5 – Cast Iron Frying Pans

No, most professional chefs do not use non-stick cookware, especially non-stick fry pans. Before knowing why, let’s understand what non-stick cookware is. Non-stick cookware refers to utensils with surfaces from which the food simply slides off.

Typically, a layer of Teflon makes up the non-stick surface of a non-stick fry pan.

Restaurants don’t have non-stick pans as they do not match the basic demands of a busy kitchen. For a chef who has to send a dish out every two minutes, non-stick cookware is not a viable option as it wouldn’t last longer than a week. 

    After cooking, it's crucial to properly clean and maintain your cast iron skillet.  While some people may be tempted to use soap and water, it's best to avoid harsh detergents as they can wash away sauce from the cast iron grill pan.  Instead, use a brush or sponge to gently scrub the pot with warm water.  After cleaning, dry the cast iron grill pan thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil to prevent rust.

It’s important to note that frying pans should not be confused with cast iron skillets, which are a distinct type of cookware. To learn more about the differences between skillets and frying pans, check out our post dedicated to the topic.

Difference Between Frying Pans And Sauté Pan