Micro-what-en?

Yes...well may you ask! Microstoven. What seems an odd name, possibly that of some hippy-dippy comfort footwear originating in Germany, is actually the latest Maxwell & Williams product. In true M&W fashion, this product comes in every shape imaginable, and does everything except wash itself up.

Microstoven is actually Spodumene cast stoneware. Rather than just throw more strange terms at you, the Spodumene component is a mineral (mined here in Australia) which makes the product thermal shock resistant and flame-proof. For you, this means the pieces can be used in all cooking methods, and on any heat source. Take it from the freezer to the oven, into the microwave, or onto the stovetop. See the origins of the name now?

To this fabulous flexibility of applications, you can add the non-stick coating. Yes, these pieces all feature a double-coat of Whitford's Xylan non-stick, ensuring ease of use and perfect results every time, and making cleaning up a breeze (perhaps they do almost clean themselves, after all!).

While you won't find amphibious landing craft shapes (sorry: Fawlty Towers moment), you will find just about every other shape and size your kitchen could desire, from the small ramekins and dear little flan dishes, to 3.7L casseroles, lasagne trays and gratin dishes. There are even tajines, and all in a choice of black-on-black, or red-on-black. Of course, the use of classic, complementary colours means that this cookware will cut it in any kitchen.

It would even look great next to the Le Chasseur you all went and bought under my instructions...