Top 15 Best Carbon Steel Pans

When people ask me whether I love cast iron or steel, I always pick cast iron. That was until I saw carbon steel, the lighter cousin of cast iron. Now I am crazy about how well I can sauté vegetables for my yummy dishes. My relatives see me as wonder women, working on different pans and shifting them at the same time.

The primary reason why I love these carbon steel pans is that they are comfortable, light in weight, and importantly, easy to clean. They are very handy and most appealing to the kitchen. My kids now wanted to make their favorite potato sautés and Sunday morning egg recipes in the carbon steel pan I use now.

They know that they can nail it and easily transfer them to places without dropping. One important reason why I would suggest picking these steel pans is because of how well they can react to the temperatures. It is quick and evenly spread the heat in the pan suitable for any dishes.

If you were struggling for long in finding the right pans, then you have reached the right place. In this article, you will be reading widely about the best carbon steel pans in detail. Before we go ahead, let’s understand what carbon steel pans are and how they are different from cast iron pans.

What Are Carbon Steel Pans?

Carbon steel pans are quite similar to cast iron pans, but they are way more durable than the latter one. They are made of approx 1% carbon and 99% iron. Due to its unique composition, carbon steel pans can withstand substantially high temperatures.

No matter how much you use, the containers will not damage even a bit. The utensils are quite versatile, and if you use them, you will be able to cook a variety of dishes out there. Whereas, while using stainless steel pots, you have to keep in mind the ingredients of your meal.

Carbon steel pans are not only durable but quite lightweight as well. That is why they are used by the Michelin stars restaurants in the world. Many chefs use carbon steel wok for cooking dishes that require direct fire.

Even though the pans withstand high temperatures without any problem, they heat up quite quickly. The main reason why these pans are so immensely popular among the famous chefs in the world is that they can be used in microwave ovens as well. Moreover, they keep the food warm for a long period.

The Different Items You Can Cook in Carbon Steel Pans

Carbon steel pans are widely popular among professional cooks because they can be used in multiple modes of cooking, including baking, stovetop cooking, oven broiling, browning, braising, and frying. There is a wide variety of dishes that the cooks prepare in the carbon steel pans that they cannot do in other utensils.

While using stainless steel or aluminum pots, they need to use separate appliances as well for performing every step of the dish. Carbon steel pans are high in the way that everything can be done in the same pan only.

You will be able to cook eggs, fish, vegetables, poultries, potatoes, and meat by doing stovetop cooking in a carbon steel pan. Many people braise pork chops, beef bourguignon, stews, soups, and others in the said pans.

Chefs all around the globe also use carbon steel pans to brown salmon, tuna, steaks, and other dishes. These utensils are also used to stir fry vegetables, chicken, lo mein, and other items that are commonly cooked in every household.

Apart from all the different dishes, users can also bake preparations, including pies, cakes, casseroles, loaves of bread, pastries, and others. That is why Carbon steel pans are used by professional chefs and home cooks alike as they are convenient and versatile at the same time.

What Is the Meaning of Seasoning?

Seasoning is one of the primary steps of cooking an excellent dish. Without it, not only will your dish taste bland, but it will miss a certain panache that is required for preparation to become palatable. Most people season their meals by using different categories of spices, herbs, garlic, ginger, and, most importantly, salt.

Many people miss out on the fact that salt is a seasoning ingredient, but without it, your dish will amount to nothing. It is the necessary foundation of preparation. Nowadays, people season their meals by using exotic herbs like Oregano, paprika, basil, or other condiments. Still, earlier, most people used to season their dishes by using salt and pepper only.

Seasoning a dish is not that difficult. You will need to put the herbs and spices in your recipe before starting the cooking process. In case you are preparing steak or roast, you need to season the meat before starting the preparation.

Even though most spices should be put in dishes before the cooking process, some herbs need to be added at the last step of the preparation. Herbs like Oregano or sage offer beautiful aroma if you add them right before turning off your stove.

Carbon Steel Pans vs. Cast-Iron Pans?

