Many types of pans perform differently under different circumstances, and choosing one for your kitchen can be daunting. The market has over a thousand pan models, which only makes purchasing a frying pan more troublesome. Worry not because this guide covers the various features you should remember while purchasing pans. You must be familiar with the use and the essentials of the product to benefit from its purpose and utility.
Material
The material used to make frying pans is a crucial factor when you’re choosing a new one. There are a few different types of materials, each with advantages and disadvantages. The most common materials include stainless steel, cast iron, aluminium and copper. Stainless steel is durable but relatively expensive, and cast iron is heavy but strong. Aluminium has good heat conduction properties while being light enough to use easily. On the other hand, copper is lightweight but not very conductive (therefore not suitable for high-heat applications like searing meat).
Coating or seasoning
If you’re looking for a pan with a non-stick coating, it’s essential to remember that these coatings are not as durable as stainless steel. They can be damaged by using metal spoons in the pan and will eventually wear out over time. Seasoning your frying pans before use helps prevent this by creating an even layer of cooking oil on all surfaces of the pan (not just on one side), which helps prevent sticking and improves heat transfer between food and pan.
A good way to season your pans is by wiping them down with oil or cooking spray before each use—and then wiping them off again after cooking, so there’s no leftover residue! This will help protect both sides of your cookware so they look new when you start using them again later on. However, if you want something extra special, it is recommended to add some salt near the place where water comes into contact with hot surfaces, such as inside an oven door handle where moisture tends to settle quickly due to relative humidity levels.
Shape and size
Frying pans come in a variety of shapes, sizes and materials. The most common shape is round. Other shapes include square and rectangular. These can be made from metal or non-stick materials coated with any number of finishes to improve their performance.
The size of the frying pan you choose depends on how much food you plan to cook; however, there are some general guidelines that you should follow when choosing the right size:
- For two people: 10-inch diameter
- For four people: 12-inch diameter
- For six people: 14-inch diameter
About Non-Stick pans
- Non-stick pans are easy to clean.
- Non-stick pans need to be replaced regularly, depending on the type of surface being used. For example, a stainless steel pan will last longer than an aluminium one. Still, both can be used for many years if properly cared for and maintained by wiping off any food residue as soon as it’s removed from the heat source (or at least every few uses).
- Stainless steel is durable and won’t scratch easily as aluminium does over time. Such pans are perfect for households with children. Children may place toys inside pans and drop the pans frequently. The extra protection that steel offers will prevent extensive pan damage.
