If you're looking for a versatile and durable cooking pan, a carbon steel pan might be just what you need. Tested and approved by America's Test Kitchen, these pans are known for their smooth surface, quick heating, and even cooking. But before you jump into buying one, there are some factors to consider.
First, think about the size and shape of the pan. Do you want a large pan for cooking bigger batches, or a smaller one for more precise cooking? Do you need a flat bottom or a curved one? Also, consider the weight and handle of the pan. A heavier pan may retain heat better, but it could also be harder to handle.
Another factor is the seasoning process. Carbon steel pans require seasoning to build up a non-stick surface and prevent rust. Some pans come pre-seasoned, while others will require some work before you can start cooking. Consider how much time and effort you want to put into seasoning your pan.
If you're still curious about carbon steel pans, ask yourself these questions: What type of cooking do you do most often? Do you need a pan that can go from stovetop to oven? How often do you cook and clean your pans? Understanding your needs and preferences will help you make an informed decision when choosing a carbon steel pan.
10 Best Carbon Steel Pan America'S Test Kitchen
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The frying pan skillet is ideal for cooking and sautéing food on the stovetop or in the oven.
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Ideal for searing, sautéing, and reheating due to its naturally nonstick properties and high-quality carbon steel construction.
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Ideal for cooking on high heat, searing meats and vegetables, and creating a natural non-stick surface.
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Ideal for stir-frying and cooking Chinese cuisine, with a traditional hand-hammered carbon steel wok and wooden/steel handle.
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Ideal for stir frying and cooking traditional Chinese and Japanese cuisine with its flat bottom design and carbon steel material.
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The product is ideal for cooking on induction stovetops and in the oven at high temperatures with its durable stainless steel construction.
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Ideal for stir-frying and high heat cooking, with induction compatibility and professional-grade carbon steel construction.
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Ideal for traditional Chinese and Japanese stir fry cooking with its 14" carbon steel wok pan and round bottom.
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This cookware set is ideal for those who want high-quality stainless steel cookware that can be used on induction and in the oven.
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Ideal for traditional Japanese stir-fry dishes and versatile cooking on electric induction cooktops, thanks to its pre-seasoned carbon steel construction.
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1. Merten & Storck Pre-Seasoned Carbon Steel Induction 12" Frying Pan Skillet, Oven Safe, Black
The Merten & Storck Carbon Steel Skillet is a great alternative to heavy cast iron pans. Made from lightweight and fast-heating carbon steel, this skillet delivers the same performance as cast iron without the weight or waiting time. The pan is pre-seasoned to develop a nonstick patina that gets better with use. The more you cook with it, the more nonstick it becomes. This skillet is oven-safe up to 600°F and can be used with metal utensils. The triple-riveted steel handle provides a sturdy grip for easy handling.
The Merten & Storck Carbon Steel Skillet is a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for cooking a variety of dishes. Its lightweight design makes it easy to handle, and its fast-heating properties mean you won't have to wait long for it to heat up. The nonstick patina that develops with use ensures that food doesn't stick to the pan, making it easy to clean. The skillet is also oven-safe, which means you can use it for baking dishes as well. The triple-riveted steel handle is comfortable to hold and provides a secure grip, which is important when cooking with hot pans.
If you're looking for a high-quality skillet that delivers cast iron performance without the weight or waiting time, the Merten & Storck Carbon Steel Skillet is an excellent choice. Its nonstick properties and oven-safe design make it a versatile kitchen tool that can be used for a variety of dishes. The triple-riveted steel handle ensures a secure grip, which is important when cooking with hot pans.
- Lightweight and fast-heating carbon steel construction
- Pre-seasoned to develop a nonstick patina
- Oven-safe up to 600°F
- Metal utensil safe
- Triple-riveted steel handle provides a sturdy grip
2. French-Made Nonstick Fry Pan For Versatile Cooking
The MINERAL B Fry Pan is an essential kitchen tool for cooking delicious meals. With its carbon steel construction, it is praised by chefs around the world for its natural cooking abilities. This pan is perfect for searing meat, sauteing vegetables, reheating leftovers or cooking eggs.
