Size
The size of a pan is indicated by its diameter (
for round pans) or width (
for square pans). For sets containing objects of different sizes, values for all objects are given in this paragraph.
The volume of the pan directly depends on the size (see below). At the same time, it is also determined by depth; In fact, this means that dishes with the same capacity can vary in size. In such cases, when choosing, it is worth considering that a wider pan heats up faster and more evenly, but requires a larger burner. Actually, the size of the pan should not be less than the size of the burner; this is especially important if you plan to use the dishes on an electric stove.
The smallest pans, sold individually, are
16 cm or less in size, in the largest this figure
can exceed 25 cm. As for sets, their sizes can be quite varied: in the smallest sets, the diameter of the largest pan is
less than 20 cm(although other types of dishes can be larger), in the largest sets, the size is
the same 20 cm(or even
more) has the smallest pan.
Bottom diameter
This parameter is used in order to evaluate the compatibility of the pan with a particular burner on the stove. It acquires particular importance if the product is planned to be used on an electric stove: the diameter of the burner must be at least not less than the diameter of the bottom, otherwise the heating will turn out to be uneven and inefficient. And in induction electric stoves, these diameters must match at all. The selection of suitable pans is somewhat simplified by the fact that modern stoves and hobs usually have burners of different diameters, and in some models, the heaters can even be adjusted in size — up to autofocus in individual induction instances. However, even in cases like this, it doesn't hurt to clarify whether the pan fits into the range of suitable sizes.
Volume
Working volume (capacity) of the pan. For sets (see "Type"), which include dishes of different sizes, values are given in this paragraph for all items.
A large volume allows you to cook a large amount of product at a time, but it affects the dimensions and weight of the pan. Therefore, the optimal capacity for different cases will also be different — depending on the amount of cooking and the type of dish. So, for classic pots,
3 – 4 L is considered a universal option: in such dishes it is convenient to cook soups and compotes for an average family. Models with a capacity
of 2 – 3 liters are also popular — they are convenient for cooking side dishes, as well as small amounts of cooking (for 1 – 2 people). The smallest pans have a volume
of less than 1 liter, they are suitable, in particular, for boiling eggs and heating milk. And the largest ones contain
more than 10 liters, such dishes are designed mainly for catering and public events.
There are also more detailed recommendations on the choice of volume, including for other types of dishes — ladles, milk jugs, etc. (see "Type"); these recommendations can be found in special sources.
Depth
The nominal depth of the pot. In most cases, it is a secondary parameter: the manufacturer selects the depth in accordance with the type, size and volume of dishes, and when choosing, you should first of all focus on these characteristics (for more details, see above).
Country of origin
The country of origin of the brand under which the pan (or set) is marketed. Usually, it is indicated by the "homeland" of the manufacturing company or by the location of its headquarters.
There are many stereotypes associated with the “nationality” of brands and products, but most of them have no basis nowadays. First, the actual place of production is often different from the brand's country of origin. Secondly, the quality of the goods depends not so much on geography, but on the policy of a particular company and how carefully this very quality is controlled in it. Therefore, you should pay attention to the country of origin of the brand only if you fundamentally want or (do not want) to support a manufacturer from a certain state. Quality is best judged by the reputation of a particular brand and the general price category.
