A roasting pan is a shallow, heat-resistant dish that you use on the BBQ or in the oven to cook food indirectly. You place it next to the heat source, not directly above it, so that heat circulates around it like in an oven. Roasting pans come in various materials (stainless steel, cast iron, sheet metal, enamel), sizes, and designs. They collect meat juices, catch dripping fat, and allow you to add extra flavor to your dish with broth, beer, or wine.
Buying a roasting pan - what should I look for?
Pay attention to three things: material, size, and compatibility with your heat source. Choose a roasting pan that is at least 2-3 cm smaller than the inner diameter of your BBQ, so that air can flow around it. A model with a lid gives you more control over heat and moisture. Also, check if the roasting pan is oven-safe if you want to use it for multiple purposes. Most stainless steel and cast iron models are and can also be used on induction hobs for searing.
Which roasting pan should I choose?
Stainless steel roasting pan
For the versatile BBQ enthusiast. Stainless steel is light, robust, and resistant to high temperatures. A stainless steel roasting pan heats up quickly, is easy to clean, and almost always dishwasher-safe. It requires little maintenance. This is the most versatile choice: suitable for the BBQ, the oven, and as a drip tray under your meat.
Cast iron roasting pan
For the slow & low lover. Cast iron absorbs heat slowly but then retains it exceptionally well. This makes it the ideal material for long, slow preparations where you want everything to cook evenly from inside to out. A cast iron roasting pan also gives meat a beautiful crust. After use, rinse, dry, andoil it, and it will last a lifetime.
Sheet metal roasting pan
For professional use. Sheet metal is thin, light, and heats up incredibly fast, making it perfect for the kitchen where time is money. A sheet metal roasting pan reacts quickly to temperature changes, which is useful when you want to adjust the heat while grilling. The material is sturdy, resistant to high temperatures, and only gets better with use. Just like a cast iron pan, sheet metal builds up a natural patina that prevents food from sticking. Drying and oiling it after use is all you need.