Marianne Martinez
A good set of pans is essential for any home cook. While some people prefer to build their cookware collection over time, others opt for a complete cookware set. When choosing a set of pans, it's important to consider your cooking needs, budget, and tolerance for scrubbing. Non-stick pans are ideal for those who want convenience and easy cleanup, while stainless steel pans offer even heat distribution and durability. For those who want the best of both worlds, a set with a combination of non-stick and stainless steel pans might be the perfect choice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Material | Stainless steel, anodized aluminum, carbon steel, cast iron, non-stick coating |
| Number of pieces | 8, 10, 12 |
| Cookware included | Frying pan, saucepans, sauté pan, stockpot, braiser, skillet, Dutch oven, saucier |
| Compatibility | Induction, oven, dishwasher |
| Handles | Rubber, long indented, wide, comfortable |
| Heating | Even, good, excellent, controlled, fast |
| Ease of use | Easy to maneuver, easy to clean, easy to store, easy to hold and flip |
| Durability | Long-lasting, sturdy, durable |
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What You'll Learn
Non-stick pans
There are two main types of non-stick coatings: PTFE (Teflon) and ceramic. PTFE coatings are typically slicker and longer-lasting than ceramic coatings. However, there are health and environmental concerns associated with the production of PTFE coatings due to the use of PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances). Ceramic coatings are a good alternative, but they tend to lose their non-stick properties more quickly. Some manufacturers claim to have created PTFE coatings without PFAS, but these claims cannot always be trusted.
When choosing a non-stick pan, it is important to consider the type of coating, the material of the pan, the size, and the price. Some popular options for non-stick pans include the Tramontina Professional 10-Inch Restaurant Fry Pan, which offers excellent value for money, and the Zwilling Madura Plus, which is a more affordable option. The Made In ProCoat 6-Piece Non-Stick Cookware Set is also a great choice, with a "professional-grade" PTFE non-stick cooking surface and a higher heat tolerance. For those looking for a ceramic-coated pan, the GreenPan Valencia Pro Hard Anodized Healthy Ceramic Nonstick 10" and 12" Frying Pan Skillet Set is a good option, with a comfortable handle, induction compatibility, and oven safety up to 600° F.
To care for your non-stick pans, it is recommended to hand-wash them with soapy water and hot water, rather than using a dishwasher, as this can help preserve the coating. It is also a good idea to season your pan by rubbing a small amount of vegetable oil onto the cooking surface before use and repeating this step a few times a year.
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Stainless steel sets
Stainless steel is a top choice for cookware, beloved by home cooks and professional chefs alike. Stainless steel is known for its durability, versatility, and even heat distribution. It is also oven-proof, induction-compatible, and generally dishwasher-safe. However, stainless steel requires more effort to remove stuck-on food and is more prone to scratching than other materials. To prevent scratching, it is recommended to use wooden or silicone utensils.
When purchasing a stainless steel cookware set, it is important to consider the grade of stainless steel, the thickness, and the number of layers or "ply". The grade of stainless steel is indicated by a fraction, such as 18/10, which represents the percentage of chromium and nickel in the alloy. A higher percentage of chromium and nickel will increase the rust resistance and shine retention of the cookware. Thicker, heavier pans are generally more desirable as they are less likely to move around on the stove, distribute heat more evenly, and are less susceptible to dents and warping. The most common number of layers is tri-ply, which consists of two layers of stainless steel with an aluminum or copper core. However, pans can also come in 5-ply or 7-ply, referred to as "multi-clad".
There are several high-quality stainless steel cookware sets available on the market. The All-Clad D3 Stainless 10-Piece Cookware Set is a popular choice, known for its premium construction, precise temperature control, and ease of use. The Tramontina Tri-Ply Clad 8-piece set is another great option, with excellent heat distribution, comfortable handles, and a reasonable price point. For those on a budget, the Cuisinart Chef's Classic Stainless Steel 10-Piece Cookware Set is a reliable choice for under $200. This set includes most of the same pots and pans as the All-Clad collection but with narrower pots and shorter handles, making it easier to store.
Other notable stainless steel cookware sets include the Hestan professional-grade set, which is handcrafted in Italy and features a tri-ply construction for even heat distribution. The Made In 6-Piece Stainless Steel Cookware Set is also worth considering, with its thoughtful, durable design and impressive heating abilities. However, it is important to note that this set is quite expensive.
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Ceramic sets for high heat
Ceramic cookware is a great option for high-heat cooking methods such as searing and sautéing. They are typically able to handle higher temperatures than traditional non-stick pans made with PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene, commonly known as Teflon). Ceramic coatings are made from a sand-like mineral that doesn't break down like PTFE does, making them a food-safe and eco-friendly choice.
