In the delightful world of creating homemade jams, jellies, chutneys and pickles, a good, reliable preserving pan can become a faithful support. Having the right tools can make all the difference to a creative project, and stainless-steel preserving pans, also known as Maslin pans, shine as stalwarts of the preserving process. But with so many options available from reputable sellers, how do you choose the one that’s just right for you?
Beyond their primary use in creating luscious fruit spreads and savoury chutneys, preserving pans are celebrated for their being able to do more than that in your kitchen. Whether it’s whipping up a batch of comforting soup for the family or serving as an ideal stockpot, these pans are more than a one-trick pony. They’re an investment in your cooking experiments and can become a staple in any well-equipped kitchen.
REVIEWS
Penguin Home Jam Pan 5l for Induction Hob
PRICE: £27.98**
CAPACITY: 4.5 litres
DIAMETER: 24cm
FEATURES:
- Thick stainless steel base sandwiching aluminium for durability and even heat distribution.
- Large surface area suitable for cooking preserves.
- Pouring spout plus stainless steel handle for safer lifting and transferring.
- Can be used in dishwasher, freezer, and fridge.
PROS:
- Affordable price.
- Generous capacity. Even heat distribution from heavy base.
- Sturdy construction suggests long-lasting use. With a ‘handy’ handle too!
CONS:
- Handle may get hot during prolonged cooking.
- Some users reported jam sticking and being difficult to remove.
- Pouring spout could be more precisely designed for drip-free pouring.
Kitchen Craft Jam Pan for Induction Hob
PRICE: £28.75**
CAPACITY: 4.5 litres
DIAMETER: 28.5cm
FEATURES:
- Stainless-steel construction with a polished finish.
- Capacity suitable for cooking smaller batches of preserves.
- A pouring lip and helper handle for easy handling.
PROS:
- Measuring guide on the inside of the pan with both litre and pint measurements to suit a wide range of recipes.
- A good price and capacity if you are starting your preserves journey, reduced kitchen space, and/or only making smaller batches of jams and chutneys.
- Good, even heat generation.
CONS:
- Smaller capacity compared to other options, so will limit the volume of preserves that can be made.
- Some users reported handle gets warm after extended heating.
- Some users found that the pan became difficult to clean once jam got burnt onto the bottom.
Judge Speciality Cookware Stainless Steel Maslin Pan
PRICE: £49.99**
CAPACITY: 8 litres
DIAMETER: 30cm
FEATURES:
- Stainless-steel with thick base for even heat distribution.
- Large capacity suitable for preserving fruits and making jams.
- Pouring spout and handle for easier pouring.
- Looks attractive and shiny!
PROS:
- Large capacity for bigger batches of preserves. This also makes it usable as a stockpot.
- Large evaporation surface, with depth to limit splattering.
- Thick base to encourage even heating of preserves.
CONS:
- Some users found the handles slightly uncomfortable to grip.
- Size may make storage difficult.
- Higher price compared to other options.
Stainless Steel Maslin Pan
PRICE: £54.99**
CAPACITY: 8.5 litres
DIAMETER: 31cm
FEATURES:
- Heavy-duty stainless-steel construction for durability.
- Graduated markings up to 8.5l
- A pouring lip and silicone-coated handle.
PROS:
- High-quality construction encourages good, even heat distribution.
- Wide base and tall sides for efficient evaporation and reduced splattering.
- The pouring lip and silicone-coated handle for ease of pouring and manoeuvring.
CONS:
- Relatively higher price compared to other options.
- Some users found the pouring spout too shallow and not as much of a benefit.
- Cleaning can be challenging due to the large size and shape.
Each of the four preserving/Maslin pans highlighted above brings its own unique flair to the table—catering to various needs, preferences, and budgets. From sleek and shiny designs to more robust functional models, the choice is yours to make. By considering factors such as price, features, capacity, and compatibility with your hob type, you’re well on your way to selecting a preserving pan that not only meets but exceeds your aspirations.
Here’s to the beginning of your homemade preserve adventures and the many delicious recipes that await. Happy jamming!
**Note:
The prices listed here were correct at the time of this review was written. For up-to-date prices, please visit the relevant retailer’s site.