The Ultimate Pans Every Kitchen Needs

A well-equipped kitchen is a thing of beauty, but knowing which pots and pans to buy can be a daunting task. There are a few essentials that every cook should have in their arsenal, and knowing how to use them will make you a master of your domain.

First, a good skillet is a must-have. Also known as a frying pan, it is the most-used item in the average kitchen. Skillets come in a few different materials, each with its own advantages. Stainless steel is the most versatile, non-stick is perfect for delicate foods like fish or eggs, and cast iron is durable and works with different heat sources, making it ideal for the oven or grill.

Next, a Dutch oven is a heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid, perfect for slow-cooking, braising, and batch cooking. They are also great for searing and heat retention.

A wok is another versatile option, perfect for stir-fries, soups, and boiling noodles. Carbon steel woks can handle higher temperatures and wooden handles are more comfortable to hold.

A stockpot is another essential, great for making stock (as the name suggests), but also for boiling pasta or seafood.

Finally, a saucepan and a sauté pan are both important for different reasons. Saucepans are better for simmering or boiling liquids, while sauté pans are designed for high-heat cooking and are perfect for basting and building flavour.

With these pans in your kitchen, you'll be ready to take on any culinary challenge.

Cast iron skillet

A cast iron skillet is a must-have for any kitchen. It's perfect for searing steaks, frying chicken, and crisp bacon. It's also excellent for pan-roasting or deep-frying chicken, and frying latkes or potato pancakes. Cast iron skillets are also great for slow cooking and baking, delivering a crisp, golden-brown crust on everything from cornbread to pan pizza.

When choosing a cast iron skillet, consider the size. A 10-inch or 12-inch skillet is a good option for most home cooks. You can also find smaller skillets, around 6 to 8 inches, which are great for side dishes or individual servings. If you're cooking for a family or a large group, you may want to opt for a larger skillet, such as a 12-inch or even a 14-inch skillet.

Another thing to consider is the weight. Cast iron skillets can be heavy, so if you have trouble lifting heavy objects, you may want to look for a skillet with a lighter weight. However, keep in mind that a heavier skillet will retain heat better and provide more even cooking.

When it comes to brands, there are several reputable options to choose from. Lodge is a popular and affordable option, with their pre-seasoned cast iron skillets widely available at retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. Smithey also offers a highly-rated cast iron skillet, with a polished interior finish that makes it naturally non-stick and free of chemical coatings. For a vintage option, you can look for skillets from brands like Wagner or Griswold, which have a smoother, more non-stick finish than modern skillets.

Caring for a cast iron skillet is important to ensure it lasts for years to come. Unlike other pans, cast iron skillets should not be washed with soap and water, as this can damage the seasoning. Instead, use a mild detergent or a mixture of vinegar and water to clean your skillet after each use. Be sure to dry it thoroughly and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rusting.

With proper care, a cast iron skillet can last a lifetime and become a cherished heirloom passed down through generations.

Stainless steel skillet

A stainless steel skillet is a must-have for any kitchen. Stainless steel is a non-reactive material, meaning it can cook acidic foods without imparting flavour and doesn't require seasoning. Stainless steel is also highly durable and can withstand high temperatures, making it suitable for both the stovetop and the oven.

When shopping for a stainless steel skillet, you'll come across 3-ply and 5-ply options, which indicate the number of bonded metal layers. 3-ply cookware tends to be more lightweight and affordable but may not heat as evenly and is more prone to scratches. On the other hand, 5-ply cookware is usually pricier and heavier but offers more even heating and better resistance to wear and tear.

Made In 12-Inch Stainless Steel Skillet

This skillet is a top pick for many reviewers. It heats evenly and is responsive to temperature changes, making it perfect for searing chicken breasts and sautéing vegetables. The handle is comfortable to hold, and the simple and utilitarian design is solid and functional. Although it doesn't come with a lid, this skillet is induction-compatible and oven-safe up to 800°F. It's also dishwasher-safe, although hand-washing is recommended for longevity.

All-Clad D3 Stainless-Steel 12-Inch Fry Pan

The All-Clad D3 is a close contender to the Made In skillet and is a longtime favourite for many. It heats up quickly and evenly, resulting in a beautiful sear. It's also durable and responsive, making it a great choice for various cooking tasks. The handle has an indent that some users don't prefer, but overall, it's a high-quality pan built to last. It's oven-safe up to 600°F and dishwasher-safe.

