 4 children, on May 23, 1915 in Hay Springs, Nebraska. Stanley Stookey, his father, was a teacher and bank clerk, while is mother, Hermie Stookey, was a teacher and housewife. When he was about 6 years old the family moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa. It was here that he would eventually graduate Magna Cum Laude from Coe College. Stookey continued his education and earned his Master’s degree from Lafayette College in 1938 and then his Doctorate in Physical Chemistry from MIT in 1940.
That same year, Stookey joined the R&D staff at Corning Glass Works in Corning, New York. Glass Chemistry was a fairly "new" science at the time, but it wasn't long before his first innovation in glass - FotoForm (which is still used in computer manufacturing and communications technologies) It was in 1953, while working with this particular glass that can be photochemically etched into precise and detailed structures that his next invention took place....
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Stookey placed a piece of FotoForm glass in the furnace with the intent of heating it to 600C, then walked away. When he returned, he realized the gauge was stuck at 900C. Worried that he may have damaged the furnace, he immediately attempted to remove the, now milky white, piece of glass. It slipped from the tongs. Instead of shattering into millions of shards, it bounced and sounded like the ringing of steel when it hit the floor.
This new form of crystalline (ceramic) glass was originally dubbed as FotoCeram... It was amazingly strong and durable, had a low thermal expansion and was invisible to radar. All this led to its use in guided missiles. However, FotoCeram was destined for even bigger and better things... Renamed "Pyroceram" by 1957, this wonder glass made it's way into kitchens across the United States as out beloved Corning Ware.
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While collectors of this cookware phenomenon, like myself, applaud his invention every single time we head to the stove to cook a meal, Stookey's innovations didn't stop there.
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He is also responsible for the eye-glass lenses that I currently wear. For Stookey, working with William Armistead, pioneered FotoChromic glass. Every time I walk outside in the sun and the lenses in my glasses darken, I thank Dr. Stookey (and Armistead). It's a twist on this sun darkening glass that is responsible for the glass panes of the United Nations Secretariat Building. They were made of a special Opal Photo-Sensitive formulation so that during the day, the windows match the marble facade of the building...
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He was also responsible for transparent ceramic glass, patented in 1966, which would surface as Visions Cookware in the 1980s. Did you know that Ceramic Glass nuts and bolts were even used by NASA on the Space Shuttle? All of Stooky's research has led Corning Glass Works to other products such as the Gorilla Glass that is currently used in iPhones and LCD screens.
Stookey eventually retired from Corning Glass Works in 1987, but would often visit the R & D department.
In 2010, Stookey was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
Stookey was a true pioneer in the science of glass chemistry and has been one of the biggest contributors to the technological world we live in today... His innovations have been far reaching and we will continue to benefit from his advances in glass for decades to come.
Thanks you Dr. Stookey. May you rest in peace, knowing you made the world a better place.
Where is your CorningWare, iPhone/Smart Phone, LCD TV, Visions Cookware, Computer, Prescription eye Glasses, Radiant Cooktop, Headphones, Ink Jet Printer, Dental Implants, Bone Replacements, Fire Place Screen. etc.??
~~
Most collectors know the story of the "creation of Corning Ware", but I shall tell it again, for it is the story of a pioneer, the story of invention and innovation, the story of a legacy that would span 60 patents and result in his being inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2010.
That same year, Stookey joined the R&D staff at Corning Glass Works in Corning, New York. Glass Chemistry was a fairly "new" science at the time, but it wasn't long before his first innovation in glass - FotoForm (which is still used in computer manufacturing and communications technologies) It was in 1953, while working with this particular glass that can be photochemically etched into precise and detailed structures that his next invention took place....
This new form of crystalline (ceramic) glass was originally dubbed as FotoCeram... It was amazingly strong and durable, had a low thermal expansion and was invisible to radar. All this led to its use in guided missiles. However, FotoCeram was destined for even bigger and better things... Renamed "Pyroceram" by 1957, this wonder glass made it's way into kitchens across the United States as out beloved Corning Ware.
Day
Night
Stookey eventually retired from Corning Glass Works in 1987, but would often visit the R & D department.
In 2010, Stookey was inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame.
Stookey was a true pioneer in the science of glass chemistry and has been one of the biggest contributors to the technological world we live in today... His innovations have been far reaching and we will continue to benefit from his advances in glass for decades to come.
Thanks you Dr. Stookey. May you rest in peace, knowing you made the world a better place.
