But other differences even casual home cooks will feel. If you want to look beyond stainless steel cookware or you're looking for a great cast-iron skillet, check out our list of best frying pans.

Mary Nguyen, chef at Olive & Finch Collective in Denver, Colorado, swears by this hand-hammered carbon steel wok for all her stir-fries, whether they’re being made for a Lunar New Year feast or ...