Features and types of Tefal pans
The frying pan is one of the basic elements of kitchen equipment. There is a fairly large selection on the market today: cast iron and aluminum, light and heavy, coated and uncoated. They are distinguished by functionality, shape, material, type of coating. Such a wide range of pans can puzzle anyone. To find the one that will satisfy the needs of the hostess, you need to study the entire range.
Advantages and disadvantages
The secret of the best chefs is quality products, from which they prepare delicious dishes, as well as very good and high-quality kitchen equipment. You don't have to be a culinary master to prepare spectacular and delicious meals. You just need to stock up on a good frying pan. Tefal pans are made from high quality materials using unique technologies. Different types of work surface coating have their positive and negative sides.
Teflon coating
Advantages are as follows:
- non-stick coating that protects the dish from burning;
- easy to clean;
- allows you to fry in a small amount of fat (oil);
- warms up quickly;
- light weight;
- affordability;
- the pan (depending on the model) is adapted for use on various types of cookers, including induction ones.
It is worth noting such disadvantages as:
- Teflon is not resistant to scratches and abrasion;
- compounds that are potentially harmful to our health are used for the production of Teflon;
- requires the use of appropriate silicone or nylon accessories;
- do not overheat;
- not dishwasher safe, which could damage the finish.
Ceramic coating
Advantages are manifested in the following:
- smooth surface;
- allows you to fry in a small amount of oil;
- tolerates scratches well;
- distributes heat evenly;
- easy to clean;
- light weight;
- the frying pan is affordable.
The following disadvantages should be noted:
- requires the use of wood or silicone kitchen utensils;
- the coating is not completely scratch resistant;
- over time, the white coating may turn black;
- not dishwasher safe.
Cast-iron pan
Need to emphasize benefits such as:
- has a long term of use;
- warms up evenly;
- keeps warm for a long time;
- made from natural materials that are safe for health;
- emphasizes the taste of dishes;
- suitable for use in the oven;
- there are models adapted for use on an induction hob.
It is worth noting such disadvantages as:
- very heavy - uncomfortable to carry;
- high price;
- needs to be ignited before first use;
- most models are not dishwasher safe;
- no non-stick coating means more fat needs to be used;
- not all models can be used on an induction hob.
Steel frying pan
Its useful to note benefits such as:
- is resistant to scratches, dents and rust;
- some models are coated with a non-stick coating;
- in the process of use, it acquires the best non-stick properties;
- evenly gives off the accumulated heat;
- safe for health - not covered with harmful substances;
- has a thick, three-layer bottom;
- Can be washed in the dishwasher;
- adapted for use on various types of stoves, including induction;
- some steel models can be used in the oven.
The disadvantages are as follows:
- rather heavy - difficult to bear;
- heats up slowly;
- requires proper care;
- requires more oil.
Ceramic pan
Its advantages are manifested in the following:
- elegant look, modern design;
- the coating, reinforced with granite particles, perfectly protects against damage;
- non-stick coating - the possibility of frying with a small amount of fat;
- easy to clean;
- safe for health and the environment;
- adapted for use on different types of plates;
- some models are suitable for the oven.
It should be noted such disadvantages as:
- not dishwasher safe;
- can be quite heavy.
Titanium plated
Frying pan benefits are manifested in the following:
- has non-stick properties - you can fry with almost no fat;
- increased resistance to damage and scratches;
- resistant to high temperatures;
- distributes heat well;
- safe for health;
- does not change the taste of ready-made meals;
- easy to clean;
- adapted for various types of stoves - gas, electric, ceramic and induction;
- suitable for frying and stewing dishes;
- Can be washed in the dishwasher.
The disadvantages include a rather high price.
Each Tefal frying pan has a unique Thermo-Spot thermo indicator, which turns red when the pan heats up to +200 degrees (the optimal temperature for cooking). With Thermo-Spot, there is no risk of overheating or insufficient heating. Thermo-Spot is based on a variety of technologies, the main of which is the sequential application of layers, namely:
- scratch, chemical and high temperature resistant composition of polytetrafluoroethylene;
- four layers of different compounds;
- a layer that changes color when heated.
