Housewives who like a frying pan that is not too heavy, but not too light, with a smooth coating to which food does not stick even without fat, and which is not afraid of metal utensils will not be attracted by either Teflon or cast iron. But they may like a frying pan with a granite coating, which just meets these requirements, and also has a number of advantages.
Content
- What is granite coating on a frying pan
- Pros and Cons of Granite Frying Pans
- How Granite Frying Pans Are Made
- Why a frying pan with granite chips is better than cookware with other non-stick coatings
- What materials are used to make granite pans?
- Dimensions of the frying pan with granite coating
- Lids and handles for granite pans
- Choosing a Quality Granite Frying Pan
- Service life of pans with granite chips
- Nuances of caring for a granite frying pan
- The Best Granite Frying Pans
- VIDEO: Granite frying pan review – how to choose the right one.
What is granite coating on a frying pan
The first non-stick, Teflon, coatings had a number of drawbacks. When damaged, they released harmful substances, were poorly protected and very vulnerable.
The so-called granite coating is another attempt to get a frying pan that does not stick, but it is an improved version of the non-stick coating - more durable, safer and more convenient. What is the granite coating of the frying pan, what is it and does it really contain real granite?
Manufacturers explain the success of the coating by a special composition, which includes stone chips, which supposedly effectively heats the surface. However, in most cases, granite pans are made of aluminum and coated with a non-stick material based on PTFE (the same Teflon), often with granite interspersed, but not for heating, but for a non-stick effect. The coating layer of such pans is stronger and thicker than Teflon. The thickness of the walls is from 3 cm, and the composition itself can vary up to natural granite, and depends on the manufacturer. Granite pans are also called stone or marble.
Pros and Cons of Granite Frying Pans
Like any cookware, a frying pan with a granite coating has its pros and cons, which are important to consider when choosing the right option. Granite frying pans have a double bottom and are usually made of aluminum, which is known for its high thermal conductivity, which allows you to evenly heat the entire bottom area even on low heat. This in turn provides uniform frying of products, which is good for health: there will be neither overcooked nor undercooked dishes.
Frying pans with a granite coating do not stick, you can cook on them even without oil. Regular frying pans and grill pans are produced with a granite coating, the latter are usually heavier.
An important advantage is that even if the surface of such cookware is damaged, it may become inconvenient for frying, but will not be harmful to the body, like a number of others. In addition, food cooked in such a frying pan will have high taste qualities - the coating has no smell and does not affect the taste of the dish. Given the strength of the coating, many are even impossible to scratch, their surface is so hard.
However, there are also disadvantages, for example, they do not like temperature changes, so you will have to be careful not to wash a hot frying pan under cold water, and not to put a cold one directly on the fire.
The peculiarity of their structure, in particular, several layers of coating, among other things, protects them from overheating, and this helps to maintain the integrity of the coating and, accordingly, significantly increase the service life.
How Granite Frying Pans Are Made
Frying pans, known as granite, are made of aluminum or, less commonly, steel, have a double bottom and are covered with a durable non-stick coating of more than 3 cm, which may include stone chips, which allows you to get a non-stick layer that is at the same time quite durable and almost unpretentious.
The coating layer itself consists of three or more layers, which makes it particularly durable and allows it to withstand contact with metal objects.
The more layers, the more reliable the coating, but the higher the price.
There are many Chinese and Korean models of decent quality on the market, and there are also high-quality domestically produced options that are several times cheaper than foreign ones.
Why a frying pan with granite chips is better than cookware with other non-stick coatings
This coating gives such frying pans a number of significant advantages both in comparison with Teflon, which is very thin and vulnerable, and in comparison with fragile ceramic. This coating is considered more environmentally friendly than Teflon, and more durable than ceramic, thus representing the golden mean.
There are options for stone chips, stone spraying and there are models with a completely natural coating. Granite and marble are used. However, the more natural components, the more environmentally friendly, but also heavier and more expensive the cookware. Experts and users believe that granite chips are quite enough for a safe and easy-to-use frying pan.
As for the marble coating, there is one peculiarity: such a frying pan cannot be heated to more than 300 degrees.
What materials are used to make granite pans?
The basis of "granite" pans is aluminum, sometimes steel. Sometimes they are made of natural granite or marble compositions, but then they are much more expensive and heavier.