Tramontina 12-Inch Stainless Steel Skillet

If you're looking for a more affordable option, the Tramontina skillet is an excellent choice. It performs well across various tests, heating evenly and responding to temperature changes. The slope of the sides is a bit gradual, reducing the usable floor area for searing, but it's still a great value for the price. It's induction-compatible and oven-safe up to 500°F. It's also dishwasher-safe and easy to clean.

Non-stick skillet

A non-stick skillet is a must-have pan for any kitchen. It is ideal for cooking sticky, delicate foods such as eggs, crepes, and fish fillets. It is also great for cooking sticky sauces, making it easier to clean up afterward.

When buying a non-stick skillet, it is important to consider the type of non-stick coating, the material of the pan, and the size. Most non-stick coatings are made from polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which is generally considered safe to cook with, although there are some potential health and environmental concerns associated with its production. Ceramic coatings are also available, but they tend to be more brittle and may not last as long as PTFE coatings.

In terms of pan material, fully aluminum non-stick skillets are lightweight and affordable, but they may warp over time and are not compatible with induction cooktops. On the other hand, skillets with an aluminum core and stainless steel plate or fully encased in stainless steel are more durable and compatible with induction cooktops but tend to be heavier and more expensive.

When it comes to size, a 10- to 11-inch non-stick skillet is generally recommended for most home cooks. However, if you only need to cook one or two eggs at a time, an 8-inch skillet may be sufficient.

Some popular non-stick skillet brands include Tramontina, T-fal, OXO, All-Clad, and HexClad. It is recommended to buy cheaper non-stick skillets as they have a limited lifespan, and the coating will eventually degrade over time. Proper care and maintenance can help extend the life of your non-stick skillet, including hand-washing, avoiding high heat, and using non-stick-safe utensils.

Dutch oven

A Dutch oven is a versatile piece of cookware that can be used for braising meat, stews, sautéing, deep-frying, and even baking bread. It is a worthwhile investment for any kitchen, as it can handle a wide range of cooking tasks.

When choosing a Dutch oven, there are a few key factors to consider. Firstly, size and shape are important. Dutch ovens typically range from one quart to 16 quarts in size, with the most commonly used sizes being between five and six quarts. A five-quart Dutch oven is perfect for baking a sourdough boule, while a 5.5-quart or larger can fit a whole chicken. Smaller sizes may not provide enough room for browning meat or simmering soups, while larger sizes can be heavier and more challenging to store. In terms of shape, round Dutch ovens are generally more versatile and perform better on stovetops, while oval-shaped ovens are better suited for roasting oblong cuts of meat in the oven.

The material of the Dutch oven is another crucial consideration. Enameled cast iron is a popular choice as it maintains steady heat, works on various stovetops, and can withstand high temperatures. Cast iron Dutch ovens are also durable and provide excellent heat retention but require more careful maintenance to prevent rusting and must be seasoned before use. Ceramic Dutch ovens are a more budget-friendly option, ideal for oven use, but may not have the same heat-tempering capabilities as metal options.

Some recommended Dutch ovens include the Le Creuset Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven, which is known for its durability, good looks, and cooking performance. The Staub Cast Iron Dutch Oven is another top choice, favoured for its durability, high walls that prevent splatter, and discreet matte black interior. For a more affordable option, the Cuisinart Chef's Classic Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven offers similar functionality and quality at a lower price point.

A Dutch oven is a valuable addition to any kitchen, providing the ability to braise, stew, deep-fry, and more. With a range of sizes, shapes, and materials available, there is a Dutch oven to suit every cook's needs.

Stockpot

When choosing a stockpot, consider the size. Stockpots typically range from 6 quarts to 32 quarts, with 8 quarts being the most common size, perfect for making stock or cooking for a family of four. If you're cooking for a larger group, opt for a bigger size like 12 quarts. For smaller households, a 6-quart stockpot might be sufficient.

Look for a stockpot made from durable and lightweight materials such as stainless steel or aluminum, which can handle high heat and distribute it evenly. The pot should have a snug lid to prevent evaporation and well-constructed ergonomic handles for easy manoeuvring, especially when the pot is full and heavy.

A good stockpot will be sturdy yet not too heavy, and its high sides will help limit evaporation. It's worth investing in a high-quality stockpot, even if you don't plan on making stock regularly, as it will make a significant difference in your cooking experience.

Frequently asked questions