Quick answer

To get the best from your RACO SmartStart 30cm ceramic frypan on induction, preheat it on medium, use a little oil or butter, and cook at moderate temperatures. Hand wash with a soft sponge and avoid metal utensils to protect the ceramic coating.

Why ceramic nonstick behaves differently on induction

Induction hobs heat the pan base directly, so the ceramic coating can reach high temperatures quickly. That’s great for searing, but it also means you need to control the heat more carefully than on gas or electric. Start lower than you think and let the pan come up to temperature gradually.

The RACO SmartStart frypan is oven safe to 180°C / 350°F, so you can finish dishes under the grill or in the oven. Just remember that the stay-cool handle may become hot in the oven—always use an oven mitt.

Common mistakes to avoid

Don’t preheat an empty ceramic pan on high heat for long periods; it can damage the coating and reduce its nonstick properties. Also, avoid sudden temperature changes—never plunge a hot pan into cold water. And skip aerosol cooking sprays, which can leave a sticky residue that’s hard to remove.

Step-by-step: using and caring for your RACO SmartStart frypan

  1. Preheat on medium: Set your induction hob to medium (around 50-60% power) and let the pan heat for 1-2 minutes. Add a drop of water—if it sizzles and evaporates, the pan is ready. Avoid preheating on high or for extended periods. Checkpoint: never leave an empty pan heating unattended.
  2. Use a little oil or butter: Add a teaspoon of oil or a small knob of butter and swirl to coat. Ceramic nonstick works best with some fat, even though it’s nonstick. Don’t use aerosol sprays, which can build up a sticky film. Checkpoint: if food starts sticking, your heat may be too high or you need a little more fat.
  3. Cook at moderate temperatures: Keep the heat at medium or lower for most foods. High heat is only for quick searing, and even then, keep it short. Stir or flip with silicone, wood, or plastic utensils—metal can scratch the coating. Checkpoint: if you see smoke, remove the pan from the heat immediately.
  4. Cool before cleaning: Let the pan cool completely before washing. Hand wash with warm water, a soft sponge, and mild dish soap. Avoid abrasive cleaners or scouring pads. Dry thoroughly with a soft cloth. Checkpoint: never immerse a hot pan in cold water—it can warp the base or damage the coating.
  5. Store carefully: Stack pans with a felt or paper towel between them to prevent scratches. Hang or store separately if possible. Avoid sliding the pan across the hob, which can scratch the base. Checkpoint: regularly check the base for scratches or warping that could affect induction performance.

Product facts