Where is your CorningWare, iPhone/Smart Phone, LCD TV, Visions Cookware, Computer, Prescription eye Glasses, Radiant Cooktop, Headphones, Ink Jet Printer, Dental Implants, Bone Replacements, Fire Place Screen. etc.??
~~
↧
More Bell Pepper Bliss in French White - Quiche de Poivron (With the Help of a P-16-B)
Corning Ware's original Pyroceram French White dishes (1978) are a boon to the baker, but as wonderful as they are to bake in, sometimes it needs a little help from some Classic Cornflower pieces.
Thus it is with this quiche.. True, you could just as easily roast the Bell Peppers in a French White F-6-B or an F-4-B, but I was trying to use as few dishes as possible. Since the leek needs to be sauteed on the stove, I simply used my Cornflower P-16-B for both roasting the Bell Peppers under the broiler and sauteing the Leek on the stove top. Multipurpose cookery is what Classic Corning Ware does best.
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3 Bell Peppers, in multiple colors
1 Leek, sliced
2 TB Olive Oil
6 large Eggs
12 oz Creme Fraiche
Salt & Pepper
4 oz Havarti Cheese, grated
Corning Ware 11 inch Skillet (P-16-B) with lid (P-12-C)
You will also need:
1 par-baked Pate Brisee pastry crust in a 10 inch F-3-B French White Quiche dish
I am not going to cover "Pate Brisee" crust for this quiche as I have already covered my favorite tart/quiche dough a couple of times already in Quiche Lorraine and Bacon and Clam Quiche. Feel free to use any family recipe you have that will fit the bottom of a 10 inch pie plate or quiche/tart dish. Leave out the sugar, if your recipe contains it, and use at least 3/4 tsp salt for a savory crust.
Place the Bell Peppers (stems intact) into a P-16-B Skillet.
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Place 6 inches beneath the broiler of your oven, turning every 10 minutes until the skins are blackened and blistered.
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Remove the P-16-B from the oven and cover the peppers with a P-12-C lid to allow the residual heat to "steam" the skins for easier removal.
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Turn off the broiler and set the oven to 325F degrees.
Peel the softened skins from the peppers, then remove the stems and the seeds.
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Julienne the Peppers.
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Wash the P-16-B, then place over medium flame, adding 2 TB Olive oil.
When the oil is hot, add the sliced Leek and saute for a couple minutes, just until they soften.
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Remove the P-16-B from the flame and allow to cool.
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Crack open the eggs and place them in a medium sized bowl
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Whisk to break them up before adding the Creme Fraiche, then whisk again until well combined.
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Season with Salt, Pepper and a dash of Nutmeg, then stir in 2 oz of shredded Havarti cheese.
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Place sauteed Leek and julienne Bell Peppers in the bottom of the par-baked quiche crust.
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Pour the Egg/Creme Fraiche/Cheese mixture over the Belle Peppers and Leeks.
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Sprinkle with the remaining Havarti cheese.
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Place the quiche in the oven and bake until it begins to puff slightly... approximately 35-40 minutes. (the center should still be slightly jiggly)
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Remove from the oven and allow to rest and set for 10-15 minutes before attempting to cut.
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Serve while still warm, or completely cooled to room temperature.
Where is your CorningWare??
~~
Thus it is with this quiche.. True, you could just as easily roast the Bell Peppers in a French White F-6-B or an F-4-B, but I was trying to use as few dishes as possible. Since the leek needs to be sauteed on the stove, I simply used my Cornflower P-16-B for both roasting the Bell Peppers under the broiler and sauteing the Leek on the stove top. Multipurpose cookery is what Classic Corning Ware does best.
Roasted Bell Pepper Quiche
(Quiche de Poivron)
3 Bell Peppers, in multiple colors
1 Leek, sliced
2 TB Olive Oil
6 large Eggs
12 oz Creme Fraiche
Salt & Pepper
4 oz Havarti Cheese, grated
Corning Ware 11 inch Skillet (P-16-B) with lid (P-12-C)
You will also need:
1 par-baked Pate Brisee pastry crust in a 10 inch F-3-B French White Quiche dish
I am not going to cover "Pate Brisee" crust for this quiche as I have already covered my favorite tart/quiche dough a couple of times already in Quiche Lorraine and Bacon and Clam Quiche. Feel free to use any family recipe you have that will fit the bottom of a 10 inch pie plate or quiche/tart dish. Leave out the sugar, if your recipe contains it, and use at least 3/4 tsp salt for a savory crust.
Place the Bell Peppers (stems intact) into a P-16-B Skillet.
Peel the softened skins from the peppers, then remove the stems and the seeds.
