Pan sets

What materials are available and which one is right for you?

Choosing a cookware set starts with the material, as this determines how your pan responds to heat and what it is best suited for. Still not sure? In our blog what material should I buy pans in? we compare the different materials.

Stainless steel (stainless steel)

Stainless steel is the most popular choice for serious home cooks. It has no non-stick coating that can wear away, is dishwasher-safe and resistant to high temperatures, making it ideal for searing, deglazing and making sauces. A high-quality stainless steel cookware set has a multi-layer base (aluminium or copper between layers of stainless steel) that distributes heat quickly and evenly. The premium Demeyere Atlantis 7 is a prime example, while sets such as the Demeyere Classic Pro 3 or the Zwilling TrueFlow offer a more affordable entry point. Stainless steel works on induction hobs thanks to a special magnetic base construction, so it is suitable for all types of cooktops.

Ceramic (PFAS-free)

More and more cooks are deliberately choosing a PFAS-free cookware set. Ceramic non-stick coatings contain no PFAS, PFOA or other fluorinated compounds, allow food to release easily and require little oil. Brands such as Greenpan and BK are well known for this, and Le Creuset also offers a beautiful set with its Essential Ceramic Non-stick range. However, keep in mind its weak point: ceramic coatings are more susceptible to scratches and high peak temperatures. Therefore, use silicone or wooden utensils and cook over low to medium heat. Want to know more? Read our blog ceramic non-stick coating: how to use and care for it.

Copper

Copper is the material of choice for those who want maximum control. A copper pan responds extremely quickly to temperature changes, which helps with precise cooking methods such as making sauces, jams and risotto. Copper sets, such as the handmade models from DUCQ, are in the premium price bracket, but they offer precise control and a pan that will last for years. DUCQ's copper sets have a specially designed base construction that also makes them suitable for induction hobs, as well as gas, electric and ceramic cooktops. In the blog the pros and cons of copper pans you can find out whether copper is right for you.

Cast iron

Cast iron is for those who cook with the long term in mind. The material heats up slowly but retains heat for hours, making it ideal for stews, roasts and oven dishes. As a complete cast iron set, the Skottsberg 'Cast Iron' set is a versatile choice for open fires, gas and induction hobs. If you mainly want cast iron for slow simmering, then individual cast iron roaster pans from brands such as Le Creuset or STAUB are a good addition to your set. Cast iron is heavy and requires some maintenance, but it will last for generations.

And carbon steel?

Carbon steel is lighter than cast iron but just as easy to season: it naturally develops a non-stick patina that improves over time. Always heat the pan briefly after washing to prevent rust from forming. We mainly sell carbon steel as individual pans rather than complete sets. If you want to add one to your kitchen, first read how to season a carbon steel pan.

Buying a cookware set: what to look for?

When buying a cookware set, pay particular attention to the material and compatibility with your cooktop. Choose a set that is suitable for your heat source. Most sets in our range are suitable for induction, but check this if you have an induction hob. If you have a cooktop with integrated extraction, look for special downdraft cookware sets with low handles. We explain how they work in the blog pans for downdraft extraction systems.

Also consider your household size and what you cook most often. A 3-piece set is often enough for a household of one or two, while a family will benefit more from a 5- or 7-piece set. And it is better to buy one good set than a cupboard full of cheap pans that you will replace within a few years. Want a checklist? Our blog buying pans? 4 things to look out for will help you get started, and in which pan do I need? you can find out which sizes and types you really use.

How many pieces do you need: 3-, 5- or 7-piece?

A complete cookware set gives you the freedom to prepare almost any dish, with sizes and types that complement each other. With the cooking pots, you can cook pasta, rice, vegetables and soups; a saucepan is used for sauces and small portions. A 3-piece set usually contains two cooking pots in different sizes plus a saucepan, enough for those who cook small quantities. A 5-piece set adds extra sizes to that and is ideal for families. A 7-piece or larger set, such as the colorful Greenpan Padova, offers maximum versatility for those who enjoy cooking extensively. At a minimum, you need a cooking pot (20 to 24 cm) and a saucepan or frying pan; you can expand the rest as needed.

What is the best cookware set?

The best cookware set is the one that suits your stovetop, cooking style and budget. For most households, a 5-piece stainless steel cookware set from a top brand is the safest all-rounder. It distributes heat evenly, works on induction and, with proper care, will last a lifetime; the bestselling Demeyere Lino 3 is a popular example of this. If you prefer to cook healthy and quickly with little fat, then a ceramic set from Greenpan or BK is the better choice. If you like slow cooking and deep flavors, then add cast iron to your set. Go for a smaller set of top quality instead of a large cheap one: two or three pans that you use for years do more than a full cupboard that you throw away after two years.

Buy a cookware set at Braadbaas

At Braadbaas, you buy your cookware set with the assurance of a specialized cooking store. All products are 100% genuine, come with an official warranty and can be returned free of charge. Our specialists in the cooking store in Maassluis know the difference between the brands and series inside out and are happy to help you make the right choice, in the store, via WhatsApp or via the online chat. Feel free to browse the full collection of cookware sets or view them by brand first: Demeyere, Zwilling, Le Creuset, Greenpan, BK and DUCQ.