For fine cooking and easy cleaning, the best non-stick frying pans are just the ticket. However, the plentiful options in New Zealand can be overwhelming to choose from.
Whether you're preparing everyday meals or experimenting with new recipes, the right non-stick frying pan can be a valuable addition to your kitchen.
This guide will help you decide the best non-stick frying pan for you, going through materials, durability, and suitability for various cooking methods. To help your search, we've put together a list of the best non-stick frying pans NZ.
What to consider when buying a non-stick frying pan
Here's a breakdown to help you find the right non-stick frying pan:
- Budget: Non-stick frying pans range from $100 to over $500. Spending more usually means better quality materials and longer durability. However, even mid-range pans can offer good performance for everyday cooking. Consider how often you'll use the pan and for what types of dishes to determine if a higher investment makes sense for you.
- Size and Weight: Pans come in various diameters, commonly from 20 cm to 30 cm. The size you choose should match the volume of food you typically cook. Weight is also a factor for handling ease; lighter pans are easier to manoeuvre, but heavier ones may distribute heat more evenly.
- Material: The base material affects heat distribution and retention. Aluminium pans heat up quickly and are usually cheaper, while stainless steel or copper-bottomed pans provide more even heating but can be pricier.
- Coating Type: Traditional Teflon (PTFE) coatings are common, but newer ceramic coatings are gaining popularity for being environmentally friendly and heat resistant. Consider the durability of the coating and any health concerns you might have.
- Handle Comfort and Safety: Look for a handle that is comfortable to hold and stays cool during cooking. Some pans have removable handles for more accessible storage.
- Oven Safety: If you plan to use your frying pan in the oven, check the maximum temperature it can withstand and whether the handle is oven-safe.
- Compatibility with Cooktops: Ensure the pan is compatible with your cooktop type, especially if you have an induction stove.
- Ease of Cleaning: Most non-stick pans are easy to clean, but check if the pan is dishwasher safe if this is important for you.
Warranty and Brand Reputation: A longer warranty can be a sign of a manufacturer's confidence in their product. Research brand reputation and reviews for long-term satisfaction.
The Best Non-Stick Frying Pans NZ
1. Scanpan HaptIQ Frypan
Price: $186 - $499
Key Features
- Available in sizes 20 cm, 24 cm, 26 cm, 28 cm, 32 cm.
- Made of 5-ply clad aluminium and 18/10 stainless steel for even heat distribution.
- Features exclusive Stratanium+ non-stick coating.
- Ergonomic handles that stay cool, suitable for metal utensils.
- Oven safe up to 250°C, dishwasher safe, PFOA and PFOS-free.
The Scanpan HaptIQ frypan stands out for its 5-ply construction combining stainless steel and aluminium, ensuring even heat distribution and optimum cooking results.
The Stratanium+ non-stick coating is a key feature, offering durability and compatibility with metal utensils. Its ergonomic handles that stay cool and its oven safety up to 250°C make it versatile for various cooking styles. Additionally, its ease of cleaning, dishwasher safety, and health-conscious PFOA and PFOS-free make-up add to its appeal.
The Scanpan HaptIQ frypan may be a significant investment, but it's backed by a 10-year warranty. Plus, it's designed and made in Denmark.
2. Le Creuset Signature 3Ply Stainless Steel Non-Stick Deep Frying Pan
Price: $371
Key Features
- Wide 32cm size.
- Made with a professional-grade stainless steel blend and a full aluminium core for even heating.
- Patented PFOA-free non-stick technology ensures easy food release and cleaning.
- Suitable for all hob types, including induction. Oven safe up to 260°C.
- Features a long handle for convenient lifting and a precision pour rim.
The Le Creuset Signature 3Ply Stainless Steel Non-Stick Deep Frying Pan is a premium kitchen essential, particularly suitable for those who value professional-grade cookware.
This 32cm pan is crafted with a tri-ply construction that combines stainless steel and aluminium, ensuring even heat distribution for consistent cooking results. Its PFOA-free non-stick surface is safe and makes cooking and cleaning effortless. The pan's design includes a long handle for easy lifting and a precision pour rim for convenience.
Suitable for all stove types and oven-safe at 260°C, the Le Creuset Signature pan is versatile and durable.
3. Swiss Diamond XD Induction Non-Stick Frypan 28cm
Price: $268.99
Key Features
- Suitable 28cm size.
- Compatible with all cooktops, including induction.
- Oven-safe up to 260°C.
- Features advanced XD non-stick coating with genuine diamond crystals.
- Made from pressure-cast aluminium, with ergonomic, stay-cool handles.
- PFOA-free, easy to clean, and eco-friendly production process.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
The Swiss Diamond XD Induction Non-Stick Frypan, priced at $268.99 (discounted from $359), stands out for its combination of innovative technology and practical design.
