Tala Performance Classic Stainless Steel Saucepan Set 16cm, 18cm and 20cm
Tala Performance Classic Stainless Steel Saucepan Set 16cm, 18cm and 20cm
- In stock, ready to ship
- Free Mainland UK delivery over £49 - No Quibble Returns
Tala Performance Classic: Portuguese Craftsmanship for Your Kitchen
This 3-piece saucepan set from Tala's Performance Classic range represents serious cookware investment - Portuguese-manufactured 18/10 stainless steel with impact bonded bases, tempered glass lids, and a 25-year guarantee that demonstrates genuine confidence in the construction. Made in Portugal's established cookware manufacturing region, each pan benefits from generations of metalworking expertise.
The set provides three essential cooking sizes with professional-grade features:
- Premium 18/10 stainless steel construction - the highest grade commonly used in cookware, offering superior corrosion resistance and a non-reactive cooking surface
- Impact bonded base with laser marking confirms induction compatibility whilst providing even heat distribution across all hob types
- Mirror polished finish maintains professional appearance with proper care
- Tempered glass lids allow you to monitor cooking progress whilst retaining heat and moisture
- Energy-efficient design - even heat distribution means you can cook at lower temperatures
- Dishwasher safe for convenient cleaning, though hand washing maintains the polish longer
- Oven-proof construction for versatile cooking techniques
The three sizes cover everyday cooking requirements: 16cm (1.5L) for sauces and small portions, 18cm (2L) for vegetables and medium family meals, and 20cm (2.6L) for larger quantities and batch cooking. The thick impact bonded base eliminates hot spots and retains heat effectively, allowing you to reduce temperature once food reaches cooking point.
Suitable for serious home cooks investing in long-term quality, professional kitchens requiring reliable equipment, wedding gifts with genuine longevity, and anyone upgrading from basic cookware to professional-grade tools.
What Customers Ask About Tala Performance Classic Saucepans
What does 18/10 stainless steel mean?
18/10 stainless steel contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel. This is the highest grade commonly used in cookware, offering superior corrosion resistance, durability, and a non-reactive cooking surface that won't affect food flavours. It's the same grade used in professional kitchens.
Will these pans work on my induction hob?
Yes, the impact bonded base is laser-marked to confirm induction compatibility. The pans work on all hob types including gas, electric, ceramic, halogen, and induction. You can verify compatibility by checking if a magnet sticks to the base.
How does the impact bonded base improve cooking?
The thick impact bonded base consists of multiple layers that distribute heat evenly across the entire pan bottom, eliminating hot spots. This means food cooks more uniformly, you can use lower temperatures (saving energy), and the base retains heat effectively after you reduce the temperature.
Can I put these pans in the oven?
Yes, the stainless-steel pans are oven-proof. However, check the maximum temperature rating for the tempered glass lids before placing them in the oven, as glass lids typically have lower heat tolerances than the metal pan body.
Are the glass lids dishwasher safe too?
Yes, both the pans and tempered glass lids are dishwasher safe. However, hand washing with warm soapy water can help maintain the mirror polish finish for longer, particularly if you have hard water that may leave mineral deposits.
What's the actual capacity I can cook with in each pan?
The capacities are 1.5L (16cm), 2L (18cm), and 2.6L (20cm) measured to the rim. For practical cooking, fill to about 80% capacity to prevent boil-overs - so roughly 1.2L, 1.6L, and 2L respectively for everyday use.
Why is Portuguese-made cookware significant?
Portugal has a long-established reputation for high-quality stainless-steel cookware manufacturing, with expertise passed down through generations. Portuguese factories typically maintain rigorous quality control standards and use traditional metalworking techniques combined with modern technology.
How do I prevent food sticking to stainless steel?
Preheat the pan properly before adding oil or butter. Add food only when the fat shimmers (not smoking). Avoid moving food immediately - let it develop a proper sear first, then it will release naturally. Use adequate fat and avoid cooking on excessively high heat.
What does the 25-year guarantee cover?
The 25-year guarantee from Tala covers manufacturing defects in materials and workmanship. This includes issues with the base bonding, steel quality, or construction. It doesn't cover damage from misuse, accidents, or normal wear from regular use. Contact us with your proof of purchase if you experience any manufacturing defects.
Can I use metal utensils with these pans?
Yes, stainless steel is durable enough for metal utensils. However, avoid using sharp knives or aggressive scraping that could scratch the mirror finish. Wooden, silicone, or metal cooking utensils are all suitable for normal cooking.
Specifications
Care & Use Instructions
Before First Use: Wash thoroughly with hot soapy water, rinse, and dry completely. This removes any manufacturing residue.
Daily Cooking: Preheat the pan over medium heat before adding oil or butter. Stainless steel performs best when properly preheated - add a drop of water to test; it should form a ball and roll around when the pan is ready. Use medium heat for most cooking; stainless steel's even heat distribution means high heat is rarely necessary.
Preventing Sticking: Proper preheating is crucial. Add fat when the pan is hot, then add food once the fat shimmers. Don't move food immediately - allow it to develop a sear, then it will release naturally. Adding cold food to a hot pan is fine; adding food to an insufficiently heated pan causes sticking.
Cleaning: Allow pans to cool slightly before washing. Wash with hot soapy water using a non-abrasive sponge. For stuck-on food, soak in hot soapy water, then use a paste of baking soda and water with gentle scrubbing. Alternatively, use the dishwasher, though hand washing helps maintain the mirror finish longer.
Removing Stains: Heat marks and rainbow discolouration are normal and harmless. Remove with white vinegar or specialist stainless-steel cleaner. For stubborn stains, make a paste with baking soda and water, apply, leave for a few minutes, then scrub gently and rinse.
Maintaining Shine: Dry thoroughly after washing to prevent water spots, particularly in hard water areas. Polish occasionally with specialist stainless-steel cleaner or a small amount of olive oil on a soft cloth, buffing in the direction of the grain.
Avoid: Thermal shock (plunging hot pans into cold water), heating empty pans, using harsh abrasive cleaners or steel wool that could scratch the finish, and leaving salty or acidic foods in the pan for extended periods.
Storage: Stack carefully to avoid scratching. Consider pan protectors between stacked pans if storing for long periods.
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
Plus Tala's 25-Year Manufacturer Guarantee on this product
Read our full guarantee policy →
Questions? Visit our contact page
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 the pans.
How does the Half-Price Replacement guarantee work?
Valid for 2 years from purchase date. If you accidentally damage this set, we'll replace it at half price with proof of purchase and evidence of damage. 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.
How do I maintain the mirror polish finish?
Wash promptly after use with warm soapy water or in the dishwasher. For stubborn stains or to restore shine, use a specialist stainless-steel cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water. Dry thoroughly to prevent water spots, particularly in hard water areas. Avoid abrasive scourers that could scratch the finish.
 Andrew Bluett-Duncan |
“ Stay cool stainless handle and when you pick it up it doesn't feel flimsy or too light . Yup, a lot of pan for the money.” Read more about my views on Tala Performance Classic Stainless Steel Saucepan Set 16cm, 18cm and 20cm in my article Under Review: Tala Performance Stainless Steel Saucepan Set |
