Rating of the best cast iron pans 2024 - coated and uncoated

Everything new is well forgotten old. This proverb is confirmed by the growing popularity of models of all kinds of cast-iron cookware and, in particular, frying pans. There are objective reasons for such a demand, which will be discussed in this article.

Features of cast iron

Cast iron is characterized by fast heating and heat accumulation, which is indispensable for uniform heating of food. This high thermal conductivity is ideal for quick frying, especially for steaks.

The main feature of a cast iron pan is its weight. The heavier it is, the better. Paying attention to this parameter, you can avoid fakes from other materials.

How to choose a cast iron pan

When buying a frying pan, first of all, you need to decide on the shape and size, and also decide for the preparation of which dishes you need such a purchase. Universal ones are suitable for preparing a large number of dishes and are quite suitable even for young housewives who do not have a lot of cooking skills. For lovers of oriental cuisine and healthy dishes, the wok pan is suitable. In a stewpan with high sides, it is great to stew vegetables and make various sauces. The grill pan has a raised pattern on the bottom to drain excess oil into the recesses. But most of the pans have self-explanatory names and you can easily understand what dishes they are intended for: pancake maker, rybnitsa, etc. Although there are completely original devices for frying: escargotniere for cooking snails, pans for paella or chicken-tobacco.

The types of pans differ in the shape and height of the sides.

The size of the dishes also matters. If the main selection criteria are the preparation of delicious food for a large family, then you should turn your gaze to dishes with a large diameter, which can reach 50 cm. In this case, it is necessary to take into account the possibility of washing such cutlery in the dishwasher. The most popular models are 23-25 ​​cm in diameter. But there are also very small options for making pancakes or fried eggs.

The types of non-stick coatings are equally important. The most common is PTFE coating, better known as Teflon. Such coverage continues to cause controversy about its safety and requires careful handling. The marble coating is also polytetrafluoroethylene, only marble chips are added to it. The well-known enamel coating is often found, but it is prone to chipping. In the rating of high-quality, safe and inexpensive coatings, ceramic is not the last.It withstands high temperatures, heats up evenly and does not emit harmful substances. Less common is the innovative nanocomposite, which includes granite, titanium and diamond coatings.

The main purpose of all these types of coatings is to protect the pan material and extend its life, although cast iron itself is more durable than any coating, which is important to consider when choosing which care. Some of them are very afraid of damage, washing in the dishwasher or cooking on induction hobs.

The wall thickness of cast iron pans can vary from 3 mm to 20 mm. The different thicknesses are suitable for preparing different dishes.

When choosing a frying pan, one must take into account not only its practical properties, but also its ergonomics. Depending on your preferences, you can choose a roasting device with a handle, and perhaps the number of handles may be more. But at the same time it is necessary to take into account the material from which it is made. A comfortable wooden handle may not be suitable for a gas stove, it is highly likely to burn, but on an electric or induction stove - such a handle does not heat up, and it will be an excellent addition to a frying pan. When using in the oven, a removable handle or made of a material that is not afraid of high temperatures will be appropriate. They can be made of metal or heat resistant plastic.

An equally important attribute is the lid. With it, many dishes are richer and tastier. Materials for its preparation can be different: plastic, glass, metal. But the availability of the cover and the choice of material from which it is made depends on individual preferences.

Cast iron pan care

With proper care, no fancy frying pan can match the durability of a cast iron pan. This is facilitated by its properties.

Before the first use, the pan must be well calcined and greased with vegetable oil, which, getting into the pores of the material, provides natural lubrication for a long time. To maintain this effect, it is not recommended to use dishwashing detergents with a high content of abrasive substances. After cooking, the pan can be rinsed with a soft material and salt. After removing moisture, grease with vegetable oil.

If carbon deposits form during prolonged use, the pan must be baked in the oven for several hours, and then cleaned with a metal sponge.

Ease of maintenance consists in careful washing and preventive lubrication with vegetable oil.

The best cast iron pans

Cast iron enamel pan, 28 cm, red, Arome series, BEKA

The German brand BEKA distributes its products all over the world and is very popular.

Numerous reviews indicate that the kitchen appliances of this brand are the best. They have an aesthetically pleasing appearance and are quite functional.

The frying pan is made of high quality cast iron and coated with enamel, which protects against rust and gives an attractive look. The outer bright red color stimulates the appetite and beckons to cook something.

The height of the sides is 5.5 cm and the large diameter of 28 cm allows you to cook delicious meals for a large number of people.