Views
Teflon-coated pans are the most popular. On the market, they are presented in a large assortment: classic non-stick, pancake, wok, models with a removable handle, for the oven, grill. It is worth considering the most popular types.
- Teflon is a durable material, but it does not tolerate scratches.Therefore, when buying a Teflon frying pan, it is worth purchasing a silicone or wooden kitchen spatula. These pans do not need to be washed or cleaned thoroughly. Simply wipe it down with a paper towel to remove any food debris. It is suitable for frying meat, fish, vegetables and making cakes.
Important! The pancake pan (or pancake maker, as it is also called) is very popular. It allows you to effortlessly please a family with delicious and flavorful pancakes.
- Ceramic pans the coating consists of minerals and clay, which are fired at a high temperature. They can be heated to + 400 ° C and frozen to -20 ° C. Cookware heats up evenly and keeps food warm longer. The pans with ceramic coating are designed for frequent and intensive use. However, it is very important not to expose the ceramic coating to rapid temperature changes as it can be damaged. The biggest advantage of ceramic-coated pans is that they are safe for your health and the environment - no harmful substances are released during frying. This is an advantage over Teflon-coated pans. The ceramic coating is safe for health - suitable for people with allergies and children.
- Cast iron pans very durable. They do not have any coating and therefore scratches do not affect the quality of the pan. They are not covered with any material that can release harmful substances when frying food. Since they are made only from natural materials without chemicals, they will enhance the exquisite taste of the prepared dish. Meat, vegetable stew, or other dishes cooked in this pan will taste better.
The indisputable advantage of a cast-iron frying pan is the fact that it conducts heat well, that is, it heats up evenly and maintains the temperature of food for a longer time.
In addition, cast iron is resistant to high temperatures, so these pans can be used not only on the stove, but also in the oven. Cast iron undoubtedly has its advantages, but it also has its disadvantages. Cast iron pans that are not coated in any way require more fat than, for example, Teflon or granite pans. They are quite heavy and expensive. Natural material is an advantage, but it cannot be washed in the dishwasher. They are ideal for fried foods, stews and baked dishes.
- Stainless steel pans durable. They can be cleaned with a metal sponge and will remain unchanged, without a single scratch. This frying pan has a three-layer bottom, excellent heat conduction. Steel pans are most often used in gastronomy and for frying meat.
- Titanium pans Is definitely the choice for long-term use. The titanium coating combines the advantages of Teflon and cast iron. They are also dishwasher safe. Increased resistance to damage allows you to use metal accessories when cooking in a titanium pan without fear of scratches on the surface. Maintenance and cleaning of the titanium coated pans is extremely easy. They are suitable for frying and stewing of meat, fish, vegetable dishes, for making pies.
Important! Today, a fairly large assortment of pans is presented on the market, which differ not only in the type of coating, but also in size, depth, and wall thickness. They can also be sold with or without a lid.
The four main ingredients of a frying pan
To create a frying pan for manufacturers you need to answer such basic questions as:
- what will be the material of the product body;
- what basis to use;
- what non-stick coating to apply;
- what should be the shape and material of the handle.
Body materials
Pans are made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages. It is worth paying attention to the following features of the coating:
- when using stainless steel, they get high resistance to corrosion and scratches, durability; it can have a polished or matte surface;
- aluminum gives four times better heat distribution than stainless steel, retains 93% of heat; it has anti-corrosion resistance, is lightweight and easy to clean;
- cast aluminum pans have excellent heat transfer and thermal conductivity; they are ideal for the oven;
- hard anodized pans distribute heat evenly and quickly; they are strong and durable, with natural non-stick properties.
Pan base
There are several different types of pan bases. Each of them has unique properties and is suitable for use on different types of boards. The weight of the pan and the thickness of the bottom are key factors in how easy and convenient the pan will be to use, and how efficiently it will cook.
- Stamped stainless steel base. This base is presented on a thick aluminum base that promotes optimal heat distribution. It is suitable for all heat sources and ensures maximum durability.
- Founding of Armatel. Stainless steel anti-corrosion disc ensures durability. It promotes excellent heat distribution and is suitable for all types of hobs except induction.