This fry pan is lighter than cast iron and more heat conductive than stainless steel, making it naturally nonstick after seasoning. It doesn't have any chemicals or synthetic coating, which makes it a safe and healthy option for cooking. The more you use it, the better it becomes.
To use the pan, follow the instructions on the first use to wash off the beeswax and season it. Always hand wash and avoid harsh soaps that can strip the seasoning. This pan can be used on all cooking surfaces, including induction, and is oven safe for up to 10 minutes at 400F.
Rooted in French culinary tradition, this fry pan is designed and manufactured by a company that creates premium kitchen accessories, pastry equipment, and cooking utensils, continuously innovating to meet the needs of catering professionals and home cooks alike.
- Made of natural carbon steel, which is one of the most praised cooking materials by chefs around the world.
- Becomes naturally nonstick after seasoning, without any chemicals or synthetic coating.
- Can be used on all cooking surfaces, including induction, and is oven safe for up to 10 minutes at 400F.
- Designed and manufactured by a company rooted in French culinary tradition, continuously innovating to meet the needs of catering professionals and home cooks alike.
- – Requires seasoning and careful maintenance to maintain its nonstick surface.
- – Not dishwasher safe, hand wash only.
3. Lodge Crs12 Carbon Steel Skillet, Pre-Seasoned, 12-Inch
Bring the best searing and browning experience to your kitchen with this Carbon Steel frying pan. Made from durable 14 gauge carbon steel, this pan heats up quickly and evenly distributes heat for consistent cooking. You can use it on gas, electric, induction stovetops, outdoor grills, or even over an open fire. The pan is seasoned with oil for a natural, easy-release finish that gets better with use. Its lightweight design and comfortable handle make it easy to maneuver from the stove to the table. Measuring approximately 12 inches in diameter and 9.875 inches at the bottom, this pan is the perfect size for all your cooking needs. When it comes to cleaning, simply hand wash the pan, dry it immediately, and rub it with cooking oil for easy care. Proudly made in the USA, this frying pan is a must-have for any cooking enthusiast.
Experience quick and even cooking with this Carbon Steel frying pan. Crafted from durable 14 gauge carbon steel, this pan is perfect for searing and browning. You can use it on any stovetop or even over an open fire. The pan features a natural, easy-release finish that improves with use, and its lightweight design and comfortable handle make it easy to use. At approximately 12 inches in diameter and 9.875 inches at the bottom, this pan is the perfect size for any cooking task. For easy care, simply hand wash the pan, dry it immediately, and rub it with cooking oil. Made in the USA with pride, this frying pan is a must-have for any cooking enthusiast.
Achieve perfect searing and browning with this Carbon Steel frying pan. Made from 14 gauge carbon steel, this pan heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly for consistent cooking. The pan is perfect for use on gas, electric, induction stovetops, outdoor grills, or open fire. It features a natural, easy-release finish that gets better with each use. The pan's lightweight design and long, comfortable handle make it easy to maneuver from the stove to the table. Measuring approximately 12 inches in diameter and 9.875 inches at the bottom, this pan is perfect for all your cooking needs. When it comes to cleaning, simply hand wash the pan, dry it immediately, and rub it with cooking oil for easy care. Proudly made in the USA, this frying pan is a must-have for any home cook.
- Heats up quickly and distributes heat evenly for consistent cooking
- Can be used on any stovetop or even over an open fire
- Natural, easy-release finish improves with use
- Lightweight design and long, comfortable handle make it easy to maneuver
- Easy to care for – simply hand wash and rub with cooking oil
- Proudly made in the USA
4. Hand Hammered Traditional Pow Wok
Experience the authentic stir-fry taste with the Round Bottom Heavy 14 Inch Carbon Steel Wok from Craft Wok. This commercial-grade wok is made of 15 gauge (1.8mm) carbon steel, which is heavy and sturdy, making it a reliable kitchen tool for years to come.
