The trend for safe cooking has led to the emergence of cookware made from previously unused materials. First came Teflon - for those who want to fry in a frying pan, but do not want to use oil. It was followed, as a representative of even safer cookware, by a ceramic frying pan. Safe, as environmentally friendly and natural as possible. Is this so, and how is ceramics better than Teflon? Let’s look at it in this article.
Modern ceramic frying pans are durable and long lasting.
What is a ceramic frying pan
The ceramic frying pan appeared after the Teflon one. What didn't suit users of Teflon frying pans? Just one nuance, small but significant: if you accidentally break the Teflon layer (for example, scratch it with an ordinary fork), the body is at risk of exposure to harmful substances that are released when heated from the Teflon that has lost its integrity. Even if you are as careful as possible, knowing that there is something harmful there, under the top layer, forces you to look for better options.
The use of aluminum and ceramics in the production of the frying pan makes the product durable and as light in weight as possible.
A ceramic frying pan became such an option: it is made of a safe material that does not evaporate any harmful substances even when heated to 450 degrees. And at the same time, nothing burns on it, like on Teflon, even without the use of oil.
Ceramic frying pan - the pinnacle of the evolution of frying pans
The evolution of the development of this item has undergone changes from cast iron to Teflon and then to ceramic frying pans.
People who maintain proper nutrition should opt for a ceramic frying pan. After all, in such a frying pan you can cook food with virtually no added oil or other fats. Due to the special non-stick effect, they are completely unnecessary.
Some people are mistaken in believing that over time such a coating loses its properties, and the substances that provide the non-stick effect evaporate. The quality of the frying pan remains unchanged for several years.
Such pans are harmful to health. This myth is not true. Since the coating of such a frying pan consists of natural substances, with the addition of clay and silicon (sand), it is therefore completely safe for the human body.
How are ceramic coated frying pans made?
A ceramic frying pan is not made from ceramics alone. Ceramic is just a coating, so it would be more correct to call it a frying pan with a ceramic coating, which, like Teflon, is non-stick. Accordingly, the question many people ask is not entirely correct: what is better: non-stick coating or ceramic. But there is an answer: from a safety point of view, ceramic is better.
A ceramic frying pan, unlike a cast iron frying pan, heats up faster.
The base of ceramic-coated pans is made of stainless steel or aluminum. The mold is covered with ceramic glaze.
Main advantages
We have already mentioned one of them. Indeed, ceramics are one of the most environmentally friendly and hygienic coatings. There is no need to worry about oxidation or the release of harmful toxins, odors or tastes. It is very easy to wash such dishes, and it is quite possible to do without abrasives and strong chemicals (which, by the way, is undesirable in this case).
Ceramics have an absolutely smooth surface. You can safely use it on an induction and glass-ceramic hob: the contact will be perfect, and not a scratch will remain on the surface. And the white smooth coating looks very attractive. Among other things, it allows you to evaluate the color of the prepared food and notice the burning of oil in time. On a white surface, traces of fat are much more visible, which in this case will not accumulate, leaving an unpleasant odor.
Ceramic coatings have excellent non-stick properties. Numerous photos and videos on the Internet in which scrambled eggs are cooked in such a frying pan without a drop of oil, and it easily and naturally rolls over the surface are the pure truth.
Which, by the way, provides ceramics with another undeniable advantage: it is ideal for those who adhere to a diet. After all, the amount of fat and cholesterol in this case is significantly reduced, and food is prepared much faster, while maintaining its beneficial properties. In this regard, ceramics today simply has no competitors.
It is also true that ceramics can withstand heating temperatures of up to 450 degrees. What will especially please lovers of juicy steaks: the coating allows you to fry them in just a couple of minutes - again, in a completely dry frying pan. Especially good in this regard are grill pans with a corrugated surface, which are very easy to clean - unlike cast iron.
Due to the thickness of the walls, the ceramic coating distributes heat evenly and retains it for some time. Which is comparable to cast iron, which is still unrivaled in terms of maximum possible heating. At the same time, in principle, food cannot burn on ceramics: it will burn, but in no case will it stick.
Finally, it is worth saying that ceramics are absolutely universal. You can fry, boil, stew and bake in it with constant success. And also - store prepared food without the slightest harm (which cannot be said about aluminum or copper).
However, it is worth remembering about some of the “whims” of the ceramic coating - so that it does not fail, becoming covered with cracks.
What are the beneficial properties of a ceramic frying pan?
