There is no one-stop solution when it comes to cooking. You can try and cook all the dishes in a pan, but soon you will realise that you need different kinds of equipment to ace a recipe. For example, it will be easier to cook dosa on a nonstick pan, while a stainless steel pan is considered perfect for preparing flavourful sauces. Hence, if you like to cook a variety of delicacies in your kitchen, you must own these basic types of pans that will facilitate hassle-free cooking.

Video Credit: Purdent Reviews/ YouTube

It is all about the techniques and control that cast iron, non-stick, and stainless steel pans offer that make it easy for you to cook any dish to perfection. Each pan has a specific set of advantages when it comes to cooking a variety of dishes. Depending on what you want to cook, you can invest in that particular cookware. Here is your guide to understanding which pan works best for what kind of culinary masterpiece. 

  • Panasonic SR-WA22H (E) Automatic Rice Cooker, Appl...

    ₹2,799₹9,999
    72% off
    Buy Now

  • Bar Box 4-Piece Cocktail Shaker Set - Food Grade S...

    ₹11,995
    Buy Now

  • Philips HD6975/00 Digital Oven Toaster Grill, 25 L...

    ₹10,399₹11,995
    13% off
    Buy Now

Non-Stick Pan

A non-stick pans are perfect for cooking delicate items like eggs, fish, and pancakes. Any delicate ingredient that cannot withstand sticking to the surface must be cooked in non-stick cookware. Even if you want to reheat non-vegetarian dishes, these pans are ideal because they prevent the meat from sticking to the surface, thus, keeping its texture intact. This kind of pan is also perfect for usually breakfast recipes or quick-fire items that you can make on a rushed schedule. 

Also Read

A couple of things you need to keep in mind while using this kind of pan are,

  • Avoid using metal utensils to stir food items
  • Do not scratching the surface while washing and 
  • Do not store in a way that comes in contact with other utensils. 
  • Avoid heating a nonstick pan at high temperatures because its coating can get affected.

The cost of a not-so-good non-stick pan can be as low as Rs 200, but if you want to buy a sturdy product, you might have to invest at least Rs 1000, depending on the size of the pan.

Also Read: A Guide To Choosing The Right Cookware For Your Needs

Stainless Steel Pan


A stainless steel pan gives you more control of the cooking because you can use it freely. It does not add any flavours to the dish and is considered perfect for making spicy and tangy sauces. You must have noticed Italian chefs using these pans to cook lip-smacking sauces for pasta and noodles. You can also cook protein-rich items in this cookware, including chicken. You have to be patient though and not flip the meat soon enough, or you will end up ruining it. 

Since it can be a tricky rope to walk on when cooking with a stainless steel pan, you should ensure,

  • Oiling it after preheating
  • Cooking food at room temperature
  • Avoiding overheating the pan
  • Seasoning the pan to prevent food particles from sticking to the surface.

If you pick a low-quality stainless steel pan, you can get it for even Rs 100 in the market. However, if you want to cook in a high-grade steel pan, the cost starts above Rs 800. It is the most affordable option among the three. 

Cast Iron Pan

The best use of a cast iron pan is for searing steak, frying chicken, and baking bread. It is best when your dish requires a crispy texture. From frying meat to stir-frying vegetables. You can also cook egg and dairy-based dishes in a cast iron pan.

Much like the other two options, there are a few do’s and don’ts when it comes to cooking in a cast iron pan.

  • Since it can react with food, therefore, you must avoid cooking soups, sauces, stews, and dishes that need longer time to cook. 
  • Your dish should also not contain citrus juice, vinegar, and tomato-like ingredients.

Cast iron pans are a good piece of investment in your kitchen if you like to experiment in the kitchen. The cost quality pan starts at Rs 1000.