Quick Overview: French-made enamelled cast iron frying pan with stay-cool wooden handle and helper handle, 28.9cm diameter, suitable for all hobs with lifetime guarantee.
Le Creuset Signature Cast Iron Frying Pan with Wooden Handle
The Le Creuset Signature Frying Pan with wooden handle combines traditional cast iron performance with contemporary design refinements. The 28.9cm diameter provides versatile cooking space for everyday tasks - from frying eggs and searing steaks to sautéing vegetables. Cast iron's exceptional heat retention means food stays warmer for longer at the table, whilst even heat distribution prevents hot spots that cause uneven cooking.
The redesigned wooden handle stays cool during hob cooking, providing comfortable grip without oven gloves. An ergonomic helper handle opposite the main handle makes two-handed lifting easier - important when the pan weighs 2.63kg empty and considerably more when full of food. An integral hook allows hanging storage for convenient access.
Key features include:
- Stay-Cool Wooden Handle: Redesigned for comfort, remains cool during hob cooking
- Helper Handle: Ergonomic secondary grip for safe two-handed lifting
- 28.9cm Diameter: Versatile size for daily cooking tasks, serves 4-6 people
- Cast Iron Construction: Superior heat retention and even distribution
- Enamelled Interior: No seasoning required, clean with regular washing-up liquid
- Multi-Hob Compatibility: Suitable for gas, electric, ceramic, induction, halogen
- Oven Safe: Hob-to-oven versatility for finishing dishes
- Integral Hook: Allows hanging storage
- Made in France: Le Creuset's lifetime guarantee
This frying pan is designed for cooks who want the superior performance of cast iron combined with the convenience of modern handles and easy-care enamel coating.
What Customers Ask About the Wooden Handle Frying Pan
What size is this frying pan and what does 2.6L capacity mean?
The pan measures 28.9cm in diameter with 8.4cm depth. The 2.6-litre capacity indicates total volume if filled to the brim, which is useful for comparing sizes. For practical cooking, you'd typically use less - this size comfortably handles 2-3 steaks, 4-6 chicken thighs, or serves 4-6 people for most dishes.
Will the wooden handle get hot during cooking?
The wooden handle is designed to stay cool during hob cooking. However, if you use this pan in the oven, the wooden handle will heat up and you must use oven gloves. Wood conducts heat much more slowly than metal, which is why it stays cooler during stovetop use.
Can I put this pan in the oven with the wooden handle?
Yes, the wooden handle is oven-safe, though Le Creuset doesn't specify a maximum temperature in the provided information. Always use oven gloves when removing from the oven as the wooden handle will be hot. Check Le Creuset's specific guidance for maximum oven temperatures with wooden handles if needed for high-temperature cooking.
What's the helper handle for?
The helper handle is a small secondary handle opposite the main wooden handle. At 2.63kg empty (and heavier when full of food), this pan benefits from two-handed lifting. The helper handle provides a secure grip point for moving the pan between hob, oven, and table safely.
Does enamelled cast iron need seasoning like traditional cast iron?
No, enamelled cast iron does not need seasoning. The pan is coated in vitreous enamel and can be cleaned with regular washing-up liquid like any other pan. There's no patina to build or maintain - the enamel provides the non-stick properties from day one.
Can I use metal utensils in this pan?
Metal utensils may be used with care, but Le Creuset recommends their silicone tools or wooden/heat-resistant plastic utensils instead. Avoid harsh scraping or cutting directly on the enamel surface as this can cause damage over time. We recommend protecting your investment by using non-metal tools.
Understanding Cast Iron Frying Pans
Cast iron frying pans have been kitchen staples since we opened in 1972, and we've observed how customers' understanding of them has evolved. The key advantage is cast iron's exceptional heat retention - once preheated properly, it maintains consistent temperature even when cold food is added. This is crucial for achieving proper searing on steaks or browning on chicken.
Le Creuset's enamelled cast iron differs significantly from bare cast iron in care requirements. The enamel coating means no seasoning is needed - you can clean it with regular washing-up liquid just like any other pan. This addresses the most common concern we hear from customers considering cast iron: the maintenance. Enamelled cast iron combines traditional performance with modern convenience.
