Whether you're preparing for pancake day or brunch, discover our top picks for making everything from the perfect crêpes to fluffy American pancakes.
Readying yourself for Pancake Day 2026 (Tuesday 17 February)? Though whisper-thin crêpes or soft American-style pancakes can be made in any decent non-stick frying pan, investing in a purpose-made pancake pan can make cooking and flipping the pancakes easier. Pancake pans offer impressive versatility, making them ideal for searing, browning, light frying and preparing other batter-based foods like blinis or Scotch pancakes – not just traditional pancakes. We put a range of pancake pans through their paces in the Good Food Test Kitchen, and if you're looking for a quick recommendation, the Dexam Supreme non-stick pancake pan and the Ninja Foodi Zerostick frying pan are my number-one star-buy picks. If you're after something specific, though, read on to discover more of our tried-and-tested favourites. Plus, check out our guide to the best tools for Pancake Day to find whisks, moulds, spatulas and more. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Best pancake pans at a glance 5/5 stars: Best versatile pancake pan: Dexam Supreme non-stick pancake/pizza griddle pan, £72 Best frying pan for pancakes: Ninja Foodi Zerostick frying pan, £55 Best of the rest: Best investment pancake pan: HexClad 30cm griddle pan, £139 Best griddle-style pan: Our Place griddle pan, from £55 Best non-stick pancake pan: ProCook Professional 26cm Granite Crepe Pan, £35 Best budget pancake pan: MasterClass ceramic non-stick crêpe pan 24cm, £16.96 Best value frying pan: Stellar Rocktanium frying pan, £50 Best frying pan for eco credentials: Kuhn Rikon New Life frying pan, £84.95 Best small cast-iron pancake pan: Le Creuset Cast Iron Small Crepe Pan, £145 Best pancake pan for fun designs: Nordic Ware smiley face pancake pan, £56.95 Jump to: Best pancake pans to buy in 2026 Why buy a specialist pancake pan? What to look for in a pancake pan How we tested pancake pans I used our foolproof easy pancake recipe to test all the pans, plus our fluffy American pancake recipe – I then scored them against the following criteria on our testing matrix: Handle comfort: Pancake-making sessions can last a while, so I looked for a handle that was comfortable, didn’t get too hot and could be easily gripped – rubber or plastic handles work well. I also liked handles that had a notch for hanging. Heat distribution: I expect pancake pans to heat up quickly and evenly. If the finished pancake had darker spots or cooked quicker in certain parts of the pan, we marked the product down. Non-stick: Arguably the most important criteria for pancake pans. I looked for a surface that allowed us to easily tease the pancake up to be turned or flipped. I also discounted any pans that omitted an unpleasant chemical smell, even after being washed several times. Ease of flipping: I judged the pans on how easy the pancakes were to flip – both the handle comfort and shape and size of the lip are important here. A shallow, well-angled lip is ideal. Finished effect of the pancake: Golden, evenly cooked, nicely round pancakes were what I was after – any burnt spots were taken into account. Ease of cleaning: I judged how well the pans could be cleaned with hot soapy water and a sponge. Best pancake pans to buy in 2026 Dexam Supreme non-stick pancake/pizza griddle pan Available from Amazon (£58.99), Robert Dyas (£66.99), Harts of Stur (£72) Best versatile pancake pan Pros: Two-handled Versatility Dishwasher-safe Easy to use straight from the box Cons: Cannot toss pancakes Star rating: 5/5 I was very intrigued on unwrapping the Dexam pan from its sturdy, recyclable display box – as it boasts that it's not only great for pancakes, but also for pizza, scones, frying eggs and other goodies. It's a 34cm in diameter, so will easily handle all the above, and I loved the sturdiness of the pan and how stable it felt on the hob. It also has a smooth stainless-steel base, which can be used on induction. And despite all this sturdiness, the Dexam pan weighs just under 2kg. The pan is ready to go straight from the box with a quick wash, and I found heating it very speedy. Though Dexam doesn't say that the two handles on the pan stay cool, I noticed they didn't get hot even after a long period on the stove. However, if the pan goes under the grill or into the oven, you should of course use oven gloves as the handles get extremely hot. Both styles of pancakes cooked rapidly and evenly, and though the design meant I couldn't toss the pancakes, they flipped back and forth impressively easily with just a flick of a spatula. Cleaning the pan was effortless; even though it was dishwasher-safe, it was unnecessary when making pancakes. I was so impressed with this pan. It may not be the cheapest of the tests, but I felt that what it delivered in performance, its lifetime guarantee and the quality certainly supports the price tag. Available from: Amazon (£58.99) Robert Dyas (£66.99) Harts of Stur (£72) undefined Ninja Foodi Zerostick frying pan Available from Very (£45), Robert Dyas (£44.99) Best frying pan for pancakes Pros: Oven-safe up to 260C Dishwasher-safe Cons: Handle gets warm Star rating: 5/5 Not only is the Ninja Foodi Zerostick frying pan an excellent piece of kit for everyday frying tasks, but it excelled in our pancake test. It's equipped with a tough non-stick coating and long, thin handle ideal for deft pancake flips. This frying pan heats up quickly, and most importantly, evenly. It produced the smoothest and most even finish on my pancakes of all the frying pans tested. Available in three different sizes: 20cm, 24cm and 28cm, I found all to be lightweight and easy to carry around. The frying pan also remained balanced on the hob. This ultra-versatile pan is suitable for all hob types, is dishwasher safe and is oven safe up to 260C. Read our full Ninja Foodi Zerostick frying pan review. Available from: Very (£45) Robert Dyas (£44.99) undefined HexClad 30cm griddle pan Available from Amazon (£125.10), HexClad (£139) Best investment pancake pan Pros: Commercial-grade pan Oven-safe to 260C Dishwasher safe Stay-cool handle Serious non-stick Cons: Expensive Needs seasoning before use Pancakes were thin in the centre Star rating: 4.5/5 The HexClad commercial-grade griddle pan is super-looking with an intriguing laser-etched hexagonal patterned surface of stainless-steel ridges and, in the valleys, a serious non-stick surface. This combination brings a robust feel to the pan and will withstand metal utensils, the dishwasher and the oven, making this a very versatile pan, not just for pancakes. I found the 30cm diameter of the pan helpful as I could cook three American-style pancakes simultaneously, and my regular pancakes were huge. The first three pancakes stuck relentlessly, and I realised I had not seasoned the pan; once I did, I had no more problems with sticking. I found the regular pancakes tricky as the batter continuously spread to the edges, leaving the centre thin; even swishing the batter around again only helped a little. The American pancakes, however, were superb; they cooked quickly and evenly, rose beautifully and slid effortlessly from the pan. Despite the problem with the regular pancakes, the HexClad pan has many attributes that make it a delightful pan to use. The pan is high-quality and versatile; it has a generous stay-cool handle and excellent conductivity, making the raising and lowering of the temperature quick and precise. Its stunning good looks and lifetime guarantee make this a lovely pan to have in the kitchen. Read more about HexClad in our guide: Is HexClad worth it? Available from: Amazon (£125.10) HexClad (£139) undefined Our Place Griddle Pan Available from Our Place (from £55), Amazon (£89) Best griddle-style pancake pan Pros Available in two sizes Fabulous range of colours Lightweight Great non-stick Cons Not induction-friendly Larger pan is too big for regular ovens Star rating: 4.5/5 Prepare to be impressed by the Our Place Griddle Pan. It is a large and lovely looking pan in a variety of fabulous colours. It is not your regular pancake pan but a griddle, large enough to cover two burners and cook the whole breakfast. I was surprised when I discovered it is not induction-friendly but is suitable for ovens up to 230C, doubling up as a generous baking or roasting tin. However, the larger pan is 53cm wide, including the handles, so it will not fit into a standard oven, but if you have a range oven with a gas or electric hob, this will suit you perfectly. The pan has astonishing non-slip which, in the test, made exceptional American-style pancakes. I could cook eight pancakes in one go, perfect for families and parties. Because the thinner batter spread unevenly without boundaries, all my regular pancakes were random shapes but still cooked evenly and tasted delicious. If you have the room, this is undoubtedly a griddle to love. Available from: Our Place (from £55) Amazon (£89) undefined ProCook Professional 26cm Granite