The coating contains granite or marble chips or dust. This is what makes the coating so durable and invulnerable. However, if the base of the composition is ceramic, then such a frying pan needs to be looked after more carefully.
Handles are most often made of plastic or metal. Sometimes the handles continue the main pattern in design, which makes it stylish and attractive.
Dimensions of the frying pan with granite coating
Frying pans with granite coating can be found on sale with a diameter of 20 cm. There are also 22, 24, 26 and 28 cm. The medium ones - 24 and 26 - are the most popular and convenient. After all, if you remember that this frying pan is not very light, a larger one will be less convenient to work with due to its weight.
Lids and handles for granite pans
Since a frying pan with a granite coating is a relatively new solution, the design of such products is modern and attractive, and all elements are made with increased convenience.
For example, many brands offer comfortable and beautiful handles with a rubberized coating. Using a frying pan thanks to such a handle is pure pleasure and comfort:
- the hand does not slip,
- hold comfortably,
- feels nice to the touch.
Metal ones are usually conveniently shaped and stylish, and they are also comfortable and pleasant to use. Wooden handles are sometimes offered, but such options are rare and less convenient.
Many models have removable handles, which is convenient for those who like to cook in the oven.
Granite-coated frying pans can be purchased with lids if necessary. Stylish lids are made taking into account the latest trends and are easy to use. However, any of these frying pans will fit another lid of the same diameter.
Choosing a Quality Granite Frying Pan
When choosing a frying pan, you should first decide what weight is needed. It should not be too light. Firstly, this is an indicator of imitation of "stone", most likely in such models the "stone" layer is not maintained at the required 3 cm and higher. Secondly, the thickness of the walls and the double bottom make it heavier, but better quality.
For good quality:
- the thickness of the walls should be at least 3.5 cm,
- The thickness of the double bottom should be at least 6 cm.
The entire surface of the cookware should be smooth, without any unevenness or chips, the handle should fit tightly to the main part, without any cracks or gaps, it should hold firmly in place, not wobble or cause a feeling of instability or unreliability. It should be comfortable to hold the handle, the hand should not slip.
It is better to choose a removable rubberized handle with a strong mount.
Service life of pans with granite chips
The service life of a "granite" frying pan depends entirely on the quality of production and on maintenance. The latter is more important.
With careful care, it can last up to 25 years, which is a lot compared to Teflon, which remains intact for no more than 2 years, and remains safe only with super-careful care, which most ordinary users are not capable of.
Most models on the market are dishwasher safe. This can be used if necessary, but to extend the life of these products, it is better to clean them manually.
Nuances of caring for a granite frying pan
A granite frying pan requires taking into account important care requirements, adhering to which you can provide the cookware with:
- health safety,
- ease of cooking,
- long service life.
You can touch it with metal utensils - a spoon, a fork, but you should still remember that it has a coating that you don't want to damage. Therefore, you shouldn't wash it with a metal sponge or openly scratch it with a knife.
It is also afraid of sudden temperature changes. If you bring it in from a cold balcony or take it out of the refrigerator and immediately put it on the fire, the integrity will be damaged and the frying pan will stop functioning properly. The same applies to the habit of sending a hot frying pan straight from the stove to the sink under cold water.
It must not be dropped or subjected to mechanical impact. It must not be chipped or scratched.
In order for the frying pan to serve longer, it needs to be properly looked after, but there is nothing complicated about its care. Usually it is enough to wash it carefully (it can be in the dishwasher), wipe it dry, drop a little oil, wipe it with a napkin.
The Best Granite Frying Pans
Quality, convenience, service life and even the quality and taste of dishes depend on the model and manufacturer. Therefore, let's consider the most popular models among our compatriots, their features and advantages.
Fissman Black cosmic 4367
One of the most popular models, this universal frying pan with stone chips is sold without a lid, has one of the most popular diameters of 24 cm and a convenient depth of 4.9 cm. The handle is removable, and the body is made of cast aluminum. There are reliable non-stick coatings - external and internal. The external one is ceramic with stone particles. It can be used everywhere, washed in a dishwasher, and cooked all kinds of dishes. It was loved for its versatility and reliability.
Risoli HardStone Granite 00103GR/28HS
Large, 28 cm in diameter, also made of cast aluminum, this is a frying pan that will not let you down in terms of cooking quality and coating reliability, but it is not as versatile as the previous example. The handle is not removable, it cannot be used in the oven, dishwasher, or on an induction hob. But the quality of the coating is one of the best, for which it is appreciated.
