A versatile cooking tool, the frying pan can be used for various cooking methods such as frying, searing, sautéing, baking, and braising a wide range of dishes. You can find top-quality non-stick frying pans and pan sets made of different materials such as stainless steel, aluminum, and cast iron.
Finding the best frying pan to buy for everyday cooking
Frying pans are a crucial piece of cookware for home cooks and chefs alike, with a flat base, sloped sides, and a long handle for flipping and maneuvering. These pans can be used to prepare a variety of meals, from eggs and pancakes to steaming curries. Some important factors to consider when purchasing a frying pan include:
- Material: Frying pans can be made from a variety of materials, such as stainless steel, aluminum, copper, carbon steel, and cast iron.
- Size: Determine whether you'll be using the frying pan to prepare small batches or meals for the entire family.
- Thickness: A thicker frying pan will provide more even heat distribution.
- Handle: Look for a handle that doesn't conduct heat, such as stainless steel, aluminum, or silicone.
- Finish: Decide whether you prefer a non-stick finish, which is easy to clean and maintain, or a natural finish, such as cast iron, that requires seasoning each time.
Non-stick frying pans are a convenient option
The special coating prevents food from sticking to the surface. Tefal is a leader in non-stick cookware, and Laiffii.com offers a great selection of their frying pans.
Best materials for frying pans are cast iron, aluminum, and stainless steel
Frying pans can be created using a diverse range of materials, and each has its own set of advantages. Some of the most common materials used include:
- Stainless steel: This type of frying pan is robust, long-lasting, lightweight, and non-reactive to acidic ingredients. They are also suitable for use with metal utensils.
- Cast iron: Frying pans made from cast iron offer even heat distribution and have a heavier, sturdier build. They also have excellent heat retention and can become naturally non-stick through the process of seasoning.
- Aluminum: These frying pans are highly versatile, lightweight, affordable, and provide even heat distribution. They are oven-safe, dishwasher-safe, and resistant to scratching and rust.
- Carbon steel: Frying pans made from carbon steel are nearly indestructible. They offer even heat distribution and, like cast iron, have a natural non-stick surface once seasoned correctly.
The difference between a frying pan and skillet
The majority of people view fry pans and skillets as synonymous. Although, there are some slight disparities between them. A skillet might have a slightly deeper shape and usually pertains to frying pans constructed from cast iron. Meanwhile, a standard frying pan has a flat bottom and may consist of various materials.