Kuhn Rikon Culinary Fiveply Saucepan 3 Piece Set
Kuhn Rikon Culinary Fiveply Saucepan 3 Piece Set
- In stock, ready to ship
- Inventory on the way
- Free Mainland UK delivery over £49 - No Quibble Returns
Kuhn Rikon Culinary Fiveply Saucepan 3 Piece Set
The Culinary Fiveply saucepan set represents Swiss engineering precision applied to everyday cooking. This three-piece set includes 16cm, 18cm, and 20cm saucepans with fitted stainless steel lids, providing comprehensive coverage for sauces, side dishes, and vegetables. The 5-ply construction — alternating layers of stainless steel and aluminium totalling 3.2mm thickness — distributes heat evenly across the entire cooking surface including the rim, eliminating hot spots that cause scorching or uneven cooking.
Unlike traditional bonded-base cookware where heat concentrates at the bottom, the Fiveply construction extends heat distribution up the sidewalls. This matters particularly for sauces that require consistent temperature throughout to prevent separation or scorching at the edges, for polenta and risottos that benefit from gentle sidewall heating, and for vegetables that cook more evenly when heat surrounds them rather than only heating from below.
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 and durability
- Heat to the rim: Unlike bonded-base pans, heat distributes evenly up the sidewalls to the rim for consistent cooking throughout
- Three essential sizes: 16cm (small sauces, individual portions), 18cm (side dishes for 2-3), 20cm (family portions, vegetables for 4-6)
- Stainless steel lids included: High-quality fitted lids for all three pans
- Stay-cool handles: Ergonomic stainless steel handles remain cool during stovetop cooking for comfortable handling
- Closed rim design: Smooth rolled rim without sharp edges provides clean pouring and dishwasher-safe durability
- Internal measuring scale: Litre and quart markings inside the pan eliminate need for separate measuring cups
- Rivet-free interior: No rivets or attached base means completely smooth interior surfaces that clean easily and don't trap food
- 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 keep warm (note: handle may become hot in oven)
- Dishwasher safe: Closed rim design without sharp edges makes dishwasher cleaning safe and convenient
This set suits home cooks who appreciate professional-quality cookware that delivers consistent results. The range of sizes covers everyday cooking needs from making a béchamel sauce to preparing vegetables for the family, whilst the Swiss engineering ensures performance that justifies the investment over years of use.
What Customers Ask About Kuhn Rikon Culinary Fiveply Set
What does 5-ply construction actually mean for my cooking?
5-ply means five layers of metal bonded together: stainless steel outside, three layers of aluminium in the core, and stainless steel inside. The aluminium conducts heat quickly and evenly, whilst the stainless steel provides durability and a non-reactive cooking surface. This construction extends through the entire pan including the sidewalls, so heat distributes evenly from bottom to rim. In practical terms, sauces won't scorch at the edges whilst the centre remains cool, and vegetables cook consistently without hot spots.
How does this compare to a bonded-base saucepan?
Bonded-base pans have a thick base but thinner sidewalls, concentrating heat at the bottom. The Fiveply construction extends the full 3.2mm thickness up the sidewalls, distributing heat evenly throughout. This prevents the common problem where food at the bottom overcooks whilst food at the top remains undercooked. For delicate sauces, risottos, and foods requiring gentle consistent heat, the full-body construction provides better results.
Are three saucepans enough, or should I buy individual sizes?
The three sizes (16cm, 18cm, 20cm) cover most everyday cooking needs. The 16cm handles small sauces and single portions, the 18cm suits side dishes for 2-3 people, and the 20cm accommodates family portions. If you frequently cook for larger groups or need a milk pan for heating liquids, individual pans in other sizes are available. Most households find the three-piece set provides comprehensive coverage for daily cooking.
Why are the handles described as stay-cool?
The stainless steel handles are designed with thermal breaks that limit heat transfer from the pan body during stovetop cooking. They remain comfortable to touch during normal use on the hob. However, in oven use up to 240°C, the handles will become hot and require oven gloves. The stay-cool design refers specifically to stovetop cooking, not oven use.
What advantage does the rivet-free interior provide?
