Ella Walter
Frying pans are one of the most versatile and frequently used pieces of cookware in the kitchen. They are suitable for cooking a wide range of foods, from eggs and pancakes to thick steaks. When deciding which size non-stick pan to buy, it is important to consider factors such as the number of people you regularly cook for, the types of food you prepare, the weight and manoeuvrability of the pan, your available storage space, and your budget.
Non-stick pans are typically made by adding a coating to aluminium pans, and they are ideal for cooking delicate foods that may stick to the pan, such as fish, fried eggs, and pancakes. The non-stick coating reduces the amount of oil needed and makes cleaning easier.
The most common sizes of frying pans are 8-, 10-, and 12-inch. A smaller pan will heat up faster and distribute heat more evenly but will lose heat more quickly. A larger pan will be able to handle more ingredients and retain heat for longer. If you live alone or in a smaller household, an 8-inch or 10-inch pan may be sufficient for your needs. For larger households or families, a 12-inch pan will be more suitable for cooking in batches and minimising the number of pans needed.
Ultimately, the right choice will depend on your specific requirements and preferences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of people you regularly cook for | The larger the household, the larger the pan you will need. |
| Types of food you prepare | For example, eggs are better cooked in a smaller pan, while frying, browning and roasting require more space. |
| Skillet material | For example, cast iron skillets take longer to heat up but are very durable. |
| Budget | Larger pans tend to be more expensive. |
| Storage space | Measure your cabinet space before deciding on a pan size. |
What You'll Learn
Non-stick vs stainless steel
When deciding on the size of a non-stick pan, it's important to consider the number of people you regularly cook for, the types of food you prepare, and the skillet material you prefer. Non-stick pans typically range from 8 to 12 inches in size, with 10 and 12 inches being the most common options. Here are some advantages and disadvantages of non-stick and stainless steel pans to help you make an informed decision:
Non-Stick Pans
Non-stick pans are easy to use and clean due to their slick coating that prevents food from sticking. Health-conscious cooks also prefer them as they require less oil than uncoated cookware. They are generally less expensive than stainless steel pans, and modern non-stick coatings are considered safe when used properly. However, non-stick pans have some potential risks associated with the chemicals used in their coatings, such as PTFE (Teflon). While Teflon has been PFOA-free since 2013, exposing non-stick pans to very high temperatures can release other potentially toxic chemicals. Therefore, it is important to take precautions when using non-stick pans, such as avoiding heating an empty pan and keeping the burner on medium or low heat. Additionally, non-stick pans cannot achieve the same searing and browning effect as uncoated stainless steel pans, and the coating can eventually wear away.
Stainless Steel Pans
Stainless steel pans are the go-to choice for most professional chefs. They are more durable than non-stick pans and can withstand higher temperatures. Stainless steel pans are also oven-safe, making them versatile for different cooking methods. They produce a beautiful and delicious browning effect on food, known as the Maillard reaction. However, burnt-on food can be difficult to clean, and stainless steel pans require more care and attention during cooking to prevent sticking or burning. They are also more expensive than non-stick options.
In conclusion, both types of pans have their advantages and disadvantages. Non-stick pans are ideal for cooking delicate foods like eggs and fish, while stainless steel pans are better for searing and browning meats. For a well-equipped kitchen, it is recommended to have at least one or two non-stick pans for sticky foods and a set of stainless steel pans for the rest of your cooking needs.
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Best size for cooking for one
When choosing the best non-stick pan size for cooking for one, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, the size of your household is crucial; a larger family would benefit from a bigger pan, whereas a 10-inch pan is ideal for individuals or smaller households.
A 10-inch pan is also a good option for those who live alone as it is easier to handle and more affordable. It is also better suited for cooking foods like eggs or omelettes, as the smaller space helps contain the food and leads to fluffier eggs. Additionally, a 10-inch pan will heat up faster and more evenly than a larger pan.
However, if you plan to cook larger meals or batch cook, a 12-inch pan might be more suitable. A bigger pan can handle more ingredients and is ideal for frying, browning, and roasting, as these methods demand more space. A 12-inch pan is also more versatile and can be used for general day-to-day cooking.
It is worth noting that the weight of the pan can vary depending on the material. For example, cast iron pans are heavier than stainless steel and non-stick aluminium pans. If weight is a concern, opt for a lighter material in a larger size, or a smaller cast iron pan.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your specific needs and cooking style. If you have the budget and storage space, it is recommended to have both sizes to suit different cooking requirements.
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Best size for a family
When it comes to choosing the best non-stick pan size for a family, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, it is important to think about the number of people you will be cooking for. If you have a family of three or more, a larger pan will be more suitable. Pans with a diameter of 12 inches are typically recommended for families, as they offer ample space to cook for multiple people without overcrowding the pan.
A 12-inch pan provides a generous cooking surface that can accommodate large cuts of meat, multiple eggs, or vegetables for a side dish. It is also a good size for making deep-dish pan pizzas or frying bacon without trimming the ends. Additionally, a larger pan retains heat better due to the increased surface area.
However, it is worth noting that a pan that is too large may cause issues with even heating. If the pan is much wider than the stovetop burner, it can result in uneven heat distribution, with the centre becoming too hot and the periphery not heating sufficiently. This can lead to food sticking or burning in certain areas.
