pans kitchen

Kitchen pans and woks in nonstick, stainless steel and cast iron for searing, frying and everyday home cooking.

Related Categories

Introduction

The right kitchen pans depend on what you cook most, your stovetop and how much upkeep you are willing to do.

  • Nonstick pans handle eggs and fish with little oil but need low to medium heat.
  • Stainless steel and cast iron sear well and last for decades with proper care.
  • Induction cooktops need a magnetic base, so look for an induction-ready symbol.

A 10 or 12 inch skillet covers most daily meals, a saucepan handles grains and sauces, and a wok or saute pan helps with stir-fries and one-pan dinners.

FAQs

Stainless steel, cast iron and carbon steel tolerate high heat and oven use. Most nonstick coatings should stay below about 500 degrees Fahrenheit, so avoid preheating them empty.

Only if the base is magnetic, such as cast iron, carbon steel or clad stainless with a steel layer. A fridge magnet that sticks firmly to the bottom is a quick test.

Wash it with hot water and a little soap, dry it right away and rub on a thin layer of oil. Avoid soaking or the dishwasher, which strips seasoning and causes rust.

A set makes sense if you are starting out and want matching lids. Experienced cooks often buy single pieces, such as one cast iron skillet and one nonstick pan, to match how they cook.

A 10 inch skillet suits one or two people. Families of four or more usually get more use from a 12 inch pan.