Traditional pan construction uses rivets to attach handles, creating bumps on the interior surface where food particles and residue accumulate. The Fiveply design attaches handles without interior rivets, providing completely smooth surfaces that wipe clean easily and don't trap food. This makes cleaning faster and more thorough, particularly important for dairy-based sauces or sticky foods.
Will these work on my induction hob?
Yes, the stainless steel exterior layers include magnetic properties compatible with induction cooking. The 5-ply construction ensures heat distributes evenly despite induction's concentrated magnetic field. The base diameters (16cm, 18cm, 20cm) suit standard induction rings, though you should verify your specific hob can recognise these sizes.
What We've Learned About Multi-Ply Cookware Since 1972
In our 52 years selling cookware, we've observed how multi-ply construction has evolved from professional kitchens into home cooking. The Culinary Fiveply represents what we consider the optimal balance — substantial enough (3.2mm) for professional-grade heat distribution, yet not so heavy that everyday handling becomes cumbersome.
The most significant advantage customers report isn't immediately obvious: the confidence to cook delicate sauces without constant stirring. With bonded-base pans, cooks learn to stir continuously to prevent scorching at the edges. The Fiveply's rim-to-rim heat distribution changes this dynamic — customers find they can reduce stirring whilst achieving better results, particularly valuable for béchamel, hollandaise, and custard-based preparations.
The three-size set addresses what we've learned about actual cooking patterns. Customers initially question whether they need multiple saucepans, then discover they use all three regularly: the 16cm for morning porridge or small sauces, the 18cm for everyday side dishes, and the 20cm for family portions. Having multiple sizes available means using appropriately sized pans rather than making small quantities in oversized vessels or cramming large quantities into undersized ones — both practices that compromise cooking results.
The rivet-free interior receives consistent praise from customers who've previously struggled with cleaning traditional riveted pans. This seemingly minor detail makes a measurable difference in daily use, particularly for foods that tend to cling or burn slightly.
Understanding Multi-Ply Construction
What Is 5-Ply Construction?
5-ply (or 5-layer) construction means five distinct metal layers bonded together: outer stainless steel layer, three aluminium alloy layers in the core, and inner stainless steel layer. The aluminium conducts heat rapidly and evenly, whilst the stainless steel provides cooking surface compatibility, durability, and induction capability. The 3.2mm total thickness provides substantial thermal mass for consistent heat.
5-Ply vs Bonded-Base Construction
Bonded-base (or encapsulated base) pans feature thick multi-layer bases but thinner single-layer sidewalls. This concentrates heat at the bottom whilst sidewalls remain cooler. The Fiveply extends the full multi-layer construction up the sidewalls to the rim, distributing heat throughout the entire pan. For foods requiring even heating throughout — sauces, risottos, gentle simmering — the full-body construction prevents hot spots and scorching at the pan bottom whilst upper contents remain undercooked.
When 5-Ply Construction Matters Most
The benefits of rim-to-rim heat distribution become most apparent with sauce-making (preventing edge scorching), risottos and polenta (consistent creaminess without bottom burning), gentle simmering (even heat throughout the liquid), and milk-based dishes (preventing skin formation at edges). For simple boiling tasks where vigorous movement distributes heat naturally, the advantages are less pronounced.
Material Thickness: Why 3.2mm
The 3.2mm thickness represents Swiss engineering optimisation — thick enough for excellent heat distribution and retention, thin enough for responsive temperature control. Thicker multi-ply (4-5mm) provides slightly better heat retention but responds more slowly to temperature changes and adds significant weight. Thinner multi-ply (2-2.5mm) responds quickly but may not distribute heat quite as evenly. The 3.2mm specification balances performance with practical everyday handling.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before first use: Remove all packaging and labels. Wash all pans and lids in warm soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and dry completely. The stainless steel surfaces are ready for immediate use without seasoning.
During cooking: The 5-ply construction heats efficiently, so medium heat typically suffices for most cooking tasks. Allow the pan to preheat gradually for 1-2 minutes before adding ingredients. 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.
Using the measuring scale: The internal litre and quart markings allow direct measurement of liquids without transferring to measuring cups. This is particularly useful when making sauces or soups where precise liquid quantities matter.
