Whether you're preparing a scrumptious Sunday roast, a hearty holiday feast, or a tasty tray bake, the right roasting tin is essential for achieving those perfect, mouth-watering meals.
If you’re stuck trying to choose a top rated roasting pan, worry not! In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about roasting tins. Keep reading to find out more…
What exactly is a roasting tin?
Without being so facile as to say a roasting tin “is a tin that roasts,” a roasting tin is a piece of cookware that makes the art of roasting easier. Specifically designed for roasting food in the oven, a roasting tin can withstand direct heat at very high temperatures, while being deep enough to distribute the heat effectively.
Roasting tins tend to be a little bigger than your average tin, and often come with a non-stick rack and drip tray – to make the roasting process much more convenient when it comes to dealing with juices and liquids.
But one of their best features is the ability to cook two things at once. Simply add your meat or other centrepiece protein to the rack, and tuck the vegetables down at the bottom to prepare your meal all from one convenient place.
Roasting tins have become a staple of many a kitchen because of how effective they are at making wonderful meals. So if you’re wondering whether a roasting tin is right for you, wonder no longer – if you want to make the best roasts around, you need a roasting tin.
A history of the humble roasting tin
Roasting tins, sometimes known as roasting pans, have been a kitchen mainstay for well over a century. The earliest known use of the term “roaster pan” was in Maine in 1902, but the history goes back much further.
Roasting meat has long been a common practice, going back further than the invention of the stove! In medieval times, spits were commonly used for roasting large cuts of meat over open hearths. Though it wasn't until the 18th century that dedicated roasting pans began to appear in kitchens. These early pans were typically made of cast iron or copper, regarded for their ability to withstand high heat and provide even cooking.
As industrial processes improved, the 19th and 20th centuries saw the introduction of various materials and designs for roasting tins. The development of non-stick coatings and stainless steel in the mid-20th century revolutionised home cooking, leading to the roasting tins we see today…
How to choose the best roasting tin?
Roasting tins come in a variety of different styles to cater to a myriad of culinary palettes. So before you jump in with the first roasting tin you see, let’s have a look at key points you should consider when buying a new roasting tin:
Material
Your relationship with your roasting tin will depend heavily on the choice of material it is made from. These are the most common roasting tin materials…
Cast iron
Cast iron roasting tins are known for their excellent heat retention and even cooking capabilities. Perfect for slow-cooking meats, they maintain a consistent temperature and distribute heat evenly.
However, cast iron is quite heavy and requires proper seasoning to maintain its non-stick properties, and prevent rusting. With regular use and care, cast iron roasting tins can last a lifetime, making them a worthwhile investment.
Stainless steel
Stainless steel roasting tins are a popular choice due to their durability and resistance to rust and corrosion. They can handle high temperatures and do not react with acidic foods, making them versatile for various cooking tasks.
However, they can be prone to sticking if not properly greased or if food is cooked at too high a temperature.
Enamel-coated
A blend of durability and practicality, enamel-coated roasting tins are great for both everyday cooking and special occasions. These tins feature a sturdy metal base coated with enamel, providing excellent heat distribution and an easy-to-clean surface. The enamel’s non-reactive nature makes it ideal for cooking acidic foods.
However, an enamel coating can chip if dropped or handled roughly, making it essential to treat these tins with care.
Pyrex
Made from heat-resistant borosilicate glass, Pyrex roasting tins are a fantastic option for those who prefer to see their food as it cooks. These transparent roasting tins allow you to monitor the cooking process without opening the oven.
However, while Pyrex can handle high temperatures, it can be prone to thermal shock if exposed to sudden temperature changes. This makes it essential to avoid moving a hot Pyrex dish directly to a cold surface.
Non-stick coatings
Roasting tins with non-stick coatings are designed for convenience. The non-stick surface makes cleaning up a breeze and prevents food from sticking, which is particularly useful for delicate dishes.
These tins are typically made from aluminium or steel with a non-stick coating applied to the surface. However, you should take care as non-stick coatings can wear off over time, especially if exposed to high temperatures or scratched by metal utensils.
Circulon top tip: prefer using metal utensils when cooking? Discover our Scratch Defense Cookware collection – with a longer lasting non-stick, this range is designed to be metal utensil safe.
Shape and size
The shape and size of your roasting tin can impact the results of your cooking. The best size roasting tin will depend on what it is you want to cook. As a general rule, aim for approximately 5 cm of room between your food and the edge of the tin to allow plenty of space for dripping.
