The frying pan is one of the basic elements of kitchen equipment. Today there is a fairly large selection on the market: cast iron and aluminum, light and heavy, with or without coating. They are distinguished by functionality, shape, material, type of coating. Such a wide range of pans can puzzle anyone. To find one that will satisfy the needs of the hostess, you need to explore the entire range.
Advantages and disadvantages
The secret of the best chefs is quality products from which they prepare delicious dishes, as well as very good and high-quality kitchen equipment. It is not necessary to be a culinary master to cook spectacular and tasty dishes. You just need to stock up on a good frying pan. Tefal pans are made from high quality materials using unique technologies. Different types of surface coating have their positive and negative sides.
Teflon coating
Benefits are as follows:
- non-stick coating that protects the dish from burning;
- easy to clean;
- allows you to fry on a small amount of fat (oil);
- it warms up quickly;
- small weight;
- affordability;
- the pan (depending on the model) is adapted for use on various types of stoves, including induction ones.
It is worth noting such disadvantages as:
- Teflon is scratch and abrasion resistant;
- for the production of Teflon are used compounds that are potentially harmful to our health;
- requires the use of appropriate accessories made of silicone or nylon;
- do not overheat;
- not suitable for washing in a dishwasher, which may damage the coating.
Ceramic coating
Benefits manifest as follows:
- smooth surface;
- allows you to fry on a small amount of oil;
- tolerates scratches;
- distributes heat evenly;
- easy to clean;
- small weight;
- pan available at a price.
The following disadvantages should be noted:
- requires the use of wooden or silicone kitchen utensils;
- the coating is not completely scratch resistant;
- over time, the white coating may turn black;
- Not suitable for dishwasher.
Cast-iron pan
Need to emphasize advantages such as:
- has a long shelf life;
- it warms up evenly;
- keeps warm for a long time;
- made from natural materials that are safe for health;
- emphasizes the taste of dishes;
- suitable for use in the oven;
- There are models adapted for use on an induction cooker.
It is worth noting such disadvantages as:
- very heavy - uncomfortable to carry;
- high price;
- required to ignite before first use;
- most models are not dishwasher safe;
- no non-stick coating means you need to use more fat;
- Not all models can be used on an induction cooker.
Steel pan
It is worth noting advantages such as:
- scratch, dent and rust resistant;
- some models are coated with non-stick coating;
- in the process of use acquires the best non-stick properties;
- evenly transfers the accumulated heat;
- safe for health - not covered by harmful substances;
- has a thick, three-layer bottom;
- Can be washed in the dishwasher;
- it is adapted for use on different types of plates, including on induction;
- Some steel models can be used in the oven.
The disadvantages are as follows:
- quite heavy - difficult to bear;
- heats up slowly;
- requires proper care;
- requires more oil.
Ceramic pan
Its benefits manifest as follows:
- elegant look, modern design;
- the coating reinforced with granite particles perfectly protects against damage;
- non-stick coating - the possibility of frying on a small amount of fat;
- easy to clean;
- safe for health and the environment;
- adapted for use on different types of plates;
- Some models are suitable for the oven.
It should be noted such disadvantages as:
- not suitable for dishwasher;
- can be quite heavy.
Titanium coating
The advantages of the pan manifest as follows:
- has non-stick properties - you can practically fry without fat;
- increased resistance to damage and scratches;
- resistant to high temperatures;
- distributes heat well;
- safe for health;
- does not change the taste of ready meals;
- easy to clean;
- adapted for various types of stoves - gas, electric, ceramic and induction;
- suitable for frying and stewing dishes;
- Can be washed in the dishwasher.
The disadvantages include a rather high price.
Each Tefal pan has a unique Thermo-Spot heat indicator that turns red when the pan warms up to +200 degrees (the optimum temperature for cooking). With Thermo-Spot there is no risk of overheating or insufficient heating. Thermo-Spot is based on a host of technologies, the main one of which is the consistent application of layers, namely:
- Scratch, chemical and high temperature resistant polytetrafluoroethylene;
- four layers of different compounds;
- a layer that changes color when heated.
Kinds
Teflon coated frying pans are the most popular. On the market, they are represented in a large assortment: classic non-stick, pancake, wok, models with a removable handle, for the oven, a grill. It is worth considering the most popular types.