The weight is small, only 1.5 kg, due to the not thick walls and bottom, the thickness of which is 2.5 mm.

The frying pan can be used on any type of heating surface and can also be placed in the oven.

The stainless steel handle is comfortable to use. It is securely fastened to the pan with rivets.

The package contains a detailed recommendation for the care of cast iron cookware.

It is not advisable to wash the BEKA pan in the dishwasher.

Parameters	Specifications
Material	02.01.1900
Coating	enamel
Weight	1.5KG
Board height	5.5 cm
Diameter	28 cm
Bottom thickness	2.5 mm
Pens	stainless steel, fixed

• attractive appearance;
• large diameter and high sides;
• lightweight and comfortable.

• small thickness of the walls and bottom.

Average price: 850 rubles.

Pancake pan Seaton Ch2220d 22 cm

Pancake pan by Ukrainian manufacturer Seaton will help bake perfect thin pancakes.

The lack of coating and high environmental friendliness of the cast iron material that can withstand high temperatures allows you not to worry about the safety of cooked dishes.

The diameter of the bottom of the pan is 18 cm, with a total of 22 cm with a side height of 2 cm. These parameters and the classic shape are perfect for baking small pancakes that are prevented from burning by a thick bottom, 4.5 mm wide.

The number of handles in this model is two. One is wooden, attached to the pan with screws, the second is a special eyelet for convenient use.

The light weight of 1.38 kg does not strain the hand and does not let it get tired.

The pan is suitable for all types of hobs, but is not suitable for the oven.

It is not dishwasher safe, although it is easy to clean without it.

Parameters	Specifications
Material	02.01.1900
Coating	not
Weight	1.38 kg
Board height	2 cm
Diameter	22 cm
Bottom thickness	4.5 mm
Pens	1 wooden, 1 cast iron, non-removable

• thick bottom;
• easy to clean;
• 2 handles.

• not dishwasher safe.

Average price: 800 rubles.

Grill pan SHENGRI SR005 21 * 35 cm

The Russian company SHENGRI manufactures tableware according to international standards, so its products have every opportunity to be included in the ratings of quality kitchen utensils.

The characteristics of this model and the working surface of 31 * 16 cm allow you to prepare delicious meals and perfect steaks.

The main feature of the frying pan is the wooden handle, which can be folded or removed if necessary. With this function, it is suitable for all types of stoves and can be used in the oven.

The thick walls and ribbed bottom heat the food evenly and prevent it from burning.

The frying pan itself is uncoated, but a wear-resistant, non-stick film is created during use.

The weight of this cookware is 2.6 kg. Even with this weight, it is ergonomic and very comfortable to use. Plus, it is dishwasher safe.

Parameters	Specifications
Material	02.01.1900
Coating	not
Weight	2.6 kg
Board height	2 cm
Diameter	31 * 16cm
Bottom thickness	4 mm
Pens	wooden, removable / folding

• convenient folding / removable handle;
• wall and bottom thickness;
• products of this brand meet European quality and GOST requirements.

• not found.

Average price: 1020 rubles.

Cast iron grill pan BIOL (26 cm) with a press 21 * 21 cm with a removable handle

The cast iron cookware of the Ukrainian manufacturer BIOL, according to buyers, is one of the best on the market. Budgetary and inexpensive models of this brand are at a price much lower than their European counterparts, and in quality they are not inferior to them.

The frying pan itself is sold in bright packaging, which contains not only the characteristics of the product, but also a detailed description of how to use, how to prepare and how to care for it.

The body is made of cast hardened cast iron, resistant to mechanical damage and high temperatures. The pan can be used on any hob including halogen, ceramic and induction.

The absence of any coating ensures that no harmful substances are released during the cooking process.

In addition to the frying pan, the package includes a press lid, also made of cast iron, a wooden handle with a metal base on both sides, meat tongs and a dish brush.

The inside of the pan and the press have a ribbed surface, making the dishes appetizing with a golden brown crust.

The handle is easy and simple to attach and remove, making the pan suitable for use in the oven. There is a hole on one side of the handle, with which the pan can be easily hung.

Weight over 4 kg is an indicator of quality and reliability.

The height of the sides is 4 cm.The thickness of the walls and bottom - 3.5 and 4 mm provide good filtration from sudden heating and prevent the food from burning.