Scovo Stone pan ST-005
A simple, inexpensive, large (28 cm) and at the same time lightweight frying pan with marble coating is made of aluminum, without a lid, with a plastic non-removable handle. It can be washed in the dishwasher. However, it requires careful care. It is loved for its pleasant appearance and affordable price.
Berlinger Haus Metallic line
A popular compact, high-quality and inexpensive model made of aluminum, with a stainless steel handle, can be used on all types of stoves. It has a marble interior. For those who appreciate deep frying pans. The handle is made of bakelite, easy to use, does not heat up. It is appreciated for its affordable price and convenience, as well as for its special design and elegant appearance.
Dream Granite
Cheap and high-quality model made of cast aluminum with a high-quality coating, thick walls and high sides. Diameter 24 cm. Can be cooked without oil. Convenient in cooking and quite light with a reliable coating layer. A good example of the fact that cheap can be good.
GiPFEL PROOFET 2485
A very high-quality, solid model made of aluminum, reliable and versatile, with a durable coating. It can be used in the oven, on all types of stoves, washed in the dishwasher, used without fat. The diameter of 28 cm will allow you to cook a lot and efficiently, since uniform heating provides excellent results.
TimA TVS art granite AT-1028
One of the most reliable and solid frying pans with a marble coating, thick reliable walls and a double bottom. The diameter of 28 cm and a removable handle allow you to cook large dishes in the oven.
NEVA METAL TABLEWARE Altai
A frying pan with a diameter of 26 cm and a thick, reliable coating is one of the most durable. It is not afraid of using forks and spoons, cooks without oil, is tall, does not splash oil, and is dishwasher safe. It will last a long time and is environmentally friendly.
Nadoba Mineralica 728416
Beautiful, reliable, stylish and versatile. With a marble non-stick coating, suitable for use on induction cookers. However, it cannot be used in the oven. Diameter 28 cm, material - cast aluminum. It was appreciated for the beauty and convenience of the handle, convenient shape and ease of use. It is quite light, but has an optimal comfortable weight. It is also special for its very durable non-stick coating, which is not damaged by scratches, cooks without sticking or burning.
Kukmara Marble
An amazing frying pan for its price. An indispensable assistant with very thick walls, marble coating and a removable handle. The main material is standard aluminum, diameter 26 cm. Durable, wear-resistant, impossible to scratch. Does not burn, retains heat well, thanks to the removable handle it is conveniently stored and allows you to cook in the oven. The handle is comfortable, does not slip. For all this, this model is chosen, although it is heavy. In addition, interesting color solutions are on sale.
As you can see, there is plenty to choose from, and at absolutely affordable prices. Since the appearance of "granite" frying pans, many have finally breathed a sigh of relief, saying that they have finally learned how to make normal frying pans. With a beautiful design, the ability to cook healthy food and not spend a huge amount of effort on it. It's time to try to buy a frying pan for those who have recently become disappointed in all existing types.
Bad there are no names of the company (in Russian) of the country of manufacture
What is the thickness everywhere in the text 3 cm? Is the author on topic?
The author seems to have confused cm with mm.
The thickness of the day is 6 cm ??????? Are you kidding?
“However, in most cases, granite pans are made of aluminum and coated with a non-stick material based on PTFE (the same Teflon), often with granite interspersed, but not for heating, but for the non-stick effect.”
“Thanks to the composite layer applied to the bottom and sides, and the absence of fluoropolymers, the cookware can remain environmentally friendly for several years.”
Two quotes from this review. Teflon is criticized for being environmentally unfriendly, while coatings based on it are praised…
The article is an advertisement! I didn't see any precise information about the composition of the protective layer, except for "the composition contains granite chips" And the binding element? Another Teflon chemistry, but under a different name! I'd rather use cast iron or stainless steel! And let idiots and morons use this crap!
I absolutely agree with the nickname "Master"... The article does not cover the topic of the connecting element, is it environmentally friendly? The author has given unprofessional material.
Of course, cast iron or copper
Guys, are you fucking kidding me? The wall is 3.5 cm and the bottom is 6 cm, you need to write in millimeters; 3.5 mm and 6 mm.
The strange centimeters are shocking. I would like something reliable, but it seems that it is better not to set yourself up for reliability.