The 28cm pan is suitable for all cooktops, including induction, and is oven-safe up to 260°C. Its high-quality XD non-stick coating, reinforced with real diamond crystals, provides excellent food release and durability. The pressure-cast aluminium construction ensures even heat distribution while the ergonomic handles remain cool for safe handling.
Additionally, the pan's eco-friendly production and PFOA-free coating make it a healthier choice for cooking.
This Swiss-made pan, offering a limited lifetime warranty, promises superior cooking and long-term durability, making it a great option for home cooks and professional chefs.
4. Essteele Per Salute Non-Stick Open French Skillet
Price: $194.99
Key Features
- 24 cm size with diamond-reinforced non-stick surface for better hardness.
- Features exceptional heat conductivity due to real diamonds, PFOA and nickel-free.
- DuraShield technology for enhanced resistance to wear and tear.
- Thermotech handle indicator turns green when it's time to start cooking.
- Durable 7-layer construction, oven safe to 180°C.
- Lifetime warranty.
The Essteele Per Salute Non-Stick Open French Skillet is Italian-made and durable, and its 24cm size is ideal for various cooking tasks.
The skillet boasts a diamond-reinforced non-stick surface for great hardness and less need for oils, fats, and grease, promoting healthier cooking. The DuraShield technology enhances its durability, making it resistant to wear and tear. A unique feature is the Thermotech handle, which indicates when the pan is ready for cooking.
The Essteele Per Salute skillet is oven-safe up to 180°C, though not suitable for dishwashers. With its lifetime warranty, this skillet promises longevity and consistent performance, making it a valuable addition to any kitchen.
5. Pyrolux Ignite Non Stick Frypan
Price: $109
Key Features
- 30 cm size, made from heavy-duty forged aluminium.
- Features Whitford USA Quantanium non-stick coating for high heat tolerance and even heat distribution.
- Suitable for all cooktop types, including induction.
- Equipped with a riveted stainless steel handle that stays cool to the touch.
- Oven and grill safe, PFOA and BPA free, dishwasher safe.
- Limited lifetime warranty.
The Pyrolux Ignite Non-Stick Frypan, now at an affordable $109, offers strong performance for a variety of cooking styles. This 30 cm frypan is crafted from heavy-duty forged aluminium, ensuring durability and even heat distribution.
Its standout feature is the Whitford USA Quantanium non-stick coating, designed for high heat tolerance, making it ideal for a wide range of cooking. What's more, the pan is suitable for gas, electric, glass-ceramic, and induction cooktops. The cool-to-touch stainless steel handle enhances safety and ease of use. Additionally, this pan is oven and grill-safe, PFOA and BPA-free, and dishwasher-safe.
Backed by a limited lifetime warranty, the Pyrolux Ignite Non-Stick Frypan is for beginner and seasoned cooks alike.
The Best Non-Stick Frying Pans NZ: FAQs
1. How long does a non-stick frying pan typically last?
The lifespan of a non-stick frying pan varies based on usage and care. Typically, a quality pan can last between 3 to 5 years. Frequent use and exposure to high temperatures can shorten this lifespan.
2. Can non-stick frying pans go in the dishwasher?
While many non-stick pans are marketed as dishwasher safe, hand washing is recommended to extend the coating's life. Dishwashing detergents and high heat can degrade the non-stick surface.
3. Are non-stick frying pans safe to use at high temperatures?
It's advisable to use non-stick pans over low to medium heat. High temperatures can damage the non-stick coating and release harmful chemicals. Most pans are safe up to 175°C.
4. How can I tell if a pan is suitable for induction cooktops?
To be compatible with induction cooktops, a pan must have a magnetic base. You can test this with a magnet; if it sticks to the pan's base, it's suitable for induction cooking.
5. What's the difference between Teflon and ceramic coatings?
Teflon (PTFE) coatings are synthetic and provide excellent non-stick properties. Ceramic coatings, on the other hand, are made from natural minerals and are often considered a healthier, eco-friendly option. Both have good non-stick qualities, but ceramic coatings are less durable.
6. Can I use metal utensils with a non-stick frying pan?
It's best to avoid metal utensils, which can scratch and damage the non-stick surface. Opt for wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils to maintain the coating's integrity.
7. How should I store my non-stick frying pan to prevent damage?
Store your pan in a dry place and avoid stacking other cookware directly on the non-stick surface. If you must stack, place a soft cloth or pan protector between the pans.
8. Is it necessary to season a non-stick frying pan?
Unlike cast iron pans, non-stick frying pans don't require seasoning. However, some manufacturers recommend a light oil coating before the first use to enhance the non-stick properties.
9. What is the best way to clean a non-stick frying pan?
Clean with warm, soapy water using a soft sponge or cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners and scouring pads, which can scratch the surface. Ensure the pan is completely dry before storing.
10. Can I repair a scratched or damaged non-stick surface?
Once the non-stick surface is significantly scratched or damaged, it's usually time to replace the pan. Continued use can lead to deteriorating non-stick performance and potential health hazards.
