For You Chef-Types Out There . . Best Pans?

I have used non-stick pans primarily over the years. My last set I bought was Kirkland brand some years ago. They have served me well . .but you know . . the finish doesn't last forever. . . But they were thick, dense hardened aluminum . . not the cheap crap . . you know what I mean. More than anything else . . I need some good skillets as these get the most use.

I've noticed the quality very lacking in the stores, thin bottoms that will warp easily, lighter weight, softer in some cases IMO . . .and the day is over where one can buy a reasonably decent set of pots and pans for around $100 . . . So now it's an investment.

So now it appears my next set of pans may cost me considerably more. The last thing I want is to spend high $$$ on something that is poorly made, with planned obsolescence, andI will regret or hate later.

Do any of you seasoned and professional cooks,chefs, and hospitality professionals have any suggestions or particular likes on good cooking pans that will hold up and earn their keep?

I'm looking for practicality . . ease of cleaning, and of course quality . . I want them to be old friends eventually. I am not set on non-stick surfaces either . . I know where the limitations are there.

Feel free to elaborate

larsbullock2011-02-20T10:38:04Z

Favorite Answer

Want an old friend? Get a cast iron skillet. You have to learn how to season, clean, and store properly though. It's relatively easy. They get better with use and if cared for properly they get passed down from generation to generation as they develop a shinny black patina non-stick coating with use. I like teflon coated non-stick pans too, but they all go bad eventually no matter how much money you spend. I like the ones I bought from IKEA, 2 for 19.99, a small and a large. They have a nice teflon coating they're light weight, and they have an aluminum clad bottom to radiate heat evenly. I replace them every couple of years or so. They last longer if you remember not to use anything abrasive to clean them. That includes scotch pads. Just use hot water to rinse followed by a wipe with a dish cloth or paper towel.

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Tom ツ2011-02-20T18:21:20Z

For the money (for all you All Clad lovers out there) in my mind you simply cannot beat stainless steel in the home.

They are work-horses. they can be used at very high temperatures for searing and (as long as the handle is also stainless) can be used in the oven.

They maintain their beauty (for all of you who love to hang your pots and pans from the ceiling, or cook in front of an audience.

They will last you forever

Buy a set that has an aluminium core at least in the base (those that have aluminium as the core in the entire pan are better, but they cost more) and they will heat evenly (stainless does not heat evenly without a great core like aluminium or copper)

Buy a set with tempered glass lids. They will last as long as the pans and you can see what is going on in the pots.

Stainless can be non-stick if you heat your pan first and then add your fat/oil and let it heat before adding your food.

I would also recommend have a few cast iron pieces for ancillary cooking

I bought an entire set of stainless cookware on Home Shopping Network for a great price in 1997 and have never had to replace any of it for any reason. It was a budget-friendly choice that I do not regret buying in the least.

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Anonymous2011-02-20T19:00:31Z

I don't buy sets I have certain pans for certain things.....I like heavy cookware..my favorite is Le Creuset..but it is extremely expensive...I have several pieces...I also have a clay Cazuela that I absolutely love to cook in..but it isn't for everything...I have some non-stick..but you are right..they don't last for long...I have one aluminum sauce pan...but it is my least favorite...I like the heavier cookware..it heats better and I think it cooks better...I am not a chef..I am a home cook and have been cooking a long time...

And then there is my cast iron...everyone should have at least one cast iron skillet...

Good luck in your search....

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Anonymous2011-02-20T20:04:08Z

I only own one non stick pan, it's for omelets only. All my other pots and pans are stainless from a restaurant supply. You never regret buying the best.

- chef instructor.

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