- Thermally conductive base. This base is equipped with anti-abrasive copper spots for optimal heat distribution. It is suitable for all hobs except induction.
- Durabase. This technology promotes efficient heat distribution, suitable for gas stoves.
Internal coating
Since cooking without oil is an essential part of a healthy diet, the inside of the pan is one of its most important features. Tefal offers a wide range of effective non-stick coatings with a lifetime warranty.
- Coating Resist. It consists of four layers: an adhesive layer, an anti-abrasive layer, a scratch-resistant topcoat and a non-stick finish that is easy to clean.
- Prometal Pro. It is a six-layer coating, has a new ceramic hard base for high scratch resistance, a primer layer that is resistant to metal cookware use, a tie layer, an intermediate layer, an anti-scratch topcoat and a topcoat finish with non-stick properties reinforced with minerals with sapphire stones for extra durability.
- Longlide coating. It consists of four layers: a binder, an anti-abrasion, a scratch-resistant top and a non-stick finish for easy cleaning.
Panhandle
The handles go a long way towards the versatility of a frying pan. For example, some allow you to cook on the stove top and then in the oven. Comfort is key when buying a frying pan. Some handles have silicone inserts for added convenience. Frying pan handles are made of materials such as:
- stainless steel - stainless steel handles are safe for use in the oven with temperatures up to +260 degrees;
- bakelite - handles made of bakelite or molded plastic are safe for cooking in the oven at temperatures up to +180 degrees.
There are three ways to attach the handles to the pan body:
- handles can be riveted - they are riveted to the body for added strength, ease of use and durability;
- spot welding - this method of attachment allows you to attach the handle to the base;
- Screw Mount - Standard handles are bolted to the body.
Top Models
Tefal non-stick frying pans have long been popular among chefs and confidently take first places in various ratings.
Jamie Oliver Hard Anodised
Designed by renowned chef Jamie Oliver and Tefal, the Hard Anodised range offers professional quality cooking. The combination of Thermo-Spot and Tefal's state-of-the-art non-stick coating ensures that every chef gets the most out of the cooking process. The frying pans have a solid, thick base with a comfortable handle for the most comfortable position in the hand. The Hard Anodised features a stamped stainless steel base. This base is applied to a thick aluminum base that distributes heat optimally.
It is suitable for all types of plates, has a maximum service life.
This series uses the new generation of Tefal Prometal Pro non-stick coatings. It improves the performance and longevity of the pan and allows you to cook without using oil. The six-step non-stick coating is mineral-reinforced with sapphire stones and is so durable it can withstand metal utensils without damaging the surface. The combination of Thermo-Spot and Prometal Pro ensures high productivity and complete cooking control.
Appearance: Hard anodized body, abrasion and corrosion resistant, and non-stick coating for easy cleaning. The handle is made of stainless steel and has soft inserts. It can withstand heating up to +260 degrees.
The Hard Anodised pans are dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.
Preference Series
Pans from this series are a combination of stylish and professional appearance with excellent performance. The Preference pans are the gourmet's choice. The range includes pans of different sizes. The Preference range uses a stamped stainless steel base on a thick aluminum base for optimal heat distribution. It is suitable for all types of slabs.
Preference pans use Prometal Pro, the next generation of Tefal nonstick coatings. It improves the performance and longevity of the pan and allows you to cook without using oil.
The six-layer non-stick coating is mineral-reinforced with sapphire stones and is so durable it can withstand the use of metal spoons and spatulas. As with all other Tefal pans, the Preference series has a Thermo-Spot indicator. The combination of Thermo0Spot and Prometal Pro provides high performance and complete control of cooking without the use of oil. The outer lining of the pan is PTFE for easy cleaning. The bakelite handles of the frying pan do not heat up, they can withstand heating in the oven up to +180 degrees. The Preference pans are dishwasher safe.
Evidence Series
The frying pan has a heat-conducting base with copper dots to prevent abrasion and also for excellent heat distribution. It is suitable for all heat sources except induction. The Evidence Pans feature Expert Pro Interior Non-Stick Coating, a six-layer improved formulation that combines a new ceramic hard base that acts as a durable protective layer. They are highly scratch and abrasion resistant.
This series has been created so that you can use metal accessories when cooking in a frying pan.
