A frying pan is a kitchen tool used primarily for frying, but also for sautéing, searing, and browning. Frying pans are made from various materials, including cast iron, stainless steel, aluminium, and copper. Each material has different properties which make it suitable for different types of cooking.
Cast Iron.
Cast iron frying pans are heavy and durable and work well for high-heat cooking. They are also used for searing and browning as they can retain the heat and distribute it evenly. They are also good for cooking dishes that need a long, slow cooking time, like stews and casseroles. They require special care and maintenance, seasoning and proper storage, and are not dishwasher safe. However, with proper care, they can last a lifetime.
Stainless Steel.
Stainless steel frying pans are popular with professional chefs, but also with home cooks. They are lightweight, resistant to corrosion, and easy to clean. They are also good for high-heat cooking, searing and browning, and are safe to use on all stovetops. However, they can be expensive and do not retain heat like some other materials.
Aluminium.
Aluminium frying pans are lightweight and easy to use and are popular with home cooks. They are not expensive and widely available, and a great option if you want to buy your frying pans online. They are great for high-heat cooking and distribute heat evenly, so they are perfect for delicate dishes like omelettes and pancakes. They are safe to use on all stovetops. However, they are not as durable as other materials, can easily warp and scratch, and are not as good at retaining heat as some other materials.
Copper.
Copper frying pans are the most expensive of all, but they have many benefits. Copper is an excellent conductor of heat, so copper frying pans distribute heat evenly and quickly. They are ideal for delicate dishes like sauces and eggs. They are also safe to use on all stovetops. However, they do require special care and maintenance; they have to be regularly polished and treated to prevent tarnishing.
Anodised.
Anodized frying pans are made from aluminium treated to make them harder, smoother, and more durable. They offer fast heating and even heat distribution, so are ideal for high-heat cooking. But they are still susceptible to scratching and are not suitable for cooking delicate dishes.
Copper Core.
Copper core frying pans have a copper exterior which gives excellent heat conductivity and a stainless steel interior which makes them long-lasting and easy to clean. They are best used for cooking high-heat dishes, sauces, and eggs. But unfortunately, they are expensive and can be prone to discolouration.
Non-Stick.
Non-stick frying pans have a coating which stops food from sticking to the surface. They are good for cooking delicate foods like eggs and fish, and also if you want to cook with minimal amounts of oil. They are easy to clean and safe for use on all stovetops. However, they only have a limited lifespan, as the non-stick coating tends to wear off over time.