Craft Wok has been designing this traditional Chinese wok pan with a round bottom since 2014, providing proven quality over the years. This wok is hand-hammered by Chinese professionals in Guangzhou to ensure its authenticity. It is also the preferred choice of many professional Chinese chefs, which speaks to its quality and functionality.
Please note that this wok is not suitable for flat electric or flat induction stoves. Additionally, carbon steel woks may rust, so it is important to season the wok before use. Fortunately, instructions for easy seasoning are included with the wok, and the customer service team is always available to guide you through the process.
The wok features a steel helper handle that will not burn when you stir-fry over high heat. This handle is also helpful for hanging the wok for storage. The wooden handle has a special hygroscopic, not slippery surface for a tight grip when you stir-fry.
With a weight of 4.6 pounds (2.1 kg), this wok is heavy enough to handle any stir-fry and durable enough to last for years. Craft Wok is committed to bringing you the best authentic carbon steel woks from the best manufacturers in China. Their range of branded products is 100% authentic traditional carbon steel woks, with eight years on the market.
Experience the same pleasure from stir-frying in a wok that chefs get in restaurants across China with the Round Bottom Heavy 14 Inch Carbon Steel Wok from Craft Wok.
- Made of 15 gauge (1.8mm) carbon steel, which is heavy and sturdy
- Hand-hammered by Chinese professionals in Guangzhou for authenticity
- Steel helper handle will not burn when stir-frying over high heat
- Wooden handle has a special hygroscopic, not slippery surface for a tight grip
- Comes with easy seasoning instructions and customer service assistance
- Suitable for traditional round bottom wok cooking
- – Not suitable for flat electric or flat induction stoves
- – May rust if not seasoned properly
5. Sizzling Yosukata Black Steel Wok
Experience the authentic flavors of Chinese and other Asian cuisines in the comfort of your home with the Yosukata 13.5 inch wok with a flat bottom. This wok is specially designed to lock in the juices and flavors of the ingredients, giving you a genuine taste of your favorite dishes.
Made from heavy-duty black carbon steel, this large wok pan is pre-seasoned at high temperatures using special techniques, unlike unseasoned woks and stir fry pans. However, it still requires full seasoning with oil before use, just like any Chinese wok.
The ergonomic design of the wooden handle ensures a comfortable grip when using this pow wok. In addition to stir-frying, the Yosukata carbon wok pan allows you to cook healthy meals using various traditional cooking techniques like pan-frying, braising, and deep-frying. Its easy handling and storage make it convenient to carry and store.
Overall, the Yosukata 13.5 inch wok with a flat bottom is an excellent addition to any kitchen. Its high-quality materials, versatility, and pre-seasoned feature make it a must-have for those who love cooking Asian cuisines. Whether you're a novice or an experienced cook, this wok is perfect for creating healthy and delicious meals for your family and friends.
- Specially designed to lock in the juices and flavors of the ingredients
- Pre-seasoned at high temperatures using special techniques
- Made from heavy-duty black carbon steel
- Ergonomic design of the wooden handle ensures a comfortable grip
- Versatile and allows various traditional cooking techniques
- Convenient and easy to handle and store
6. All-Clad 12" Stainless Fry Pan With Lid
Introducing a versatile and durable 12-inch covered fry pan that is a must-have in every kitchen. Its flat base and flared, mid-sized sides make flipping and tossing food easy. This classic pan features tri-ply construction with an aluminum core bonded between two layers of stainless steel for even heat distribution and maximum durability. The polished cooking surface with starburst finish doesn't react with food and is easy to clean. The pan comes with a stainless-steel lid to retain moisture and heat. The contoured stainless-steel handles are securely riveted, ensuring a safe grip while adding a touch of style. This pan is compatible with all cooktops including induction and can withstand temperatures of up to 600°F in the oven and broiler.
