Demeyere Atlantis Saucepan with Lid Set of 3 (16, 18, 20cm) Stainless Steel
Demeyere Atlantis Saucepan with Lid Set of 3 (16, 18, 20cm) Stainless Steel
- In stock, ready to ship
- Inventory on the way
- Free Mainland UK delivery over £49 - No Quibble Returns
Demeyere Atlantis Saucepan with Lid Set of 3 (16, 18, 20cm)
The Demeyere Atlantis saucepan set represents Belgian engineering applied to everyday cooking, featuring three essential sizes with professional-grade construction. Each pan includes a 7-layer capsule base incorporating copper and silver layers that distribute heat evenly across the entire base diameter, eliminating hot spots and reducing the need for constant stirring. The straight stainless steel walls contain heat within the pan rather than drawing it upward, resulting in faster, more energy-efficient cooking.
The precision-engineered lids fit exceptionally tightly to each pan, creating a seal that traps steam and enables waterless or minimal-water cooking. This method preserves nutrients and intensifies flavours whilst reducing cooking times. Welded stainless steel handles remain cool to touch on the hob, eliminating the need for cloths or gloves during stovetop cooking.
Key features:
- 7-layer capsule base: Copper core with two silver alloy layers spreads heat uniformly across the base, preventing scorching and reducing stirring requirements
- Precision-fitting lids: Exceptionally tight seal enables waterless cooking, preserving nutrients and concentrating flavours whilst reducing cooking times
- Straight wall design: Thin stainless steel walls contain heat within the pan, cooking food faster and more efficiently than flared designs
- Welded handles: One-piece construction stays cool on the hob, prevents dirt accumulation, and ensures hygienic cooking
- Perfect pouring rim: Designed for drip-free pouring of liquids and thick sauces without requiring a ladle
- Versatile sizes: 16cm, 18cm, and 20cm diameters cover everyday cooking requirements from small sauces to family portions
- All hob compatibility: Suitable for gas, electric, ceramic, halogen, and induction hobs
This set suits serious home cooks seeking professional-level heat control, nutrient preservation through waterless cooking, and cookware that reduces active cooking time whilst delivering consistently excellent results.
What Customers Ask About Demeyere Atlantis Saucepans
What does "waterless cooking" actually mean?
Waterless cooking means using little or no water when cooking vegetables, relying instead on the moisture within the food itself. The tight-fitting lid traps steam, creating pressure that cooks food in its own juices at lower temperatures. Start with washed vegetables (the water clinging to them is often sufficient), use low to medium heat, and once steam appears at the rim, reduce heat to minimum. This preserves more nutrients than boiling and intensifies natural flavours.
How does the 7-layer base differ from standard tri-ply construction?
Tri-ply construction typically features three layers throughout the entire pan (stainless-aluminium-stainless). The Atlantis uses a 7-layer capsule base containing stainless steel, two silver alloy layers, copper, and aluminium—but only in the base, not the walls. This concentrates exceptional heat conductivity where you need it whilst keeping walls thin to contain heat. The copper and silver layers provide superior responsiveness to temperature changes compared to aluminium alone.
Why do the handles stay cool when other stainless steel handles get hot?
The welded handles are designed with specific geometry and material thickness that minimises heat transfer from the pan body. The straight walls also help—because they don't conduct heat upward as readily as flared designs, less heat reaches the handle mounting point. You can typically handle these pans on the hob without protection, though handles will eventually warm with extended cooking at high temperatures.
Can I really cook without stirring?
You'll need significantly less stirring than with standard pans due to the even heat distribution from the copper-core base. For risotto, sauces, and similar dishes, you'll still stir occasionally, but you won't need constant attention to prevent sticking or scorching. The even heat distribution means food at the pan's edge cooks at the same rate as food in the centre when using appropriate heat levels.
Which size should I use for what?
The 16cm suits small quantities—individual portions, melting butter, small sauces, or reheating single servings. The 18cm handles 2-3 portions of vegetables, medium sauce volumes, or cooking grains for 2-4 people. The 20cm accommodates 4-6 portions of vegetables, larger sauce batches, or cooking pasta, rice, or potatoes for family meals. Many cooks find themselves using the 18cm and 20cm most frequently.
What Our Customers Tell Us
Based on customer feedback, the waterless cooking capability consistently surprises users with both its effectiveness and the learning curve involved. One customer notes they're "still learning about how much water to add" to prevent bubbling over whilst achieving proper steaming—this is normal when transitioning from conventional cooking methods. Start with less water than you think necessary; you can always add more.
The comparison to copper cookware appears repeatedly in reviews. One experienced customer describes these as "the copper pans of the 21st century - they give as good a cooking result, but are easier to use and easier to maintain." This reflects the copper-core base's responsiveness without copper's maintenance requirements like polishing or reactivity concerns with acidic foods.