Larger tins are ideal for roasting whole birds, large cuts of meat, and for meals meant to feed a larger number of people. On the other hand, smaller tins are suitable for everyday use and smaller portions. Weigh up how you intend to use your roasting tin, and size accordingly.
The shape can also influence how heat is distributed and how easily you can manage the food. Oval tins are great for poultry as the shape of the tin compliments the shape of the animal. Alternatively, rectangular tins offer more space for vegetables and sides, and may be more practical for space distribution.
Circulon top tip: whatever size you choose, make sure your roasting pan fits comfortably in your oven!
Weight and Handling
Consider the weight of the roasting tin, especially when it's loaded with food. You might be surprised just how much extra weight you can add to those tins when filled up, and the last thing you want when preparing a delicious meal is accidental butterfingers.
Heavier materials like cast iron will add considerable weight, however they offset this downside by providing excellent heat retention and distribution, meaning your food stays hot throughout for longer.
Lighter materials like aluminium are much easier to manoeuvre around your kitchen, but may not offer the same level of heat distribution, meaning that you need to be more careful with your timings.
Versatility
Did you know that some roasting tins can be used on the hob? It’s true, and while it certainly doesn’t apply to all roasting tins – please check in the product description before trying – it is a particularly useful feature for browning meat before roasting or making gravy directly in the tin.
Need to kit out the rest of your kitchen, or want to treat a loved one? Check out our Ultimate Kitchenware Gift Guide for more tips and advice.
How to make the best roast?
Master the art of roasting with these six simple steps, designed to make cooking for the whole family a breeze!
Preheat your oven
The secret to a perfect roast starts with a well-preheated oven. Give it about 20 minutes to reach the desired temperature, typically at least 150 °C. Preheating ensures that the oven's heat is evenly distributed, so your ingredients cook uniformly.
Circulon top tip: skipping this step can lead to uneven cooking, with some parts of the meat undercooked while others are overdone.
Prepare the ingredients
Preparation is key to achieving that perfect roast. Proper preparation ensures even roasting and enhances the flavour and texture of your ingredients – perfect to really impress your guests. Below, we’ve picked out some of our best advice to help you out…
- Cut vegetables into even pieces and toss them generously in oil and seasoning. Spread them out in the tin to avoid steaming, which can happen if they’re piled on top of each other.
- For chicken or fish, place it skin side up to get a beautifully crispy finish. Season it well and place it on a bed of vegetables or herbs to infuse flavour and prevent sticking.
- For a whole turkey, consider brining it beforehand to ensure moist, flavourful meat. You should also make sure to tie the legs together with kitchen twine for even cooking.
- When roasting fruits, such as apples or pears, core them and stuff them with a mixture of spices, nuts, or dried fruits to enhance their natural sweetness.
Season the roast
Seasoning and basting are key to a flavour-packed roast. Massage your meat or veggies with your favourite spices and herbs before placing them in the oven. This initial seasoning layer infuses the food with flavour as it cooks.
During the roast, baste meat regularly with its own juices or a prepared marinade to keep everything moist and delicious. This continuous flavour infusion keeps the meat tender and enhances its overall taste.
Cook low-and-slow
Roasting is all about slow, gentle cooking. Don’t rush the process, let your dish cook at a low temperature to allow the flavours to develop fully.
Slow cooking allows tougher cuts of meat to become tender and succulent. As it nears completion, briefly turn up the heat to create a beautiful, flavourful crust on the outside, enhancing the dish's overall flavour and adding a pleasing texture contrast.
Test the temperature
To make sure your roast is perfectly done, use a cooking thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert it into the thickest part of the meat, away from bone or fat, to get an accurate reading.
If you don’t have a thermometer, use a fork. If it goes in easily and twists off a forkful of meat, you're ready to serve. Testing the temperature ensures that your meat is cooked to the right degree, making your roast both safe and delicious to eat.
Circulon top tip: for chicken, another useful tip if you don’t have a thermometer to hand is to insert a knife into the thickest part of the thigh and check there is no pink left – and that any cooking juices are running clear.
Following these steps will take the guesswork out of a great roast, and should put you well on the way to creating delightful dishes every time.