When the oil is hot, add the sliced Leek and saute for a couple minutes, just until they soften.
Where is your CorningWare??
~~
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Mystery Solved! - CorningWare Avocado Ceramic Knob Lids
I will admit that I have tendencies leaning towards OCD. If you have ever read Culinary Alchemy, you will notice that make reference to how easily it is for me to obsess on something; as my friend Stephanie can attest to during the "Night of the Cocktail Umbrellas". Thus it was, when reading a page on corellecorner.com, that one of these obsessions took hold.
It was the page regarding the 3 editions of the Floral Bouquet pattern. After specifying the 1969 Limited Edition Gift Line version (1st edition) with the white ceramic knob lids (which I covered here) there is a mention of Avocado and Butterscotch with matching colored ceramic knob lids that were available the same year. I am fully aware of the butterscotch color, for it is the "Harvest" pattern (which I also covered). It was that reference to this mysterious "Avocado" with matching ceramic knobs that started my obsession... one that has consumed me for 2 years now.
I have hunted and searched for it, rummaged, quested, and scoured the internet in pursuit of it along with every other word in the thesaurus; all in, what I began to think, was nothing more than a wild goose-chase. Well, sometimes perseverance is rewarded.
It all boils down to the fact that I made a mistake. An honest one, but still a mistake. I made an assumption and, consequently, spent my time searching for the wrong thing.
On the web site, these Avocado pieces were mentioned right along with the Harvest pattern (Butterscotch), So I began searching for traditional Corning Ware pieces. That was some very narrow minded conjecture on my part. Come to find out, what I now believe Corelle Corner's information is actually making reference to isn't the traditional square shape used for Harvest and Floral Bouquet. Nope. The Avocado pieces were Round!
Behold! The Avocado Buffet Server with Avocado Ceramic Knob!
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So far I have only found two of them... the B-1 3/4-B
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and B-8 1/2-B
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The lids have special numbers on them B-1-CC and B-2 1/2-CC.
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My assumption is the CC refers to the Ceramic Cover, even though only be the knob is ceramic. Then again, it was an assumption that caused this 2 year long quest that threatened my sanity. Had it not been pure happenstance that brought the truth to my attention, I may be sitting in a corner playing with brightly colored bits of paper.
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I do not know how many pieces of this were released. Harvest came in 3 pieces that all had the same sized cover (P-7-C) with a ceramic knob. 1st Edition Floral Bouquet came in only 3 pieces, but with 2 sizes of lid (P-7-C and P-9-C). So whether or not there was/is a 10 inch skillet/4 quart Dutch Oven size (B-10-CC lid) out there or just another one of the smaller pans (B-2 1/2-B or B-1-B) with these lids, I do not know.
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All I know is, this is what I have found so far, and a major mystery has been solved.
Where is your CorningWare??
~~
It was the page regarding the 3 editions of the Floral Bouquet pattern. After specifying the 1969 Limited Edition Gift Line version (1st edition) with the white ceramic knob lids (which I covered here) there is a mention of Avocado and Butterscotch with matching colored ceramic knob lids that were available the same year. I am fully aware of the butterscotch color, for it is the "Harvest" pattern (which I also covered). It was that reference to this mysterious "Avocado" with matching ceramic knobs that started my obsession... one that has consumed me for 2 years now.
I have hunted and searched for it, rummaged, quested, and scoured the internet in pursuit of it along with every other word in the thesaurus; all in, what I began to think, was nothing more than a wild goose-chase. Well, sometimes perseverance is rewarded.
It all boils down to the fact that I made a mistake. An honest one, but still a mistake. I made an assumption and, consequently, spent my time searching for the wrong thing.
On the web site, these Avocado pieces were mentioned right along with the Harvest pattern (Butterscotch), So I began searching for traditional Corning Ware pieces. That was some very narrow minded conjecture on my part. Come to find out, what I now believe Corelle Corner's information is actually making reference to isn't the traditional square shape used for Harvest and Floral Bouquet. Nope. The Avocado pieces were Round!
Behold! The Avocado Buffet Server with Avocado Ceramic Knob!
Where is your CorningWare??
~~
↧
Thanksgiving Day, Far and Away
For Thanksgiving, this year, I have left Portland and traveled south to the LA area. It's not so much about the need for a little warmth, after the Arctic blast that tried to put Portland in a deep freeze, but the need to spend some time with extended family.
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Alas, armed only with my cell phone, Corningware411 will more than likely sit fallow for the next few days, aside from potential CIA photos (Corning Ware In Action).
