This pan fills a void in my kitchen equipment that I didn't know I had, until I bought it. I use it in a variety of ways.
* On the stovetop, as a wok.
* On the stovetop, to prepare large batches of meat (2-3 lbs) for freezing and/or assembly of easy cook meals to use during the week.
* In the oven, as a surface for roasted vegetables. (Use it without the lid for this purpose.)
* As a large casserole for stews. (It will hold 4 qts if filled to about an inch below the top; I usually stop at 3+ quarts.)
While the 13 inch size of this utensil is a bit awkward to wash in my smallish kitchen sink, at 3 lbs its light weight makes it doable. I especially like the rivetless interior. In my opinion, this is on par with Le Creuset, which for a comparable item is roughly triple the weight. They are both well made, but filled with food, the larger Le Creuset items can be a challenge.
OVERALL, these are the good points:
+ only three pounds empty
+ excellent quality cast aluminum is made in Germany and has a track record of almost 30 years
+ nonstick surface performs very well and reduces amount of fat/oil needed
+ cleans easily with a nylon net dishcloth, Simple Green or dish detergent after a brief soak
+ handles are cast as an integral part of the unit
+ no rivets or other food-catchers inside
+ flat bottom can be used on a multitude of cooking surfaces, including gas/electric/induction/halogen burners.
+ lid rests on a rim inside the pan, recycling moisture when used as a casserole
+ lid knob is ovensafe to temperatures of 450 degrees F
THE DOWN SIDES INCLUDE the potential for the glass lid (rimmed in metal, with glass labeled break-resistant) to break. In addition, the Signocast line is not intended for use with metal utensils. Neither lid nor wok should be put in the dishwasher. If you can live with these limitations, you will likely be happy with this item.
Click Here to see more reviews about:
Berndes SignoCast Classic 13 Inch Cast Aluminum WokProduct Description: Enjoy the durability and superior craftsmanship of SignoCast cookware by Berndes.Made from vacuum-cast aluminum, each piece in this collection features superior shape and thickness and is guaranteed never to warp.Three-layer nonstick interior and two-layer nonstick exterior surfaces are guaranteed to never chip, crack, blister, bubble or peel and they protect foods from sticking and burning while eliminating the need for excess fats, oils, and cooking sprays.The phenolic handles allow for easy transport without the use of potholders and the domed glass lids are both heat- and break-resistant for heightened energy efficiency and durability.This 13-in. Gourmet Pan/Wok with Lid is ideal for risotto, stir fry and sauces, as the sloped sides allow you to add any number of ingredients without splashing over the side.For maximum longevity, handwash-recommended.Made in Germany with a limited lifetime warranty.Berndes has been manufacturing quality products since 1921, functional and practical products that stand out from mass-produced items. With a complete range of product, popular classics, high-tech non-stick surfaces and continual innovations, Berndes leads the way and sets new standards on its way to becoming a global brand.
Get 58% OFF
Want to buy Berndes SignoCast Classic 13 Inch Cast Aluminum Wok at other amazon sites? Click the corresponding icon below:
First off, this is a carbon steel wok so you do have to season it and keep it seasoned. I like that because I think it adds more traditional flavor to the food. The wok is very durable; I baked it in the oven for almost 10 minutes and the wood handles were still OK. =) The only thing that seems a little flimsy is the wok cover - but it's still OK. I use my wok everyday and I cook almost everything in it - I steam, fry, boil.. I've even made steamed desserts in it (Malaysian recipe). Love it!
