A roasting pan can fill many cooking needs. Not only is it perfect for roasting a turkey, but a roaster can be used for many other succulent meals or large batch cooking. There are many roasting pan styles and various sizes to accommodate every need. Maybe you already have a pan, but would like something a little nicer to show off that luscious bird. Here's a few tips and options to consider when shopping for a roaster or roasting pan.
Granite Ware Covered Roasting Pans: Economical and Practical
You probably remember seeing your parents and grandparents use these for those memorable dinners. Granite Ware roasting pans are still around and are one of the most economical, tried and true roasters. Available in different sizes, they clean very easily, are lightweight to handle and are very durable. The covers usually nest easily upside down in the pan, making them easy to store.
Open Roasting Pans: Easy to Store and Versatile
Types of open roasting pans include 18/10 stainless steel, enamel on steel or porcelain, aluminum, cast iron and carbon steel. So versatile, open roasters can double as serving trays. Some models are available with non-stick coatings for ease of cleaning. Cookware construction and prices do vary. An open roaster is very practical for cooking roasts, poultry or entrees, or for baking large cakes and desserts. When buying an open roaster for cooking poultry, ensure the pan has at least 3" high sides for meat juices to accumulate safely. Open roasters are generally easy to clean and store.
Covered Roasting Pans: Seal in Flavor
Covered roasters usually have higher sides which provide ample room for meat juices with no threat of overflowing during cooking. Covers help to seal in flavor better than a foil covering. Varying greatly in quality and durability, covered roasting pans are available in stainless steel, enamel, porcelain and carbon steel. Prices and styles vary considerably. Some have a removable rack, making it easy to transfer meat safely to a serving plate.
Electric Roaster Ovens: Roasting and Portability
Not only do these seal in flavor, but roaster ovens promote juicy, tender meals. These look like a large slow cooker, but they roast like an oven. They are practical for many large meal uses and portable to the outside courtyard. Some have optional buffet serving inserts, adding to their features. Although prices vary depending on construction and features, they are very affordable. A little more cleaning time is required.
Portable Rotisseries & Outdoor Cookers or Fryers: Roasting Display
Not only does this model get everyone's appetite rolling, but it's a great conversation piece. Who wouldn't want to monitor the turkey's progress? Poultry or roasts are rotated on a spit in a rotisserie and with some models, other foods can be placed in a basket for companion cooking. Portability is a great feature of rotisseries. However, more meat removal care is required, as well as more cleaning time for this roasting appliance. An outdoor propane fryer is a good option for a turkey or large meat item and while cooking with hot oil may not be everyone's forte, there is an oil-less option.
What Else Should You Consider?
- Pan Finish: Whether your roaster should be non-stick or not. Non-stick eases cleaning, but these pans need more care.
- Timing settings: Quick cooking or slow cooking/roasting controls.
- Handles: Quality of construction and how they are attached.
- Accessories: Practical items such as meat racks or turkey lifters are great tools.
- Capacity: What size of poultry or roast do you usually cook? Ensure the pan is a sufficient size for your needs.
- Storage requirements: Storage could be a concern, especially with a rotisserie.
- Warranty information
- Weight and ease of handling
- Manufacturer's care and cleaning instructions.
What Else Do You Need?
- A turkey platter- To serve the meal.
- Poultry lifters - They take the hassle out of transferring to the platter.
- Baster - To ensure it's as succulent as it looks.
- Meat thermometer - Take the guess work out of cooking.
- Optional rack - To keep the poultry or meat off the bottom while cooking.
- Kitchen timer - Just a reminder.
- Plastic or wooden utensils if the pan has a non-stick coating.
- Pot holders and mitts - For safety of course.
- An appetite and guests!
Recipe Resources
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