Both Carbon steel and Cast iron are excellent materials for cooking. Most restaurants use any one of these two materials because they not only accommodate stovetop cooking, but they also assist microwave and oven cooking as well.

As they are made from ferromagnetic materials, you will be able to use either one of them for the induction cooktop as well. That is why neither of the utensils will become irrelevant when modern appliances come into existence.

Another reason why the said two materials are quite similar is that both cast iron and carbon steel pots are not dishwasher-friendly. They must be cleaned with a cleaning sponge or bare hands.

Cast iron pans retain more heat than carbon steel pots, and you will be able to cook at a high temperature by using the former one. But carbon steel pans heat up and cool down efficiently. That is why many chefs use carbon steel pots for cooking delicate dishes.

If you are looking for preparing grilled meals, cast iron will be way more effective than carbon steel. But if you are trying to cook scallops or fishes, carbon steel will be quite helpful to you. Since both the materials are perfect for cooking a multitude of preparations, both are used to prepare delectable dishes by most of the renowned restaurants all over the world.

What Are The Best Carbon Steel Pans?

I have listed some of the best carbon steel pans that I trust the most. Please have a quick look at the list and find yourself the best pan.

• Best Overall: De Buyer 5610.32 Carbon Steel Pan
  “PTFE and PFOA Free, 100% Natural Beeswax finish, Built to last a lifetime.”
• Best for Family Size Cooking: Lodge CRS12 Carbon Steel Pan
  “Easy care, Heavy-gauge carbon steel material, Effective and Versatile.”
• Best for Electric Cooktop: Joyce Chen J21-9972DS-1 Carbon Steel Wok Set
  “Safe to use on gas or electric cooktops, Easy care, Birch-wood handle.”
• Best for Stir Fry Cooking: Craft Wok 731W88 Carbon Steel Pow Wok
  “Wooden handle for a strong grip, Durable material, No plastics or lacquers.”
• Best for Professional Cooking: Joyce Chen 22-0060 Carbon Steel Wok
  “Heavy-gauge carbon steel construction, Ergonomic phenolic handle, Ideal for gas and electric cooktops.”
• Best for PTFE-Free Coating: De Buyer 5615.30 Carbon Steel Pan
  “PTFE and PFOA free, Easy care, Warp resistant.”
• Best for Tarts: Zenker Z6521 Carbon Steel Pan
  “Heat resistant up to 450-degrees, PFOA free, High-quality coating.”
• Best for Durability: Garcima C-15RED Carbon Steel Pan
  “Durable carbon steel coating, Safe for stovetop, oven, and grill, Perfect size.”
• Best for Induction: Souped Up Carbon Steel Wok
  “Lightweight and durable, Accessories included, Perfect for wok recipes.”
• Best for All-Purpose Cooking: De Buyer 5614.32 Carbon Steel Pan
  “Made up of 99% pure iron, PTFE or PFOA free, Durable and long-lasting.”
• Best for Commercial Grade Cooking: Mauviel 3651.2 Carbon Fry Pan
  “High performance, Naturally non-stick, Superior durability.”
• Best Budget: Paderno World Cuisine A4172524 Carbon Steel Pan
  “Heavy-duty carbon steel, Easy to wash, Lightweight and unbreakable.”
• Best for Domestic Use: De Buyer 5110.28 Carbon Steel Pan
  “Unique shape, No sharp angles, Durable and long-lasting.”
• Best for Even Heating: MV Trading CSWK12FBHH Carbon Steel Pan
  “Wooden side spool handles, Easy to use, Made to last lifetime.”
• Best for Seasoning: Paderno A4171428 Carbon Steel Pan
  “Excellent heat conductionm, Flat iron handle with rivets, High-quality carbon steel.”

Best Carbon Steel Pans Comparison Table

The comparison chart below will give you a quick overview of the best carbon steel pans. Here I have compared the best pans based on their specifications. Please read this chart to find the best carbon steel pan for your kitchen needs.

Top 15 Best Carbon Steel Pans Reviews

If you’re not sure which carbon steel pan can meet your needs, then check out the detailed reviews. It will help you to understand the specifications and features of the top 15 cooking pans and make an informed decision.

