Quick answer

Use the 22cm frypan for eggs, small sautés, and single servings; the 28cm frypan for family stir-fries and searing; and the 20cm saucepan for sauces, grains, and reheating. Attach the detachable handle only when cooking, and remove it before storing or serving.

Why the 22cm and 28cm frypans are not interchangeable

The 22cm frypan heats quickly and keeps ingredients contained, making it ideal for delicate foods like eggs or a small portion of vegetables. The 28cm frypan offers more surface area for browning without crowding, which is essential for stir-fries and searing. Using the wrong size can lead to uneven cooking or excess oil.

When the 20cm saucepan is the better choice

The 20cm saucepan is designed for liquid-based cooking: simmering sauces, boiling grains, or reheating soups. Its taller sides reduce splatter and evaporation compared to a frypan. Avoid using it for dry frying or high-heat searing, as the shape is not optimized for those tasks.

Detachable handle: convenience and its limits

The detachable handle allows you to stack pans compactly and transfer them from stovetop to oven (if the manufacturer allows). However, always ensure the handle is securely locked before lifting, and never use the handle under a grill or broiler. The set's versatility depends on proper handling.

Step-by-step: choosing and using each piece

  1. Match the pan to the task: For eggs, small sautés, or a single serving, use the 22cm frypan. For family-sized stir-fries, searing, or browning larger batches, use the 28cm frypan. For sauces, grains, or reheating liquids, use the 20cm saucepan. Check your portion size before heating the pan; an overcrowded pan steams instead of browns.
  2. Attach the handle correctly: Align the handle with the pan's mounting point and press until it clicks or locks securely. Tug gently to confirm it is firmly attached before lifting. Never lift a full pan by the handle without first testing the lock; a loose handle can cause spills.
  3. Cook with the right heat level: Use medium heat for most frying and simmering. High heat is only for quick searing, and never leave an empty pan on high heat for long. Preheat the pan for a minute before adding oil; this reduces sticking and ensures even cooking.
  4. Remove the handle for storage or serving: Detach the handle by pressing the release mechanism (if present) and pulling away. Stack pans with the handle removed to save space. Store the handle separately to avoid scratching the nonstick surfaces.

Product facts