Roasting tin tips and tricks
Like any new purchase, there comes a time when in the possession of a roasting tin where questions start to arise. It’s understandable. You want the best out of your roasting tin. Luckily, we’ve pulled together a list of some of the most-asked questions, and our top tips:
Should I cover my roasting tin?
Covering your roasting tin will depend entirely upon the type of food being roasted, or the recipe being followed.
Foods with high fat content, such as duck, generally don’t need to be covered as the juices from the fat will moisten the meal.
Lean cuts of meat, or vegetables will benefit from being covered during a long roast, as the condensation formed from being covered will help to retain juices and soften everything up.
How should I clean a roasting tin?
If you want to properly clean your roasting tin, you will need to think about what material it’s made from. Different materials will need different cleaning methods. So let’s run through them:
- Cast iron: soak your roasting tin in warm water, and scrub with a stiff brush. Avoid using soap as it can wear away the seasoning that provides the non-stick properties to your tin. Once washed, dry the tin thoroughly and apply a thin layer of oil to prevent rust.
- Stainless steel: for stainless steel roasting tins, you will want to soak the tin in warm, soapy water. This will help to loosen any stuck-on food, making the cleaning process easier. To get rid of the rest, use a non-abrasive scrubber to clean. Once complete, rinse the tin, and dry thoroughly.
- Non-stick: for those non-stick roasting tins, clean the tin with a soft sponge and mild dish soap. It is very important to avoid scratching the surface of your tin, so don’t use metal utensils or stiff brushes. For any stubborn bits of stuck food, soak the tin in hot water for a few minutes.
How do I season a roasting tin?
When we talk about seasoning a roasting tin, we’re not talking about adding spice or flavour. Instead, this is a process that performs a crucial maintenance task for cast iron or carbon steel cookware. Seasoning creates a protective layer that enhances durability and non-stick properties, which in turn makes it easier to clean.
To season your roasting tin, coat it with a thin layer of oil and bake it in the oven. This process forms a barrier that prevents rust and improves the tin’s performance. Regular seasoning not only extends the lifespan of your roasting tin but also ensures it remains a reliable kitchen essential, saving you from frequent replacements.
Seasoning isn’t necessary on all roasting tins, so it is wise to check what type of material your roasting tin is made from first. Materials like stainless steel generally do not need seasoning, whereas cast iron roasting tins will need it to maintain their integrity and non-stick surface.
How should I store my roasting tin?
Proper storage of your roasting tin is crucial to maintain its condition, and extend its lifespan. Over time, rust, scratches, and other damage can occur if stored incorrectly.
To prevent rust, always thoroughly clean and dry your roasting tins, and store in a dry place free from moisture.
To minimise the risk of damage, consider using some organised storage solutions to give your pots and pans the space they need. Cabinet dividers or hanging racks are excellent solutions to keep your tins off the worktop, or buried under other cookware in cramped cabinets.
Top picks for the best roasting tins
If all this talk of roasting tins has got your mouth watering, worry not, because we’ve selected our top picks for the best roasting tins available…
Ultimum Roasting Tray
If you want the best non-stick roasting pan, the Circulon Ultimum Roasting Tray is the answer. Crafted from durable heavy-gauge steel, this tray guarantees consistent cooking results time and time again.
Its non-stick surface ensures that food releases easily, making both the cooking and clean-up process hassle-free. The high sides contain juices and prevent spills, while the wide handles offer a secure grip for safe and easy transport from the oven to the table.
Ideal for roasting meats, baking vegetables, or even making casseroles, this versatile tray is a must-have for any kitchen.
Ultimum Roasting Tray with Rack
The Circulon Ultimum Roasting Tray with Rack is a practical kitchen essential. Crafted from heavy-gauge steel, this roasting tray ensures even heat distribution, resulting in perfectly roasted meats and vegetables every time.
This roasting tray with a rack offers both convenience and efficiency. The included non-stick rack elevates your food, allowing fat to drip away for healthier cooking and making it easy to achieve crisp, delicious results. The high sides of the tray prevent splatters, keeping your oven clean and making clean-up a breeze.
Ready for a new roasting tin?
A good roasting tin is an investment that pays off with delicious, perfectly cooked meals. So what are you waiting for?
Buy direct from Circulon to get the UK’s best range of premium roasting tins. Spread the cost of your purchase over three, interest-free payments with Klarna.
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For more cookware and bakeware buying guides, information and advice, explore the Circulon blog…
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