Ceramic coating is a layer of polymer composite material with silicon particles, that is, it consists only of environmentally friendly components, which are based on water, sand and stones.
However, these are not all the advantages of such a frying pan. These include the following:
- Non-stick effect. You can fry without oil or with a minimum amount. More economical for the wallet and healthier for the body.
- Scratch resistant. While Teflon was dangerous to scratch, ceramic can be scratched, but it’s not easy.
- Compatibility with metal objects: you can turn the cutlets over with a fork (this is not possible with Teflon ones).
- Uniform heating. Ceramics heats up perfectly to high temperatures, quickly and evenly. This allows you to get healthy dishes that are evenly temperature-treated.
- Easy to care for. The pan is easy to wash and clean, and many models are dishwasher safe.
- External attractiveness. Which is also not the last thing.
When heated in such a frying pan, no harmful compounds appear.
Advantages and disadvantages
There are many advantages of ceramic tableware, so people often purchase entire sets of ceramic tableware.
The obvious advantages include the following:
- practically no oil is needed for frying;
- You can use metal spatulas for turning, although try to do it carefully;
- the coating does not overheat and is not afraid of high temperatures;
- In such a frying pan you can cook dietary dishes with a minimum of oil;
- easy to clean;
- minerals and vitamins are preserved during cooking;
- the coating is absolutely safe for humans;
- The frying pan has an interesting design.
Food is cooked in a ceramic frying pan with almost no oil
There are also disadvantages:
- may crack due to temperature changes;
- Do not wash in the dishwasher;
- is quite expensive;
- has a short service life; with daily use no more than three years.
Reviews of a ceramic frying pan from users in our video:
Types of ceramic frying pans
Users have rated the ceramic frying pan as a solution and now there are a huge number of them on the market, so once you decide to buy a ceramic frying pan, you still need to choose from a wide variety.
Types of frying pans by material
First of all, these dishes are divided according to the base material, because depending on it we get different properties that cannot be called good or bad - it depends on the nature of use.
Made of cast iron
Based on cast iron, these are frying pans for true connoisseurs of everything natural and high quality, even at the expense of convenience. Cast iron frying pans are highly prized, however, in this case the cast iron is coated with ceramic. The resulting product:
- dear,
- heavy.
But cast iron heats food evenly, which allows you to get high-quality healthy food.
To choose a good ceramic frying pan, pay attention to the structure of the coating.
Made of aluminum
Made of aluminum is a more attractive solution in terms of ease of use. Aluminum itself is not suitable for contact with food, but coated with a ceramic layer is quite comfortable. But it is important that its thickness is sufficient. Typically, stamped products have thin walls (a cheaper production process that is not possible with a thicker sheet of material), making the pans cheaper and of lower quality.
For the production of frying pans, stamped and cast aluminum is used.
Cast aluminum allows you to get a frying pan of optimal thickness, from 5 mm, which will reliably hold a layer of ceramics, heat up well, and at the same time have a comfortable weight. Aluminum frying pans are lightweight and heat up quickly.
Carbon steel
Such a frying pan will be easier and faster to heat up.
Ceramic-coated frying pans are also made from carbon steel, a heavy material reminiscent of cast iron. Like cast iron, this material heats up to high temperatures, but slowly and evenly. They cool down just as slowly. Their difference from cast iron, if both are coated with ceramics, is insignificant; however, carbon steel can be thinner than cast iron, which expands the possibilities and comfort of use.
Clay
Despite the shape of a deep clay frying pan, it was created not for frying, but for baking, including in the oven.
Frying pans are made from clay, covered with ceramics.
From porcelain stoneware
In an attempt to combine the beneficial properties of frying pans, a version of a ceramic frying pan also appeared - made of porcelain stoneware, that is, a mixture of ceramics and stone.
This frying pan is considered one of the safest.
Varieties according to the method of coating
There are two coating methods, which are very important to know when choosing. This is a rolling method and spraying.
Rolling method
Rolling involves covering a sheet with a layer of coating, after which this sheet is put under a press and gets the shape of a frying pan. Firstly, this method is only possible when applying a thin layer, as well as a thin layer of the metal itself, and secondly, it does not guarantee the integrity and evenness of the coating.
Such dishes will not last long, and even the low price will not justify the investment in such a purchase.
Spray coating
Spraying is the coating of a finished product. The result is a smooth surface and no flaws. As for the composition itself, all that remains is to rely only on the reputation of the manufacturer and user reviews.
The thicker the coating, the better.