The six-layer combination ensures high performance and easy cleaning. The Evidence series also includes a Thermo-Spot. The outer surface of the pan is enamelled with a wear-resistant coating for extra durability and easy cleaning. Bakelite frying pan handles with polished stainless steel inserts do not heat up, withstand heating in the oven up to +180 degrees. Pans from the Evidence series are dishwasher safe.
Enjoy series
The Enjoy series uses Durabase technology for efficient heat distribution. These pans are suitable for gas stoves. Enjoy range with Longlide non-stick coating - Four-layer inner lining designed for long lasting performance. As with all Tefal pans, the Enjoy range includes the Thermo-Spot. The outside of the pan has a non-stick coating for easy cleaning. The bakelite handles of the frying pan do not heat up, they can withstand heating in the oven up to +180 degrees. Enjoy pans are dishwasher safe.
Ideal Series
It is ideal for busy people who need to prepare small amounts of food quickly. The One Egg Wonder and Mini Grill Pan allow you to cook one egg, one steak or chicken breast. The Durabase technology used to create this range ensures efficient heat distribution and is suitable for gas stoves. The Ideal series features the Resist Plus non-stick coating, a four-layer coating designed to extend the life of the pan. Thermo-Spot thermo indicator will notify you when the pan is ready for use. The outside of the pan is PTFE coated for easy cleaning. Bakelite frying pan handles remain cold even when heated in the oven to +180 degrees. The Ideal pans are dishwasher safe.
Supreme Gusto Series
In this product line, the manufacturer replaced cast iron with cast aluminum. This metal gives an even distribution of heat over the surface of the pan, which makes the product ergonomic, reliable, durable and functional. Thick and high sidewalls prevent rapid cooling and allow you to cook a variety of dishes. In a frying pan, you can both fry and "simmer", which gives more opportunities for culinary creativity. The pans are also equipped with Thermo-Spot heating indicators, which prevent the food from overheating.
Maintaining the optimal temperature during cooking is an opportunity to get the perfect food quality.
Set of pans Tefal Ingenio
This is a unique set of non-stick titanium coated pans. Thanks to the removable handles, the pans in this set are ideal for both frying and baking in the oven. The outer walls of the pan are covered with enamel. They are dishwasher safe.
Tefal Aroma Series
This is Tefal's explosive range of non-stick pans. The advantage of this series is the increased bottom thickness - 25% thicker than that of the previous series. This keeps the cooked food warm for longer. The use of a titanium coating guarantees protection against scratches and complete safety when using metal accessories. This series fits all slabs. It is dishwasher safe.
How to choose?
A frying pan is a kitchen appliance, without which it is impossible to imagine the preparation of many dishes. Use a frying pan to fry, stew and bake at least several times a week. For this reason, each kitchen usually has not one, but several pans for different types of cooking. At first glance, buying a new frying pan is not a difficult task.
However, choosing a specific model or kit is not easy. Manufacturers are constantly introducing new types of pans, improving quality and functionality.
When buying a frying pan, it is advisable to keep the following in mind:
- the most important aspect is the material of manufacture of the product (aluminum, steel, ceramic or cast iron);
- you need to clearly define the purposes for which the pan is purchased: frying, stewing, grilling or in the oven;
- when buying a frying pan, it is imperative to pay attention to its size - it should be maximally adapted to the needs and correspond to the size of the burner; The best option would be to buy a set of three or four pans to meet your various cooking needs;
- you should also pay attention to the type of coating - these materials must be non-stick, and also guarantee health safety;
- an important factor is the thickness of the bottom of the pan - the thicker, the more evenly the pan heats up and the less it deforms;
- the presence of a lid or its absence also affects the choice of a frying pan model; if the cover comes in a set - this is a significant plus; using a lid helps to keep the stove clean, as well as shorten the cooking time;
- the presence of a removable handle can be an advantage over non-removable handles, since they allow you to use the pan not only on the stove, but also in the oven, and also significantly save space in the kitchen;
- it is important to pay attention - for which stoves the selected frying pan is intended, not all pans can be suitable for cooking on an induction hob;
- it is worth paying attention to the issue of cleaning the pan - caring for it and washing it should not take too long; Ideal if the pan is dishwasher safe.