- Teflon It is a durable material, but it does not tolerate scratches. Therefore, when buying a Teflon pan, you should purchase a silicone or wooden kitchen spatula. These pans do not require thorough washing or cleaning. Simply wipe it with a paper towel to remove food residue. It is suitable for frying meat, fish, vegetables and making pies.
Important! The pancake pan is very popular (or the crepe maker, as it is also called). It allows you to effortlessly please the family with delicious and neat pancakes.
- Ceramic Pans The coating consists of minerals and clay, which are fired at high temperatures. They can be heated to + 400 ° С and frozen to -20 ° С. The cookware heats evenly and keeps food warm for longer. Ceramic frying pans are designed for frequent and intensive use. However, it is very important not to expose the ceramic coating to rapid temperature changes, as it may be damaged. The biggest advantage of ceramic pans is that they are safe for health and the environment - no harmful substances are released during frying. This is an advantage over frying pans with teflon coating. Ceramic coating is safe for health - suitable for people with allergies and children.
- Cast iron frying pans very durable. They have no coating and therefore scratches do not affect the quality of the pan. They are not covered with any material that can release harmful substances when frying dishes. Since they are made only from natural materials without chemical agents, they will emphasize the exquisite taste of the prepared dish. Meat, vegetable stews, or other dishes cooked in such a frying pan will taste better.
The undeniable advantage of a cast iron pan is the fact that it conducts heat well, that is, it heats up evenly and keeps the temperature of the food longer.
In addition, cast iron is resistant to high temperatures, so these pans can be used not only on the stove, but also in the oven. Cast iron, of course, has its advantages, but also has its drawbacks. Cast iron pans that are not coated with any coating require the use of more fat than, for example, teflon or granite pans. They are quite heavy and expensive. Natural material is an advantage, but it can not be washed in a dishwasher. They are ideal for cooking fried, stews and baking.
- Stainless steel frying pans are durable. They can be cleaned with a metal sponge, while they remain unchanged, without a single scratch. Such a pan has a three-layer bottom, which conducts heat very well. Steel pans are most often used in gastronomy and when frying meat.
- Titanium Pans - this is definitely the choice for long-term use. Titanium coating combines the advantages of Teflon and cast iron. They also wash in the dishwasher. Increased resistance to damage allows you to use metal utensils when cooking dishes on a titanium pan, without fear of scratches on the surface. Maintenance and cleaning of titanium coated pans is extremely simple. They are suitable for frying and stewing meat, fish, vegetable dishes, for making pies.
Important! Today, the market offers a rather large range of pans, which differ not only in the type of coating, but also in size, depth, and wall thickness. They can also be sold with or without a cover.
Four main components of the pan
To create frying pans for manufacturers need to answer such basic questions as:
- what will be the case material
- what basis to use;
- what non-stick coating to apply;
- what should be the shape and material of the handle.
Body materials
The pans are made of different materials, each of which has its own advantages. It is worth paying attention to the following features of the coating:
- when using stainless steel get high resistance to corrosion and scratches, durability; It may have a polished or matte finish;
- aluminum gives four times better heat distribution than stainless steel, holds 93% of heat; it has anti-corrosion resistance, is light and easy to clean;
- cast aluminum pans have excellent heat transfer and thermal conductivity; They are perfect for the oven;
- solid anodized pans distribute heat evenly and quickly; they are strong and durable, with natural non-stick properties.
Base of the pan
There are several different types of base for pans. Each of them has unique properties and is suitable for use on different types of plates. The weight of the pan and the thickness of its bottom are the key factors of how easy and convenient it will be to use the pan, as well as how efficiently it will cook.
- Stamped stainless steel base. This base is presented on a thick aluminum base, which contributes to optimal heat distribution. It is suitable for all sources of heat and provides maximum durability.
- Base Armatel. Stainless steel anti-corrosion disk for durability. It contributes to the excellent distribution of heat and is suitable for all types of plates, except induction.
- Thermally conductive base. This base is equipped with anti-abrasive copper blotches for optimum heat distribution. It is suitable for all plates, except induction.
- Durabase This technology contributes to the efficient distribution of heat, suitable for gas stoves.