Handle and lid type
When choosing, you should pay attention to the size, handle and lid - this is a matter of comfort and capabilities. The handle must be heat-resistant or removable - then the frying pan can be placed in the oven. The lid should fit firmly and have a hole for steam to escape, which it is advisable to close and open as necessary. Knowing your cooking style, in order to save money, you can refuse some parameters if they do not matter to you, for example, in your family it is not customary to cook dishes for which you need to put a frying pan in the oven.
Ideal when the lid is transparent.
Color spectrum
The color scheme also plays a role. A stylish frying pan in a bright color can make its contribution to the interior of the kitchen. Although this is not the most important criterion, it still plays a role. If you have pans hanging in a prominent place, consider how a new pan will complement your existing ensemble.
Ceramic frying pans even come with ornaments, so they can also become decorative items.
It is believed that a black frying pan is universal and does not show any flaws, but now, when minimalism is the leading trend in design, white color comes first, including frying pans.
Type of shape and dimensions
Ceramic frying pans are not only round. Square, rectangular, heart-shaped - non-standard shapes are designed to diversify everyday life. If this is one person, a diameter of 24 cm is sufficient; for 2-3 people, an average size of 26 cm is suitable. If there are more of you, look for an option with a diameter of 28 cm.
The size is dictated by the number of people for whom cooking is provided.
Wall and bottom thickness
Ceramic frying pans can be thin or with thick walls and bottom, heavy or light, with high or low sides. The choice depends on the dishes you plan to cook.
Purpose of a ceramic frying pan
If you plan to cook meat, it is important to choose a model with a thick bottom, from 5 mm, and high sides, from 3 mm thick, and a lighter and smaller model is suitable for scrambled eggs.
Fact or Fiction
When you have definitely decided on the need to purchase a ceramic frying pan, all that remains is to prepare for the purchase. But if you still have doubts about whether it is necessary in the house, answers to basic questions will help:
- Is it true that food cooked in them is healthier? The answer is definitely yes. This is due to the minimal use of fat during cooking. Although you can also cook without oil or practically without it in a slow cooker or in a frying pan with a high-quality non-stick coating.
- Is it true that it is more convenient to use, and maintenance is minimal? Also true. It is enough to wipe the surface with kitchen napkins; you don’t even need to wash it. But Teflon pans need the same care. They are easy to clean and can also be simply wiped with a napkin. In terms of convenience, ceramics may seem lighter if massive cast iron products were previously used. Almost all modern options are lightweight and have a comfortable handle shape.
- Is it true that nothing sticks to them? Yes its true. As long as the surface is smooth, as long as no cracks or breaks appear on it, nothing will burn or stick. Although the same goes for non-stick frying pans.
- Does it release toxins when heated? As long as the surface is intact, no. But if even one microcrack appears, which will not even be visible, yes.
A ceramic frying pan is a great purchase. But if you already have non-stick cookware in your kitchen, there’s not much point in using it.
Which coating is better, ceramic or Teflon?
From the point of view of environmental friendliness and safety, a ceramic coating is better, but if the main criterion is non-stick properties, then Teflon will be a better choice, provided that all operating recommendations are followed.
If the ceramic coating of the frying pan contains shades of beige, it means that the composition does not contain synthetic dyes.
As for ease of use, the Teflon bottom is easy to scratch, after which the frying pan cannot be used, otherwise its use will become harmful to the body. A ceramic frying pan is more difficult to scratch, and even if its integrity is damaged, such a frying pan will not cause any harm, although it will lose its non-stick properties. Everyone makes their own choice.
Attention! It is harmful to use a scratched Teflon frying pan.
How to properly clean all-ceramic cookware
A ceramic frying pan is cleaned very quickly and easily - this is one of the most important advantages that users voice in reviews, however, there is one feature: you cannot soak such frying pans in water - this causes microcracks to appear and the non-stick properties are lost.
To preserve all the functions of the frying pan for a long time, simply rub it with a sponge and dishwashing detergent and the frying pan will be clean.
Attention! An all-ceramic frying pan should not be soaked.
How to choose the right ceramic frying pan
When choosing a ceramic frying pan, discard the idea of buying a very cheap one - you will have to throw it away in a month. For everyone who is tormented by the question of how to choose a ceramic frying pan, we suggest choosing one that:
- suitable size for the number of people,
- will be of the highest quality at the optimal cost,
- suitable in color and design,
- will not be too heavy with sufficient quality,
- will allow you to prepare all the necessary dishes.
To ensure that the dishes are of high quality and have a long service life, various technological processing processes are used.