Operating tips
When using a frying pan, you need to take into account not only the material from which it is made, durability and appearance, but also the features of its functional purpose and use during operation. The following tips should be followed:
- When using for the first time, rinse the pan using a sponge and detergent solution and dry;
- wipe the bottom of the pan with vegetable oil;
- it is better to use wooden or plastic accessories for mixing food when cooking;
- do not heat dishes without food or water;
- if the handles are made of plastic, do not put in the oven;
- it is advisable to cook over low heat in order to lengthen the life of the pan;
- after use, wait until the pan cools down by itself, without forced cooling, then wash it with a sponge dipped in water or detergent solution.
There are now special types of pans for different types of dishes and methods of preparation, the operation of which may differ slightly. Below are the main ones.
The grill pan is great for grilling many types of meat, fish and vegetables. The ribbed bottom of the pan allows you to reduce the amount of fat used, making the cooked dish less nutritious, easier to digest, tasty and healthy. In addition, the stripes from the grooved bottom make the dish more appetizing and sophisticated. The grill pan is an indispensable piece of kitchen equipment for all barbecue lovers. You can fry in such a pan at any time of the year and in any weather conditions. Operation is as follows:
- grease the bottom of the pan with a brush and oil;
- heat a frying pan;
- add food and reduce heat;
- periodically turn meat with vegetables;
- after use, wash the dishes and dry with a towel.
Frying pan for frying eggs and pancakes allows you to cook perfect fried eggs, omelets, pancakes. It has special grooves, thanks to which all pancakes are perfectly smooth and equally fried. This frying pan allows you to prepare a nutritious breakfast for the whole family. You can just wash it with a sponge soaked in soapy water.
Wok is a frying pan for Asian cuisine. It will delight all lovers of Asian cuisine. It has a specially narrowed bottom, which allows you to cook healthy and aromatic dishes with vegetables, rice and meat. The shape of the pan allows for healthy frying without added fat. The wok can be made of steel, ceramic, or cast iron. The lid significantly reduces the time for frying and stewing food in the pan.
When buying a frying pan, you should pay attention to whether it is suitable for a particular stove or oven. Not all types are suitable for cooking on an induction hob. For her, you should choose a special frying pan with a ferromagnetic bottom.But for traditional gas or electric stoves, there is more choice.
Although today more and more cookware is being produced adapted for use on different types of plates at the same time.
Customer Reviews
According to customer reviews, the Tefal frying pan is a convenient and easy-to-clean kitchenware, an irreplaceable assistant in every kitchen. Nevertheless, customer reviews were divided into positive and negative, which is quite logical. The pluses noted by most owners of the Tefal frying pan are as follows:
- using a minimum of oil during cooking or no oil at all; thanks to the non-stick coating, the dish does not stick to the bottom of the pan;
- heats up faster than other types of pans;
- ease of use;
- the thermal indicator in the middle of the bottom changes color when the pan is hot enough, which greatly simplifies the cooking process;
- the shape of the handle is ergonomic, it is easy to hold and work with it during cooking;
- a large selection of models of pans: by size, type of coating;
- relatively affordable price;
- you can both fry and stew;
- there are models with removable handles, which allows you to cook in the oven;
- food is perfectly fried and forms a golden crust;
- simple and easy maintenance;
- most models are suitable for use on all types of stoves, including induction.
The negative features noted by some users are as follows:
- after 2-3 months of use, the non-stick coating of the pan begins to swell and flake off; If the non-stick coating is damaged, potentially hazardous substances are released into food;
- non-stick coating is not resistant to scratches and damage;
- during use, scratches appear throughout the body of the frying pan, which worsens its appearance;
- high price of pans;
- the walls of the pan are very thin;
- subject to deformation (the shape of the bottom is curved, a bulge in the center of the pan appears);
- the frying pan should not be allowed to overheat, as its non-stick qualities deteriorate;
- the service life does not correspond to the declared warranty (2 years), it is much less: from two months to one year;
- when used on induction hobs - slowly reach the boiling point compared to other brands;
- require overly careful attitude and care.
For the Tefal non-stick pan test, see the video below.