Most ceramic pots and pans are metal pans coated with a ceramic surface. However, some cookware sets are made entirely of ceramic. The dense clay holds a lot of heat and is usually finished with a shiny glaze that is both non-stick and extremely heat-resistant. All-ceramic pots and pans are better for long cooking than high-temperature searing and require different techniques than metal cookware.
When choosing a ceramic cookware set, it is important to consider the type of stove you have. Some ceramic cookware sets are not compatible with induction stoves. Additionally, ceramic cookware sets may not be dishwasher-safe, so it is important to check the care instructions before purchasing.
- The Caraway Ceramic Cookware & Cabinet Organizer Set is a stylish, minimalist set that includes a variety of pots and pans of different sizes. It is oven-safe up to 550°F and induction-ready, but it is not dishwasher-safe.
- The Oxo ceramic cookware set is a classic set of neutral-coloured cookware. It includes two skillets, two saucepans, a high-sided sauté pan, and a 5-piece oven-safe up to 550°F and induction-ready, but it is not dishwasher-safe.
- The Circulon non-stick cookware set is a user-friendly and well-performing set that includes an 8.5-inch fry pan. It is induction-compatible and dishwasher-safe.
- The Cuisinart Multiclad Pro Stainless Steel Cookware Set is a 12-piece set that includes a variety of pots and pans. It has an aluminum core for even heating and is dishwasher-safe.
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Carbon steel pans
One of the key advantages of carbon steel pans is their durability. These pans can withstand super-high temperatures for hours and transfer seamlessly from stovetop to oven. The only thing to note is that carbon steel pans cannot handle acidic sauces for long periods as they will eat away at the seasoning. Carbon steel pans have sloped, flared sides, which makes them perfect for sautéing. The more you use a carbon steel pan, the more non-stick its surface becomes.
When it comes to choosing a carbon steel pan, there are several options available. If you're looking for a lightweight option, the Mauviel carbon steel skillet is a great choice. It releases food easily and is a pleasure to use. Another option is the Vollrath carbon steel pan, which is often the go-to choice for professional chefs and restaurants. It heats up quickly, distributes heat evenly, and is incredibly non-stick, making it a great choice for beginners.
Some other features to consider when choosing a carbon steel pan include the handle design, oven safety, and ease of cleaning. For example, the Misen carbon steel pan has a stay-cool silicone grip handle that is comfortable to hold and can be removed for dishwasher cleaning. It is also oven-safe up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit. Additionally, the Smithey carbon steel skillet is a hand-forged, lightweight option that is naturally non-stick and perfect for stove-to-table serving.
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Aluminium sets
Aluminium is a popular material for pans because it is light and spreads heat quickly and evenly. Stainless steel pans, while durable and long-lasting, are prone to hot spots, so aluminium is often incorporated into their bases.
If you're looking for an aluminium pan set, there are several options to consider. The Good Food three-piece saucepan set, created in partnership with Tower, is a versatile and efficient choice. Crafted with ultra-durable hard-anodised aluminium, the pans have a non-stick coating for easy food release and guaranteed durability. They are suitable for use on induction hobs and in the oven up to 220°C, and the pouring lids make serving simple and spillage-free.
Another option is the Lakeland Forged Aluminium 3-piece saucepan set, which is a great lightweight choice. The Circulon Style Anodised 3-piece saucepan set is also worth considering if you're looking for something with a more stylish design.
If you're looking for a larger set, the GreenPan 11-piece set, launched in collaboration with actor and foodie Stanley Tucci, is a great choice. Each pan is made with an aluminium body and has a ceramic non-stick coating that contains layers of diamonds for improved heat transfer and durability. While these pans are on the heavier side, the non-stick coating is effective, and they are dishwasher-safe, although hand washing is recommended to prolong their quality.
For a budget-friendly option, the ASDA Marble Soft Grip Pan Set is a fantastic choice. Made from forged aluminium, this set sustained no damage after multiple dishwasher cycles.
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Frequently asked questions
Stainless steel is the best material for a set of pans. It conducts heat evenly and is sensitive to variations. It is also incredibly durable.
For a good starter set, an eight- or ten-piece set should cover all the basics. A set should include a 10-inch fry pan, small and large saucepans, a stockpot, and a braiser.
For a good non-stick pan set, the Circulon set won a Good Housekeeping Kitchen Gear Award for its performance and user-friendly design. The Anolon set is also a good choice, with excellent non-stick performance.
The All-Clad D3 set is a good choice for most people. It is made of stainless steel with an aluminum core, offering good heating and durability. The Ninja stainless-steel set is also a good budget choice.
Before buying a set of pans, consider what you like to cook, how much food you will be cooking, your budget, and how much maintenance you are willing to do.