Invest in this pan and enjoy its low-profile shape that allows for easy storage while the etched capacity on the base ensures accurate measurements. This product is proudly made in the USA and comes with a limited lifetime warranty for your peace of mind.
- Tri-ply construction ensures even heat distribution and maximum durability
- Polished cooking surface with starburst finish offers stick resistance and easy maintenance
- Stainless-steel lid retains moisture and heat
- Contoured stainless-steel handles are securely riveted for a safe grip
- Compatible with all cooktops including induction
- Oven and broiler-safe up to 600°F
- Etched capacity on base ensures accurate measurements
- Limited lifetime warranty
7. Pro French Wok: Blue Carbon Steel Induction
Introducing the Made In Cookware, the ultimate wok for your cooking needs. With a total diameter of 12.5 inches and a cooking surface diameter of 5.5 inches, this wok is designed to handle all your stir-fry needs. The wok has a height of 5.25 inches and a depth of 3.75 inches, making it a perfect fit for your kitchen. The length of the wok, including the handle, is 21.5 inches, giving you ample space to cook your meals.
The Made In Wok has an award-winning design that will elevate your cooking experience. The wok features a flat bottom that ensures even heating and a long stay-cool handle that provides a comfortable grip while cooking. The wok is perfect for stir-fry and other Asian cuisine, making it a versatile addition to your kitchen. The wok is made of high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting, ensuring that you get the best value for your money.
The Made In Wok is easy to clean and maintain, making it a perfect choice for busy households. The wok is dishwasher safe, allowing you to clean it effortlessly after every use. The wok is also oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, giving you the flexibility to cook a wide range of dishes. The wok is compatible with all cooktops, including induction cooktops, making it a must-have in your kitchen.
In conclusion, the Made In Wok is an ideal choice for anyone looking to elevate their cooking experience. The wok's award-winning design, high-quality materials, and versatility make it a must-have in your kitchen. With its easy-to-clean design and compatibility with all cooktops, the Made In Wok is a perfect fit for busy households. Get your Made In Wok today and experience the joy of cooking like a pro!
- The wok has a flat bottom that ensures even heating
- The wok has a long stay-cool handle that provides a comfortable grip while cooking
- The wok is dishwasher safe, allowing you to clean it effortlessly after every use
- The wok is oven safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, giving you the flexibility to cook a wide range of dishes
- The wok is compatible with all cooktops, including induction cooktops, making it a must-have in your kitchen
8. Yosukata 14" Carbon Steel Wok – Traditional Japanese
Bring the authentic flavors of Chinese and other Asian cuisines to your kitchen with the Yosukata 14 inch wok with a round bottom. This wok is designed to retain the juice and flavor of the ingredients, giving you a genuine taste of your favorite dishes. The high-quality materials used in this wok make it a must-have in every kitchen.
The Yosukata wok is pre-seasoned at high temperatures over 600F using special techniques, which makes it stand out from unseasoned woks and stir fry pans. However, it still requires full seasoning with oil like any other Chinese wok. This large wok pan is made from heavy-duty, black carbon steel, ensuring durability and longevity. The ergonomic design of the wooden handle provides a comfortable grip when using this cooking wok.
Apart from stir-frying, the Yosukata 14'' pow wok can be used to cook healthy meals using various traditional cooking techniques like pan-frying, braising, deep-frying, and more. It's a versatile addition to your kitchen that will take your cooking skills to the next level. The steel wok is also easy to handle and store, making it convenient to use on a daily basis.
- Pre-seasoned at high temperatures using special techniques
- Designed to retain the juice and flavor of the ingredients
- Made from heavy-duty, black carbon steel for durability
- Ergonomic design of the wooden handle for comfortable grip
- Versatile and can be used for traditional cooking techniques
- Easy to handle and store
9. Copper Core Cookware Set: Induction-Safe 14pc Collection
Experience cooking like a professional with this 14-piece cookware set that includes 10 and 12-inch fry pans, 2 and 3-quart sauce pans with lids, 3 and 6-quart saute pans with lids, 12-inch chef’s pan with lid, and an 8-quart stockpot with lid. Each piece of cookware is designed for exceptional performance and durability.