Internal coating
Because cooking without oil is an integral part of a healthy diet, the inside of the pan is one of its most important features. Tefal offers a wide range of effective non-stick coatings with a lifetime warranty.
- Coverage Resist. It consists of four layers: a bonding layer, an anti-abrasive layer, a scratch-resistant top coat and a non-stick finishing layer that provides easy cleaning.
- Prometal Pro. It is a six-layer coating, has a new solid ceramic base for high scratch resistance, a primer layer that is resistant to the use of metal utensils, a bonding layer, an intermediate layer, a scratch-resistant top coat and an anti-burn mineral top layer. with sapphire stones for extra strength.
- Longlide coating. It consists of four layers: a binder, anti-abrasive, top with anti-scratch and non-stick topcoat for easy cleaning.
Frying pan handle
Handles are of great importance for the versatility of the pan. For example, some allow you to cook on the stove and then in the oven. Comfort is key when buying a pan. Some pens have silicone inserts for added convenience. Handles for pans are made from materials such as:
- stainless steel - stainless steel handles are safe for use in the oven at temperatures up to +260 degrees;
- bakelite - Bakelite or molded plastic handles are safe when cooking in the oven, with temperatures up to +180 degrees.
There are three ways of attaching the handles to the pan body, such as:
- handles can be riveted - they are riveted to the body for extra strength, ease of use and durability;
- Spot welding - this method of attachment allows you to attach a handle to the base;
- screw fastening - standard knobs are attached to the body with bolts.
Top models
Tefal non-stick frying pans have long been popular with chefs and confidently take first place in various ratings.
Jamie Oliver Hard Anodised
The Hard Anodised series, developed by renowned chef Jamie Oliver and Tefal, offers professional quality cooking. The combination of Thermo-Spot and the most modern non-stick coating Tefal ensures that during the cooking process any cook will get the most out of cooking. The pans have a solid, thickened base with a comfortable handle that provides the most comfortable position in the hand. Hard Anodised is equipped with a stamped stainless steel base. This base is applied on a thick aluminum base that optimally distributes heat.
It is suitable for all types of plates, has a maximum service life.
This series uses a new generation of non-stick coatings Tefal Prometal Pro. It improves the performance and durability of the pan, and also allows you to cook without the use of oil. The six-speed non-stick coating is enhanced by minerals with sapphire stones and is so durable that it can withstand the use of metal utensils without damaging the surface. The combination of Thermo-Spot and Prometal Pro provides high performance and full cooking control.
Appearance: hard, anodized body, resistant to abrasion and corrosion, as well as non-stick coating for easy cleaning. The handle is made of stainless steel and with soft inserts. It withstands heating up to +260 degrees.
The frying pans from the Hard Anodised series can be washed in a dishwasher, which simplifies cleaning.
Preference Series
Pans from this series - a combination of stylish and professional appearance with excellent performance. Frying pans Preference is a choice for gourmets.The range includes pans of different sizes. The Preference product range uses a stamped stainless steel base on a thick aluminum base that optimally distributes heat. It is suitable for all types of plates.
In Preference frying pans, Prometal Pro, the new generation of Tefal non-stick coatings, is used. It improves the performance and durability of the pan, and also allows you to cook without the use of oil.
The six-layer non-stick coating is enhanced by minerals with sapphire stones and is so durable that it can withstand the use of metal spoons and paddles. As in all other Tefal pans, in the Preference series there is a Thermo-Spot thermal indicator. The combination of Thermo0Spot and Prometal Pro provides high performance and full cooking control without the use of oil. The outer surface of the pan is PTFE, which makes cleaning easy. The bakelite handles of the pan do not heat up; they withstand heating in the oven to +180 degrees. Pans from the series Preference can be washed in the dishwasher.
Evidence Series
The frying pan has a heat-conducting base with copper dots that prevent abrasion, as well as for excellent heat distribution. It is suitable for all heat sources, except induction. Evidence pans feature Expert Pro Interior's non-stick coating, a six-layer improved composition combining a new solid ceramic base that acts as a strong protective layer. They are very resistant to scratches and abrasion.
This series was created so that you can use metal accessories when cooking in a pan.
