“There are a few things to consider when you’re buying cookware, including how you cook, durability, and price,” says Lance Nitahara, an assistant professor at the Culinary Institute of America (CIA) in Hyde Park, N.Y. “On the low end of the price scale are nonstick and cast iron; copper is on the high end. But each does a different thing.”
Below, you’ll find advice on how to choose the right frying pan for how you cook, plus highlights of top-performing pans from CR’s tests, listed alphabetically and not by rank. You can see how all the pans we test perform in our frying pan ratings and learn more about the different types of pans in our cookware buying guide.
All in all, whether you are in the market for a small enamel pot or a large enamel pot, there are plenty of options to suit your cooking needs. Enamel pans are a great investment for any kitchen because of their durability, heat retention, and non-stick properties. So why not add a versatile and stylish enamel pot to your cookware collection today?
Moreover, the fry pan's excellent heat retention is unparalleled. Once heated, it maintains a consistent temperature, allowing for even cooking - a crucial factor when preparing meals over an open flame. This property also makes it perfect for slow-cooking recipes like stews or braises, which often simmer over a low heat This property also makes it perfect for slow-cooking recipes like stews or braises, which often simmer over a low heatOne of the benefits of cast iron frying pans is that they are virtually indestructible. They can last a lifetime with proper care and can even be passed down from generation to generation.
When cooking, use silicone, wooden, or heat-resistant nylon utensils to avoid scratching the glass cooktop or the pan's seasoning. Avoid using metal utensils, as they can potentially damage both surfaces. One of the key benefits of using a two-burner cast iron griddle is its ability to retain heat evenly. This means that you can cook multiple dishes at once without worrying about them burning or sticking to the surface. Whether you're frying eggs, searing steaks, or grilling vegetables, the even heat distribution ensures that your food will come out perfectly every time. In addition to its practicality, the white enamel pot is also easy to clean. The smooth enamel surface is non-stick and resists sticking and burning, making it a breeze to clean up after cooking. Simply hand wash the pot with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge, and it will be ready to use again in no time. Using a bacon press is simple and straightforward. To use, simply place the bacon press on top of the bacon strips while they are cooking. The weight of the press will flatten the bacon, helping it to cook evenly. It's important to flip the bacon periodically to ensure that it cooks on both sides. When using a cast iron bacon press, it's important to properly season and care for the press to prevent rusting and maintain its non-stick properties. Seasoning the bacon press involves coating it with a thin layer of oil and baking it in the oven at a low temperature for an hour. This helps to create a non-stick surface and protects the cast iron from rusting.
French skillets can also have non-stick coatings like frying pans, but this is less common due to their straight edges.
It can also be used to brown food before braising but not for the rest of the procedure. The reduced weight also allows for more maneuverability when shaking and flipping food.
One of the key advantages of non-stick enamel cookware is its ease of cleaning. Food residues do not stick to the surface, making post-meal cleanup a breeze. A simple wipe or gentle scrub is often enough to restore its pristine condition. Moreover, this type of cookware is generally dishwasher safe, further simplifying kitchen chores.There are several key factors to consider when choosing the Sizzling Plate. First, you need to look for Sizzling Plates that are made of high-quality materials and can withstand high temperatures and frequent use. Stainless steel and cast iron are popular choices for Sizzling Plate because they are durable and have excellent heat retention capabilities.
One of the key benefits of a cast iron skillet is its ability to distribute heat evenly, ensuring that your dishes cook consistently without hot spotsSaute pans have straight sides instead of slanted ones, so a higher volume of ingredients or liquid can fit inside, making this style pan ideal for making sauces. Because of the design, sauces don't splash or slosh around as much, making clean-up a lot easier. Another bonus of this pan style is that most saute pans have a fitted lid, which reduces evaporation. These pans are well-suited for cooking methods such as braising, searing, or shallow-frying. But saute pans are heavier due to a wider base, making skillets easier to lift and move.
With their straight sides, sauté pans have similar bottom and top measurements, so a 12-inch pan will offer a cooking area of the same size. Sauté pans are often described according to capacity, and a good choice for home cooking is anywhere from 1 quart to 7 quarts.
With their sizeable bottom and weight, however, sauté pans actually aren’t best for shaking and flipping food around. Instead, sauté pans are built for larger, longer cooking. If the dish requires a good amount of liquid and not much stirring, such as shallow-fried falafels or braised lamb shanks, a sauté pan is perfect for the job.
When it comes to perfectly grilled meats, one essential tool that every grilling enthusiast should have in their arsenal is a meat grill press. This handy device not only helps to ensure even cooking and prevent curling of meats but also helps to increase the contact between the meat and the grill for beautiful grill marks.
In addition to serving sizzling plate, the sizzling plates can also be used to serve a variety of other dishes, such as burritos, seafood, and even desserts like s'mores. The versatility of the sizzle pan makes it a valuable addition to any kitchen, offering endless possibilities for creativity and impressive presentations.
In conclusion, the cast iron griddle is more than just a tool; it's a culinary partner that extends the boundaries of BBQ. It invites creativity, encourages experimentation, and guarantees delicious, evenly cooked meals every time. So, the next time you fire up your grill, remember, a cast iron griddle could be the missing ingredient to take your BBQ game to new heights.