Buy stainless spoons (both slotted and non-slotted) which are solid and won't bend no matter how tough the job. Also, buy several high quality wooden spoons for stirring delicate dishes like risotto (the sharp edge of a metal spoon would cut or bruise the rice).

The way you cook is also key to deciding which type of range cooker to choose. No-frills heat storage ranges such as Agas retain heat they have gradually built up and generally have two ovens without temperature controls - the hot oven is for roasting and baking, the cool one for slow cooking/keeping warm.

Materials NOT to be used on Granite:

• Formic acid
• Hydrofluoric acid
• Nitric acid
• Sulphuric acid
• Phosphoric acid
• Hydrochloric acid