The combination of six layers provides high performance and ease of cleaning. The Evidence series also has a Thermo-Spot temperature indicator. The external surface of the pan is coated with enamel with a wear-resistant coating for extra strength and easy cleaning. Bakelite handles of the pan with polished stainless steel inserts do not heat up; they withstand heating in the oven to +180 degrees. Evidence frying pans can be washed in the dishwasher.
Enjoy series
The Enjoy series uses Durabase technology to promote efficient heat distribution. These pans are suitable for gas stoves. The Enjoy line has a non-stick Longlide coating. - the four-layer internal covering developed for ensuring durable work. As in all Tefal pans, in the range of Enjoy there is a Thermo-Spot thermal indicator. A non-stick coating is applied to the outside of the pan for easy cleaning. The bakelite handles of the pan do not heat up; they withstand heating in the oven to +180 degrees. Frying pans series Enjoy can be washed in the dishwasher.
Ideal Series
It is ideal for busy people who need to quickly cook a small amount of food. One Egg Wonder and Mini Grill Pan fry pans allow you to cook one egg, one serving of steak or chicken breast. The Durabase technology used to create this line provides efficient heat distribution and is suitable for gas stoves. The Ideal series has a non-stick coating Resist Plus - a four-layer coating designed to increase the life of the pan. The Thermo-Spot Temperature Indicator will notify you when the pan is ready for use. PTFE coated outside of the pan for easy cleaning. The fake pan's bakelite knobs remain cold even when heated in an oven to +180 degrees. Pans Ideal series can be washed in the dishwasher.
Supreme Gusto Series
In this product line, the manufacturer has replaced cast iron with cast aluminum. Such a metal gives a uniform distribution of heat over the surface of the pan, which gives ergonomics, reliability, durability and functionality to the product. Thick and high side walls prevent rapid cooling and allow you to cook a variety of dishes. In a frying pan, you can both fry or "fry", which gives more opportunities for culinary creativity. The pans are also equipped with Thermo-Spot heat indicators that prevent overheating of the dish.
Maintaining optimum cooking temperature is an opportunity to get the perfect quality of food.
Set of pans Tefal Ingenio
This is a unique set of pans with non-stick titanium coating.Thanks to the removable handles, the pans from this set are ideal for both frying and baking in the oven. The outer walls of the pan are covered with enamel. They are dishwasher safe.
Tefal Aroma Series
This is an Tefal frying pan with a non-stick coating. The advantage of this series is the increased thickness of the bottom - 25% thicker than the previous series of pans. This allows you to keep cooked food longer warm. The use of titanium coating ensures scratch protection and complete safety when using metal accessories. This series is suitable for all plates. It can be washed in dishwashers.
How to choose?
A frying pan is a kitchen appliance, without which it is impossible to imagine the preparation of many dishes. Using the pan fry, stew and bake at least several times a week. For this reason, usually in each kitchen there is not one, but several pans intended for different types of cooking. At first glance, buying a new frying pan is not a difficult task.
However, the choice of a particular model or kit is not so simple. Manufacturers constantly present new types of pans, improve quality and functionality.
When buying a pan, it is advisable to keep in mind the following:
- the most important aspect is the material used to make the product (aluminum, steel, ceramic, or cast iron);
- it is necessary to clearly define the purposes for which the frying pan is purchased: frying, stewing, cooking on the grill or in the oven;
- When buying a frying pan, it is necessary to pay attention to its size - it should be adapted to the needs as much as possible and correspond to the size of the burner; the best option would be to buy a set of three or four pans to meet the various needs of cooking;
- You should also pay attention to the type of coating - these materials must be non-stick, as well as guarantee safety for health;
- An important factor is the thickness of the bottom of the pan - the thicker it is, the more evenly the pan is heated and less subjected to deformations;
- the presence or absence of a lid also affects the choice of model of the pan; if the cap comes in a set - this is a significant plus; the use of the lid helps to keep the stove clean, as well as reduce the time of cooking;
- the presence of a removable handle can be an advantage over fixed handles, as they allow you to use the pan not only on the stove, but also in the oven, and also significantly save space in the kitchen;
- It is important to pay attention - for which plates the chosen pan is intended, not all pans can be suitable for cooking on an induction stove;
- You should pay attention to the issue of cleaning the pan - taking care of it and washing should not take too much time; ideal if the pan can be washed in a dishwasher.