Therefore, for a family, it is advisable to opt for a pan in the 12-inch range, which offers a balance between cooking space and even heat distribution. It is also beneficial to have multiple pans of varying sizes to suit different cooking needs.
In addition to the pan size, other factors to consider are the material and coating of the pan. Non-stick pans are typically made from materials such as stainless steel, hard anodized aluminum, cast iron, or carbon steel, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The coating of the pan is also important, with options like PTFE, ceramic, and enamel offering different levels of durability, heat resistance, and ease of cleaning.
When choosing a non-stick pan for a family, it is essential to consider the size, material, and coating to ensure it meets your specific needs and budget.
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Pros and cons of different materials
When choosing a non-stick frying pan, it's important to consider the size and material that will best suit your cooking needs. Here are the pros and cons of different materials commonly used for non-stick frying pans:
Aluminium
Aluminium offers excellent heat conduction, and aluminium frying pans dissipate heat quickly for efficient and even cooking. Uncoated aluminium frying pans have a rust- and corrosion-resistant surface, but they should only be used for cooking low-acidic foods as acidic foods can react with the aluminium and alter the flavour of your dish. Many professional aluminium frying pans feature a non-stick coating, making them suitable for a wider range of ingredients. However, aluminium pans are not compatible with induction cooktops as aluminium is not magnetic. They also cannot be cleaned in a dishwasher.
Non-stick
Non-stick frying pans are typically made by adding a coating to aluminium pans. They are ideal for cooking delicate foods such as fish, eggs, and pancakes as the non-stick surface limits the amount of oil needed and makes cleaning easier. However, non-stick pans are best used at low to medium heat settings to extend the life of the coating. Using them at high heat can damage the coating and cause it to smoke, peel, or flake. Non-stick pans are also not dishwasher-safe and require hand-washing to ensure longevity. Additionally, metal utensils should not be used with non-stick pans as they can scratch and damage the coating.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel frying pans are durable, long-lasting, and easy to clean. They are compatible with induction cooktops and are excellent for slow-simmering tomato sauces and other acidic recipes due to their non-reactive properties. However, stainless steel does not conduct heat well, so most commercial stainless steel pans will have an aluminium-clad bottom to promote even heat distribution. Stainless steel pans are also not naturally non-stick, so proper preheating and the use of cooking oils are necessary to prevent food from sticking. While some stainless steel pans are dishwasher-safe, hand-washing is generally recommended to maintain their longevity.
Cast Iron
Cast iron skillets take longer to heat up than other materials, but they heat evenly and consistently without hot spots. They are excellent at retaining heat and can be used on the stovetop, in the oven, or on the grill, making them versatile for various cooking methods. A well-seasoned cast-iron skillet is naturally non-stick and can withstand very high temperatures without warping or damage. Cast iron requires frequent maintenance, including routine seasoning and proper cleaning techniques, but it can last a lifetime if properly cared for. Cast iron skillets are not dishwasher-safe and should always be cleaned by hand.
Carbon Steel
Carbon steel is similar to cast iron but is lighter due to its thinner material. Carbon steel pans heat up quickly but also lose heat just as quickly. They require regular seasoning to maintain their non-stick capabilities, but when properly seasoned, they can be just as non-stick as coated pans. Carbon steel pans can handle both low and high temperatures, making them versatile for cooking delicate foods like eggs and fish, as well as searing thick meats. Like cast iron, carbon steel pans are not ideal for cooking acidic foods as they can alter the taste. Carbon steel pans are not dishwasher-safe and should be hand-washed with warm water and a soft-bristle brush or non-scouring sponge.
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How to measure a frying pan
To measure a frying pan, you need to measure its diameter. Place the pan right-side-up on a flat surface and stretch a tape measure across the centre from one top side to the other. The number you get is the diameter.
The advertised size of a pan is not the diameter of the cooking surface. The size of the cooking surface depends on the slope of the walls. The steeper the walls, the larger the cooking surface. As a general rule, the cooking surface of a standard frying pan is about two inches smaller in diameter than the advertised size.
Frying pans come in a variety of sizes, from 5 inches to 14 inches. The three most common sizes are 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch.
8-inch
- Can achieve a high temperature due to collateral heat exposure from its sides
- Ensures even heat distribution
- Perfect for frying eggs, steaks, chicken breasts, sautéing vegetables, and fluffy omelettes
10-inch
- Medium-sized frying pan that can cook more food
- Offers more heat retention
- Can be used for two chicken breasts, reheating leftovers, frying three eggs, and sautéing vegetables
12-inch
- Large frying pan that can meet most cooking needs
- Offers more heat retention due to more material
- Can be used to prepare more food without overcrowding
- Can be used to fry four eggs, bacon strips, and three chicken breasts
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Frequently asked questions
A non-stick pan is great for cooking breakfast foods like eggs, crepes, and pancakes. If you're only going to buy one non-stick pan, a 12-inch pan is large enough to handle most cooking tasks, including skillet meals for four and pan-frying.
A smaller 8-inch or 10-inch non-stick pan is ideal for cooking for one or two people.
A 10-inch non-stick skillet is generally recommended for cooking eggs, although an 8-inch pan may be preferable if you usually cook for one or two people.
Smaller pans heat up faster and do a better job of containing ingredients. They're also more affordable.
Larger pans are more versatile, can handle more ingredients, and retain heat longer.