Crêpe Pan Available from ProCook (£35) Best non-stick pancake pan Pros Amazing price Cool touch handle Super-hard ceramic coating Excellent pancake results Cons Convex surface Star rating: 4.5/5 Unpacking this sturdy pancake pan from ProCook, it was hard to believe it was one of the cheapest pans on the test, as it looks and feels more expensive. Made of forged aluminium, it delivers fast and even heat with no hot spots. The five-star ceramic non-stick surface was so good I spent some time chasing the American pancakes around the pan. But our favourite was the long, ergonomically shaped cool-touch handle, which made lifting and flipping easy and safe with this pan. These great features resulted in the best cooking results: the pancakes cooked evenly, with excellent colour, in seconds and flipped easily through the air. The American pancakes were light, fluffy and beautifully coloured. I had one tiny gripe, the base of the pan is ever so slightly convex, which meant the butter and oil poured into the centre quickly ran away to the edge – otherwise, it is a terrific pan at a great price. Available from: ProCook (£35) undefined MasterClass ceramic non-stick crêpe pan Available from Amazon (£12.60), Harts of Stur (£16.96) Best budget pancake pan Pros: 15-year guarantee Very effective non-stick coating Cons: Slightly less ergonomic to hold than others we tested Star rating: 4.5/5 If you’re put off buying a pancake pan because you think you will only use it a couple of times a year, this budget-friendly pan should assuage your guilt. It’s suitable for all hob types including induction, goes in the oven up to 150C (which I would say is quite restrictive for most cooking) and is chemical free. With an aluminium body and iron base, this pan is light with a shallow lip and a very effective non-stick surface. It also comes with a 15-year guarantee. Despite its below-average price tag, this scored highly on all the things you want in a pancake pan. Most importantly, it’s simple to use – my crêpe came away cleanly from the sides and flipped very easily. All of my pancakes were evenly cooked and none of them stuck. Washing up afterwards was very quick, apart from a few scraps of pancake that got caught around the steel rivets inside. If I was being very pernickety, the handle wasn’t as comfortable to hold as some of the others. Available from: Amazon (£12.60) Harts of Stur (£16.96) undefined Stellar Rocktanium frying pan Available from Stellar (£35), Harts of Stur (£44.95) Best value frying pan Pros: Accessible price-point Lightweight Cons: Pancake was a little patchy Star rating: 4.5/5 If you're not looking to break the bank, the Rocktanium frying pan from Stellar is a brilliant option. It's has all the makings of a pan brilliantly engineered for pancakes: an effective non-stick surface, lightweight body and long comfortable handle. This pan took around 2 minutes, 30 seconds to heat up, giving you enough time to whip up a delicious pancake batter. I was impressed with the results on my pancake tests and enjoyed light, fluffy and evenly risen morsels. The Rocktanium pan is a fantastic all-rounder, too. Available from: Stellar (£35) Harts of Stur (£44.95) undefined Kuhn Rikon New Life frying pan Available from Kuhn Rikon (£84.95), Amazon (£84.95) Best frying pan for eco credentials Pros: Made from recycled aluminium cans from Europe Suitable for all hob types Cons: Cooked a little unevenly Star rating: 4.5/5 Sporting impressive eco credentials, the Kuhn Rikon New Life frying pan is made from recycled aluminium cans from Europe. This versatile pan is suitable for every hob type, is oven safe and dishwasher safe, too. The handle is a little stubby, but comfortable nonetheless. The walls of the pan are gently curved, making the New Life pan a great choice for pancake-flipping masters! This pan is quick to heat up, but I found my pancakes a little patchy, aesthetically. However, I couldn't fault them when it came to flavour and texture. A fantastic option for pancakes, and more. Available from: Kuhn Rikon (£84.95) Amazon (£84.95) undefined Le Creuset cast-iron small crêpe pan Available from Le Creuset (from £145) Best cast-iron pancake pan Pros Superb quality pan Two colours Lifetime guarantee Accessories included Cons Heavy Short handle, which gets hot A few attempts needed to get it right Star rating: 4/5 The small Le Creuset cast iron crêpe pan is a classic-looking pan from the renowned French brand and comes in two lovely colours, a cerise red or satin black. A wooden spatula and crêpe spreader are included, which I struggled to use successfully – hopefully, practice will make it perfect. At 27cm, the Le Creuset makes an excellent-sized crêpe. I followed the instructions for using the pan closely, but my first four pancakes stuck to the pan. Eventually, the non-stick kicked in with use, though Le Creuset stated that the pan did not need to be seasoned. I had no problems with the American style which, thanks to the outstanding conductivity of cast iron, was cooked quickly and evenly, and was fluffy and light. This pan will not suit everyone: it is heavy, and the handle is short and gets hot during use. But with use, it will become a workhorse for those who can lift it and serve them well for many years. Available from: Le Creuset (from £145) undefined Nordic Ware smiley face pancake pan Available from Amazon (£56.95) Best pancake pan for fun designs Pros: Perfect for characterful pancakes Novelty Cons: Not suitable for induction hobs Takes a little trial and error This pan is excellent quality and makes delicious American-style pancakes that will make you smile; there are seven cute, cheeky, funny faces on the pan to choose from and keep the whole family happy. Unfortunately, the pan is made from cast aluminium, so isn't suitable for induction hobs. It has a robust non-stick surface, so all that is needed for the pancake is the lightest brush of oil or butter; I found that a brush worked better for this job as it got nicely into the crevices of the faces. I needed to cook several pancakes to get the amount of batter right – a good tablespoon; I finally settled at medium for the cooking heat as any hotter the little faces burned. Three minutes on each side gave a lovely, fluffy pancake with good colour. The pan is only suitable for making this pancake style, so it is quite pricey, but it will provide hours of fun. Available from: Amazon (£56.95) Other pancake pans tried and tested Premier Cookware Essentials pancake pan 24cm, £12.99 Le Creuset 24cm toughened non-stick crêpe pan, from £129 Circulon Infinite French skillet 25cm, £54.99 Why buy a specialist pancake pan? A good, multipurpose non-stick frying pan will generally do the job when it comes to pancake making, however the non-stick element is really important. The pancake pans that passed our test all have great non-stick credentials, but also have a flat, shallow design with a small lip to help flip the pancake. The heat of the pan is very important when making pancakes – pancake pans are often thinner than regular frying pans so they conduct heat quickly and efficiently. In a similar vein, handles are likely to get very hot during a batch cooking session, so rubberised or plastic handles are common to protect your hand. A tapered handle will also feel more comfortable in the hand. A pancake pan can also double up as a general use fryer. They’re particularly good if you like to cook with minimal oil – some of them barely need any at all. Recipes like omelettes are ideal for pancake pans as the shallow sides will help them slide out easily onto the plate. What to look for in a pancake pan Usage: Consider how you’ll be using this pan. If you just want to use it to make crêpes and pancakes, you can go for a smaller size (around the 24cm mark). However, if you want this to double up as a fryer, go for a larger diameter. Material: If you’ll be using this pan frequently, opting for a material like reinforced cast metal should ensure longevity. Coating: The coating is also of paramount importance. Among our sample were a number of heavy duty, cast iron, skillet-style pans that had no non-stick coating. While this 'natural' finish has its benefits in some ways, it’s a no-no when it comes to pancake making – we found ours just stuck to the bottom and had to be scraped off. Hob types: Most of the pans we tested were suitable for all hob types, including induction, but a select few had to be tested on gas. Do check before buying to ensure the pan is suitable for your cooker. Related reviews Best non-stick frying pans Best sauté pans Best griddle pans Best measuring cups How to store pans How to make pancakes Best tools for making pancakes Pancake recipes Our 10 favourite pancake toppings How to flip a pancake All you need to know about pancakes Best jelly moulds How to care for non-stick cookware Best stainless steel frying pans If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. Which pan do you use to make pancakes? We'd love to hear your product recommendations in the comments below...
