Best Pots And Pans: Uk Guide

Pots and pans are some of the most heavily used items in the kitchen, so it's important to invest wisely. When choosing the best cookware for your kitchen, there are a few things to consider.

First, decide what type of pan can be used on your hob. Gas hobs are compatible with any type of pan, while ceramic hobs require pans with a smooth, flat base. For induction hobs, you'll need pans with a magnetic base, such as cast iron or stainless steel.

Next, think about the material of the pans. Stainless steel pans are durable and won't react with food, but food tends to stick to the bottom. Non-stick coatings can be a great option if you're looking for easy cooking and cleanup, but they may not last forever. Copper pans have excellent heat conductivity but are very pricey and require a lot of upkeep. Cast iron pans are incredibly durable and can be used on various cooktops, but they are heavy and need regular seasoning.

Finally, consider the size and number of pieces in the set. A good cookware set should include a range of pot and pan sizes to meet your cooking needs. If you have limited storage space, look for sets with removable handles or pans that can be stacked or hung on a rack.

Some of the best pots and pans sets available in the UK include:

- Circulon Momentum 5-Piece Hard Anodised Non-Stick Cookware Set

- Ninja Foodi ZEROSTICK 5-Piece Pan Set

- Amazon Basics 8-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set

- Tower Cerastone Forged Aluminium 5-Piece Pan Set

- Le Creuset 3-Ply Stainless Steel Cookware Set, 4 Pieces

- Our Place Always Pan and Perfect Pot sets

Non-stick vs stainless steel

Non-stick and stainless steel are two of the most common materials for pots and pans. While non-stick cookware is generally easier to use and clean, stainless steel is more durable and versatile. So, which one is the best choice for your needs?

Non-Stick Cookware

Non-stick cookware is a popular choice for home cooks due to its convenience and ease of use. The slick coating on non-stick pans helps prevent food from sticking, making it ideal for delicate dishes like eggs, crepes, and pancakes. It also requires less oil or butter during cooking, making it a healthier option. Non-stick pans are typically lighter in weight than stainless steel, making them easier to handle. However, they may not be as durable and need to be replaced more frequently. Additionally, non-stick pans should not be heated to very high temperatures as it may release potentially toxic chemicals. They are also not suitable for searing or browning foods.

Stainless Steel Cookware

Stainless steel cookware, on the other hand, is known for its durability and ability to withstand high temperatures. It is a great choice for searing, browning, and cooking dishes that require higher heat. Stainless steel pans are generally safer to use at high temperatures and are often oven-safe. However, they may be more difficult to clean, especially if food is burnt on. Stainless steel pans are also usually heavier, which can make them more challenging to manoeuvre.

The answer depends on your specific needs and cooking habits. If you frequently cook delicate dishes and prefer easier cleanup, non-stick cookware may be the better option. On the other hand, if you prioritize durability and versatility, stainless steel might be the way to go. Many home cooks choose to have a combination of both types of cookware in their kitchen, using each for different purposes. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the types of dishes you typically prepare.

Budget-friendly options

If you're looking for a budget-friendly option, you're in luck! There are several high-quality, affordable pots and pans available in the UK. Here are some of the best options:

Rachael Ray Create Delicious 13-Piece Cookware Set

This set offers even heating and an interior nonstick finish, making it easy to cook and clean. It comes in cheerful shades of red, burgundy, teal, light blue, and gray. The silicone handles are riveted for durability, and the set includes glass lids and flared rims for easy pouring. It's also induction-compatible and oven-safe up to 400 degrees F. While it doesn't include a large skillet, the 6-quart stockpot is adequate for most cooking needs.

Blue Diamond Pan Cookware Set, 14 Piece

This set is made of aluminum with a ceramic interior finish, allowing for higher heat tolerance than traditional nonstick coatings. It heats evenly and is easy to clean, with rivets coated in the nonstick finish for effortless maintenance. The dark blue exterior enamel surface and brushed stainless steel handles give it a stylish look. The lids are made of glass, and while the set doesn't include a large skillet or stockpot, it's a great value option.

Farberware Nonstick Cookware Set

This 15-piece set offers excellent nonstick performance and even heating at a budget-friendly price. It includes all the necessary pieces for a beginner cook, and the lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver. The set is induction-compatible and dishwasher-safe, although hand washing is recommended for the nonstick surface. Food may get caught around the handle rivets, and the set might not be as durable as higher-end options.

Amazon Basics 8-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set

This set offers quick heat-up times and reliable nonstick performance at an affordable price. It's not suitable for induction hobs, but it's a great option for those on a budget. The set includes two frying pans, two saucepans with lids, a casserole pan, and a set of nylon cooking utensils. While metal utensils are not suitable, the set is dishwasher-safe for easy cleanup.

Tower Cerastone Forged Aluminium 5-Piece Pan Set

This set is a great affordable option for induction hobs, as it's compatible with all hob types. The handles and lids stay cool during cooking, and the non-stick coating makes for easy cleanup. The steam vents are effective, and the lids are secure even at a full boil. While it takes a bit longer to cook pancakes, it's an excellent value for the price.

These options provide a great balance between quality and affordability, so you can equip your kitchen without breaking the bank!

