Choosing the Right Frying Pan for Everyday Cooking
With so many frying pans available today, choosing the right one for daily cooking can feel overwhelming. The truth is, the “best” frying pan depends on how you cook, the meals you prepare most often, and how much maintenance you’re comfortable with. This guide breaks down the most common frying pan types to help you find the best option for everyday use.
Non-Stick Frying Pans – The Everyday Favourite
Non-stick frying pans are the most popular choice for daily cooking. Their smooth surface makes cooking eggs, pancakes, vegetables, and stir-fries effortless while requiring very little oil. They’re also quick to clean, which makes them ideal for busy households.
Best for:
- Eggs and breakfast dishes
- Stir-fries and light meals
- Low-oil everyday cooking
Stainless Steel Frying Pans – Durable and High-Heat Ready
Stainless steel frying pans are built for performance and longevity. They handle high heat extremely well, making them perfect for browning meats, sautéing vegetables, and creating pan sauces. While they require a bit more technique than non-stick pans, they reward you with excellent results.
Best for:
- Searing and browning
- Crisping vegetables
- High-heat cooking
Cast Iron & Enamelled Cast Iron – Exceptional Heat Retention
Cast iron frying pans are known for their unbeatable heat retention and even cooking. They excel at producing a deep, flavourful sear and are perfect for one-pan meals. Enamelled cast iron offers the same performance with easier cleaning and no need for seasoning.
Best for:
- Steaks and meats
- Oven-to-table meals
- Slow cooking and roasting
Ceramic Non-Stick Frying Pans – Cleaner Cooking Surface
Ceramic-coated frying pans provide a naturally slick surface without traditional non-stick coatings. They heat quickly and are well suited to simple, everyday meals cooked over low to medium heat.
Best for:
- Light daily meals
- Quick cooking
- Low-to-medium heat dishes
Which Frying Pan Is Best for Everyday Cooking?
For most households, a quality non-stick frying pan is the best all-round choice for everyday cooking. If you regularly cook at higher temperatures, stainless steel is a strong addition. For maximum flavour and heat retention, cast iron is hard to beat. Many New Zealand kitchens benefit from owning two pans — a non-stick pan for weekday meals and a stainless steel or cast iron pan for weekends and special dishes.
Premium Frying Pan Brands We Stock
At The Living Styles, we offer high-quality frying pans from trusted brands including Scanpan, Pyrolux, Valira, Chasseur, and Flonal. These brands are known for their durability, reliable performance, and suitability for everyday cooking.
Whether you’re replacing your main everyday pan or adding a specialised option to your kitchen, our collection offers long-lasting cookware designed for New Zealand homes.