Best non-stick frying pans, tested by experts
A hard-wearing, non-stick frying pan is a kitchen essential. We tested a wide range of pans at a variety of price points to find the best option for every type of cook
A good non-stick frying pan is one of those kitchen items I reach for every day, and the right one really does make cooking feel easier and more precise. It’s what I'll be relying on to make delicate, lacy easy crêpes on Pancake Day this year (the only acceptable pancake style in my opinion, but you may prefer a stack of fluffy American pancakes). Beyond that, it's essential for getting a golden fillet of sea bass in our white fish with sesame noodles, caramelising a rib-eye steak or rendering duck fat for seared duck with ginger mash. When you’re choosing one, I’d always check it suits your hob (particularly if you’ve got induction) and, if you like finishing dishes in the oven, that it’s genuinely oven-safe at high temperatures. A durable, PFAS-free coating matters, too. The pan that came out on top in our tests is the Ninja Foodi Zerostick 28cm frying pan. Our rigorous testing covered temperature control, ergonomic handle design, and eco-credentials. We prepared American pancakes, omelettes, and even tested dry ingredient movement to assess pan shape and balance. Read on to discover our top picks for the best frying pans, as rated by our reviews team. The latest additions were tested and reviewed by Annie Collyer. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Best non-stick frying pans at a glance JUMP TO REVIEWS 5/5 stars: Best non-stick frying pan overall: Ninja Foodi Zerostick 28cm frying pan, £55 Best professional-quality non-stick frying pan: MadeIn ProCoat non-stick frying pan, from £109 Best all-in-one frying pan: Our Place Always Pan 2.0, £125 Best large non-stick frying pan: Meyer Accent Series Ultra-Durable Chef's Pan, £69 Best sustainable non-stick frying pan: GreenPan Evolution frying pan, from £69 Best of the rest: Best frying pan for affordable luxury: M&S x Tom Kerridge non-stick frying pan, from £25 Best frying pan for quality-build and good looks: Kuhn Rikon New Life Pro frying pan, £98.40 Best hybrid frying pan: HexClad Hybrid pan, from £129 Best affordable non-stick frying pan: ProCook Professional stainless-steel frying pan, from £50 Best versatile non-stick frying pan: Circulon Steel Shield C-Series frying pan, £70 Best investment frying pan: Our Place Titanium Always Pan Pro, £170 Best value multifunctional pan: Lakeland Only Pan, £59.99 Jump to: Best non-stick frying pans to buy in 2026 Good Food in partnership with Tower non-stick frying pans How to choose the best non-stick frying pan How to care for a non-stick frying pan How we tested non-stick frying pans View Green Video on the source website Supreme temperature control The ability to accurately adjust the temperature with subtle precision, even after cooking over high heat, will provide you with the greatest overall control, transforming your everyday cooking. It’ll mean that you can save food that you forgot about for a moment, cook every type of egg dish imaginable with precision, or perfectly simmer a midweek risotto or pasta sauce. Design with cooking in mind A large surface area for cooking with elegantly curved sides that are neither too shallow or too tall, alongside a balance between weight and size, and a comfortable, stay-cool ergonomic handle, are ideal. This will let you toss food – often the best way to mix ingredients – with ease. Sustainability We look at the packaging the frying pan comes with and whether it's recyclable or not. We also look at what the frying pan is made from and the length of the warranty. Reliable, eco-friendly non-stick An effortlessly slick non-stick coating with just a touch of grip will prevent spread when cooking pancakes or frying eggs. Look for scratch-resistant non-stick (often with a specific warranty for the coating) that’ll hold up to long-term wear and tear. To avoid any health issues or chemical aftertaste, look for eco-friendly materials too, particularly ones that are PFOA-free. Recipe results We made Good Food’s basic omelette in each pan, making a note of how long the pan took to pre-heat. We then monitored how quickly the eggs cooked, how easy it was to lower and control the temperature, as well as checking how effective the non-stick was. We also made a batch of American pancakes, which allowed us to check how evenly the pan heated up, how efficiently it transferred to the food and whether the non-stick had the necessary subtle grip. For example, did the pancakes spread too much initially or were they nicely puffed? Was the surface of the pancakes evenly browned, or was it patchy? Best non-stick frying pans to buy in 2026 Ninja Foodi Zerostick frying pan, 28cm Available from Argos (£54.99), Very (£55) Best non-stick frying pan overall Pros: Generous size Good looking Excellent non-stick Long handle Energy efficient Fully recyclable packaging Cons: Slight heating of the handle Star rating: 5/5 This is a serious pan that's great when cooking for a crowd, given its generous size and depth. The polished stainless-steel exterior, sturdy riveted handle, and a manageable weight for the size also give it a professional feel. Ninja claims that its Zerostick, non-stick coating is 20 times tougher than regular non-stick in a third-party coating abrasion testing (2022), and its 10-year guarantee on the pan and the non-stick shows its commitment to this. I found the heating of this pan super-fast and the heat retention so good, I had to turn the pan relatively low to cook with, which makes this energy efficient, too. My first omelette was seriously overcooked, but on a lower heat, I was pleased with the results of a perfectly cooked, soft omelette with even colouring. The pancakes, though they cooked quickly, again were cooked right through with an even colour. The Ninja frying pan is metal-utensil-safe, dishwasher-safe, scratch resistant and oven-safe up to a vast 260°C (beware of the hot handle, though), so it could quickly become the workhorse pan in your kitchen without too much worry. Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm, 26cm, 28cm, 30cm Oven-safe: Up to 260C Materials: Hard-anodised aluminium, cast stainless-steel handles Dishwasher-safe: Yes Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: 10 years Available: Argos (£54.99) Very (£55) undefined undefined MadeIn ProCoat Non-Stick Frying Pan Available from MadeIn (from £109) Best professional quality non-stick frying pan Pros: Comfortable handle Available in a good range of sizes Oven safe – 260C Compatible with all hob types Cons: Pan is slightly domed in centre Largest pan may be too large for induction hobs Star rating: 5/5 With a reassuring weight and a slim, comfortable handle, the MadeIn non-stick frying pan offers a professional feel without being overly heavy. The pan heats up evenly, though it takes a little while to reach temperature, and was responsive to adjustments. Its non-stick coating is impressively effective – nothing sticks and cleaning requires little more than a quick rinse. The cooking results were excellent: omelettes were evenly cooked and my pancakes had a lovely, even browning across the surface. The pan’s shape is well-suited for tossing ingredients and remains stable on the hob. The handle stays cool during use and is a good length for safe handling. There are some minor drawbacks, such as a slightly domed centre and the largest size (30cm) possibly being too big for some induction hobs. Although not dishwasher safe and prone to scratches if metal utensils are used, this is a versatile, high-quality pan that delivers consistent results. Sizes available: 20cm, 25cm, 30cm Oven-safe: Up to 260C Materials: 5-ply stainless clad Dishwasher-safe: No, hand-wash only Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: 1 year Available from: MadeIn (from £109) Always Pan 2.0 Available from Our Place (£125) Best all-in-one frying pan Pros: Light Non-toxic non-stick Multi-functional 11 colours Accessories included Cons: None Star rating: 5/5 It is fascinating to unwrap the Always Pan from its recyclable box, as this is not just a non-stick frying pan but a multi-functional one. The Always can be used as a