The Frying Pan Buying Guide

The Frying Pan Buying Guide: Everyone has a go-to frying pan – but what is it that makes us pick up the same one time and time again? In this easily digestible guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about frying pans with some handy top tips on spotting the best frying pans for your recipes.
21 Mar 2022 · Guides
The Frying Pan Buying Guide

The TL;DR

Thinking of buying a new frying pan? Then you’ll love Circulon’s top tips below: 

  • Types of frying pans: there are various frying pan types; stainless steel (durable, oven-safe), cast iron (heavy, heat retention), non-stick (convenient, lightweight), and hard-anodized (quick heating, durable).


  • Choosing the right pan: the best frying pan depends on your cooking style and needs. Consider factors like durability, heat distribution, and ease of cleaning.


  • Non-stick pan recommendation: Circulon SteelShield frying pans are a high-performing, PFOA-free non-stick option.


  • Pan size measurement: a simple method for measuring frying pan diameter is explained (measuring across the pan from edge to edge).

 

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about frying pans, with some handy top tips on spotting the best frying pans for your recipes. Whether you’re a total beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, read on to make sure you don’t miss out.

What is the Best Frying Pan?

We all need a reliable frying pan to make quick and easy meals, but how do you find the best one? With an almost overwhelming selection to choose from, here’s a summary of the most popular types of frying pan on the market:

Stainless Steel Frying Pans

Many professional chefs swear by traditional stainless steel frying pans. They’re not only rust- and scratch-resistant, but they’re long-lasting, completely non-reactive, and safe to use in the oven and the dishwasher.

Cast-Iron Skillets

While cast-iron skillets and frying pans might be amongst the heaviest on the market, there’s a good reason for their popularity. As well as being oven-safe and incredibly durable, these pans maintain heat for a while after being removed from a heat source – keeping food piping hot.

Non-Stick Frying Pans

Non-stick pans are widespread, but it’s worth investing in one with excellent build quality. Non-stick pans are widespread, but it’s worth investing in one with excellent build quality. Convenient, light, and affordable, these frying pans are an essential addition to any busy family kitchen.

Hard Anodized Frying Pans

By choosing a hard-anodized frying pan with an aluminium core, you’ll strike the perfect balance between functionality and durability. These frying pans offer advanced performance, conducting heat quickly and effectively.

What Makes a Good Frying Pan?

Cast-iron and stainless steel pans remain a popular choice, especially in professional kitchen environments. However, the best frying pans and skillets are those made with advanced materials, making them versatile enough for any kitchen.

Once you’ve chosen your ideal frying pan, you could develop a complex palette sooner than you think. Flavoursome, rich meals can be achieved at home, and it’s easy to learn new styles of cuisine from different parts of the world.

To keep any frying pan in good condition, it’s essential to maintain it. After cooking a long, complicated meal or even after a few quick uses, your frying pan might need a little bit of TLC. It’s a good idea to learn how to clean your pan effectively so you’ll be ready for the next big cook-off.

What is the Best Non-Stick Frying Pan?

Finding the best non-stick pan depends on the style of your cooking and the demands of your kitchen. Most modern non-stick pans make a brilliant option for convenient, fast, and reliable results, making them perfect for family meals.

For any chef seeking uncompromised performance, Circulon SteelShield™ frying pans are manufactured with cutting-edge technology to deliver a PFOA-free, non-stick coating on durable stainless steel. These pans heat up on average 20% faster, ensuring that every single creation is evenly cooked throughout.

How to Measure a Frying Pan

It might seem confusing, but frying pans come in various sizes to help you find the right one. Most manufacturers stick to these standard measurements, making it easier to replace your pan or its lid. Luckily, there’s no complicated method involved in learning how to measure a frying pan.

All you need to do is place the frying pan the right side up on a flat surface and grab a measuring tape. Stretch out the tape across the pan, edge to edge, and read the measurement from one outer side to the next to get the proper size.

See the Difference with a Frying Pan from Circulon

If you’ve reached the end of this guide, you’re probably feeling ready to replace your old frying pan with something new. All of our pans come with a lifetime guarantee, giving you the peace of mind that you’ll be able to use your new frying pan for years to come.

There’s plenty to choose from in our leading selection of frying pans, and as part of our Build a Bundle deal, you’ll receive 15% off your order if you buy three or more pans. Why not start a new collection?

Our FAQ page is a great place to start if you have any questions about our products or caring for your new kitchenware. Plus, we offer payment plans with Klarna if you’d like to spread the cost of a brand new pan set. For any specific queries, don’t hesitate to contact us.

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