Made with a 5-ply bonded construction that includes layers of stainless steel, aluminum, and a thick copper core, this cookware set ensures fast and even heating, warp-free strength, and ultimate responsiveness. The highly polished stainless-steel cooking surface provides superior stick resistance, making it easy to clean and maintain. The flared edges are designed for drip-free pouring, while the longer, riveted stainless-steel handles are contoured for a comfortable grip and vented to stay cool.
This cookware set is compatible with all cooktops, including induction, and oven and broiler-safe up to 600°F. Whether you're a professional chef or a home cook, this cookware set is perfect for all your cooking needs.
- 14-piece set includes all the essential cookware for versatile cooking
- 5-ply bonded construction ensures fast and even heating, warp-free strength, and ultimate responsiveness
- Highly polished stainless-steel cooking surface provides superior stick resistance for easy maintenance
- Flared edges allow for drip-free pouring
- Longer, riveted stainless-steel handles are contoured for a comfortable grip and vented to stay cool
- Compatible with all cooktops including induction
- Oven and broiler-safe up to 600°F
10. Blue Carbon Steel Wok – Traditional Japanese Cookware
Experience the authentic taste of Asian cuisine with the YOSUKATA Large Blue Carbon Steel Wok Flat Bottom Pan. This traditional Japanese pan is pre-seasoned at high temperatures over 600F using special techniques, making it ready to use in just a few minutes. Made of high-quality carbon steel using traditional production technology, this extra-sturdy wok is built to last a lifetime.
Not just for stir-frying, this versatile pan is perfect for pan-frying, braising, and deep-frying. Its flat-bottomed design makes it suitable for use on all cooking surfaces, including electric stove, induction cooktop, gas cooker, or even open fire. The pan also retains the juice and flavor within ingredients, ensuring that your meals are always delicious and healthy.
The long handle of the carbon steel wok pan is tightly fixed through welding, providing a secure grip. Its optimal diameter and shape, combined with a special non-sliding finish and well-dried wood handle, make it easy to control and maneuver while cooking.
- Pre-seasoned at high temperatures over 600F using special techniques, making it ready to use in just a few minutes
- Made of high-quality carbon steel using traditional production technology for extra-sturdiness and lifetime use
- Suitable for use on all cooking surfaces, including electric stove, induction cooktop, gas cooker, or even open fire
- Retains the juice and flavor within ingredients, ensuring that your meals are always delicious and healthy
- Long handle tightly fixed through welding provides a secure grip
- Optimal diameter and shape, combined with a special non-sliding finish and well-dried wood handle, make it easy to control and maneuver while cooking
Best Carbon Steel Pan America'S Test Kitchen FAQs
Can carbon steel pans be used on all types of stovetops, as per America's Test Kitchen?
Yes, carbon steel pans can be used on all types of stovetops, as per America's Test Kitchen. This is because carbon steel is a versatile material that can withstand high heat and distribute it evenly across the surface of the pan. However, it is important to note that not all carbon steel pans are created equal. Some may have coatings or finishes that are not suitable for certain stovetops, such as glass or ceramic. It is always best to check the manufacturer's instructions or consult with a professional before using any cookware on a new stovetop. Additionally, it is important to properly season and care for carbon steel pans to ensure their longevity and performance. With the right care and use, carbon steel pans can be a valuable addition to any kitchen.
How does America's Test Kitchen clean and maintain their carbon steel pans to prolong their lifespan?
America's Test Kitchen is a renowned cooking show that provides useful cooking tips and techniques to its viewers. One of the things they emphasize is the importance of maintaining and cleaning carbon steel pans to prolong their lifespan.