The wooden handle represents Le Creuset's design refinement over decades. Earlier cast iron pans used metal handles throughout, which became dangerously hot. The wooden handle stays cool during hob cooking whilst the helper handle provides secure two-handed grip - particularly important for heavier cast iron. This combination makes cast iron more accessible for everyday cooking rather than special-occasion use only.
Specifications
Dimensions: W 28.9cm × H 8.4cm × L 56.3cm (including handle)
Diameter: 28.9cm
Capacity: 2.6 litres
Weight: 2.63kg
Material: Enamelled cast iron
Handle Type: Wooden handle with helper handle
Handle Features: Stay-cool wooden handle, ergonomic helper handle, integral hanging hook
Country of Origin: France
Hob Compatibility: Gas, electric, ceramic, induction, halogen
Oven Safe: Yes
Freezer Compatible: Yes
Guarantee: Lifetime (manufacturing defects)
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.
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 or call us on 01737 222996
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all labels and packaging. Wash the pan in warm, soapy water with regular washing-up liquid, then rinse and dry thoroughly. No seasoning is required - the enamel coating is ready to use.
Preheating: Preheat the pan for 3-5 minutes on medium heat before adding food. Cast iron takes longer to heat than other materials but retains heat exceptionally well. Test readiness by sprinkling a few drops of water on the surface - they should sizzle and evaporate quickly.
Heat settings: Use medium or low heat for best results, even for frying and searing. Cast iron's heat retention means high temperatures are rarely necessary. If you need higher heat initially, reduce to medium once the desired temperature is reached. This protects both the enamel coating and your food from burning.
During cooking: Always use oven gloves when handling the helper handle, as it will become hot. The wooden handle stays cooler during hob cooking but use caution. We recommend Le Creuset silicone tools or wooden/heat-resistant plastic utensils. Metal utensils may be used with care, but avoid harsh scraping that could damage the enamel.
Hob compatibility: Use an appropriately sized hob ring - this ensures even cooking and prevents handle damage. On induction hobs, wrong-sized rings may prevent the hob from recognising the pan. Never slide the pan on glass-topped hobs; always lift it to prevent damage to both the pan base and the hob surface.
Oven use: The pan is oven-safe with the wooden handle. Always use oven gloves as the wooden handle will be hot. Use the helper handle for secure two-handed lifting when removing from the oven.
Cleaning: Allow the pan to cool before washing. Wash with warm water and regular washing-up liquid. For stuck-on food, soak for 15-20 minutes before washing. Avoid abrasive cleaning agents or stiff brushes that could damage the enamel. Whilst technically dishwasher-safe, we recommend hand-washing to preserve the enamel finish. Dry thoroughly before storing.
Storage: The integral hook allows hanging storage. Alternatively, store in a cupboard ensuring the pan is completely dry to prevent any moisture issues with the wooden handle.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I've used it and don't like it?
Return it anyway. Our no quibble guarantee covers used items - if it doesn't do what you wanted, we'll refund you. This applies even after you've cooked with it.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally break this item, we'll replace it at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of breakage. Photos of the damage 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.
Why use low to medium heat instead of high heat?
Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well, so medium or low heat is sufficient for most cooking including frying and searing. High heat isn't necessary and risks damaging the enamel coating or causing food to burn. Let the pan heat gradually for even cooking - once it reaches temperature, it maintains heat better than other materials.
Is this dishwasher safe?
Le Creuset enamelled cast iron is technically dishwasher-safe, but we recommend hand-washing to preserve the enamel finish and the integrity of the wooden handle as wood tends to warp and crack when submerged in water.
Can I use this on induction hobs?
Yes, cast iron is excellent for induction cooking. Ensure you match the pan size to an appropriately sized induction ring - too small and the hob may not recognise the pan, too large and you risk uneven heating or handle damage. Never slide the pan across glass induction surfaces; always lift it.
What's the integral hook for?
The integral hook allows you to hang the pan for storage on a pot rack or wall hook. This keeps it accessible whilst saving cupboard space. Ensure your hanging system can support 2.63kg plus the weight of the wooden handle.
How do I prevent food from sticking?
Proper preheating is key - allow 3-5 minutes on medium heat before adding food. Add adequate fat or oil, and resist the urge to move food too soon. Proteins like steak will release naturally when properly seared. The enamelled interior provides some natural release, but isn't as non-stick as modern PTFE coatings.
