How to choose a frying pan?

How does the quality of a frying pan affect cooking?

A quality frying pan allows you to heat foods evenly, preventing them from burning or uneven cooking. By choosing a good frying pan, you can significantly reduce the use of oil, which has a positive effect on your health. In addition, quality cookware lasts longer, without losing its properties even after many years of use.

The presence of a non-stick coating on a frying pan makes the cooking process easier and more enjoyable. Such frying pans are ideal for cooking dishes with a minimum amount of oil. However, it is worth paying attention to the safety of the coating to avoid harmful substances in food. All Krauff frying pans are made without PFOA, lead and cadmium, and therefore are absolutely safe for health.

Additionally, pans with thick walls and bottoms retain heat better, which contributes to more even cooking. Some models have special heat indicators that tell you when the pan is hot enough to start cooking.

Types of frying pans and their purpose

Universal frying pan

This is a classic option that is suitable for cooking most dishes. Universal frying pans come in different diameters, from 20 to 32 cm, which allows you to choose the optimal size according to the number of people in the family.

Wok pan

Perfect for cooking Asian cuisine. Thanks to its high walls and rounded shape, foods are quickly fried at high temperatures. It is convenient to cook dishes with a large amount of vegetables, meat and spices in such a pan. The wok can have a flat or rounded bottom, which determines its compatibility with certain types of stoves.

Grill pan

Grill pans have a grooved surface that imitates a grill grate. This allows you to cook meat, fish and vegetables with a minimum amount of oil, creating a crispy crust and emphasizing the natural taste of the products. Grill pans can be made of cast iron or aluminum and have a non-stick coating.

Deep frying pan

Ideal for stewing, making sauces and dishes that require prolonged heating. Deep frying pans are often used for cooking pilaf, stews and even casseroles. They can have a non-stick coating or be made of cast iron, which ensures even heat distribution.

Pancake pan

A pancake pan has low sides and a smooth surface, making it easy to flip thin pancakes and fritters. Thanks to even heating and a non-stick coating, the dough does not stick, and the pastries turn out tender and golden brown. Such pans can be made of aluminum, cast iron or steel, and some models have a thickened bottom for better heat distribution.

Frying pan with lid

Although the lid can be selected separately for any pan, purchasing the set immediately ensures perfect compatibility. Thanks to the lid, dishes remain juicy and rich in flavor, which is especially important when cooking meat, vegetable stews and sauces.

Set of frying pans

A set of frying pans with lids allows you to have several options for different needs. This is convenient for large families or for those who like to experiment in the kitchen. The set can include a universal, deep and grill pan, which allows you to cook any dishes with maximum comfort.

Types of frying pans: pros and cons of materials

Cast iron frying pans

Cast iron skillets are popular for their durability and ability to heat evenly. They are ideal for cooking meat, vegetables, and baking in the oven.

Pros:

• They retain and distribute heat well.

• Long-lasting, forming a natural non-stick coating on the pan .

• Can be used in the oven.

• They get better over time: the more you use them, the better they function.

Cons:

• Heavy.

• They require special care to avoid rust.

• Cannot be washed in the dishwasher.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel pans are often used by professional chefs because of their scratch resistance and durability.

Pros:

• Resistant to corrosion and mechanical damage.

• Does not affect the taste of products.

• Durable and strong.

Cons:

• Without a non-stick coating on the pan, food can stick.

• They require careful care to maintain their shine.

• It is often necessary to use more oil when cooking.

Aluminum frying pans

Aluminum pans conduct heat well and heat up quickly, which reduces cooking time.

Pros:

• Easy.

• Heats up quickly.

• Affordable.

Cons:

• Deform at high temperatures.

• Without coating, they can interact with products.

• Cannot be used with acidic products as oxidation is possible.

Ceramic frying pans

Ceramic pans are known for their environmental friendliness and safety, as they do not contain toxic substances.

Pros:

• Environmentally friendly, safe for health.

• Non-stick properties allow you to cook with minimal fat.

• They do not emit harmful substances even at high temperatures.

Cons:

• Sensitive to bumps and scratches.

• The coating may wear out over time.

• Metal spatulas cannot be used.

Titanium frying pans

Titanium pans are known for their durability, strength, and health safety.

Pros:

• Extremely strong and durable.

• Does not contain harmful substances.

• They have an excellent non-stick coating.

• Easy to care for.

Cons:

• High price.

• Not all models are suitable for induction hobs.

Frying pans with removable handles: advantages and features

Frying pans with removable handles are gaining popularity due to their versatility and compactness. They are ideal for use in the oven, as well as for convenient storage. They are also easy to transport, making them a great option for travel and camping.

Main advantages:

• Convenient storage – takes up less space in the kitchen.

• Versatility – can be used not only on the stove, but also in the oven.

• Easy to care for – the removable handle can be conveniently washed separately.

• Compatible with various types of stoves – suitable for gas, electric and induction stoves.

However, it is important to pay attention to the quality of the handle attachment - it must be reliable and wear-resistant. The handle must be easy to fix and not wobble to avoid accidental burns or overturning of the pan.

Pay attention to the Genius collection - dishes with removable handles.

How to care for a non-stick frying pan?

Non-stick pans require delicate care, as their coating can be damaged if used incorrectly. Following simple rules will help extend their lifespan and maintain their non-stick properties.

What to do with a new frying pan before using it for the first time?

Before using the non-stick frying pan for the first time :

1. Wash it thoroughly with warm water and a mild detergent.

2. Wipe dry with a soft towel .

3. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the inner surface.

4. Heat the pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, then let it cool and wipe with a clean cloth.

This procedure helps activate the non-stick coating and ensure its maximum effectiveness.

How to quickly clean a frying pan?

After cooking, it is best to wash the pan immediately , before the residue has dried. To do this:

• Use warm water, a soft sponge and a small amount of detergent.

• Avoid abrasive cleaners, metal brushes, and hard sponges to avoid damaging the coating.

• If the food is slightly burnt, fill the pan with warm water for 10-15 minutes so that the residue can be easily washed off without using rough brushes.

Why does food stick to the pan?

If food has started to stick to the pan, it could be caused by several factors:

1. Worn non-stick coating – over time, the coating can lose its properties. If this happens, it is better to replace the pan.

2. Poor quality coating – some cheap pans have an unstable coating that quickly gets damaged.

3. Not enough oil – even on a non-stick pan, it is worth adding a small amount of oil for the best effect.

4. Cooking in a cold pan – allow the pan to heat up before adding ingredients.

The choice of frying pan depends on your culinary needs, the type of stove and the materials used. High-quality cookware will help you prepare delicious and healthy dishes, saving time and preserving the beneficial properties of the products.