To clean carbon steel pans, America's Test Kitchen recommends that you first rinse them with warm water, then dry them thoroughly with a paper towel. After that, you can use a stiff-bristled brush or a non-abrasive scrubber to remove any stubborn food residues. Avoid using soap or detergent as they can strip away the seasoning of the pan, which is essential for its non-stick properties.
To maintain carbon steel pans, America's Test Kitchen suggests that you season them regularly. This involves coating the pan with a thin layer of oil and heating it on medium heat until it starts to smoke. This process creates a natural non-stick surface that helps prevent food from sticking to the pan.
In conclusion, cleaning and maintaining carbon steel pans is essential to prolong their lifespan. By following the tips provided by America's Test Kitchen, you can ensure that your pans remain in excellent condition and last for many years.
How does America's Test Kitchen season their carbon steel pans?
America's Test Kitchen is a well-known culinary resource that is trusted by many home cooks and professional chefs. They have a reputation for rigorously testing and perfecting their recipes and cooking techniques. When it comes to seasoning carbon steel pans, they have a unique approach that is different from other methods.
First, they recommend cleaning the pan thoroughly with soap and water to remove any factory coatings or residues. Then, they heat the pan on high heat until it becomes hot and starts to smoke. Once the pan is hot, they add a thin layer of oil, such as flaxseed or vegetable oil, to the surface of the pan. They use a paper towel to spread the oil evenly and remove any excess.
Next, they place the pan in a preheated oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour. This allows the oil to polymerize and form a non-stick coating on the surface of the pan. After an hour, they turn off the oven and let the pan cool before removing it.
This method of seasoning carbon steel pans is different from traditional methods, which involve heating the pan on the stove with a layer of oil until it becomes black and glossy. America's Test Kitchen's method creates a more even and durable non-stick surface that is perfect for cooking a variety of dishes.
What are the advantages of using a carbon steel pan in cooking, according to America's Test Kitchen?
According to America's Test Kitchen, carbon steel pans offer several advantages when it comes to cooking. First and foremost, carbon steel pans are incredibly versatile and can be used for a wide range of cooking techniques, including searing, sautéing, and frying. They also heat up quickly and evenly, which makes them ideal for cooking foods that require high heat, such as steak and stir-fry dishes.
Another advantage of using a carbon steel pan in cooking is that it provides a non-stick surface that can be seasoned over time. This means that you can gradually build up a natural non-stick surface on the pan that makes it easier to cook delicate foods like eggs, without the need for extra oil or butter.
Furthermore, carbon steel pans are durable and long-lasting, and with proper care, they can last a lifetime. They are also relatively inexpensive compared to other high-end cookware options, which makes them an excellent choice for home cooks who want to upgrade their kitchen without breaking the bank.
Overall, using a carbon steel pan in cooking offers many advantages, including versatility, even heating, natural non-stick surface, durability, and affordability. It's no wonder that carbon steel pans are a favorite among professional chefs and home cooks alike.
What is the best carbon steel pan recommended by America's Test Kitchen?
America's Test Kitchen is a renowned cooking show that tests and reviews kitchen equipment and appliances. When it comes to carbon steel pans, they have recommended the Matfer Bourgeat Black Steel Round Frying Pan as the best option available in the market.
This pan is made in France, and it is constructed from heavy-duty black carbon steel material that is durable and long-lasting. The pan has a flat base that provides excellent heat conduction and retention, making it ideal for searing, sautéing, and frying. Additionally, it has a smooth, non-stick surface that allows food to release easily without sticking, which makes cleaning up a breeze.
Another notable feature of the Matfer Bourgeat pan is its ergonomic handle, which is made of heat-resistant material and provides a comfortable and secure grip. It is also oven-safe up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit, which means it can be used for a variety of cooking methods.
In conclusion, if you are looking for a high-quality carbon steel pan that will last for years and deliver excellent cooking results, the Matfer Bourgeat Black Steel Round Frying Pan is an excellent choice.