steamer with the handled steamer basket (included), which doubles as a colander; the well-domed lid makes it easy to roast a chicken yet shallow enough to fry and poach eggs, and it's also designed to lock in steam when needed or release it when you don't. I also love the wooden spatula (also included), which nestles into the handle when not in use. I was testing the pan for its non-stick cooking and this one is impressive. The ceramic non-stick coating is super-smooth and silky, and contains no harmful toxins. The surface is so smooth, I had fun chasing the pancakes and the omelette as they skated around the pan. The omelette's cooking results were impressive in speed and had even browning. However, the pancakes spread further than others on the test; in part, I felt, because the pan was so smooth. This pan is incredibly light for its size and build, as it is made with 100% recycled aluminium. It slips seamlessly from hob to oven and is safe to 230ºC, though oven gloves must be used when removing the pan. Read more about Our Place in our guide: Is Our Place worth it? Sizes available: 21.6cm, 26.7cm, 31.8cm Oven-safe: Up to 230C Materials: 100% recycled aluminium Dishwasher-safe: No, hand-wash only Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: 3 years Available from: Our Place (£125) undefined Meyer Accent Series Ultra-Durable Chef's pan, 26cm Available from Amazon (£48.50), Dunelm (£69) Best large non-stick frying pan Pros: PFOA-free non-stick Two ergonomic heatproof handles Versatile depth Cons: Quite wide on the cooker, which dominates space Star rating: 5/5 This is an unconventional pan to feature in our guide, due to its wok-like sloping sides and depth. But it's precisely that shape that makes this pan incredibly versatile and could see you replacing two or three pans in your cupboard with just this one. Suitable for all cooktops, the hard-anodised aluminium triple-layer, non-stick body is supported by two silicone-protected handles that are ergonomic and comfortable to hold. The deep rim makes pouring smooth and easy to control. Although dishwasher-safe, I found it was easier to simply wash by hand as everything wiped off easily under warm water making it a doddle to clean. It's also oven-safe up to 230C. Sizes available: 20cm, 26cm, 28cm Oven-safe: Up to 230C Materials: Aluminium Dishwasher-safe: Yes Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: Limited lifetime, terms apply Available from: Amazon (£48.50) Dunelm (£69) GreenPan Evolution frying pan Available from GreenPan (£70) Best sustainable non-stick frying pan Pros: Sustainable, PFAS-free coating Minimal packaging Excellent non-stick performance XL cooking surface area Comes with a felt protector for safe stacking Cons: Slightly heavy for tossing Star rating: 5/5 Stylish, sturdy and sustainably made, the GreenPan Evolution frying pan instantly impressed. My first surprise was how small the package was – the pan arrives in a compact cardboard box with the handle detached. Fear not though, it’s simple to attach using the Allen key provided and the instructions printed on the box. This clever design not only cuts packaging waste, but also makes the pan easier to recycle at the end of its life (though with a lifetime warranty, that’s unlikely to be soon). Once assembled, the recycled aluminium pan looks premium with its dark green base, sleek cooking surface and stainless steel handle, which stays cool during use. The Thermolon ceramic non-stick coating performed brilliantly – omelettes and pancakes released effortlessly and were evenly cooked. Oven-safe up to 200C and with an extra large, flat surface area, this pan is versatile enough to be used for a wide range of different recipes, including larger family meals. Plus, its slick non-stick surface makes it easy to wipe clean, though it is also dishwasher safe. The only slight drawback is its weight (I tested the 28cm pan), which makes tossing a little trickier, but that same sturdiness makes us confident that this pan will be long-lasting and won’t warp like cheaper pans often do. Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm, 28cm Oven-safe: Up to 200C Materials: Recycled aluminium, stainless-steel handle Dishwasher-safe: Yes Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: Limited lifetime (terms apply), 2 years for non-stick coating Available from: GreenPan (£70) M&S X Tom Kerridge non-stick frying pan Available from Marks and Spencer (from £25) Best frying pan for affordable luxury Pros: Great non-stick coating Heats very fast thanks to its copper base Pouring lip surrounds the pan High sides make it great for tossing Cons: Not dishwasher-safe No warranty Star rating: 4.5/5 The lightweight design of this non-stick pan, crafted by M&S in collaboration with Tom Kerridge, is just one of the things I love about it. Its thick copper base allows for quick and even heating, and I can vouch for that first hand. I cooked pancakes and an omelette in this pan and both times the results were impressive. Its stellar non-stick coating, paired with its handy pouring lip, makes cooking super-convenient. The handle is flat but comfortable, with a hanging hole for storage, and it never gets hot. The pan is also oven-safe, and has tall sides that are great for tossing, at around 7.3cm high. When it comes to drawbacks, the pan isn’t dishwasher-safe, and you're limited to using non-metal utensils with it. Its affordable price tag is arguably the most attractive feature: at £25 for the 20cm size and £30 for the 24cm pan, it’s a steal. Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm Oven-safe: Up to 240C Materials: Stainless steel Dishwasher-safe: No, hand-wash only Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: None Available from: Marks and Spencer (from £25) Kuhn Rikon New Life Pro frying pan, 24cm Available from Harts of Stur (from £98.40) Best frying pan for quality build and good looks Pros: Fast heating Great stay-cool handle Sturdy build Eco-credentials Lifetime guarantee Cons: May be a little heavy for some Price Star rating: 4.5/5 Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm, 28cm The Swiss-made New Life Pro frying pan from Kuhn Rikon is a handsome and robustly built pan. It comes in a recyclable card sleeve and is made from 100% recycled aluminium, so it has good eco-credentials. I love the handle, which is ergonomically designed to stay cool on the stovetop. However, the pan is also oven-safe up to 240ºC, and as the handle will also heat, it must be used cautiously. The pan performed well with both omelette and pancakes and I found it cooked at a lower temperature than others on the test; it also cooked quickly and evenly, and I was impressed by how the pan responded to changing the heat. Thanks to its ceramic, highly reinforced, three-layer non-stick coating, both the omelette and the pancakes lifted quickly and easily when turning and plating. A pan of this quality build will always be slightly heavy, and this one is, but the long stay-cool handle does help when moving the pan around. Though it's not recommended for the dishwasher, this pan is a dream to clean with just hot, soapy water. Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm Oven-safe: Up to 240C Materials: Stainless steel Dishwasher-safe: No, hand-wash only Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: None Available from: Harts of Stur (from £98.40) undefined HexClad Hybrid frying pan Available from HexClad (from £129) Best hybrid frying pan Pros: All recyclable packaging Impressive non-stick Comfortable handle Handle remains cool Controlled cook Cons: Sometimes a little slow to cook Expensive Star rating: 4.5/5 The concept of hybrid cookware is not a new invention, but the HexClad range seems to be a merging of three pan types, rather than two. It’s stainless steel and non-stick, plus the need to season the pan takes us into cast iron territory. This is a pan that makes many demands of you; it’s not one you can just grab and whack on the stovetop at any old temperature. It needs to be seasoned before use – albeit not every time – and it should only be used at low-medium temperatures. But once I'd got everything set up, this pan was nothing short of a joy to use. The handle is comfortable and remained cool throughout the entirety of my test. It cooked with delicacy and control when making an omelette. And my American pancakes were thick and fluffy, with even and consistent browning every time. Both test recipes slipped from the pan with total ease. I liked this pan for many reasons – it’s ultra robust, cooks well and comes in a good range of sizes. Though I did have some gripes: it takes a while to heat up and cook, and it comes with a hefty price tag, but it does come with a lifetime warranty. Read more about HexClad in our guide: Is HexClad worth it? Sizes available: 20cm, 25cm, 30cm Oven-safe: Up to 480C Materials: Stainless steel with aluminium core Dishwasher-safe: Yes Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: Lifetime Available from: HexClad (from £129) undefined ProCook Professional 24 cm stainless-steel frying pan Available from ProCook (from £50) Best affordable non-stick frying pan Pros: High grade stainless-steel body and handle Good weight Ultra Plus triple-layer, PFOA-free, non-stick coating Cons: Handle is a little slippery Star rating: 4.5/5 The ProCook Professional stainless-steel pan may be small, but it is a very useful, well-built model which could easily stand up to the rigours of the professional kitchen and the home. The pan has a lovely weight from the heavy-duty 18/10 stainless-steel construction and a 7mm impact bonded base, but because it's not a huge pan, it is easy to lift even with food in. Using this pan is partly made easier by the well-balanced curved handle and a clever design that stops the handle from getting hot when used on the hob. However, I felt the handle was a little unsteady when carrying due to its shiny stainless-steel construction. The pan is oven-safe up to 260ºC, but the handle will get very hot and should be used cautiously. The solid construction of the ProCook pan means it heats quickly; heat retention is good, which resulted in excellent results with both the omelette and the pancakes. Both cooked quickly, with even colouring, and I loved how fast the pan responded when I lowered the heat. A small but super-useful pan to have, whatever the size of your cook space, but certainly a must for the smaller kitchen. Sizes available: 20cm, 24cm, 28cm, 30cm Oven-safe: Up to 260C Materials: Heavy-duty 18/10 stainless steel Dishwasher-safe: No, hand-wash only Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: 25 years Available from: ProCook (from £50) undefined Circulon Steel Shield C-Series frying pan Available from Circulon (£55.99) Best versatile non-stick frying pan Pros: Unique non-stick design Comfortable stay-cool handle Metal-utensil-safe Cons: Some sticking Some may not like the design Star rating: 4.5/5 Designed to cook like steel and clean like non-stick, this frying pan is ideal for searing meat and veggies. It’s notable for its design, featuring a series of ridged circles inside the pan. For ease and versatility, its dishwasher-safe and ovenproof up to 260C. I loved the slim ergonomic handle; it’s comfortable and doesn’t get too hot in use. Although this pan cooked very well, I noticed that the circular pattern imprinted onto my American pancakes and omelette. This didn’t affect the flavour, but may be off putting for some. Read our full Circulon Steel Shield C-Series frying pan review. Sizes available: 22cm, 25cm, 32cm Oven-safe: Up to 260C Materials: Stainless-steel exterior with aluminium core Dishwasher-safe: Yes Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: Limited lifetime Available from: Circulon (£55.99) Latest Deals Our Place Titanium Always Pan Pro Available from Our Place (£170) Best investment frying pan Pros: Effective non-stick Versatile Fully recyclable packaging Dishwasher-safe Metal-utensil-safe Cons: Expensive Tricky to store Pan surface leaves imprint on food Easily marked by fingerprints Star rating: 4/5 If you love the versatility of the original Always Pan, want the durability of a stainless-steel pan, and the ease of cooking on non-stick, this frying pan from Our Place ticks a lot of boxes. It has a tri-ply set-up (stainless steel, aluminium and titanium) that features the brand's NoCo™ Nonstick Technology, which doesn't rely on coating or chemicals. It has a similar design to the brand's other multifunctional pans and comes with a lid and wooden spatula – though, unlike the Always Pan 2.0, no steaming basket is included. At 27cm in diameter, the cooking surface is textured and mesh-like, which browned my American pancakes and omelettes evenly, but left behind an imprint on the pancakes. It's perhaps not as premium-looking as I'd expect for a product at this price. However, it does feel robust, and the fact you can use metal utensils with it and pop it in the dishwasher is a big win for convenience. Sizes available: 27cm Oven-safe: Up to 535C Materials: Stainless steel, aluminium, titanium Dishwasher-safe: Yes Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: Limited lifetime Available from: Our Place (£170) Lakeland Only Pan Available from Lakeland (£59.99) Best value multi-functional pan Pros: Attractive, eye-catching design Multi-functional and versatile Comes with steamer basket and silicone spatula Built-in spatula rest in lid Non-toxic, PFAS-free ceramic coating Good value Cons: Slight sticking after a few uses Oven-safe only up to 150C Plastic packaging used Hand-wash only Star rating: 4/5 Inspired by the cult favourite Our Place Always Pan, Lakeland’s Only Pan promises to be 'the only pan you’ll ever need', and in many ways it delivers. My first impression on unboxing was how stylish it is – the chunky shape and pretty pastel green colour make it so chic you could leave it out on display. I was also impressed by the extras included: a stainless-steel steamer basket, a silicone spatula and a cleverly designed lid with a built-in spatula rest to keep everything tidy while cooking. As for performance, the PFAS-free ceramic coating was initially super slick with pancakes releasing effortlessly. My omelette did stick a little though and after a few uses some foods left brown patches that took extra elbow grease to clean (and with hand-washing advised, this could get a little frustrating). The pan’s generous depth, slightly curved edges and lid make it super versatile for a range of different recipes and cooking methods beyond frying, from sautéing and braising to steaming and even boiling. It is also oven-safe, but only up to 150C, which could restrict some recipes. Overall, for those who love the look and idea of the multi-functional Our Place pan but don’t have the budget for it, the Lakeland Only Pan is a stylish, versatile and good-value alternative. However, its non-stick performance, cleaning ease and packaging don’t quite match up to the Our Place version. Sizes available: 26cm Oven-safe: Up to 150C Materials: Cast aluminium Dishwasher-safe: No, hand-wash only Suitable for induction: Yes Guarantee: 10 years Available from: Lakeland (£59.99) Other non-stick frying pans tried and tested Stellar Rocktanium frying pan review, £25 Good Food in partnership with Tower non-stick frying pan Available from Amazon (£25.99), Tower (£42.99) – save 30% with code GOODFOOD30 Combining a durable stainless steel exterior with a tough non-stick coating, the Good Food 24cm non-stick frying pan can be relied upon to produce crisp, flavoursome results every time – from pan-fried fish to succulent cuts of ribeye steak. Having been Tried, Tested and Trusted by our recipe development team, the pan also features riveted steel handles, allowing for smooth manoeuvrability no matter your skill level. Two larger sizes are available (28cm and 30cm), and the pan is induction-compatible and oven-safe up to 220C, too. Available from: Amazon (£25.99) Tower (£42.99) – save 30% with code GOODFOOD30 Good Food in partnership with Tower TriPly frying pan Available from Amazon (£26.42), Tower (£52.99) – save 30% with code GOODFOOD30 The Good Food Tri-Ply frying pan, in partnership with Tower, is ideal for everyday cooking, from sautéing veggies to frying fish. Made from 2.5mm tri-ply stainless steel with an aluminium core, it ensures even heat distribution and durability. The superior ceramic non-stick coating is 10x stronger than traditional types, allowing for healthier