De Buyer 5610.32 Carbon Steel Pan

(Best Overall)

The De Buyer 5610.32 Carbon Steel Pan is no doubt the winner in this list with a top-notch make that has been designed to last for long. De Buyers, the manufacturer of this steel fry pan, was the very first to have discovered the protective properties of beeswax. This feature today helps protect your pans from any possible oxidation during transportation or storage.

This particular fry pan has been created from the use of the finest natural material, which is 99 percent iron. It is super durable and ensures even distribution of heat throughout the pan for a great cooking experience. The Mineral B Round Carbon Frypan comes with a handle making it easy for cooks to maneuver this pan in a required direction.

Key Features:

• Ergonomic design
• Easy to clean
• 100% eco-friendly manufacturing

Product Specifications:

Color	Silver-Grey
Item Dimensions/Weight	4.2*12.6*1.7 inch/5.8 pounds
Material Type	Iron
Size	12.6 inch
Manufacturer	De Buyer

Whether you want to stir-fry your veggies or you want to cook a full meal, this carbon steel pan can do all for you. Watch this video to have a complete review of De Buyer Mineral Steel Fry Pan for Even Cooking:

Lodge CRS12 Carbon Steel Pan

(Best for Family Size Cooking)

If you are looking for a reliable steel skillet for searing or browning, the Lodge Steel Skillet is a perfect match, given its high heat balancing capacity. The skillet has been designed to heat up quickly and retain the heat to ensure even cooking throughout the session.

This pan has been designed to serve as a brutally tough utensil for cooking that lasts for decades. The steel-based riveted handle allows for easy handling of the pan.

It can be used on electric, gas, outdoor grills, induction stovetops, as well as open fire without any damage to the integrity of the pan. The surface of the skillet has been seasoned with natural oils for easy-release that tends to improve with usage.

Key Features:

• Ideal for use on gas, grills, oven, as well as electric cooktops
• 12-gauge carbon steel retains heat and allows even cooking
• Made up of durable and long-lasting material

Product Specifications:

Color	Black
Item Dimensions/Weight	20.2*12*14 inches/4.1 pounds
Material Type	Cast-iron
Size	12-inch
Manufacturer	Lodge

One great way to cook your meals is to use the right pan. Check out this video to understand why this pan is great for cooking food for large families. Lodge Seasoned Carbon Steel Skillet for Long-term use:

Joyce Chen J21-9972DS-1 Carbon Steel Wok Set

(Best for Electric Cooktop)

For cooking enthusiasts that are looking for a wok set usable on electric as well as gas cooktops, the Joyce Chen J21-9972DS-1 is your go-to series. This particular set comes with a 14-inch wok, 12-inch bamboo spatula, dome lid, as well as a recipe booklet.

This series is created from 11/2inches of durable carbon steel, which leads to faster cooking with even heat distribution. The handle of this carbon steel wok is safe to use and made from birch wood, which is known to stay cool when being used.

So, you do not have to worry about getting your hand burnt while cooking. The pan also allows you to cook without the use of much oil.

Key Features:

• Comes with a lid and a wooden spatula
• Naturally non-stick when seasoned
• Ideal for gas and electric cooktops

Product Specifications:

Color	Charcoal
Item Dimensions/Weight	23.25*14*5.63 inches/5.6 pounds
Material Type	Carbon steel
Size	14-inch
Manufacturer	Joyce Chen

Are you a chef? Want to try out new dishes, but you don’t have the right utensils to cook your food? If yes, then buy the carbon steel pan from Joyce Chen and watch the video why investing in this pan is a wise decision. Classic Series Carbon Steel Wok by Joyce Chen | Non-Stick Dome Lid:

Craft Wok 731W88 Carbon Steel Wok

(Best for Stir Fry Cooking)

If you need a traditional Chinese cooking wok, this amazing product by Craft Wok is just the right fit. Apart from the traditional fast frying and frequent stirring, it can also be used for deep frying or making different variants of soups or curry.