Oven use: The saucepans are oven-safe to 240°C with lids. This allows you to finish dishes in the oven or keep food warm. Always use oven gloves when handling pans that have been in the oven, as the handles and lids will be hot.
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. Wash with warm water and washing-up liquid, then dry thoroughly. The rivet-free interior means no crevices where food can accumulate, making cleaning straightforward. The closed rim design makes these pans safe for dishwasher cleaning.
For stubborn residue: If food is stuck, fill the pan with warm water and soak for 10-15 minutes before washing. This softens residue without requiring harsh scrubbing. For normal soiling, a soft sponge or cloth with washing-up liquid cleans effectively.
Removing discolouration or limescale: Stainless steel can develop rainbow discolouration from high heat or show limescale deposits from hard water. Use Swiss Cleaner (a specialised stainless steel cleaning paste) to restore the original finish. For limescale specifically, a solution of water and white vinegar works effectively.
What to avoid: Never use abrasive scourers, steel wool, or harsh abrasive cleaners that can scratch the stainless steel surface. Don't use chlorine-based cleaners or bleach. Avoid leaving empty pans on high heat, which can cause discolouration. Don't cut food directly in the pan with knives, as this can scratch the interior surface.
Storage: Store pans with lids either placed on top or stored separately to allow air circulation. The rivet-free smooth interior means pans can nest together 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: The 5-ply construction maintains consistent performance over time without special maintenance. If you notice food beginning to stick more than usual, the pan may have developed a thin film of residue — use Swiss Cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water to deep-clean the surface and 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 the Swiss engineering precision that we believe justifies investment in cookware — quality that performs consistently over decades rather than years.
Our Expertise with Professional Cookware
In 52 years, we've learned that multi-ply construction divides customers into two groups: those who've used it and those who haven't. Customers who've experienced rim-to-rim heat distribution rarely return to bonded-base pans for sauce-making and delicate cooking. We guide customers through understanding when the investment in 5-ply construction pays dividends in cooking results versus when simpler construction suffices.
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 any pan in the set (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. This covers accidental damage beyond manufacturer's warranty.
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 instead of the set?
The Culinary Fiveply range includes individual pans in various sizes if you need specific diameters. However, the three-piece set typically offers better value per pan compared to purchasing individually. Contact us if you need guidance on which configuration suits your cooking needs best.
Will the handles really stay cool on the stovetop?
Yes, during normal stovetop cooking at medium heat, the handles remain comfortable to touch due to thermal breaks in the handle design. However, during extended high-heat cooking or when used in the oven, the handles will become hot and require oven gloves. The stay-cool design refers specifically to typical stovetop use, not oven use or extended high-heat cooking.
How do I prevent food from sticking in stainless steel pans?
Preheat the pan for 1-2 minutes before adding oil or butter. Use adequate fat — stainless steel isn't non-stick, so sufficient oil prevents sticking. For proteins, allow them to develop a sear before attempting to move them — they'll release naturally when properly seared. Don't use high heat unnecessarily — the 5-ply construction distributes heat efficiently, so medium heat typically suffices.
What's the actual cooking capacity of each pan?
Whilst the pans are sized by diameter (16cm, 18cm, 20cm), actual capacity depends on height. As a general guide, the 16cm suits 1-1.5 litres for small sauces and individual portions, the 18cm accommodates approximately 2-2.5 litres for side dishes for 2-3 people, and the 20cm holds roughly 3-4 litres for family portions. The internal measuring scale shows exact capacity.
Is the 5-ply construction noticeably heavier than standard pans?
The 3.2mm thickness makes these pans more substantial than thin stamped pans but not excessively heavy. The weight distributes evenly due to the stay-cool handle design, making them comfortable to lift when full. The thermal mass from the thickness contributes to even heating, so the weight serves a functional purpose rather than being purely structural.
Can I use metal utensils in these pans?
Yes, stainless steel surfaces resist scratching from metal utensils better than non-stick coatings. However, avoid using sharp-edged utensils aggressively, as repeated harsh scraping can eventually mark any surface. Wooden, silicone, or metal utensils are all suitable for normal cooking use.
What warranty does Kuhn Rikon provide?
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.