Popular brands
Emile Henry
Emile Henry has been on the market since 1850. This French company specializes in
earthenware and ceramic dishes.
The company's specialists have developed a special type of glaze that is resistant to open fire - ceramic pots can be heated on a gas stove.
Frying pans are made with or without a lid, and come in round or oval shapes with a grooved bottom. Most models have two handles and they are of a non-traditional shape for frying pans (like pots).
Prices range from 4,000 to 7,000 rubles.
Review:
- The price of the frying pans is considerable, but the quality is truly European. A wide range helps a lot in choosing. You can buy a frying pan of any convenient shape and size. Two small handles are a godsend, especially for grills or large pots with ceramics.
Bergner
The Austrian brand Bergner is relatively young, but has already managed to win the love of consumers.
The company produces a full range of tableware for catering establishments and the home. The pans are made of cast aluminum with bakelite rubberized handles and glass lids. Gray ceramic interior.
The average price on the market is from 1,200 to 2,000 rubles.
Review:
- The ceramic coating of the frying pans of this brand is particularly durable - it is applied in several layers. Products are fried evenly. The dishes are easy to clean and look stylish.
Tefal
Tefal is perhaps the most famous brand in the world, producing household and kitchen appliances, as well as tableware. The company was founded in 1956 in France.
Frying pans are available in a variety of price categories and designs. Teflon or ceramic coating. Many models have a heating sensor known on the market as thermo-spot.
The price range starts from 1,200 – 1,300 rubles.
Review:
- Tefal can easily be considered a popular brand. Prices for frying pans with ceramic coating are among the most affordable on the market. The outer coating is enamel, easy to clean from grease.
"Biol"
Biol is a large Ukrainian company specializing in the production of tableware.
A frying pan from this brand can be purchased at the most affordable price. Ceramic-coated models made from cast aluminum and cast iron are available with one or two handles, with or without a lid. There are square grill-type pans with a grooved bottom.
The average price is from 600 to 1,500 rubles.
Review:
- The manufacturer pleases with the prices and quality of the goods. The bottom of the pans is thickened. Food doesn't burn. Cleans and washes without problems. The appearance is also nice.
Why is ceramic coating dangerous?
Ceramics are completely safe, but only if they come from a trusted manufacturer. To save production costs, some manufacturers use a harmful composition that is toxic and unacceptable for use. All products with an unreasonably low price fall into the risk zone.
Qualified specialists recommend not to neglect customer reviews and take into account the ratings of global companies producing kitchen utensils.
Types of frying pans with ceramic coating
It is not necessary to have all existing varieties in your home arsenal; it is enough to choose 1-2 universal frying pans and 1-2 special ones, depending on your culinary preferences.
- A pancake maker is a dish with low sloping sides; it is convenient to cook pancakes, pancakes, pancakes, scrambled eggs, and cheesecakes on it. Using a special ceramic-coated pancake pan for these purposes will allow you to add less oil when frying, and will also ensure that the finished product slides off easily.
- The grill has a ribbed bottom and allows you to cook juicier meat than a regular frying pan. This is facilitated by the accumulation of juice released from the meat during the frying process in the grooves of the ribbed bottom of the frying pan. A grill pan with a ceramic coating is available in a traditional round shape and a more spacious version – a square one.
- A special frying pan for frying fish has an elongated, rectangular or oval shape.
- The stewpan has high straight or inclined sides and a long handle and is used for stewing.
- A wok is a special conical frying pan that allows you to quickly fry food over high heat. Used to prepare Asian dishes.
In the house it is enough to have 2-3 frying pans of different diameters and depths.
Using highly specialized frying pans simplifies the process of preparing your favorite dishes. For a family of 1-2 people, a frying pan with a diameter of 24 cm is quite suitable. For a family of 3 people, a frying pan with a diameter of 26 cm is ideal; for a family of 5 people, a frying pan with a diameter of 28 cm is optimal.
Attention! The diameter of the frying pan, indicated on the accompanying label, is measured not along the bottom, but along the top of the dish.
General Pros and Cons of Ceramic Nonstick Pans
To summarize, it can be noted that ceramic non-stick coating:
- harmless
- naturally,
- doesn't burn
- scratch resistant
- allows you to fry without fat,
- easy to clean,
- looks beautiful.
However:
- you cannot purchase cheap models, as there is a danger of counterfeit with toxic coating,
- It is advisable to use wooden tools, because although ceramic is scratch-resistant, if the integrity is compromised it becomes less effective.
