Kuhn Rikon Culinary Fiveply Frying Pan Set Uncoated 24 + 28cm
Kuhn Rikon Culinary Fiveply Frying Pan Set Uncoated 24 + 28cm
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Kuhn Rikon Culinary Fiveply Frying Pan Set Uncoated 24 + 28cm
The Culinary Fiveply uncoated frying pan set delivers professional-grade performance for high-heat cooking. This two-piece set includes 24cm and 28cm frying pans, both featuring Swiss 5-ply construction that distributes heat evenly across the entire cooking surface including the rim. The uncoated stainless steel interior excels at high-temperature searing, developing the flavourful crust on meat whilst keeping interiors juicy, and creating proper fond (browned bits) essential for pan sauces.
The 5-ply construction — alternating layers of stainless steel and aluminium totalling 3.2mm thickness — extends heat distribution up the sidewalls, not just across the base. This prevents the common problem where food at the pan edges cooks differently from food in the centre. For searing steaks, the rim-to-rim heat ensures consistent crust development. For pan sauces, heat extending up the sides prevents scorching at the edges whilst the centre reduces properly.
Key features:
- 5-ply multi-layer construction: Stainless steel exterior, three aluminium core layers, stainless steel interior — 3.2mm total thickness for exceptional heat distribution
- Uncoated stainless steel surface: Handles high temperatures for proper searing and develops fond for flavourful pan sauces
- Heat to the rim: Even heat distribution up the sidewalls eliminates edge cold spots
- Two versatile sizes: 24cm for individual portions and smaller tasks, 28cm for family cooking and multiple items
- Stay-cool handles: Ergonomic stainless steel handles remain cool during stovetop cooking
- Closed rim design: Smooth rolled rim provides clean pouring for pan sauces and is dishwasher-safe
- Rivet-free interior: Completely smooth surfaces clean easily without trapping food particles
- High-heat capable: Stainless steel surface tolerates high temperatures necessary for proper searing
- Timeless design: Clean-lined professional appearance suitable for stovetop to table presentation
- Universal compatibility: Works on all hob types including induction, gas, electric, and ceramic
- Oven-safe to 240°C: Finish dishes in the oven or achieve oven-to-stovetop cooking (handle may become hot)
- Dishwasher safe: Closed rim design makes dishwasher cleaning convenient
This set suits cooks who appreciate the superior searing performance of uncoated stainless steel and want professional-quality frying pans that deliver consistent results. The two sizes cover everyday needs from cooking eggs or a single steak to preparing complete pan-fried meals for the family.
What Customers Ask About Kuhn Rikon Culinary Fiveply Uncoated Frying Pan Set
Why choose uncoated over non-stick?
Uncoated stainless steel tolerates the high temperatures necessary for proper searing — developing a flavourful crust on meat whilst keeping interiors juicy. It also creates fond (browned bits stuck to the pan) which forms the foundation of pan sauces. Non-stick coatings can't withstand searing temperatures and don't develop fond. However, uncoated pans require proper preheating and adequate fat to prevent sticking, whilst non-stick pans offer easier cooking for delicate foods like eggs. Choose uncoated for searing, browning, and developing pan sauces.
Won't food stick to uncoated stainless steel?
Food sticks when the pan isn't properly preheated or when insufficient fat is used. Preheat the pan for 2-3 minutes over medium-high heat, add oil or butter, then add food. For proteins, resist moving them immediately — they'll naturally release when a proper sear develops. The 5-ply construction's even heat distribution actually reduces sticking compared to thinner stainless pans, because consistent temperature prevents cold spots where food adheres. With proper technique, uncoated stainless performs excellently.
What's the difference between the 24cm and 28cm sizes?
The 24cm pan suits individual portions, cooking for 1-2 people, single steaks or chicken breasts, omelettes, and smaller tasks. The 28cm accommodates family portions, multiple items cooked simultaneously, larger cuts of meat, and meals for 3-4 people. Most households use both regularly — the 24cm for everyday cooking and the 28cm for larger quantities or entertaining. Having both sizes means using appropriately sized pans rather than crowding food in small pans or heating excessive surface area with small quantities.