cooking with minimal oil. Oven-safe to 220C and suitable for all hob types, it’s also dishwasher-safe for easy cleaning, with a 25-year guarantee for peace of mind. In addition to the 24cm pan, it’s available in 28cm and 30cm. Available from: Amazon (£26.42) Tower (£52.99) – save 30% with code GOODFOOD30 Good Food in partnership with Tower GF900261 stainless steel frying pan Available from Tower (£22.99), Amazon (£22.99) Enhance your cookware collection with the Good Food 24cm frying pan, created in partnership with Tower. Available in larger sizes (28cm and 30cm), this ultra-durable pan guarantees even and consistent results, with a superior ceramic non-stick coating and riveted steel handle to help you to cook a variety of recipes with ease. Like the rest of the products in this list, it’s also been rigorously tested and earned our Tried, Tested and Trusted stamp of approval. Available from: Tower (£22.99) Amazon (£22.99) How to choose the best non-stick frying pan Whether you’re cooking up an indulgent pan-fried rib eye steak or a showstopping dish, like Barney Desmazery’s pan-fried scallops with parsnip purée & pancetta crumbs, a good frying pan can help you to achieve an intense sear and flavoursome crust. You can also use your frying pan as a mould and serving dish, like Anna Glover did for this frying pan filo tart. A generously sized frying pan is a great way to reheat leftovers quickly. Take any leftover pasta sauce, like our pasta arrabbiata with aubergine, heat it through, then add your pasta, tossing the two together. What’s the best material for a frying pan? All of the frying pans we’ve tested are made from aluminium or stainless steel, so here's a breakdown what you can expect to find with both: Aluminium: Pros: lightweight, budget-friendly, good heat conductivity Cons: can warp, scratches easily, can react to acidic food Stainless steel: Pros: durable, produces weighty pans, does not react to any type of food Cons: some cheap pans can transfer heat poorly and unevenly What to look out for when choosing a non-stick frying pan Suitable for all hobs/your hob Oven-proof to a high temperature Easy to clean or dishwasher-safe Comfortable handle that’s a good length and stays cool How to care for a frying pan If you want to maximise the lifespan of your new frying pan, a little care goes a long way. Here are a few steps to follow to ensure your frying pan stays in top-notch condition: Use the right utensils: If cooking with a non-stick pan, metal utensils with sharp edges can scratch the non-stick coating, so try to use to softer tools, like silicone spatulas or wooden spoons. Most stainless-steel pans, on the other hand, are metal utensil-safe, but it's worth checking the manufacturers' guidelines for specific recommendations. Wash with care: While some non-stick frying pans claim to be dishwasher-safe, most dishwashers use very hot water and powerful detergents that may slowly damage the coating. So, wash by hand if you can. The same goes for stainless-steel pans. Avoid high heat when cooking on non-stick: High temperatures can also impact the effectiveness of a non-stick coating, so stick to low or medium heat levels when cooking with your frying pan. Store non-stick pans carefully: To avoid scratching the non-stick coating, put a protective layer (like a pan protector) between non-stick pans when stacking or nesting them in a cupboard. Read our guide to how to care for non-stick cookware. More pan reviews Best stainless-steel frying pans Best saucepans Best pan sets Best griddle pans Best saute pans Best pancake pans Best cast iron skillets Best casserole dishes Best stainless-steel frying pans Best paella pans How to store pans Is HexClad worth it? How to care for non-stick cookware Non-stick frying pan recipes Frying pan filo tart Pan-fried salmon Pan-fried rib-eye steak Pan-fried sprouts and crunchy chorizo crumbs Pan-fried potato gnocchi Paneer and chickpea fry Pan-fried sea bass with ratatouille and basil One-pan egg and veg brunch More deals Air fryer deals Microwave deals Dishwasher deals Pizza oven deals
Best recipe subscription boxes to try in 2026: Gousto, HelloFresh and more, tried and tested by experts
Thinking of signing up for a recipe box subscription that delivers meal kits direct to your door? We put popular brands to the test to see whether they're a match for traditional home cooking.
Recipe subscription services – the concept of ingredients, individually portioned up for cooking meals at home and delivered straight to your door complete with detailed recipe cards– have boomed in recent years. They are certainly a convenient way to make evening meals without the hassle of planning recipes and visiting the supermarket. It's a step up from ready-meals as the food is prepared by hand, but it cuts out the legwork of cooking from scratch. However, they can be an expensive way to cook, especially if you like to hunt for reduced ingredients or shop at inexpensive local markets, plus there is no shortage of inspiration for easy recipes online if you're stuck in a food rut. There are also environmental pitfalls to using these services – they sometimes come with excessive packaging that can't be recycled. If you're thinking of signing up to a recipe delivery service, bear in mind the value for money, convenience factor and any limitations, especially the terms around cancelling a subscription. It's also worth considering any dietary requirements you have (some recipe boxes are more flexible than others) and how many people you want to serve. For solo cooks, few brands offer recipe boxes for one, but many offer meals for two if you're happy to have leftovers the next day. We tested and scored popular brands to help you make your decision. For more, visit our reviews section and find more than 400 practical buyer's guides offering unbiased advice on what foodie products and services are worth spending money on, including the best meal delivery services for when you don't want to cook at all, the best healthy meal box subscriptions and the best veg boxes to order to your door. We also have thousands of simple recipes for everyday mealtime inspiration. Best recipe boxes at a glance Best overall recipe box: Gousto, from £10.25 for two meals Best recipe box for diverse recipe ranges: HelloFresh, meals from £1.62 per person Best healthy recipe box: Mindful Chef, from £6.79 per portion Best for accessible healthy meals: Green Chef, from £22.50 for 3 meals Best letterbox-friendly recipe box service: SimplyCook, first box is free, just pay £1 postage Best organic recipe box: Riverford, from £7.50 for one meal Best recipe box for adventurous cooks: The Cookaway, from £35 to serve two Best recipe box for pasta: Pasta Evangelists, from £6.50 for one meal Best for indecisive cooks: Nonna Tonda, from £5.83 for one meal Best for video learning: Chefs for Foodies, from £14.95 per box Jump to: The best recipe boxes to order to your door in 2026 Are recipe boxes worth it? What to consider when choosing a recipe subscription box How we tested recipe boxes The best recipe boxes to order to your door in 2026 Gousto recipe box Sign up for the Gousto recipe box here Best overall recipe box Score: 4.5/5 Pros: Wide choice of recipes and dietary options Flexible subscription Option to have recipe boxes for one Cons: Ingredients in the box aren't divided by recipe – can be complicated to work out what you need each day Some unusual ingredient quantities – either extremely generous or quite minimal Gousto is one of the original recipe box providers and its offering is accomplished. There are over 175 recipes on offer at any one time, with the menu rotating each week, including recipes to suit plenty of different dietary requirements. This is the ideal choice for busy professionals who don't have time to shop, and want something quick, easy and tasty. It's also good for people who want to try cooking new dishes and need some inspiration. There are lots of different recipe styles to choose from (such as Double Protein, Quick & Easy, Everyday Favourites or Premium) and you can filter by dietaries too so you can create what suits you, such as vegetarian, dairy-free or gluten-free recipe boxes. When our Gousto box arrived, the ingredients were all