Pots And Pans: The Ultimate Guide

Pots and pans are essential cookware for any kitchen. There is a wide variety of pots and pans available in the market, made from materials such as cast iron, stainless steel, carbon steel, aluminium, and ceramic. When choosing pots and pans, it is important to consider factors such as durability, heat distribution, and ease of cleaning. Some popular options include the Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, the Lodge Cast Iron Skillet, and the Tramontina Stainless Steel Stock Pot. Additionally, there are budget-friendly alternatives available, such as the Cuisinart Dutch Oven and the Tramontina Nonstick Skillet.

Cast iron skillets

Lodge Cast Iron Skillet

Lodge has been making cast iron pans since the early 1900s and is a popular choice for home cooks and chefs alike. The Lodge cast iron skillet is pre-seasoned, meaning it's non-stick and easy to clean. It's oven safe and can be used on any heat source, including over a campfire. It's a heavier skillet, weighing in at 5.3 pounds, but it's a reliable and robust piece of cookware.

Victoria 10-Inch Cast Iron Skillet

The Victoria skillet is a great alternative to the Lodge skillet. It's slightly lighter, has a smooth surface, and wider pour spouts, making it easy to pour from. It's also oven safe and can be used on any heat source. The Victoria skillet is a good choice if you're looking for something a little more refined than the Lodge skillet.

Stargazer Cast Iron Skillet

The Stargazer skillet is a high-performing, versatile skillet. It has a large helper handle, making it easy to lift and manoeuvre, even when wearing oven mitts. The Stargazer is easy to clean and has excellent heat retention, making it perfect for searing meat. It's a little pricier than the Lodge and Victoria skillets but is still a reasonably priced skillet.

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Skillet

The Le Creuset skillet is a great choice if you want the benefits of cast iron without the maintenance. The enamel coating means it's non-stick, easy to clean, and dishwasher-safe. It's available in a range of colours and is oven safe. The Le Creuset skillet is considerably more expensive than the other skillets mentioned, but it's a quality, durable product that will last a lifetime.

Camp Chef 10-inch Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet

If you're looking for a budget skillet, the Camp Chef skillet is a great choice. It performed well in testing, producing an even sear on meat and evenly cooked cornbread. It has a comfortable, curved handle, making it easy to use and manoeuvre. The Camp Chef skillet is a sturdy, high-quality skillet at a very reasonable price.

Dutch ovens

When choosing a Dutch oven, consider the material, shape, size, weight, and handle design. Cast iron with enamel is a popular choice due to its heat retention and ease of cleaning, but it is heavy. Look for a Dutch oven with a capacity of 5 to 6 quarts, a round shape, and a wide cooking surface. Ensure the handles are large and easy to grip, especially when wearing oven mitts.

Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven:

This Dutch oven is a classic choice, known for its heirloom quality and variety of colours, shapes, and sizes. While it is an investment piece, it is durable and versatile, and many editors and chefs recommend it. It has a heat capacity of 500°F and weighs 13 pounds. The 5.5-quart version is priced at $306 on Amazon, $260 at Williams-Sonoma, and $230 at Sur La Table.

Staub Round Cocotte:

The Staub Dutch oven is another well-known brand that performs well and is slightly more affordable than Le Creuset. It has a heat capacity of 900°F and weighs 12.9 pounds. The 5.5-quart version is priced at $401 on Amazon, $350 at Williams-Sonoma, and $400 at Sur La Table.

Cuisinart Chef's Classic Enameled Cast Iron Covered Casserole:

This is a great budget option, performing admirably in cooking tests and offering a comfortable handle design. It has a heat capacity of 550°F and weighs 8 pounds. The 5-quart version is priced at $100 on Amazon, Walmart, and Home Depot.

Lodge Cast Iron Double Dutch Oven:

Lodge is a durable and sturdy option, though it requires consistent care to prevent rusting. It has a heat capacity of 500°F and weighs 13 pounds. The 7-quart version is priced at $50 on Amazon, Walmart, and Wayfair.

Milo by Kana Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven:

This is a minimalist and affordable option that performs well in cooking tests. It has a heat capacity of 500°F and weighs 10.58 pounds. The 5.5-quart version is priced at $124 on Amazon.

Non-stick pans

Types of Non-Stick Cookware

There are two main types of non-stick cookware: traditional non-stick and ceramic non-stick. The body of each can be made from common cookware materials like aluminum or stainless steel, but it's the coating that makes them non-stick. Traditional non-stick cookware is often made with PTFE (also known as Teflon), while ceramic non-stick cookware has a ceramic coating or glaze. Traditional non-stick tends to be more slippery and lasts longer, but some people prefer ceramic because it's usually made without the same chemicals as traditional non-stick cookware.

Caring for Your Non-Stick Pans

To prolong the life of your non-stick pans, it's best to use them on low to medium heat as the non-stick coating can break down at high temperatures. Butter, ghee, and oil are recommended for cooking, but non-stick sprays should be avoided as they can leave a sticky residue that affects the pan's performance. Avoid using sharp or metal utensils as they can scratch and gouge the non-stick surface. Hand-washing is also recommended over using a dishwasher, as the high water pressure and detergents can cause the coating to wear down faster.