I did not want to leave you all empty handed for that long, so, on the right of the page, under the "About Me" section, I have added some static "Information pages" on Corning Ware patterns.
Yes, there are multiple pattern posts all over this blog, but this should be easier for research purposes. All the patterns, in one place, on one page, and with dates of manufacture (ifknown).
Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Where is your CorningWare??
~~
Happy Thanksgiving!!!
Where is your CorningWare??
~~
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Rudimentary Roaster Report - Corning Ware Roasters
So many roasters, so little time.
In a world dominated by recipes that require the standard 13x9 (Pyrex) Baking Dish, I feel it's time to explore the menagerie of roasters/baking dishes in the Corning Ware world. Their measurements are a little different, but the overall area of the dish works out pretty much the same...
A 13 x 9 baking dish gives you an area of 117 square inches of dish. While a 12 1/4 x 10 (A-21-B) gives you an area of 122 square inches... a little more, but not enough to create a casserole catastrophe, by any means... So let's take a REALLY close look at ALL the Corning Ware Roasters, both P and A-series, for they all have different measurements leading to different square inch capacities.
These are the three P-series Baking/Roasting pans. The P-332, P-21-B and P-76-B.
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These are the three A-series Baking/Roasting pans. The A-18, A-21-B and A-76-B (There is an A-21-B-N, but I will touch on that at the end)
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While standard Corning Ware cooking dishes switched to the A-series in 1972, the new A-series roasters did not make their debut until 1976. It should also be noted that the P-332 hung around until sometimes around 1982-84 before it was discontinued, which just happened to be about the time that the A-18 and A-76 were removed from the market as well. The A-21 hung on until about 1986 when it got a makeover and became the A-21-B-N.
Here are the comparisons....
The P-332 (bottom) and the A-18-B (top)...
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The P-332 is 11 1/2 x 7 1/2 (87sq). This is my "Go To" pan for a single batch of Lasagne
The A-18 is 10 x 8 1/2 (85sq).
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The P-21-B (bottom) and the A-21-B (top)...
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The P-21-B is 13 x 8 3/4 (114sq) Which is slightly bowed out. (there is a reason for this, but I will cover that at the end)
The A-21-B is 12 1/4 x 10 (122sq)
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The P-76-B (bottom) and the A-76-B (top).....
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The P-76-B is 15 x 10 (150sq)
The A-76-B is 14 x 12 (168sq). It's almost a square.
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After 1985, the A-21-B was modified and became the A-21-B-N... One of the major differences was the addition of handles at each end, instead of having the bent rim all the way around. The A-21-B-N is also significantly heavier than the A-21-B, as the glass is much thicker like the cookware. The dimensions, however, are extremely similar, being 12 1/2 x 10 1/2 (131sq). It's basically 1/4 inch longer and 1/2 inch wider than the A-21-B.
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Now, lets get into the reason for the bowing in the P-21-B.
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It was all because of this.... The P-19 Broiling Platter.
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When using an electric oven (which produces a drier heat than a gas oven) you can place water in the P-21-B and sit the P-19 Broiling platter on top...
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Thus increasing the humidity inside your electric oven and producing a much moister roast, or so the theory goes.
So there you have it... A massive crash course in Corning Ware Roasting/Baking Pans.
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
In a world dominated by recipes that require the standard 13x9 (Pyrex) Baking Dish, I feel it's time to explore the menagerie of roasters/baking dishes in the Corning Ware world. Their measurements are a little different, but the overall area of the dish works out pretty much the same...
A 13 x 9 baking dish gives you an area of 117 square inches of dish. While a 12 1/4 x 10 (A-21-B) gives you an area of 122 square inches... a little more, but not enough to create a casserole catastrophe, by any means... So let's take a REALLY close look at ALL the Corning Ware Roasters, both P and A-series, for they all have different measurements leading to different square inch capacities.
These are the three P-series Baking/Roasting pans. The P-332, P-21-B and P-76-B.
Here are the comparisons....
The P-332 (bottom) and the A-18-B (top)...
The A-18 is 10 x 8 1/2 (85sq).
The P-21-B (bottom) and the A-21-B (top)...
The P-21-B is 13 x 8 3/4 (114sq) Which is slightly bowed out. (there is a reason for this, but I will cover that at the end)
The A-21-B is 12 1/4 x 10 (122sq)
The P-76-B (bottom) and the A-76-B (top).....
The A-76-B is 14 x 12 (168sq). It's almost a square.
Now, lets get into the reason for the bowing in the P-21-B.
So there you have it... A massive crash course in Corning Ware Roasting/Baking Pans.
Where is your Corning Ware??
~~
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