Pan Sizes: Understanding The Measurements

Frying pans and baking pans come in a variety of sizes. Frying pan sizes are determined by measuring the pan's diameter from rim to rim, while baking pans are measured by their volume (how much batter they hold). The size of a frying pan is important to know when cooking different types of food, as a small pan can get crowded and cause steaming, which prevents browning. The size of a baking pan is important when substituting one size for another in a recipe, as this will change the depth of the batter and therefore the baking time.

Pan dimensions and how to measure them

The size of a pan is important for a number of reasons. For example, if you're making a dish for a dinner party and need to double the recipe, you'll need a pan that can accommodate more food. Knowing the size of your pan can also help you figure out where and how to store it.

The size of a frying pan is determined by its overall diameter, from the top of one side to the top of the other side. This is different from the diameter of its cooking surface, which is measured from the base edge to the base edge. Due to differences in design, two pans of the same size may have different cooking surface measurements. For example, one 12-inch pan might have a cooking surface of 9.5 inches, while another 12-inch pan might have a cooking surface of 9.25 inches.

To measure the size of a frying pan, place the pan right-side up on a flat surface. Then, stretch a tape measure across the centre from one top side to the other. This will give you the correct measurement.

When measuring the dimensions of a baking pan, always measure from inside edge to inside edge so that you do not include the thickness of the pan in your measurement. To measure the depth, place your ruler straight up from the bottom of the pan (do not slant the ruler). To determine the pan's volume (how much batter it will hold), pour pre-measured water by the cupful until the pan is filled to the brim.

Pan volume and how to calculate it

When baking, it is important to use the right amount of ingredients to ensure your food is cooked evenly and properly. This is where knowing how to calculate the volume of your pan comes in handy.

How to Measure Pan Volume

First, you need to measure the pan's dimensions. To do this, measure from the inside edge of one side of the pan to the inside edge of the opposite side. Do not include the thickness of the pan in your measurement. If your pan is round, measure at its widest point. If your pan is rectangular, measure the length of both sides.

Next, measure the depth of the pan. Place your ruler straight up from the bottom of the pan without slanting it. If the pan has a slanted edge, do not slant the ruler and measure straight up.

Now you can calculate the volume of the pan. The formula for this is:

Volume (V) = length (l) x width (w) x height (h).

Insert the measurements you took earlier into this formula and calculate the volume.

Adjusting Baking Time for Different Pan Sizes

If you are substituting a pan of a different size from the one stated in a recipe, this will change the depth of the batter and therefore the baking time. A larger pan will mean a shallower batter and a shorter baking time. A smaller pan will mean a deeper batter and a longer baking time.

Pan Conversion Formula

If you want to calculate the ratio by which to adjust your ingredients when substituting a different-sized pan, use the following formula:

Volume of the pan size you want to use) / (Volume of the pan size given in the recipe)

Pan sizes for different cooking needs

When it comes to cooking, having the right tools for the job is essential. While skill and creativity are important, using the correct pan size and type can make or break a dish. Whether you're frying, baking, or roasting, choosing the right pan is crucial for achieving the desired results.

Frying Pans

Frying pans are a kitchen staple, perfect for everything from frying eggs to searing steaks. When choosing a frying pan, it's important to consider both the size and the material. The size of a frying pan is determined by its overall diameter, and having a variety of sizes is ideal for different cooking needs.

For single servings or small tasks like toasting spices, a small frying pan (around 6-8 inches) is ideal. These pans provide even heat distribution and can reach high temperatures due to their compact size.

Medium frying pans (around 10-11 inches) are perfect for cooking 2-3 servings without overcrowding the pan. They offer a balance between size and heat retention, making them versatile for various tasks.

Large frying pans (12 inches or more) are perfect for cooking family-sized portions or feeding a large group. These pans have a larger cooking surface and better heat retention, making them ideal for tasks like frying multiple eggs or bacon strips without trimming.

Baking Pans

Baking pans come in a wide range of sizes and types, from round cake pans to loaf pans. The size and shape of the pan can significantly impact the baking time and temperature required. It's important to follow the pan size specified in a recipe to ensure the best results.

A 9x13-inch baking pan is a standard size, perfect for cakes, cupcakes, casseroles, and sheet cakes. Glass or ceramic pans are ideal for presentation, while metal pans are more versatile.

For brownies and bars, an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch square baking pan is perfect. These pans typically have features that promote even cooking and easy release, resulting in crisp edges and chewy corners for brownies.