How does 5-ply construction improve frying compared to bonded-base pans?
Bonded-base frying pans concentrate heat at the bottom, creating temperature variations across the cooking surface. The Fiveply extends the full 3.2mm multi-layer construction up the sidewalls, distributing heat evenly from centre to rim. When searing multiple items, everything cooks at the same rate regardless of position. When making pan sauces, the entire surface heats consistently without edge scorching. The even heat also reduces the likelihood of warping from thermal stress.
Can I cook eggs in uncoated stainless steel?
Yes, though eggs require proper technique. Use medium-low heat, preheat the pan thoroughly, add adequate butter or oil, and resist moving eggs immediately after adding them. The 5-ply construction's even heat helps prevent hot spots where eggs stick. However, if you primarily cook eggs and delicate foods requiring minimal fat, a non-stick pan may suit better. For occasional eggs alongside other cooking that benefits from uncoated stainless, these pans work well with proper technique.
Will these work on my induction hob?
Yes, the stainless steel exterior layers provide magnetic properties compatible with induction cooking. The 5-ply construction ensures heat distributes evenly despite induction's concentrated magnetic field. The 24cm and 28cm base diameters suit most induction rings, though verify your specific hob recognises these sizes. The substantial 3.2mm thickness helps moderate induction's intense heat for consistent cooking results.
What We've Learned About Uncoated Frying Pans Since 1972
In our 52 years selling cookware, we've observed a consistent pattern: customers initially gravitate towards non-stick for perceived convenience, then discover uncoated stainless steel's superiority for certain tasks. The Culinary Fiveply represents what happens when Swiss engineering addresses the traditional challenges of uncoated pans — proper heat distribution dramatically reduces sticking issues that plague thinner stainless steel.
The most common concern — "Won't everything stick?" — reflects experiences with inadequate quality uncoated pans rather than inherent limitations of stainless steel. The 5-ply construction's rim-to-rim heat distribution creates consistent surface temperature, eliminating cold spots where food adheres. Customers who follow proper preheating and fat usage report excellent results, even with foods traditionally considered challenging in stainless steel.
The two-size set addresses practical cooking patterns we've observed. The 24cm suits weekday cooking for smaller households, whilst the 28cm handles weekend entertaining and batch cooking. Having both available means using appropriately sized pans — crowding food in small pans prevents proper searing, whilst using oversized pans for small quantities wastes energy and makes temperature control difficult.
The ability to create proper fond and deglaze for pan sauces represents uncoated stainless steel's defining advantage. Customers who enjoy cooking steaks, chops, or chicken breasts consistently prefer uncoated pans once they experience the flavour difference that proper fond contributes. Non-stick coatings simply can't provide this capability, regardless of quality.
Uncoated Stainless Steel vs Non-Stick: Making the Right Choice
When Uncoated Stainless Steel Excels
Uncoated stainless steel provides superior performance for high-temperature searing (steaks, chops, chicken), developing fond for pan sauces, achieving proper browning and crust development, cooking with metal utensils without surface damage, and high-heat applications where non-stick coatings degrade. The uncoated surface tolerates oven temperatures up to 240°C without coating concerns, and responds to aggressive cleaning when necessary.
When Non-Stick Works Better
Non-stick coatings suit delicate foods requiring minimal fat (eggs, fish fillets, crêpes), quick-release foods that benefit from low-fat cooking, foods prone to sticking even with proper technique, and situations where easy cleanup matters more than browning. Non-stick pans trade high-heat capability and fond development for convenience with challenging foods.
Understanding the Sticking Issue
Food sticks to cold metal surfaces. Proper preheating (2-3 minutes over medium-high heat) and adequate fat create a temporary barrier. Additionally, proteins naturally release when properly seared — attempting to move them prematurely causes sticking. With the Fiveply's even heat distribution, sticking occurs less frequently than with thinner stainless pans because consistent temperature prevents problematic cold spots.