Just like other Chinese woks, this one can be used as a smoker or steamer. Created from 15-gauge of carbon steel, this product comes with a wooden handle on one side and a steel helper attached on the other end.

You will require a generous amount of seasoning oil to ensure proper frying of any veggies or similar items.

Key Features:

• Steel helper handle keeps your hands from burning
• Great for professional as well as home use
• Crafted from commercial-grade carbon steel for lifelong lasting

Product Specifications:

Color	Silver
Item Dimensions/Weight	22.52*14.02*5.98 inches/4.39 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	14-inch
Manufacturer	Craft Wok

Watch this video to have a detailed review of hammered carbon steel wok by Craft Wok. Craft Wok Traditional Hammered Carbon Steel Pow Wok | Heat Proof Wooden Handle:

Joyce Chen 22-0060 Carbon Steel Wok

(Best for Professional Cooking)

Are you someone who loves to experiment on food? Is stir-frying your choice of the day? Why not opt for the Joyce Chen 22-0060 for your cooking needs? Created from the use of top-quality carbon, this wok features a 14” diameter flat bottom that flaunts 2.0mm thickness to ensure rapid & even distribution of heat.

This uncoated wok flaunts an ergonomic handle that remains cool & fits properly in the hands. The lightweight allows the cooking process to be easy when you are tossing the food. Apart from having a creative design, this pan can be stored fairly easily, given the additional loop over its handle.

Another factor that makes this pan an amazing choice is its property to save an enormous amount of energy while cooking.

Key Features:

• Constructed with heavy-gauge carbon steel
• Comes with ergonomic phenolic handles
• It is easy to wash

Product Specifications:

Color	Silver
Item Dimensions/Weight	22.8*15.4*3.6 inches/4.1 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	14-inch
Manufacturer	Joyce Chen

Before you start cooking in your new wok, you need to season it. Check out the video to learn how to season Joyce Chen 22-0060 Uncoated Wok:

De Buyer 5615.30 Carbon Steel Pan

(Best for PTFE-Free Coating)

Whether you love making omelets, frittatas, and similar dishes, the De Buyer Mineral Steel Tortilla Pan is your best bet. This pan is completely non-stick, given its surface finishing with beeswax. Anyone who loves to cook fluffy eggs knows how important non-stick pans are.

The Carbon Steel Pan helps cook a high-quality meal with minimal cleanup. De Buyer’s carbon steel makes it lightweight & easy to work with. Plus, it is highly unlikely that this Mineral Tortilla Pan will break if you happen to drop it during the cooking process.

This pan serves as an excellent heat conductor, which results in faster heating & even cooking. The low end of the pan is a bit higher as opposed to your generic crepe pan, which adds to its versatility.

Key Features:

• Naturally non-stick when seasoned
• Lifetime warranty
• Ergonomic handle

Product Specifications:

Color	Silver
Item Dimensions/Weight	22.8*13.5*3.1 inches/4.28 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	11.8-inch
Manufacturer	De Buyer

This carbon steel pan from De Buyer is a great purchase. Watch the video to have a detailed review of De Buyer Mineral B Round Tortilla Pan | Beeswax Finish:

Zenker Z6521 Carbon Steel Pan

(Best for Tarts)

If you are looking for an ideal pan to make fruit tarts, flans, strawberry shortcakes, or similar items, the Zenker Non-Stick Steel Tart Pan is just what you need. Established in the year 1885, the manufacturer Zenker has always been linked with tradition and quality for centuries.

Weighing mere 7.4 ounces, this steel tart pan is easy to carry around and work with regardless of how complicated your recipes are. Whether you are making a cake or your favorite flan, this non-stick carbon pan will ensure that the dish is finished on both sides.

It makes your cooking look all the more professional and delicious. So, if you are a professional looking for the right tart pan, this non-stick utensil will surely be your best friend in the kitchen.