A 9-inch or 10-inch round cake pan is a standard size for traditional layer cakes. These pans can also be used for dishes like biscuits, sweet rolls, and even meatballs.

A 9x5-inch loaf pan is a standard size for pound cakes, banana bread, meatloaf, and yeast breads. A heavy and plain pan is best for even cooking and browning.

Roasting Pans

When it comes to roasting, a larger pan is often better to accommodate the food and ensure even cooking. A 12-inch or larger frying pan can be used for roasting smaller items like chicken breasts or vegetables. For roasting a whole chicken or larger cuts of meat, a roasting pan or deep baking dish is ideal.

Differences in pan sizes across countries

While there is no explicit information on the differences in pan sizes across countries, it is known that the United States uses a non-metric system for its pans, while most European countries have adopted the gastronorm (GN) system. The gastronorm sizing system was invented in Switzerland to provide an industry standard for pans and other kitchen equipment. The intention was to promote flexibility in kitchens and allow for the transfer of containers between different appliances.

Gastronorm sizes are comparable to American sizes and can generally be interchanged. For example, a full-size food pan in the US measures approximately 20 3/4" by 12 3/4", while the GN 1/1 size is 530mm by 325mm, which is roughly equivalent. Here is a more comprehensive list of standard gastronorm sizes in millimeters:

• GN 2/1: 650 x 530 mm
• GN 1/1: 530 x 325 mm
• GN 2/4: 530 x 162 mm
• GN 2/3: 354 x 325 mm
• GN 1/2: 325 x 265 mm
• GN 1/3: 325 x 176 mm
• GN 1/4: 265 x 163 mm
• GN 1/6: 176 x 162 mm
• GN 1/9: 176 x 108 mm

It is worth noting that while the US uses a non-metric system for its pans, the measurements are still given in inches, which are based on the metric system.

In addition to the size of the pan, the depth is also an important consideration. The number of servings a pan can hold depends on its depth. Common hotel pan depths include 2", 4", 6", and 8", with variations available in 1/2" or 1/4" increments.

Pan materials and their benefits

There are several materials used for making pans, each with its own pros and cons. Here is an overview of some of the most common pan materials and their advantages:

Cast Iron:

Cast iron is a traditional, durable, and affordable material for pans. It has excellent heat retention and distribution, making it ideal for searing and even cooking. Cast iron pans are versatile and can be used on stovetops, ovens, or even outdoor campfires. They are slow to heat up and cool down, which can be advantageous for certain cooking techniques. However, cast iron requires seasoning to prevent rusting and proper care to maintain its non-stick properties.

Enameled Cast Iron:

Enameled cast iron pans have a porcelain coating that makes them easier to clean and maintain than traditional cast iron. The enamel coating also prevents reactions with acidic foods, eliminating the need for seasoning. These pans are non-reactive, durable, and versatile. However, they are more expensive than regular cast iron.

Stainless Steel:

Stainless steel is a popular choice for cookware due to its durability and non-reactivity. It is combined with conductive metals like copper or aluminum to improve heat distribution. Stainless steel pans are dishwasher and oven safe, making them convenient for various dishes. However, they can be challenging to clean if food burns onto the surface.

Carbon Steel:

Carbon steel pans are made of iron and carbon, making them durable yet lightweight. They have good heat distribution and retention, making them ideal for searing and high-heat cooking techniques. Carbon steel pans can develop a natural non-stick interior if seasoned properly. However, they require proper care and are not dishwasher-safe.

Copper:

Copper is an excellent heat conductor, providing quick and even heating. It is highly responsive to temperature changes, making it a favourite among professional chefs. Copper pans are often lined with tin or stainless steel to prevent reactions with acidic foods. However, copper is a precious metal, making it an expensive choice for cookware.

Aluminum:

Aluminum is a lightweight and affordable option for cookware. It has good heat retention and is responsive to temperature changes. Regular aluminum is prone to reacting with acidic foods, so anodized aluminum, which is more durable and scratch-resistant, is often recommended. However, aluminum is not compatible with induction cooktops.

Non-stick:

Non-stick pans are popular due to their ease of use and cleaning. The non-stick coating prevents food from sticking, reducing the amount of oil needed for cooking. However, non-stick coatings can chip over time, potentially exposing food to toxic chemicals. It's important to use soft utensils and avoid high heat to prolong the life of non-stick pans.

Frequently asked questions