intact and felt good quality. Unlike some other recipe boxes, the ingredients inside weren't divided by recipe, meaning it was quite tricky to work out what ingredients were required each day. You need a careful eye to divide it all up, and some plastic packaging was still present on ingredients, such as mini sachets of vinegar. Our recipe box served four people, but you can also get options for one, two, three or five people (with either two, three, four or five recipes per box). The first recipe we tested was Moroccan-style meatballs with bulgur wheat grain bowl, one of Gousto's high-protein recipes. The meatballs were easy to make, with a quick sauce. It's great to get a chance to use a more unusual spice such as baharat without needing to buy a whole jar that you might not use again. There was a huge amount of bulgur wheat for two people compared to the amount of sauce, but it's good to see portion sizes are generous. We also made a roasted red pepper orzo with goat's cheese. This was a quick and easy crowd-pleasing midweek meal that we can see becoming a staple. Again, the ingredient quantities were slightly off – only nine cherry tomatoes between two (we added more), but a very generous whole log of goat's cheese to crumble on top. The variety on offer from Gousto is its biggest appeal. You'll never run out of recipes to try, and it's a great way to try new things. If you're a regular customer, the Gousto app makes ordering and saving your favourite meals easy. The packaging could see some slight improvements, and you may need to be flexible with the quantities to expect. Read about how to sign up for the Gousto recipe box HelloFresh recipe box Sign up for the HelloFresh recipe box here Best recipe box for diverse recipe ranges Score: 4/5 Pros: Different recipe ranges for every need Speedy recipe options from 20 minutes Can deliver when you're out Cons: Some packaging tricky to open Low vegetable levels Optimistic suggested cooking times HelloFresh is another of the leading recipe box brands and remains a strong all-rounder. The dishes on offer are adventurous and bold, drawing on interesting flavour combinations from around the world, with plenty of choice and varied ranges designed for different needs, from family-friendly meals to calorie-smart healthy options. Weekly menus are available up to six weeks in advance. You can choose whether to get from two to five recipes per week, and whether to serve two, three or four people. HelloFresh will take your first selection as your custom plan, but you can change this week to week. Ingredients are, true to the name, fresh and mainly high quality, and ingredients for each different recipe are clearly marked in paper bags. Plastic use is relatively minimal but not completely eliminated, with some elements tricky to open compared to more familiar supermarket packaging. The first recipe I made was a Tuscan-inspired pulled chicken stew, which was straightforward to pull together and worked very well as a one-pot meal with very little washing-up. I'd make this again, even without reordering the box. The method was easy to follow, the kitchen smelled fantastic while it cooked, and the end result was excellent: a creamy, flavourful sauce with crunchy ciabatta for dipping. Although the recipe card suggested a 25–30 minute cook time, this felt slightly optimistic given steps such as frying for eight minutes and baking for 25, plus preparation in between. The portions of vegetables felt a little stingy, with just a few cherry tomatoes and 4og of spinach between two – I’d have happily added more if we’d had them to hand. Serving it with extra broccoli helped boost the veg count. I also made a sausage and roast potato traybake. The sausages were a slight letdown, with a lower meat content (75% pork) and a less premium feel than you might get from some rival recipe boxes. However, HelloFresh does excel at thoughtful finishing touches: generous herbs on the roast potatoes, a honey glaze over the sausages and a punchy harissa mayo all helped elevate the recipe and were easy extra elements I wouldn't have thought to add myself. This felt like exactly what I'd use HelloFresh for: interesting new cooking inspiration and techniques when you're in a rut, clever use of ingredients across different elements of the meal, plus the ability to make varied dishes packed with flavour throughout the week without having to have a fully stocked cupboard – and no waste at the end of the week. Overall, HelloFresh delivers reliable, tasty meals with minimal effort and plenty of flavour, even if ingredient quality and packaging could be improved. Read about how to sign up for the HelloFresh recipe box Mindful Chef recipe box Sign up for the Mindful Chef recipe box from £6.79 per portion Best healthy recipe box Score: 4.5/5 Pros: Inventive recipes with no refined carbs or sugars Ethically sourced protein Range of serving sizes available Wide recipe choice Cons: Some plastic packaging Mindful Chef is a health-focused B-corp certified food box delivery service, first launched in 2015. Each of the recipes are designed to be nutritious, gluten-free and low-carb, and all use ethically sourced ingredients from small UK farms and producers. Each week, there’s a rotating menu of 28 recipes to choose from, with lots of vegan and vegetarian options, and menus showing up to a month ahead. You can choose 2-5 recipes per box, and choose a box for one, two or four people. Recipes are helpfully labelled with different health perks, such as being high in protein, low in saturated fat or containing lots of plant foods. We tested Mindful Chef over a week. The delivery mentioned that 85% of packaging is recyclable from home or the supermarket; there is still some plastic packaging throughout, such as for mini pots of oil or wrapping meat. In the main box, ingredients for each recipe came in a clearly labelled brown paper bag (with meat and fish in a separate chilled compartment) – you could pop each bag in the fridge and just take out the right recipe each night. Interestingly, instead of the familiar recipe cards that often come with these boxes, Mindful Chef include a book of all the recipes currently on rotation. We were very impressed with the quality of the produce – fresh herbs, giant, glossy red peppers. The dishes are innovative and use different flavour pairings, so it's good for people who want some inspiration in discovering new dishes that are still healthy. The recipes we tried were delicious and well portioned. A Thai-style basa with coconut rice and stir-fried veg was a highlight, combining three different flavour-packed elements in ways we wouldn’t have thought to do at home. A warming Mexican-style beef shakshuka was given a fresh lift with a coriander and avocado salsa. Testing the box in winter, it was great to discover hearty, filling meals that didn’t rely on big portions of carbs and were still healthy. Read about how to sign up for the Mindful Chef recipe box Green Chef Sign up for the Green Chef recipe box here Best for accessible healthy meals Score: 4.5/5 Pros: A variety of dietary options covered Makes healthy eating easy and accessible Wide recipe choice Add-ons available, eg tofu, vegan burgers Fully recyclable packaging Cons: Lots of washing-up midweek from some recipes If you want to incorporate healthier meals into your routine but you're unsure where to start, Green Chef is a great option. There are eight ranges to explore – vegetarian, vegan, keto, high protein, calorie conscious, lower carb, pescatarian and flexitarian – all of which have been vetted by a qualified nutritionist. Even though the meals are categorises as 'healthy', you never get the impression you're missing out or eating 'diet food'; recipes still feel indulgent and easily accessible. Menus are updated weekly and you can view all the recipes up to three weeks ahead, with boxes available for two or four people and a maximum of five recipes per box. We tried a selection of veggie dishes, including colourful vegetable gyoza peanut noodles, topped with mushrooms and pea pods, and gochujang-glazed paneer with zesty rice, peas and peanuts. We also enjoyed the mozzarella-topped pesto gnocchi with plum tomatoes and rocket, which felt like comfort