Skillets

Shop Quality Skillets For Optimal Cooking at Home

From searing juicy steaks to sautéing vegetables and crafting mouthwatering stir-fries, skillets are a must-have cooking pan for any home chef. Skillets are an indispensable kitchen tool, offering versatility, heat retention, and durability. If you're looking for a new cookware set for your kitchen but aren't sure where to start, check out our cookware buying guide to determine what you need most based on your own cooking preferences and habits. Below, we cover everything you need to know about skillets and why they are a valuable addition to your kitchen set-up.

Benefits of Skillets For Your Kitchen

Skillets offer several advantages that make them a popular choice among home cooking enthusiasts and professional chefs alike:

1. Versatility: Skillets can be used for a wide range of cooking techniques, including frying, sautéing, searing, and baking. Their flat bottoms and sloping sides allow for easy tossing and stirring, making them ideal for dishes that require even heat distribution.
2. Heat Retention: Materials such as cast iron or stainless steel are known for their excellent heat retention properties. This allows for consistent and even cooking.
3. Durability: Skillets are built to last, with sturdy construction that can withstand high heat and rigorous use. Investing in a quality skillet means it will be a reliable cooking companion for years to come.
4. Easy Cleaning: Easily clean your skillet with warm soapy water after using. Non-stick skillets are especially easy to clean.

Skillets FAQs

What is a skillet?

A skillet is a type of pan with a flat bottom and sloped sides. It is typically made of materials such as cast iron, aluminium, or stainless steel. They can be used for a variety of cooking tasks, including frying, searing, sauteing, and braising. Skillets differ from frypans due to their shape, skillets typically have larger base surfaces and deeper edges whereas a frypan may have lower-sloped sides.

How to choose the perfect skillet?

When selecting a skillet, consider the following factors to find the perfect match for your cooking needs:

1. Material: Skillets are available in various materials, each offering different benefits. Cast iron skillets are known for their exceptional heat retention and even heating, while stainless steel skillets are durable, non-reactive, and easy to maintain. Non-stick skillets are great for low-fat cooking and easy cleanup.
2. Size: Skillets come in different sizes, typically measured by their diameter. Consider the number of servings you typically cook and the space available on your stove when choosing the size. A 10 to 12-inch skillet is a versatile option for most cooking tasks.
3. Handle Design: The handle design plays a crucial role in the comfort and maneuverability of the skillet. Look for skillets with ergonomic handles that stay cool during stovetop use, ensuring a safe and comfortable cooking experience.
4. Brand: Choosing a skillet from a trusted brand such as Circulon, Anolon or Raco is a reliable way to ensure that your new pan is made from quality, food-safe materials and is built to last.

How to season a skillet?

To season a skillet, start by preheating your oven to 175°C (350°F). Then, coat the skillet with a thin layer of oil and bake it in the oven for one hour to allow the oil to penetrate the iron and create a non-stick surface. This process may be repeated up to 4 times.

How to clean a cast iron skillet?

To clean a cast iron skillet, wash it with hot water and a sponge, then dry it immediately and rub it with a thin layer of oil. For more detailed instructions, see our guide to cleaning cast iron cookware.

Find The Best Skillets & Cooking Pans For Your Kitchen at Harris Scarfe

At Harris Scarfe, we only stock the best in cookware from leading brands. Shop from a high-quality range of woks, frypans, saute pans and kitchen utensils that will help you get the best out of your culinary creations. Great food at home starts with great cookware, which you'll be sure to find in our range online and in-store. Harris Scarfe is your one-stop shop for great cookware at great prices. Our selection includes amazing brands you know and love and won't let you down. For more advice and tips, visit the Harris Scarfe Hub and discover useful articles such as How to Cook With Stainless Steel and Seven Cookware Essentials You Need.