The Fond Factor
Fond — the browned bits stuck to the pan after searing — contains concentrated flavour compounds. Deglazing with wine, stock, or other liquids dissolves the fond, forming the foundation of pan sauces. Non-stick surfaces don't develop fond because nothing sticks. This fundamental difference means uncoated pans produce more flavourful results when making dishes with pan sauces.
Practical Recommendation
Many experienced home cooks maintain both uncoated and non-stick pans, using each for appropriate tasks. Use uncoated stainless for searing, browning, and developing sauces. Use non-stick for eggs, fish, and delicate foods. If choosing only one type, consider which cooking style dominates your kitchen. For searing-focused cooking, uncoated stainless delivers better results. For gentle, low-fat cooking, non-stick provides convenience.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash both frying pans in warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. The uncoated stainless steel surfaces are ready for immediate use without seasoning.
Preventing food from sticking: Preheat the pan for 2-3 minutes over medium-high heat before adding oil or butter. The pan is ready when a drop of water forms a ball that rolls around the surface (the "mercury ball test"). Add adequate fat — stainless steel isn't non-stick, so proper lubrication prevents sticking. For proteins, resist moving them immediately — they'll release naturally when properly seared.
During cooking: The 5-ply construction heats efficiently, so medium-high heat typically suffices even for searing. The stay-cool handles remain comfortable during stovetop cooking, but use oven gloves if the pan has been in the oven, as handles become hot at oven temperatures.
Developing fond and deglazing: After searing meat, remove it from the pan. The browned bits stuck to the bottom (fond) contain concentrated flavour. Add wine, stock, or other liquid whilst the pan is still hot — the liquid will bubble and dissolve the fond. Scrape with a wooden spoon to incorporate all the flavour into your pan sauce.
Daily cleaning: Allow the pan to cool for a few minutes before cleaning — never plunge hot stainless steel into cold water as thermal shock can cause warping. For normal use, wash with warm water and washing-up liquid using a soft sponge or cloth, then dry thoroughly. The rivet-free interior means no crevices where food accumulates. The closed rim design makes these pans safe for dishwasher cleaning.
Removing stuck-on food: If food is stuck, fill the pan with warm water and soak for 10-15 minutes to soften residue. For stubborn fond that won't release, make a paste of baking soda and water, apply to affected areas, and scrub gently with a soft sponge. Bar Keeper's Friend or similar oxalic acid cleaners work excellently for stubborn staining without damaging stainless steel.
Removing discolouration or stains: Stainless steel can develop rainbow discolouration from high heat or show stains from food. Use Swiss Cleaner (a specialised stainless steel cleaning paste) or Bar Keeper's Friend to restore the original finish. These cleaners remove discolouration and staining that regular washing won't address. For burnt-on residue, boil water with baking soda in the pan, then scrub once cooled.
What to avoid: Don't use chlorine-based cleaners or bleach, which can damage stainless steel. Avoid leaving empty pans on high heat, which causes discolouration. Don't use abrasive scourers on the exterior (though they're safe for the interior if needed for stuck food). Never cut food directly in the pan with knives.
Storage: Store pans with sufficient space to prevent scratching. The rivet-free smooth interior means pans can nest if space is limited, though this may cause minor cosmetic scratching over time. Ensure pans are completely dry before storing to prevent water spots.
Maintaining performance: Unlike non-stick coatings that degrade, uncoated stainless steel maintains consistent performance indefinitely with proper care. If you notice food beginning to stick more than usual, the pan may have developed a thin film of residue — deep-clean with Swiss Cleaner or baking soda paste to restore performance.
Why Buy From Art of Living?
Founded in Reigate in 1972, we've spent over five decades helping customers select quality cookware. We've been twice nominated for the Excellence in Housewares award for customer care. We stock Kuhn Rikon Culinary Fiveply because it represents Swiss engineering precision applied to everyday cooking — quality that performs consistently over decades.
