The Basics of Pots and Pans

There are a wide variety of cooking pans to choose from. However, determining which is right for you need not be difficult. Even with the wide variety of products on the market, some of the best pans to buy are still the most basic.

When selecting cooking pans, you should look for a pan which is durable and a good conductor of heat. Although aluminum and copper pans conduct heat the best, all-copper pans tends to tarnish easily, and they can be very expensive. Some more affordable options are stainless steel pans with copper bottoms, or pans which feature aluminum clad with stainless steel. There are also stainless steel pans treated with anodization, which creates a non-corrosive surface. Cast iron pans are also well-known for heating foods evenly.

There are also a number of nonstick pans available. To find a durable nonstick pan, try to find a heavy, moderately priced pan. If you care for your nonstick pan properly, in accordance with the manufacturer's recommended instructions, you can expect a nonstick pan to last approximately three to five years.

Some of the basic and most useful pots and pans include the following:

Double boiler. A double boiler is really two pans, with one fitting inside the other. Water is placed into a bottom pan to cook the contents in the top pan gently, without scalding or burning the contents. If you do not have a double boiler, or if one is not in your budget, it is possible to create your own double boiler by placing a metal or heat-resistant glass bowl into a saucepan, as long as the smaller bowl does not touch the simmering water in the bottom pan.

Dutch oven. The dutch oven is a large, heavy pan with a lid and two handles. The dutch oven is used to make things like meats, soups, and stews.

Saucepans. Saucepans come in many different sizes, including 1 ½, 2, and 3 quarts. Most cooks find it useful to keep several different sizes on hand. The variety of saucepans available make it easy to find a quality saucepan which is durable.

Skillets. A skillet is low-handled and low-sided. Commonly referred to as frying pans, skillets come in many different styles and sizes. Skillets can be seasoned, and they can be used in the oven if the handle is wrapped in foil or a handle cover, which can be purchased at a kitchen specialty store.

If you choose a regular cast-iron skillet, you can season it to help prevent rust and corrosion. The first step in seasoning your skillet is to wash and dry the skillet thoroughly. Next, brush shortening or cooking oil over the inside surface of the pan. Heat the pan in a 350 degree oven for one hour, then cool and wipe out the skillet. Cast-iron skillets should be seasoned before the first use and then periodically after

These are the most basic pans available. Specialty pans including griddles, grill pans, omelet pans, works, and many more are available, but the basic pans above will allow you to carry out most kitchen tasks. If you select quality pots and pans and care for them properly, you can expect your pans to last a long time.