Operation Tips
When using a pan, it is necessary to take into account not only the material from which it is made, the durability and appearance, but also the features of its functional purpose and use during operation. The following tips should be followed:
- when using for the first time, rinse the pan using a sponge with detergent solution and dry;
- wipe the bottom of the pan with vegetable oil;
- It is better to use wooden or plastic accessories for mixing products while cooking;
- do not heat dishes without food or water;
- if the handles are made of plastic - do not put in the oven;
- it is advisable to cook on low heat to lengthen the life of the pan;
- After use, wait until the pan cools down by itself, without forced cooling, then wash it with a sponge moistened with water or a washing solution.
For different types of dishes and methods of preparation, there are now special types of pans, the operation of which may be slightly different. The main ones are presented below.
The grill pan is great for grilling many types of meat, fish and vegetables. The corrugated bottom of the pan allows you to reduce the amount of fat used, making the cooked meal less calorie, easier to digest, tasty and healthy. In addition, the strips from the grooved bottom give the dish more palatability and refinement. Grill pan is an indispensable element of kitchen equipment for all lovers of barbecue. On such a pan, you can fry at any time of the year and in all weather conditions. Operation is as follows:
- lubricate the bottom of the pan with a brush with oil;
- heat the pan;
- lay out products and turn down the heat;
- periodically turn the meat with vegetables;
- After use, wash the dishes and towel dry.
Frying pan for frying eggs and pancakes allows you to cook the perfect fried eggs, omelets, pancakes. She has special grooves, thanks to which all pancakes are perfectly flat and equally fried. Such a pan allows you to prepare a nutritious breakfast for the whole family. You can wash it with a sponge moistened with soapy water.
Wok - frying pan for Asian dishes. She will delight all lovers of Asian cuisine. It has a specially narrowed bottom, which allows you to cook healthy and flavorful dishes with vegetables, rice and meat. The pan shape ensures healthy frying without adding fat. The wok can be made of steel, ceramic or cast iron. The lid significantly reduces the time of frying and stewing dishes in the pan.
When you buy a frying pan, you should pay attention to whether it is suitable for a particular stove or oven. Not all types are suitable for cooking on an induction cooker. For it is to choose a special pan with a ferromagnetic bottom. But for traditional gas or electric stoves there is a greater choice.
Although today more and more produced dishes, adapted for use on different types of plates at the same time.
Customer Reviews
According to customer reviews, the Tefal frying pan is a convenient and easy-to-care kitchenware, an indispensable tool in every kitchen. Nevertheless, customer reviews are divided into positive and negative, which is quite logical. The advantages noted by the majority of Tefal pan holders are as follows:
- using a minimum of oil when cooking or without it at all; thanks to the non-stick coating, the dish does not stick to the bottom of the pan;
- heats up faster compared to other types of pans;
- ease of use;
- the heat indicator in the middle of the bottom changes color when the pan is hot enough, which greatly simplifies the process of cooking;
- the shape of the handle is ergonomic, it is easy to hold and work with it while cooking;
- a large selection of models of pans: in size, type of coating;
- relatively affordable price;
- can and fry and stew;
- there are models with removable handles that allows you to cook in the oven;
- food perfectly roasted and forms a golden crust;
- simple and easy care;
- Most models are suitable for use on all types of stoves, including induction.
The negative features noted by some users are as follows:
- after 2–3 months of use, the non-stick coating of the pan begins to swell and peel off; when the non-stick coating is damaged, potentially dangerous substances are released into the food;
- non-stick coating is not resistant to scratches and damage;
- scratches appear throughout the whole body of the pan, which impairs its appearance;
- the high price of pans;
- the walls of the pan are very thin;
- susceptible to deformation (the shape of the bottom is bent, a convexity of the center of the pan appears);
- do not allow the pan to overheat, as its non-stick qualities deteriorate;
- durability does not meet the stated warranty (2 years), it is much less: from two months to one year;
- when used on induction cookers, they slowly reach the boiling point, compared to other brands;
- require excessive care and care.
See the video below for the non-stick Tefal pan coating test.