Our Expertise with Frying Pans
In 52 years, we've learned that frying pan selection often comes down to understanding the trade-offs between convenience and performance. We guide customers through when non-stick convenience matters versus when uncoated stainless steel's searing capability and pan sauce development justify learning proper technique. The Fiveply's even heat distribution makes uncoated stainless more approachable than thinner alternatives.
Our Guarantees to You
- ✓ No Quibble Returns - Even Used Items
- ✓ Half-Price Accidental Damage Replacement (2 Years)
- ✓ Price Match Guarantee
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used the set and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if the set doesn't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've cooked multiple meals in the pans. We've offered this guarantee since 1972 because we believe customers shouldn't take a risk when investing in quality cookware.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage either pan (such as warping from thermal shock or denting from impact), we'll replace that specific pan at half the current retail price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos are acceptable.
How long does delivery take?
Standard delivery to mainland UK addresses can take up to 7 working days, but is usually 3-4, and is free for orders over £49. Next day delivery may be available for £9.95 on orders placed before 1pm Monday to Thursday, depending on your location and our stock levels. You can also collect from our shops in Cobham or Reigate, or our warehouse in Redhill.
I'm used to non-stick — will I regret switching to uncoated?
If you primarily cook foods that benefit from high-heat searing (steaks, chops, chicken) or enjoy making pan sauces, you'll likely prefer uncoated stainless steel once you learn proper technique. If you primarily cook eggs, fish, and delicate foods requiring minimal fat, non-stick provides more convenience. Many cooks maintain both types, using each for appropriate tasks. Our no quibble returns policy means you can try uncoated stainless without risk.
Can I use metal utensils in these pans?
Yes, uncoated stainless steel tolerates metal utensils without damage, unlike non-stick coatings. Metal spatulas work particularly well for releasing seared proteins and scraping fond. However, avoid using sharp-edged utensils aggressively or cutting directly in the pan, as this can scratch any surface over time.
How do I know when the pan is properly preheated?
Use the "mercury ball test" — add a drop of water to the dry preheated pan. If the water forms a ball that rolls around the surface without immediately evaporating, the pan is ready. If the water sits and sizzles, continue heating. If it immediately evaporates, the pan may be too hot — reduce heat slightly and wait a moment. This indicates the surface temperature where food will release properly.
Will the rainbow discolouration affect performance?
No, rainbow discolouration (called "heat tint") is purely cosmetic and doesn't affect cooking performance. It develops from high heat and can be removed with Bar Keeper's Friend, Swiss Cleaner, or similar stainless steel cleaners if you prefer the original appearance. Some cooks consider heat tint a badge of honour showing the pan has been properly used for high-heat cooking.
Do I need both sizes or can I manage with just one?
The 24cm and 28cm serve different purposes. If you cook primarily for 1-2 people or prepare individual portions, the 24cm alone may suffice. If you cook for families or prepare multiple items simultaneously, the 28cm is essential. Most households find having both sizes valuable — using appropriately sized pans improves cooking results and energy efficiency. The set typically offers better value than purchasing individually.
Can I make eggs in these pans without them sticking everywhere?
Yes, with proper technique. Use medium-low heat, preheat thoroughly for 2-3 minutes, add adequate butter or oil, and resist moving eggs immediately after adding them. The 5-ply construction's even heat helps prevent hot spots where eggs stick. For scrambled eggs, use slightly more fat than you would with non-stick. For fried eggs, let them set before attempting to flip. That said, if you cook eggs daily and prefer minimal-fat cooking, a non-stick pan provides more convenience.
What warranty does Kuhn Rikon provide on these pans?
Contact us for specific warranty details on the Culinary Fiveply range. Swiss-made Kuhn Rikon products typically come with substantial guarantees reflecting their quality construction. The 5-ply construction and rivet-free design are engineered for decades of use. Our Half-Price Replacement guarantee provides additional coverage for accidental damage during the first 2 years.
