Best Stainless Steel Cookware Essentials for the Next-Level Home Chef

This is for, whether you came to or passed the big three-oh, or you recently turned thirty. Adulthood is upon us. Fully underway! That being said if you are a younger reader and are of an earlier age than 25. Just that the process of becoming an adult is evolving, additionally, we prefer to think of this list as "next-level" advice for updating the vibe of your kitchen.
These are the things you need if you want to be a lifelong cook, not necessarily the stuff you need to set up your first kitchen. Once you've reviewed the list, please let us know how many you have.

Stainless Steel Fry Pan

If cast iron skillets are too high maintenance for you, then stainless steel pans are the better alternative. But, it is better to opt for 3 layer triply frypan which comes with 2 layers of 304-grade stainless steel and a layer of aluminum sandwiched in between. Options from Meyer, Vinod and Bergner are quite durable. They won’t warp and the rivets are also made of high-quality steel. So you won’t find any noticeable gap between the pan and the rivets, even after prolonged use
We prefer a 10-inch frying pan, but a 12-inch is also good.



Saucepan/Tea pan

Contrary to popular belief, this pan has a lot more uses. It works well for producing tortillas in addition to making teas. In general, it works well for anything you wish to sauce pan that needs to be flipped. It's simple to flip little pancakes or fritters without shattering them because of the lowered sides.

For more even heating, I always choose nonstick pancake pans made of stainless steel or aluminum with an aluminum or copper core. To avoid scratching the pan, be sure to flip with only a silicone spatula.



Stainless steel Pot

Workhorse pans like stainless steel pots are ideal for boiling pasta and preparing soups etc. It's also your greatest ally when you have a lot of cooking to do.

My perfect stock pot has lofty sides, holds many cups, and is 3 mm thick. You can cook a lot at once without the pot getting too heavy thanks to this balance. I like to use an uncoated stainless steel stock pot because they don't have to be nonstick. It's the ideal option because it's nontoxic, extremely robust, and able to tolerate high heat in the oven or on the hob.


Stainless Steel Frypan with Capsulated Induction Bottom

A saucepan is great for cooking anything that requires a lot of liquid. This includes blanching, stewing, simmering, making soups and sauces. It's smaller than a stockpot or a Dutch oven but is deeper and usually less wide than a frying pan. It's a standard piece of cookware every home cook needs.


Stainless Steel Kadai
If cast iron is too high maintenance for you, then, stainless steel Kadai could be a better alternative. They are not as high maintenance as cast iron. But, food could get stuck on the bottom if you don’t heat it properly and add sufficient oil.
Options made of 3-ply stainless steel are better as they heat uniformly and retain that heat. So, the chances of scorching food are less.



Biryani Pot

Biriyani is a dish relished by all, with each region having its own variety. Options made of nonstick are the most popular. But, owing to health concerns of using nonstick, we recommend opting for stainless steel or cast iron dutch ovens with this pot. They are excellent for slow cooking and the heat retention ability of cast iron will result in better Dum Biryani.



Tadka Pan

Tadka is an integral part of Indian cuisine. Commonly used options are made of anodized aluminum and come with a long handle. However, many of them are unbalanced as the handle won’t hold on its own. So, opt for ones that have a stand attached to the handle.

Wooden Plus Steel Casserole with Serving Spoon

The Wooden Plus Steel Casserole with Serving Spoon is the perfect fusion of elegance and functionality, designed to elevate your dining experience. Its sturdy stainless steel construction ensures optimal heat retention and durability, while the wooden exterior adds a touch of rustic charm that complements any table setting.
Equipped with a well-crafted serving spoon, this casserole is ideal for keeping food warm and serving directly from kitchen to table. Its versatile design not only makes it a stylish addition to your cookware collection but also offers practical, long-lasting value for everyday use.

 

Stainless steel cooking spoon

Metal spoons are easier to clean than their wooden counterparts. They are thin and sturdy, making them better for sliding under a heavy piece of cooked quash. In fact, if you're tossing a pan of roasted vegetables and want to scrape bits off the bottom, having a metal spoon helps.

Conclusion

As we embrace adulthood and refine our kitchens, investing in the right cookware becomes essential, not just for practicality but for longevity and quality. From stainless steel fry pans to tri-ply kadais, each piece on this list serves a unique role in creating a more efficient, enjoyable cooking experience.
High-quality cookware like tri-ply stainless steel offers durability, even heating, and ease of maintenance, setting you up for years of reliable performance in the kitchen. Whether you're a culinary beginner or an experienced home chef, these essential items will help you create flavorful dishes and elevate your cooking skills. Start building your collection now, and you’ll be equipped for a lifetime of delicious meals.
Let us know how many of these essentials you already own, and happy cooking!
Back to blog