Parameters	Specifications
Material	02.01.1900
Coating	not
Weight	4.1 kg
Board height	4 cm
Diameter	26 cm
Bottom thickness	4 mm
Pens	wooden, removable

• cast iron quality
• reliable and convenient handle attachment;
• the presence of a cover press.

• not identified.

Average price: 3100 rubles.

Frying pan-wok Biol 0528С 28 cm with glass lid

Another example of kitchen utensils from BIOL.

The cast hardened cast iron body of the WOK frying pan is resistant to various damages and is not afraid of high temperatures. A cone-shaped shape with a diameter of 28 cm and a thick flat bottom of 17 cm heat the food evenly and the food is ready almost instantly.

The thickness of the walls and bottom - 3.5 and 4 mm - contribute to the uniform heating of products, creating the effect of a "Russian stove".

The large height of the sides - 9.3 cm will help prepare meals for a large family.

The body is equipped with sturdy monolithic small cast iron handles that can withstand high temperatures. Thanks to this, the frying pan can be used on any hob and in the oven.

The packing box contains tips on how to use and care for your pan.

The complete set is complemented by a glass cover, which expands the range of culinary dishes, making them more aromatic and rich. It is made of heat-resistant glass, and the presence of small holes on it allows steam to escape during cooking.

The wok frying pan will delight you with the natural taste of products and quick cooking.

Parameters	Specifications
Material	02.01.1900
Coating	not
Weight	3.9 kg
Board height	9.3 cm
Diameter	28 cm
Bottom thickness	4 mm
Pens	cast iron, non-removable

• monolithic cast iron handles;
• large volume;
• cast iron quality.

• not identified.

Average price: 1600 rubles.

Grill pan Lodge ECSGP43 25 * 25 cm

The American company Lodge produces cast iron cookware without using wooden and plastic handles in its products.

This 25 * 25 square grill pan is made of high quality cast iron. It is perfect for frying food, especially meat, giving it a golden brown crust. The relief pattern at the bottom also contributes to the appetizing look.

The porous structure of cast iron evenly distributes heat and retains it for a long time. The outer surface is covered with environmentally friendly enamel. Its main task is to facilitate the maintenance of dishes, but it also creates a very attractive look.

Manufacturers have endowed their frying pan with two cast iron non-removable handles. The main one is large, and the additional one is compact, designed for the convenience of using the dishes.

The pan can be used on all types of hobs, and thanks to the cast-iron handles, it can easily withstand high temperatures in the oven.

It is easy to care for, but it cannot be washed in the dishwasher.

Parameters	Specifications
Material	02.01.1900
Coating	enamel
Weight	4.54 kg
Board height	3.8 cm
Diameter	25 * 25cm
Bottom thickness	4 mm
Pens	cast iron, non-removable

• cast iron handles;
• attractive appearance;
• quality material.

• not dishwasher safe.

Average price: 9,500 rubles.

Frying pan Lodge LCC3 26 cm with pan lid

In the production of its products, the American manufacturer of cast iron dishes Lodge applies the latest technologies of casting and oil processing. Such dishes will serve for many years and with each use they become more durable.

The cast iron LCC3 set includes a large universal pan with a capacity of 2.8 L and a low skillet that also serves as a lid. Such a set can be compared to some extent to a pressure cooker. The frying pans heat the food evenly and all round, making it quicker to cook.

Both frying pans have two handles: main and additional. They are monolithic cast iron and are not afraid of overheating.

The diameter of the large pans and pans-lids is 26 cm. The height of the sides of the main one is 8 cm. Such power and volume of a kitchen appliance can feed a large number of people.

The thickness of the walls and bottom protects food from sudden changes in temperature and prevents them from burning.

Both pans can be used on all types of stoves, including the oven.

The pores of cast iron, absorbing fats and oils, after some use, acquire a natural non-stick coating.

The pans are easy to clean by hand. Dishwasher cleaning is not possible.

Parameters	Specifications
Material	02.01.1900
Coating	not
Board height	8 cm
Diameter	26 cm
Bottom thickness	4 mm
Pens	cast iron, non-removable

• a practical combination of two pans;
• cast iron handles;
• versatility and large volume.

• not dishwasher safe.

Average price: 7000 rubles.

Outcome

The best manufacturers present a wide variety of cast iron cookware in the domestic markets. Buyers face many questions: What good and high-quality frying device is better to buy, which company and how much should it cost in general? This article provides answers to some questions, but personal preference and individual desires should always take priority over any recommendation.