Recipes - Pans & Pots

Many people think a cooking pan is just a pan, but, when purchasing kitchen pans, there are certain things to consider. Think about exactly what you will be cooking and for how many people.

This will help you determine if it would be better to purchase individual pans or a pan set. If you are single and not planning on cooking for many people, buying individual pans may be the best way to go. Most pan sets include at least 10 different pans but if you have no need for all those, they will just clutter up your kitchen. If you are living in a small home, you may not even have storage space for all those pans.

Economic cookware

However, for singles who love to entertain and cook for friends and family, buying a pan set will be more economical in the end. Most young brides like to have a complete set of pans, as they are often not sure what they will be cooking. Having a complete set gives you piece of mind in knowing that no matter what you decide to cook, you have the proper pan for it.

How to decide on you pans

You can purchase smaller sets that include as few as seven pieces. Remember that the lids count, so the set will probably contain something like a Dutch oven with lid, 1.75 and 1.25 saucepans with lids and a small frying pan. The reasonably priced sets can be purchased for as little as $25. However, if you are looking for better quality set, you can expect to pay at least twice as much. The larger sets usually include 10 pieces or more. This may include something like two saucepans (1- and 2-quarts), a 3-quart covered sauté pan, a 6-quart covered stockpot, two omelette pans, and four lids.

The price of pans

Individual pans and sets both vary in price for several reasons. An individual pan’s price may be determined by the size and pan set’s price may be determined by the number of pieces in the set, but the primary factor in the cost of both is quality. Once you decide if you want to buy individual pans or a set, then you need to look at different attributes of the pans. Avoid thin-bottomed pans as they do not heat evenly and food will often scorch. In addition, the bottoms are more likely to dent and warp over time. To tell if the pan has a thin or thick bottom, tap on it with your knuckles. If you hear a thud sound, it has a thick bottom. Make sure the handles are strong and heatproof. You do not want pans with weak handles that can break and spill hot food all over you. You will be able to choose among aluminum, iron, Teflon, and stainless steel for the pan surface. Many consider stainless steel to be the best material for pans as it is easy to clean, but some prefer aluminum pans because they are lighter.

Quality pots & pans

If you can afford it, better quality pans will last longer and provide better cooking surfaces. If you cannot afford to pay the price for a large quality set (usually starting at $150), you can always buy a smaller set and add individual pieces later.