Introduction
When it comes to cooking having the right pans can make all the difference. There are several types of pans available in the Kenyan market. However, do you need all of them? There is nothing as stressful as having to cook your favorite dishes but you don’t have the right pan for it. Well, worry no more because you have landed at the right place. In this article, we will learn more about pans, the types of pans you will need in your Kitchen, and some of the factors you should consider when choosing the right pan for you.
Types of Pans You Need in Your Kitchen in Kenya
There are several types of pans that you will need to have to prepare a variety of dishes. Let’s define what a pan is. A pan is a metal container used for cooking food. The essential pans that every home cook should have include:
1. Saucepan
A saucepan is a staple in every kitchen. It is a deep, straight-sided pan with a long handle and a lid. Saucepans are made of stainless steel, aluminum, or copper. They come in various sizes, ranging from small to large. The saucepan is ideal for cooking sauces, boiling water, and simmering soups. Its tall sides help prevent liquids from splattering, and the lid helps retain heat and moisture. You can also use a saucepan for cooking grains, reheating leftovers, and making small batches of pasta or rice.
2. Frying Pan
A frying pan, also known as a skillet, is a shallow, flat-bottomed pan with slightly sloping sides and a long handle. It is made of cast iron, stainless steel, or non-stick materials. The frying pan is perfect for cooking a variety of foods, including eggs, pancakes, stir-fries, and sautéed vegetables. Its wide surface area allows for even heat distribution, while the sloping sides make it easy to flip and toss ingredients. Whether you’re searing a steak or frying up some bacon, a good frying pan is a must-have in any kitchen.
3. Wok
A wok is a versatile pan that originated in Chinese cuisine but is now used in kitchens around the world. It is a round-bottomed pan with high, sloping sides and two handles. Traditionally made of carbon steel, wok can also be found in stainless steel or cast iron.
The wok is for high-heat cooking techniques such as stir-frying, deep-frying, and steaming. Its shape allows for quick and even heat distribution, while the high sides prevent ingredients from spilling out. The two handles make it easy to toss and flip ingredients with a flick of the wrist. Whether you’re whipping up a quick stir-fry or experimenting with new Asian recipes, a wok will be your go-to pan. It has a rounded bottom and high, sloping sides, which make it perfect for stir-frying, deep-frying, and steaming. Woks distribute heat evenly and quickly, allowing you to cook food at high temperatures without burning.
4. Sauté Pan
A sauté pan is similar to a frying pan but has higher, straight sides. It usually comes with a lid and is made of stainless steel, copper, or non-stick materials. The sauté pan is perfect for sautéing vegetables, browning meat, and making sauces. Its high sides prevent ingredients from spilling out while allowing for easy stirring and flipping. The lid helps trap heat and moisture, making it ideal for braising and slow cooking. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight meal or simmering a flavorful stew, a sauté pan will be your go-to pan.
5. Chapati Pan
Cooking chapati is something popular in Kenya, therefore having a chapati pan is a must-have in every kitchen. It also known as a tawa or griddle, is a flat, round pan with no sides. It is typically made of cast iron or aluminum. The chapati pan is commonly used in Kenyan cooking to make flatbreads like chapati or Indian dishes like rotis, and parathas. Its flat surface allows for even heat distribution, ensuring that your bread cooks evenly. You can also use a chapati pan to cook pancakes, crepes, and tortillas. If you love making homemade bread or enjoy experimenting with different types of flatbreads, a chapati pan is a must-have in your kitchen.
6. Double- Grill Pan
A double grill pan, also known as a grill pan or griddle pan, is a versatile pan with ridges on one side and a flat surface on the other. It is made of cast iron or aluminum. The double grill pan is perfect for grilling meats, fish, vegetables, and sandwiches. The ridges create beautiful grill marks and allow excess fat to drain away, giving your food a delicious smoky flavor. The flat surface is also for cooking pancakes, eggs, and other flat items. Whether you want to enjoy the taste of grilled food without a barbecue or simply want to add some variety to your cooking, a double grill pan is a great addition to your kitchen.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cooking Pan in Kenya
Now that we have discussed the types of pans you need in your kitchen, let’s explore the factors to consider when choosing a cooking pan in Kenya:
1. Material
The material of the pan plays a crucial role in its performance and durability. Common materials used for cooking pans include stainless steel, aluminum, cast iron, and copper. Stainless steel pans are durable and easy to maintain, while aluminum pans heat up quickly and distribute heat evenly. Cast iron pans retain heat well and are great for searing and slow cooking. Copper pans offer excellent heat conductivity but require regular maintenance.
2. Size
Consider the size of the pan based on your cooking needs and the number of people you usually cook for. Having a variety of pan sizes is ideal for versatility in the kitchen. A smaller pan is perfect for single servings or small dishes, while a larger pan is suitable for cooking for a large family
3. Heat Conductivity
Good heat conductivity is essential for even cooking. Look for pans with a thick, heavy base that can distribute heat evenly and prevent hot spots. This will ensure that your food cooks consistently and doesn’t burn in certain areas.
4. Handle
The handle of the pan should be sturdy and comfortable to hold. It should stay cool to the touch, even when the pan is hot. Heat-resistant handles are essential for safety and ease of use.
5. Maintenance
Consider the maintenance required for the pan. Some pans require seasoning or special care to maintain their non-stick properties or prevent rusting. Others are easily cleaned with regular dishwashing detergent. Choose a pan that fits your lifestyle and maintenance preferences.
6. Budget
This is the most basic factor when it comes to buying anything. Having a Budget will help you focus on pans that are within that range. Know how much you are willing to spend or afford.
Conclusion
Having the right types of pans in your kitchen is essential for preparing a variety of dishes. A saucepan, frying pan, wok, sauté pan, chapati pan, and double grill pan are all must-haves for any home cook in Kenya. Consider the above-mentioned factors when choosing your cooking pans and you will be able to find the right pan for you. Investing in high-quality pans will not only enhance your cooking experience but also ensure that your dishes turn out delicious every time.