Key Features:

• It can handle heat up to 450-degrees
• It is ideal for cooking tarts or cupcakes
• It is made in Germany and comes with a 5-year warranty

Product Specifications:

Color	Black
Item Dimensions/Weight	11.69*11.69*1.57 inches/7.4 ounces
Material Type	Steel
Size	11-inch
Manufacturer	Zenker

Garcima C-15RED Carbon Steel Pan

(Best for Durability)

Made from high-quality carbon steel, the Garcima C-15RED is a definite choice for someone in need of a durable Paella pan. With a dimpled and hammered bottom, this Paella Pan is big enough for feeding 3 to 5 people in one go.

The handles are made of steel & painted red to create a bright look for your kitchen decor. It is safe to use on the oven, hob, as well as grill for creating several dishes of your choice. This pan made of carbon steel is fairly thin.

However, it is durable and sturdy when being used. It just requires the basic maintenance protocol for raw steel to keep things dry & oily for the prevention of rust.

Key Features:

• Made up of high-quality and durable carbon steel material
• Safe for use on ovens, grills, and cooktops
• It is manufactured in Spain

Product Specifications:

Color	Silver
Item Dimensions/Weight	19.5*19.5*1.75 inches/2.3 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	15-inch
Manufacturer	La Paella

Depending on the type of pan, you’ll get best cooking results and longevity of the pan if it is suitably seasoned before use. Watch how to season, and then cook on a Garcima C-15RED Paella Pan:

Souped Up Carbon Steel Wok

(Best for Induction)

For any cooking enthusiast, having access to top-quality carbon steel wok is a must. The Souped Up Recipes has a diameter of 12.5 inches with a flat bottom, which is suitable to tend to different heat sources.

You can use the Souped Up Wok on electric coils, induction tops, electric tops, gas stoves, as well as similar heat sources. The wok has a printed hammer-like texture that looks unique and gorgeous when cooking with.

Created from carbon steel, it is surely a trusted choice among chefs who love to work with traditional Asian cuisine. The material doesn’t come with any coating making it safe for use. So, why wait? Get started with your very own Chinese recipe and enjoy the relishing taste.

Key Features:

• It comes with a lid and a spatula
• Ideal for various cooking surfaces
• It is lightweight and heats up quickly

Product Specifications:

Color	Black
Item Dimensions/Weight	13.7*13.4*4.8 inches/6 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	12.5 inch
Manufacturer	Souped Up Recipes

Check out a complete guide video on how to season a carbon steel wok and take care of it daily. Souped Up Recipes Carbon Steel Wok | Durable Carbon Steel Make:

De Buyer 5614.32 Carbon Steel Pan

(Best for All-Purpose Cooking)

If you are looking for a natural and pure iron alternative for your generic fry pan, this is the one you need for all your cooking experiments. The De Buyer Fry Pan is guaranteed to come without any PFDA or PTFE. There is no variant of chemicals added to this Round Country Fry Pan. It is naturally a non-stick pan after proper seasoning has been done.

The beeswax used for coating the surface of this fry pan is known to protect against issues such as oxidation. Not just that, it also helps with seasoning during the cooking process. Make sure you refrain from placing it in a dishwasher as it hasn’t been designed for the same.

Key Features:

• No chemicals added
• 100% natural beeswax finish
• Durable and long-lasting build quality

Product Specifications:

Color	Silver-Grey
Item Dimensions/Weight	25.7*12.4*8.7 inches/4.9 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	12.5 inch
Manufacturer	De Buyer

If you are confused whether you should buy De Buyer Mineral B Round Country Chef Carbon Steel Fry Pan or not, have a look at the video to know why you should buy this pan. De Buyer Mineral B Round Country Chef Carbon Steel Fry Pan | Ergonomic Handle:

Mauviel 3651.2 Carbon Fry Pan

(Best for Commercial Grade Cooking)

Made from the black carbon steel, the Mauviel Non-Stick Pan comes with excellent conduction of heat throughout the cooking process. Given the fact that this Carbon non-stick pan is created from a high-density cooking material, it doesn’t hold the odor of the food being cooked in it.

If you are looking for a frying pan that can easily withstand longer preheating sessions, this is a definite go for your daily cooking needs. The fry pan has been designed to seal the flavors and nutrients within the food being cooked.