Ceramic vs traditional non-stick

When it comes to choosing between ceramic and traditional non-stick pans, there are a few things to consider. Both types of pans have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here is a detailed comparison between the two to help you decide:

Heat Tolerance

Ceramic non-stick pans can be heated to higher temperatures than traditional non-stick pans. Ceramic pans can typically withstand temperatures up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit, while traditional non-stick pans start to break down around 500 degrees Fahrenheit. As such, ceramic pans are better suited for high-heat cooking techniques such as searing steak. However, it is important to note that both types of pans should be heated on low to medium heat to prolong the life of the non-stick coating.

Cooking Performance

Both ceramic and traditional non-stick pans excel at certain cooking tasks. Ceramic pans are ideal for cooking pasta because they bring water to a boil quickly and retain heat well. They are also non-reactive, making them safe for cooking any type of pasta sauce. Traditional non-stick pans, on the other hand, are better for grilled cheese sandwiches as they don't reach as high temperatures, allowing you to brown each side of the sandwich evenly without burning it.

Durability

Traditional non-stick pans tend to have a longer lifespan than ceramic non-stick pans. The ceramic coating tends to break down more easily and is more susceptible to scratches. However, it is worth noting that all non-stick coatings will eventually wear out over time, regardless of the type of pan.

Health and Eco-Friendliness

Ceramic non-stick pans are free of PFOS, PFOA, and PTFE, which have been linked to health concerns and negative environmental impacts. Traditional non-stick pans, on the other hand, are typically coated with PTFE (also known as Teflon), which may release gases when heated to high temperatures. However, it is important to note that PFOA has been banned from the production of Teflon since 2013, and PTFE is widely considered safe.

Care and Maintenance

To prolong the life of both types of non-stick pans, it is recommended to use non-metal utensils and hand wash them instead of putting them in the dishwasher. Ceramic non-stick pans, in particular, require extra care as they tend to have a shorter lifespan. Using a melamine sponge to wash them can help prevent scratches on the interior surface.

Best for small spaces

If you're short on space, Our Place's Always Pan and Perfect Pot duo is ideal. The Always Pan is an all-in-one pan that can braise, steam, fry, boil, and strain, while the Perfect Pot is a versatile pot that's ideal for stews and cooking in bulk. Both are oven-safe and compatible with all stove tops, including induction hobs. They also come in a range of chic, muted shades and feature Our Place's signature aesthetically pleasing design.

In testing, these pans cooked mince and onions like pros, with Our Place's special Thermakind™ non-stick ceramic coating ensuring there was no sticking or burning. The slot in the handle for storing your spatula also came in handy for mess-free mixing. The only hiccup came when cooking caramel, as there was a tiny bit of sticking – but caramel is notoriously tricky. Our testers also found the handles' square shape took some getting used to and they could sometimes get quite hot, so make sure to use oven gloves if you're lifting them.

Best for beginners

If you're new to cooking, nonstick cookware sets are a great place to start. They offer easy cooking and cleanup, and are perfect for preparing sticky foods like fried eggs and pancakes. Here are some of the best nonstick cookware sets for beginners:

Rachael Ray Create Delicious 13-Piece Cookware Set

This set offers even heating and has an interior nonstick finish that makes cleaning a breeze. It comes in cheery shades of red, burgundy, teal, light blue, and gray, and includes some nice features like silicone handles that are riveted on, glass lids, and flared rims to enhance pouring. The bottom has a stainless-steel base, making it safe for use on an induction cooktop, and the skillet can go in the oven up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. While there's no extra-large skillet included, the 6-quart stockpot is adequate for soups and pasta.

Blue Diamond Pan Cookware Set, 14 Piece

Blue Diamond is made of aluminum coated inside with a ceramic finish, which allows it to withstand temperatures up to 850 degrees Fahrenheit on the stovetop or in the oven. This means you can fearlessly sear a steak or glaze pork chops under the broiler. Testing has shown that Blue Diamond heats evenly, so you won't have to keep moving your pancakes around in the pan. The pieces are quite handsome, with a dark blue exterior enamel surface and brushed stainless steel handles. The lids are made of glass so you can easily check on your food, and the handles are coated with the nonstick finish for easy cleaning. However, do note that the pieces in this set are not exceptionally large.

Anolon Advanced Home 11-Piece Cookware Set

With this set, you'll get the very best nonstick performance. Even sticky foods like fried eggs and pancakes will fall out of the pan, leaving the surfaces virtually spotless. The body of the pan is anodized aluminum, and the exterior finish, which comes in your choice of gray, indigo, bronze, or black, is also nonstick for easy cleanup. As Anolon is oven-safe up to 400 degrees Fahrenheit, you can use the skillets for dishes that start on the stovetop and finish in the oven. The set includes an 8-quart stockpot and a wide and deep 12-inch skillet that's perfect for dishes like chicken and dumplings. All the lids are glass so you can monitor your food without lifting the lid. One minor issue is that the stainless-steel rivets inside the cookware can be a bit tricky to clean.

Farberware Nonstick Cookware Set

This lightweight, nonstick 15-piece set offers great performance and includes all the necessary pieces for a very reasonable price. It includes a 10-inch frying pan, a 1-quart and 2-quart saucepan with lids, a 5-quart Dutch oven with lid, a 9 x 13-inch cookie sheet, and 5 nylon kitchen utensils. In testing, rice pilaf and sauce turned out beautifully with nothing left behind in the pan. The 10-inch frying pan was also great for making omelets, though some food did get stuck in the rivets for the handle. The pans distribute heat evenly but tend to run hot, and they are easy to clean by hand.

Frequently asked questions