Non-Teflon Non-Stick Pans: What Are Your Options?

Non-stick pans without Teflon do exist and are made from materials such as ceramic, carbon steel, stainless steel, and cast iron. Ceramic pans are coated with a non-toxic, non-stick material that is safe to use and easy to clean. Carbon steel pans are also a great alternative as they are effectively non-stick and can be used for various cooking methods such as stir-frying, deep frying, and blanching vegetables. Stainless steel pans are another option, though they are not naturally non-stick and require more oil for cooking. Cast iron pans are heavy-duty, versatile, and can be used on various heat sources, but they require a lot of care and maintenance to keep them in good condition.

Ceramic non-stick pans

However, it is important to note that ceramic non-stick pans are not meant to last a lifetime. They are best suited for medium to medium-low heat and should only be used with wood or silicone utensils to avoid scratches. When treated well, ceramic non-stick pans can last for several years.

There are many reputable brands that offer ceramic non-stick pans, such as Caraway, GreenPan, and Sensarte. These brands offer a variety of sizes and sets, including frying pans, saucepans, and cookware sets. Some sets also come with additional tools such as lids, pot protectors, and silicone utensils.

Stainless steel

If you are looking for a non-stick pan that is not made of Teflon, stainless steel is a great option. However, keep in mind that no non-stick pan will last a lifetime. With proper care, a stainless-steel pan can last for many years.

Cast iron

Contrary to popular belief, cast iron pans are not hard to maintain. They are tough and difficult to completely ruin. They can be washed with soap and scrubbed without damaging the seasoning. However, it is important to dry them thoroughly and re-season them after washing to prevent rusting.

Overall, cast iron pans are a great addition to any kitchen. With proper care, they can last a lifetime and will only get more non-stick with use.

Carbon steel

When it comes to choosing a carbon steel pan, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, look for a pan with a wide, open surface area that allows for cooking a good amount of food without crowding. Secondly, a lightweight pan is generally preferable as it heats up faster and is easier to manoeuvre. Thirdly, consider the length and shape of the handle – a good middle ground is between seven and nine inches long, with rounded edges for comfort.

• Mauviel M'Steel Black Carbon Natural Nonstick Frying Pan With Iron Handle: This pan performed well in tests, with the only drawback being some sticking during the tarte tatin test, possibly due to the acidity of the onion filling. It has a wide cooking surface and a handle with rounded edges for comfort. It weighs 3 pounds, 3 ounces, and has a maximum oven-safe temperature of 680ºF.
• Vollrath French Style Carbon Steel Fry Pan, 12.5": This pan is a favourite among restaurant chefs and, despite its low price, performs just as well as many of the other pans tested. It is the lightest pan tested, heating up quickly and making it easy to lift, flip, and sauté. It produced evenly cooked results, including thin crepes and tarte tatin. However, the 11-inch model has a cumbersome handle that is almost nine inches long.
• OXO Obsidian Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel, 10" Frying Pan: This pre-seasoned carbon steel skillet is a great choice for those new to carbon steel, as it is incredibly non-stick out of the box. It is lightweight and comfortable to lift and manoeuvre, with a rounded-edge handle. However, it does spin a little on a glass stovetop.
• Sardel Carbon Steel Skillet: This pan needs to be seasoned by the user, but it has a textured, concave handle that is both attractive and ergonomic. It is relatively lightweight yet sturdy, with a 10-inch cooking surface. The main drawback is that the handle gets quite hot.
• Smithey Carbon Steel Farmhouse Skillet 12-inch: This hand-forged skillet is made in limited quantities in Charleston, South Carolina, and arrives beautifully seasoned. It has a round, easy-to-grip handle and an additional helper handle, making it easy to move from the stovetop or oven to the dining table. The low, sloped sides and expansive cooking surface make it a worthwhile splurge.

Enamel-coated cast iron

While enamel-coated cast iron is not technically non-stick, it does offer some non-stick properties. The texture of the enamel coating can help prevent sticking by allowing a small amount of fat to move between the food and the surface of the pan. However, it is important to properly preheat the pan and use butter or oil to avoid food sticking.

One of the most well-known brands of enamel-coated cast iron is Le Creuset, which offers a range of skillets, Dutch ovens, and braisers. Their products are known for even heating, solid searing, and spacious cooking surfaces. Another popular brand is Staub, which offers a lightweight option that performs well in heat absorption and retention tests. Crock-Pot also offers an affordable enameled cast iron skillet that performs well in cooking tests.

When choosing an enamel-coated cast iron skillet, there are several things to consider. Firstly, look for a pan with flared or gently sloped sides, which help to whisk away steam and make it easier to manoeuvre a spatula under the food. Secondly, consider the weight of the pan; lighter skillets tend to heat up faster and are easier to handle. Thirdly, look for a pan with a spacious cooking surface and a comfortable handle that is easy to grip. Finally, check the care instructions to ensure the pan is dishwasher-safe and compatible with your oven and cooktop.

Frequently asked questions