Recommended Non-Stick Pans

Now that you know a bit more about non-stick pans, here are some specific product recommendations:

• Amazon Basics Non-Stick Cookware Set: This 8-piece set includes a range of pan sizes and is designed for easy cooking and cleaning. It features soft-touch handles that stay cool during use and a spiral bottom that heats evenly. While it's not compatible with induction cooktops, it works well on gas, electric, and glass stovetops.
• T-fal Nonstick 12-Piece Cookware Set: This set offers strong value, including a range of pan sizes, smart non-stick-coated rivets, and transparent lids for easy stovetop monitoring. It's lightweight and easy to clean, making it a great choice for less experienced cooks. However, the handles and low oven-safe temperature limit its use in the oven.
• Made In 7-Piece The Non Stick Set: This set is designed with input from professional chefs and features 5-ply stainless steel construction with a tough non-stick coating. It includes a perfect-sized fry pan, saucepan, sauté pan, and stock pot. The pans distribute heat evenly, preventing hot spots and ensuring your food cooks uniformly. The lids have a beveled lip for easy pouring, and the handles have a safety notch to prevent burns.
• Caraway Nonstick Ceramic Cookware Set: This set stands out for its use of a non-stick ceramic coating that's free of PTFE/Teflon, PFOA, lead, and cadmium. It includes a fry pan, saucepan, sauté pan, Dutch oven, and various accessories for storage. The pans distribute heat well and are easy to clean, but the handles do tend to get hot during use.

Stainless steel cookware

When buying stainless steel cookware, you should consider the number of pieces in the set, the weight of the cookware, and the ease of cleaning. Most sets come with a standard-size frying pan, two saucepans, a stock pot, and a saute pan. Stainless steel can be on the heavier side, so opt for cookware with easy-to-grip handles.

Best Overall: All-Clad D3 Cookware Set, 10-Piece Set

This classic cookware is prized by professionals and home cooks alike. It browns food evenly and keeps stews and sauces at a steady simmer. The skillets have a classic sloped shape that makes it easy to roll out omelets or pour sauces. The handles are riveted onto the base, so they'll never loosen or fall off. This set includes an 8-quart stockpot, 8.5" and 10.5" skillets, 2- and 3-quart saucepans with lids, and a 3-quart saute pan with a lid. It is dishwasher-safe and can be used at temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Budget: Tramontina Stainless Steel Tri-Ply Clad 12-Piece Set

This set offers the professional look of our top choice and more pieces at less than half the price. It includes generously-sized pieces like a 12-inch frypan, a 5-quart saute pan, a Dutch oven, and an 8-quart stockpot. The interior layer of aluminum ensures solid performance whether you're sauteing or simmering. The rounded handles make these pots and pans a pleasure to grip. This set can be used in the oven up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is dishwasher-safe, but it may be prone to some discoloration over time.

Best Value: Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless 17-Piece Set

This large set offers great value, including pots and pans for almost every cooking situation imaginable. The bottom of these stainless steel pieces has an aluminum disc that provides even browning on electric, induction, or gas cooktops. The Dutch oven also simmers evenly without scorching. All of the saucepans have measurement markings, and the helper handles on the large skillets are useful for carrying. This set can go in the oven up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is dishwasher-safe, but it may require some scrubbing to remove splatters.

Best Splurge: Hestan ProBond Clad Stainless Steel Ultimate Set, 10-piece

This pricey cookware feels special in your hand, with a brushed stainless steel finish and flared, rounded edges that give it an elegant, less commercial look than other luxury brands. It is made of forged stainless steel with a core of aluminum, providing beautiful browning and even simmering. The handles are riveted for durability, but the rivets are flush with the interior surface, making cleaning easy. This set can be used at temperatures up to 600 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Starter Set: Misen Essentials Cookware Set, 9-Piece

If you're looking for a smaller set of high-quality cookware, this pro-styled brand is an excellent choice. It is sold directly by the manufacturer, helping to keep the price reasonable. The cookware is constructed of three layers of aluminum that are completely encased in stainless steel, making it heavier than its competitors and less likely to burn or scorch foods. The pans have a brushed finish, while the riveted handles are polished. The saute pan has a helper handle that makes it easy to maneuver when full, but you may wish for helper handles on the 3-quart saucepan and 12-inch skillet as well. This set can be placed in the oven up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit and is dishwasher-safe.

Griddles and grill pans

Types of Griddles and Grill Pans

There are a few different types of griddles and grill pans to choose from, depending on your needs. Here are some options:

• Cast Iron Grill Pans: These are durable and versatile, perfect for everything from steaks to side dishes. They come in various sizes, including small rectangular models, double burners, and skinny options for tight spaces. Cast iron requires proper seasoning and maintenance but will last for years if cared for properly.
• Nonstick Grill Pans: Nonstick grill pans are low-maintenance and perfect for cooking delicate foods like fish. They are also easier to clean than cast iron.
• Outdoor Grill Pans: If you're cooking outdoors, you'll need a grill pan that can handle the heat. These pans are designed for use on gas grills or charcoal barbecues and allow you to cook a wider variety of foods, like fish, vegetables, and even fruit.
• Double Burner Grill Pans: These large pans use two burners on your stovetop, providing more cooking space and the ability to quickly cook foods at high heat.
• Carbon Steel Griddles: Carbon steel griddles are a great option for indoor or outdoor cooking. They come in various configurations, including half-griddle, half-perforated, and griddle-press combinations.

Where to Buy Griddles and Grill Pans

You can find griddles and grill pans at various retailers, including Williams Sonoma, Walmart, Amazon, and specialty kitchen stores. Prices vary depending on the material, size, and brand, but you can find options starting at around $15.

Frequently asked questions