Rick Bayless has written some of my favorite books on Mexican food, including Mexican Everyday. As much as I like his books, and when I get to Chicago, his restaurants will be on my short list, I have to question his judgment. At one point he decided to do a Burger King ad. The money went to charity but it was still cheesy. Now, he has his own line of "Mexican" cookware that believe me, you can live without.

This pretty bean pot would be great for serving beans but you can't use it on your stove or over direct heat. And it's made in China! I guess the bright color makes it "Mexican". With all the artisan pottery and practical rustic earthenware available in Mexico, for a song, we have to wonder who thought this was a good idea.