Our director, Babette Bluett-Duncan, uses her set daily and highlights several practical benefits: cooking vegetables with little or no water to retain nutrients beyond what steaming achieves; stewing fruit without added water to concentrate natural flavours; and the tight-fitting lids that eliminate cooking odours—particularly valuable in open-plan kitchens. She also notes the pans keep food hot for 30+ minutes after cooking, useful for families eating at different times. The pouring rim eliminates the need for ladling stock or sauces, reducing washing up and preventing spills.
In our 52 years selling cookware, we've observed that Atlantis owners typically experience a brief adjustment period as they learn to use lower heat settings and less water than conventional pans require. Once adjusted, users report faster cooking times, reduced energy consumption, and noticeably better flavour and texture in vegetables and grains.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Wash with warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry. No seasoning or special preparation required for stainless steel.
Daily cleaning: Allow pans to cool before washing. Hand wash with warm soapy water and a soft cloth or sponge. For stuck-on food, fill with warm water and a small amount of washing-up liquid, bring to a gentle simmer, then clean as normal. Dry immediately to prevent water spots.
Dishwasher use: Whilst dishwasher safe, hand washing preserves the exterior finish and extends the product's pristine appearance. If using a dishwasher, ensure pans don't knock against other items during the cycle.
Removing discolouration: White calcium deposits from hard water can be removed with a solution of one part white vinegar to three parts water—bring to the boil, then wash normally. Rainbow heat staining on the exterior can be removed with a stainless steel cleaner or a paste of bicarbonate of soda and water.
Heat settings: These pans are extremely efficient conductors. Use lower heat than you would with standard pans—medium heat for most tasks, low heat for simmering. High heat is rarely necessary except when bringing water to the boil. Excessive heat can cause permanent discolouration.
Waterless cooking technique: Wash vegetables (moisture will cling to them), place in pan, add lid, and use medium heat until steam appears at the rim. Reduce to minimum heat and cook for the required time. For drier vegetables, add 2-3 tablespoons of water. This technique requires practice—start conservatively and adjust.
Preventing sticking: Whilst the even heat distribution reduces sticking, some foods require fat or liquid. Preheat the pan on medium heat, add fat if using, then add ingredients. Avoid high heat with protein-rich foods, which can bond to the pan surface.
Utensil compatibility: Metal, wooden, and silicone utensils are all suitable. Stainless steel won't scratch from metal utensils the way non-stick surfaces do.
Storage: Stack pans with pan protectors or cloth between them to prevent scratching. Store lids separately or invest in a pan lid organiser to save space and prevent damage.
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, and we stock Demeyere because their Belgian engineering and professional-grade construction align with our standards for cookware that lasts decades.
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 pans and don't like them?
Return them anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if they don't perform as you hoped or waterless cooking doesn't suit your style, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've cooked multiple meals. 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 a pan (for example, dropping and denting the base or damaging a handle), we'll replace that individual pan at half the current retail price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. Photos are acceptable. This applies to each piece individually.
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.
Can I buy individual pans from this range?
Yes, Demeyere Atlantis saucepans are available individually in various sizes. The set offers better value per pan than buying individually. If you damage or lose a pan from your set, you can purchase a replacement individually, or use our Half-Price Replacement guarantee within 2 years of purchase.
How do I know what heat setting to use?
Start lower than you think necessary. For most cooking, medium heat brings the pan to temperature, then reduce to low or minimum once cooking begins. For waterless vegetable cooking, use medium until steam appears, then minimum. For boiling water, medium-high is sufficient. The copper core responds quickly to temperature changes, so you'll find you need less heat than with standard pans.
Will these work on my induction hob?
Yes, Demeyere Atlantis pans are fully compatible with induction hobs as well as gas, electric, ceramic, and halogen. The magnetic stainless steel base ensures excellent induction efficiency. Remember that induction hobs heat very quickly—start with lower power settings than you might use with standard pans.
Do the pans come with a manufacturer's warranty?
Demeyere provides a 30-year warranty covering manufacturing defects. This reflects the expected lifespan of properly maintained Atlantis cookware. The warranty doesn't cover damage from misuse, accidents, or normal wear. Our own guarantees (no quibble returns and half-price replacement) complement the manufacturer's warranty.
Can I use these pans in the oven?
Yes, the pans and lids are oven safe. Check the specific temperature limits in the manufacturer's documentation included with your set. The welded handles can withstand oven temperatures, though they will become hot—always use oven gloves when removing pans from the oven.
Why are these more expensive than other stainless steel sets?
The 7-layer base construction with copper and silver layers costs significantly more to manufacture than standard tri-ply or aluminium-core construction. The precision engineering required for the tight-fitting lids and the welded handle construction also increase production costs. These pans typically last 30+ years with proper care, making the cost per year of use comparable to replacing cheaper pans multiple times.
How much water should I use for waterless cooking?
For leafy vegetables, the water clinging to them after washing is often sufficient. For root vegetables or drier produce, start with 2-3 tablespoons of water. The goal is to create steam that cooks the food—too much water defeats the purpose, too little may cause scorching. Listen for the sound of steam escaping at the rim, then reduce heat immediately. This takes practice; start conservatively and adjust based on results.
