Building Your Frying Pan Collection
A thoughtfully assembled collection of frying pans allows you to choose the right tool for each cooking task:
Essential First Purchase#
If you can only buy one quality pan, make it a 10-inch stainless steel tri-ply frying pan. This versatile option handles the widest range of cooking techniques and ingredients.
The Core Three#
An ideal basic collection includes:
10-inch stainless steel frying pan - Your everyday workhorse
12-inch cast iron skillet - For searing, baking, and high-heat applications
8-inch non-stick pan - For eggs and delicate items while developing technique
Expanding Your Collection#
As your cooking skills develop, consider adding:
10-inch carbon steel pan - For professional-style techniques and developing natural non-stick
12-inch stainless steel frying pan - For larger family meals
Small cast iron skillet (6-8 inch) - For single portions and desserts
Investment Strategy#
Quality cookware is expensive but represents excellent long-term value. Consider:
Purchasing fewer, better pans rather than complete sets of mediocre quality
Focusing first on versatile pieces you'll use daily
Viewing quality pans as investments that will last decades or even generations
Looking for factory seconds or restaurant supply stores for value
Stay Updated with KotiChef
Subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to know about new features, lessons, recipes and tools. We'll keep you informed about everything we're cooking up.