Invest in a high-quality frying pan if you want the most versatility when cooking. Get a skillet if you need a specialized strategy for a certain reason. If you want versatility and a pan that you can use on some special dishes you can get both.

A good non stick pan is like a cozy pair of sweatpants—we reach for it when we want something quick, easy, and low-stress. While many pans, like cast iron and ceramic, offer non stick properties, non stick cookware generally refers to modern pans (typically aluminum and/or stainless steel construction) coated with layers of a durable non stick coating.

Skillets and sauté pans appear very similar, but the main difference lies in their shape.

Skillets vs. Pans: Why the Confusion? 

There are several types of materials that you can use for a skillet or frying pan. Here's a brief look at the different kinds of materials:

In the labs, we put the carbon steel pans through the same tests as our cast-iron pans: heating evenness, baking, and browning. You have to keep carbon steel pans seasoned, like cast iron, but if you do, they soon develop a smooth patina that makes a pan as slick as nonstick, giving you even more cooking possibilities.

    A 10-piece cast iron cookware set typically includes a variety of skillets, a Dutch oven, and other essential accessories that are perfect for everyday cooking.  A 10-piece cast iron cookware set is perfect for a small family or someone who is just starting to collect cookware.

However, cast iron frying pans require special care and maintenance, including seasoning and proper storage. They are also not dishwasher safe and can be challenging to clean if not cared for properly.

In conclusion, enamel cookware, particularly the potjie pot, offers a blend of tradition, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Its versatility, timeless elegance, and culinary capabilities make it a valuable addition to any kitchen, providing a unique cooking experience and adding a touch of rustic charm to culinary creations.

For durable, long-lasting pans that are easy to clean and usable on induction cooktops, stainless steel frying pans offer a great solution. Their non-reactive properties make them an excellent pan for slow-simmering tomato sauces and other acidic recipes. Stainless steel does not conduct heat well, so most commercial stainless steel pans will have an aluminum-clad bottom to promote even heat distribution and eliminate hot spots. The main drawback of stainless steel pans is that they aren't naturally non-stick, but this can be combated with proper preheating and cooking oils.

Maintenance and Care:

The flared sides also prevent steam from accumulating, hastening cooking by preventing mushy food.

Saute pans have straight sides instead of slanted ones, so a higher volume of ingredients or liquid can fit inside, making this style pan ideal for making sauces. Because of the design, sauces don't splash or slosh around as much, making clean-up a lot easier. Another bonus of this pan style is that most saute pans have a fitted lid, which reduces evaporation. These pans are well-suited for cooking methods such as braising, searing, or shallow-frying. But saute pans are heavier due to a wider base, making skillets easier to lift and move.