After the initial seasoning has been done, it tends to acquire its natural properties for non-stick cooking. Given the fact that carbon steel is lighter as opposed to cast iron, it is easy to handle & maneuver while cooking.

Key Features:

• Constructed with extra-thick carbon steel material
• Ideal for all cooking surfaces
• Comes with a lifetime guarantee

Product Specifications:

Color	Silver-Grey
Item Dimensions/Weight	15.5*8*2 inches/2 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	8-inch
Manufacturer	Mauviel

Click on the video link to know how to season a Mauviel M’Steel carbon steel pan, along with an in-depth review including a high-heat sear test, the Fried Egg Test and cleaning tips. Mauviel 3651.2 Steel Carbon Non-Stick Fry Pan for Stir-Frying:

Paderno World Cuisine A4172524 Carbon Steel Pan

(Best Budget)

The Steel Crepe Pan by Paderno World Cuisine provides an excellent scope for heat conduction given the fact that it is made from heavy-duty material known as carbon steel. It is highly durable, and with the right use, it can last for years to come.

This griddle flaunts a highly-polished surface that needs to be seasoned for achieving a natural & non-stick cooking surface. The Paderno Crepe Pan can be used over induction cooktops along with broilers, ovens, as well as hot plates.

The best thing about this crepe pan is the fact that it has a lifetime warranty provided by its manufacturers. So, if you are looking forward to making amazing dishes such as crepes, omelets, pancakes, egg dishes, as well as tortillas, this crepe pan is just what you need.

Key Features:

• This crepe pan offers excellent heat conduction
• Naturally non-stick when seasoned
• Ideal for all types of cooking surface

Product Specifications:

Color	Gray
Item Dimensions/Weight	9.5*0.6*0.1 inches/1.7 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	9.5 inches
Manufacturer	Paderno World Cuisine

Check out the video showing whether anything sticks to this Paderno carbon steel pan or not and checking the non-stick ability of the pan. Paderno World Cuisine Blue Carbon Steel Crepe Pan | Even Head Distribution:

De Buyer 5110.28 Carbon Steel Pan

(Best for Domestic Use)

From browning of fish, meat, & eggs to grilling or searing, the De Buyer Carbone Plus Frying Pan is perfect for all your cooking needs. This heavy quality pan is known to heat up in a uniform pattern and attains high temperatures fairly quickly.

The De Buyer is naturally non-stick in nature and enables the in-depth caramelization of the juices released by your dish. With a natural non-stick feature, this frying pan allows for the gradual seasoning of the food. The non-stick property of the frying pan increases with use.

The Carbone Plus Round features a French-style curve that allows for an ergonomic grip and easy handling. It comes with a riveted form of stainless steel handle that remains cold as you cook your food.

Key Features:

• It is great for searing and browning meat
• Sturdy and stylish design
• Unbreakable handle

Product Specifications:

Color	Gray
Item Dimensions/Weight	19.1*11*2.4 inches/4.63 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	28 cm
Manufacturer	De Buyer

If you want to cook and enjoy delicious omelette, use this De Buyer carbon steel pan. Check out the video to know how to cook omelette in De Buyer 5110.28 Carbone Plus Round Frying Pan:

MV Trading CSWK12FBHH Carbon Steel Pan

(Best for Even Heating)

If you are in search of a dual-purpose carbon steel wok, this piece by M.V. Trading is the right choice. With this wok to serve your cooking needs, it can be a part of your personal as well as commercial cooking.

The steel wok is basic in terms of design, yet uses the best model to help your cooking techniques. This flat-bottom carbon steel wok will relax perfectly on the gas or electric cooker while benefiting from the heat source.

With a 4-inch depth, this carbon steel wok comes in varying sizes of 16, 14, as well as 12 inches. However, for someone in need of a wok that is perfect for commercial cooking needs, you can purchase sizes ranging from 20 inches to 30 inches.