- Do not soak ceramic pans in water.
It is necessary to give preference only to well-tested manufacturing companies.
Rating of the best brands of ceramic frying pans
To avoid fakes, we will name the most popular and trusted brands that make ceramic frying pans.
Tefal
Ceramic frying pans from the French brand Tefal are a continuation of the production of non-stick cookware, now with a ceramic coating. This manufacturer uses stainless steel as a base, which ensures even heating of the cookware and high quality cooking. Just use Tefal products with caution; wooden tools should have a thin coating.
The French brand is considered the best manufacturer of high-quality products.
Ballarini
Ballarini cookware is an Italian take on quality pans. Ballarini frying pans are not cheap, but the coating cannot be damaged and you can use metal utensils. The pans are very easy to clean, do not stick during cooking, and look perfect. The only thing undesirable is to overheat them.
The range includes budget models, as well as a premium line.
Rondell
Rondell ceramic frying pans are specially designed for perfect food quality. The bottom surface is scratch-resistant and easy to clean. This frying pan will last a long time. There is a wide selection that allows you to choose your option based on size, depth, thickness, and bottom.
A well-known German brand that was bought by Chinese companies at the beginning of the 21st century.
Vari
Vari ceramic frying pans from the St. Petersburg company are more affordable and of good quality. They are distinguished by a high-quality thick bottom - more than 6 mm.
The St. Petersburg company Landskrona began its activities at the beginning of the 21st century.
Maestro
Maestro ceramic frying pans are beautiful and high quality. A special feature of this brand of cookware is its ability to retain heat after cooking for a long time. The company offers models with flat and grooved bottoms. It will last a long time, but it also costs a lot.
It is distinguished by a wide range of products in different colors and configurations.
Bergner
Bergner ceramic frying pans are distinguished by affordable prices and excellent quality. They are guaranteed not to be dangerous and have a grooved grill surface, which allows you to get a “signature” crust. The frying pans are made perfectly - they come with a lid with a hole for steam to escape.
This brand was registered in Austria at the end of the 90s of the last century.
A ceramic frying pan will decorate any kitchen, but only a thoughtful choice will allow you to purchase a ceramic frying pan model that you will not regret buying.
What to look for when purchasing
When purchasing a ceramic coated frying pan, there are some important details you need to pay attention to. A good housewife always chooses a frying pan with them in mind.
Wide range of colors
- Pay attention to the material used to make the case; it can be different: based on cast iron, stainless steel or aluminum. If the buyer wants the most durable frying pan, then he needs to take a cast iron one. But it has a number of disadvantages - long heating time. Accordingly, it is not suitable for frying pancakes. For which it is better to choose aluminum or steel. Steel coating has no advantages over aluminum. You can take such pans if you are afraid of aluminum fumes.
- The way the case is made also matters. It can be either cast or stamped. The first option has a longer service life, but a higher price.
- The thickness of the bottom is essential. The ability of the frying pan to withstand deformation from high temperatures will largely depend on this. The thicker it is, the less susceptible it is to influence. However, with thickness comes weight. Give it meaning.
- Be sure to study the specifications of your specific model. Also check what is included with the product.
- Pay attention to the manufacturer, the quality will depend on this. It is better not to particularly trust untested brands. Since the price tag for this type of frying pan is quite high, it would be sad if it deteriorates after a couple of months of use.
- Please note that many ceramic frying pans are not suitable for use in dishwashers and the use of special detergents. This makes them lose their best properties. Plan how you will use it.
- Pay attention to the ergonomics of the model. It should be comfortable, the handle should not get hot. Otherwise, using it will only be torture for you. There are good models with replaceable and folding handles, which is important for storage - it does not take up much space.
- Please pay attention to the presence of operating instructions. You cannot cut food on such items or leave them soaked for a long time; on many models, the use of metal spatulas is not recommended.
- The number of coating layers matters for such a parameter as durability.
Pay attention to the method of applying the ceramic coating. There are two of them.
The first method is rolling, the second is spraying. Spraying is applied to the finished pan. As a result, the coating is perfectly smooth and is not damaged anywhere. The first method consists of applying a coating to a solid metal sheet, from which the pans are then extruded. As a result of this impact, the coating is subject to deformation, varying porosity and streaks. The Chinese love this way of getting together. As a result, although the item will be inexpensive, its service life is very short.
Another important sign of a high-quality frying pan is the presence of a warranty. In the warranty card, the manufacturer states the minimum service life of its product, which may indicate its quality.
