Non stick pans have a relatively short lifespan, and require a bit of extra care to protect them from damage.

The simplest way to understand the difference between these types of pans is to look at the sides of the pan. If the sides are slanted, the pan is a skillet, which is also sometimes called a frying pan or fry pan. If the slides are straight, it’s a sauté pan.

Non-stick pans have some form of an interior coating such as Teflon or PTFE which prevents food from sticking during cooking. They're best for foods like pancakes, eggs, fish, or crepes which require low or medium heat and little or no oil. This makes them ideal for weight management because you can use them to cook low-fat food.

    One popular option is a cast iron skillet set with a lid.  Cast Iron Skillet Set With Lids usually includes multiple frying pans of different sizes, each with its own lid.  Cast Iron Skillet Set With Lids, the lid helps lock in heat and moisture, making it ideal for cooking dishes that require slow cooking or braising.  

But you'll want to factor in that this material is a lot heavier than stainless steel and can be harder to maneuver and lift. There are certain sauces or foods that aren't recommended to be prepared in a cast-iron skillet. If you're simmering a tomato sauce or other acidic foods, or foods that are more likely to stick, such as eggs or crepes, opt for a skillet that isn't cast iron.

The frying pan should be light enough for you to lift and move. You should feel safe when cooking because the handle should remain cool. The frying pan is useful for browning, scorching, and reducing the temperature of your food quickly.

    When it comes to cooking fish, cast iron skillets excel at delivering perfectly seared, flavorful fillets.  Cast iron skillets even heat distribution ensures fish cooks evenly and develops a delicious crust, while the natural nonstick properties of seasoned cast iron make flipping and serving a breeze.  Whether you're hosting a fish fry or just want a homemade seafood dinner, a cast iron skillet is a reliable choice for restaurant-quality results at home.

Modern copper pans—including ours—tend to be lined with stainless steel, which makes for a more durable pan than the more traditional (but much higher-maintenance) tin-lined copper pans.

Now that you know which size will work best for your household, it’s time to consider the material of your new frypan. There are three main options available: non-stick coating, stainless steel and hard anodised aluminium.