Key Features:

• Made up of heavy carbon steel
• It is very simple and easy to use
• Designed for fast and even cooking

Product Specifications:

Color	Silver
Item Dimensions/Weight	14.3*14.3*6.8 inches/5 pounds
Material Type	Carbon Steel
Size	14-inches
Manufacturer	M.V. Trading

Paderno A4171428 Carbon Steel Pan

(Best for Seasoning)

Does your cooking session require longer pre-heating sessions at high-temperature? Is finding the right frying pan a chore for you? A quick answer to all your cooking and frying needs is the Paderno A4171428 carbon steel frying pan.

With an ergonomic design, it is capable of handling most of your cooking needs while being light on your hands. Post use, there are no complaints of wrist pain, given its lightweight and durable design. The handle is flat and riveted for easy cooking experience and zero finger burning incidents.

Although it is easy to work with, this heavy-duty frying pan cannot be cleaned with the use of a dishwasher. The best part about the Paderno frying pan is the fact that it is known for its excellent conduction of heat and even cooking throughout.

Key Features:

• Suitable for high-temperature cooking
• Value for money
• Stellar heat conduction for even distribution

Product Specifications:

Color	Silver
Item Dimensions/Weight	22*11*2 inches/6.4 pounds
Material Type	Steel
Size	11-inch
Manufacturer	Paderno World Cuisine

Factors to Consider Before Buying the Best Carbon Steel Pans

We all are familiar with the term “pans”. It is the most necessary household item frequently used in our daily life. Among the various kinds of pans available in the market, the best ones are the carbon steel pans.

Unlike traditional pans that can be solely used for frying, carbon steel cooking pans can be used for almost every kind of cooking. So, it is worth buying a carbon steel pan. However, with a wide range of carbon steel cooking pans available, picking the right one is not an easy task. To help you make the right decision, here I am going to tell you the factors you should consider before opting for a carbon steel pan.

Thickness: The thinner the pan is, the higher the chances will be of getting warp and dent at the bottom of the pan. The reason behind it is that thin pans hold uneven heat. As thicker and heavier pans deliver heat more evenly, the food will not scorch.

Enhanced bottom with proper thickness prevents the burning of food, and it retains heat for a much longer time. So, before you buy a carbon steel pan, don’t forget to check the thickness of the pan base and wall while holding the pan with the knuckles.

Choosing a perfect handle: Choosing a properly handled pan is necessary for cooking comfortably. The handle should not be excessively short or extremely long, as both will lead to discomfort. And the handles must be chosen according to the user’s comfort.

Nowadays, carbon steel pans with removable handles are also available, and these are easier to store and clean. These kinds of pans can be used for multiple purposes, even as a casserole.

Size and depth of the pan: The size of the pan should be bought according to the size of the oven you have at home. Usually, small-sized pans are of 14-inch and can hold up to 12 pounds, whereas a 16-inch pan or a medium-sized pan will hold up to 16 pounds, and the larger size pans are usually of 18-inch and can hold up to 20 pounds.

So, the size can be chosen according to the requirement of the user. The ideal depth of a carbon steel pan is considered to be 3-inches because too deep pans can cause the burning of food.

Seasoning: Before using a carbon steel pan, they must be seasoned. Seasoning the pans refers to the process where the pan is heated with some oil inside it.

On the steel surface, it creates a non-sticky polymer. If you don’t want to season pans and prefer to start cooking right away, then pre-seasoned carbon steel pans can also be bought from the market.

FAQs

Till now, we have discussed the best carbon steel pans that are available in the market for the users to buy as per their needs. If you still have any questions left on your mind, I am here to clear away those doubts. Some of the frequently asked questions are answered below.

My Top Pick

I hope that this article has helped you to choose the best carbon steel pan that can meet your needs efficiently. However, before you buy a pan, do remember the factors you should consider when buying the carbon steel pan.

While all the pans on my list are the best, I liked De Buyer 5610.32 Carbon Steel Pan the most. This pan is made up of 99% pure iron. Moreover, it is PTFE or PFOA free, which allows this pan to stand out of the crowd.

Do you know any other best carbon steel pans? Do you have any tips for choosing the best steel pan? If yes, don’t forget to share it with me. And if you have any queries, feel free to ask. I’ll love to answer your queries.