food without being too heavy. The recipes we sampled involved a bit of prep, but nothing too complicated, and we appreciated the level of detail on the recipe cards. The packaging, which was made up from a fully recyclable cardboard cool box, also impressed us and was easy to dispose of. Read about how to sign up for the Green Chef recipe box Riverford recipe box Sign up for the Riverford recipe box here Best organic recipe box Score: 3.75/5 Pros: Good quality organic ingredients Easy recipes to follow Generous portions Creative recipes Guest chefs Cons: Small recipe selection Often had leftover ingredients Expensive Riverford Organic’s recipe box puts seasonal produce at the heart of its colourful menu, with 13 recipes available each week across plant-based, vegetarian and meat categories. You can order as many as you like, with each recipe serving two or four people and prices starting from £7.50 per person. We tried one recipe from each category. For the meat option, we cooked a Mexican chicken, corn and tomatillo salad. We were excited to try tomatillos, a tricky ingredient to find in the UK, and the salad was full of flavour. It was the favourite of the three, though we felt it could have been taken further. The recipe suggested serving the corn raw or blanching it, but charring would have added more depth. We were also left with part-used ingredients, like half a courgette, one tomatillo and some chipotle paste. The vegetarian option was a courgette and spinach gnocchi carbonara. It was hearty and veg-packed, though not particularly memorable. Again, we ended up with leftovers including lemon, half a pot of cream and an egg white. The vegan choice, a Sri Lankan-style French bean curry, was vibrant and full of spice, but left us with three-quarters of a tin of coconut milk unused. The quality of the organic produce is undeniable and the recipes are straightforward to follow. Each dish felt nourishing and satisfying thanks to the abundance of fresh vegetables. The main drawback is waste: leftover ingredients cropped up in several recipes. There’s also less choice compared with some competitors, and Riverford’s once-a-week delivery policy may not suit those who need more flexibility. That said, the policy reflects the company’s commitment to reducing food miles. Riverford stands out for its ethics and quality, but the higher price and occasional inconvenience may not work for everyone. If you value organic ingredients and enjoy cooking with seasonal veg, it’s a strong option. Read about how to sign up for the Riverford recipe box SimplyCook recipe box Sign up to the SimplyCook recipe subscription box here Best letterbox-friendly recipe box service Score: 4/5 Pros: Fits through letterbox Long shelf life Covers wide range of cuisines Cons: Majority of ingredients must be purchased separately Read our full SimplyCook review SimplyCook is a unique service in that, unlike other recipe boxes, it's letterbox-sized. Each delivery contains four 'recipe kits' – dry ingredients in pots, to which you add your own fresh ingredients. The recipe list features a good mixture of cuisines, satisfying hot meals such as stews, curries and bowl food. It's a great option if there are cuisines you've not cooked before and are keen to try out before you commit to filling your storecupboard with new ingredients. The recipes are customisable, because the box is just recipe cards, pastes and seasonings. All of the other ingredients you buy yourself from the shops and suppliers you like/have access to. There are optional garnishes and additional serving suggestions too, should you want to customise further. You can filter by dietary requirements of vegan or vegetarian, but not gluten-free or dairy free. The portions are generous (kits serve 2-4 people) and the finished dishes very flavoursome. We also noted that it feels like a lot of thought has gone into using as little packaging as possible, with minimal excess. We liked that you’re not tied to it if your plans change. The sachets have a long shelf-life, so there's no pressure to cook the recipes within a limited time frame. Read about how to sign up to the SimplyCook recipe subscription box The Cookaway Order a The Cookaway box here Best for adventurous cooks Score: 4/5 Pros: Interesting recipes to choose from 95% of packaging is recyclable Good quality ingredients Can choose halal meat Cons: Expensive Read our full The Cookaway review. The Cookaway is the recipe box to choose when you're getting bored of your own cooking repertoire and want to try something new. Based around menus from eight different cuisines, there are over 55 menus to choose from, designed by expert chefs that specialise in Malaysian, Pakistani, Spanish, Indian and more cuisines. There is no subscription method here, you simply choose a recipe you want to cook – most come as a main and accompaniment in one box, and others may even have more dishes if you're choosing a meze or tapas-style feast. You can choose to serve 2 or 4 people. Our delivery was in a compact cardboard box and packaging didn't feel excessive. Recipes will introduce you to new ingredients and learn more about different global cuisines than the cliche dishes we may know. They also host free cook-alongs to join as you make your dish. It is expensive, so works best as a one-off treat or cooking experience to do as a couple and enjoy, rather than a shortcut for midweek cooking. Read more about how to order The Cookaway box. Pasta Evangelists Sign up to Pasta Evangelists here Best recipe box for pasta Score: 4/5 Pros: Quick and easy to prepare Generous portions Good for cooking for one Cons: Dishes don't rotate very regularly Smaller range of dishes than other recipe subscriptions Can get expensive if ordered often Billing itself as the first fresh pasta recipe box, Pasta Evangelists deliver fresh pasta to your door, complete with quality sauces and garnishes. There are 10 pasta recipes to choose from each week, plus sauces, a couple of side dishes and dessert options. You can can view the choices up to two weeks in advance if you’re planning ahead, although choices don’t change much. You can add as many recipes as you'd like to your basket – handy for filling up the freezer. Recipes serve one or two, but you could add extra portions if you'd like to serve more people. Dishes are priced individually, at around £7-10 per single portion, with slight savings if you order a double portion to serve two. The standard portion is for one, which is great if you're only cooking for yourself. We tested three recipes from Pasta Evangelists. Our delivery was left on the front step as we weren’t in, which was easy. One of our pet peeves with recipe subscription boxes is the amount of packaging, but this came in a compact box with gel packs to keep ingredients cool. Each order comes in its own paper bag, with instructions on the outside, and pasta, sauce and any toppings or additional ingredients in pouches inside. There is some plastic packaging at this stage and there aren’t instructions on whether it can be recycled. We were pleased to note that our three pastas could be kept in the fridge for 3-8 days, so you’ve got time to spread them over the week. Instructions on the bag also accommodate cooking from frozen. Unlike some other recipe boxes, there is minimal cooking involved here as a lot is done for you. Meals are ready in minutes – simply cooking the pasta and reheating or melting sauces. We were eating carbonara less than 5 minutes after opening the fridge. It was super-rich and a very generous portion. We were impressed by the quality of the finished recipes; they live up to the ‘restaurant-quality’ claim. Pasta Evangelists would be good for a hearty work-from-home lunch where you can have a hot meal with minimal thought, or for storing in the freezer for easy midweek shortcuts. Read about how to sign up to Pasta Evangelists Nonna Tonda Sign up to a Nonna Tonda pasta subscription here Best for indecisive cooks Score: 4.5/5 Pros: Quick and easy to prepare, no cooking skills required Fresh and high-quality ingredients Great results Cons: Gets expensive if ordered often Limited dietary filters No recipe choice Read our full review of Nonna Tonda If you get overwhelmed by choice, Nonna Tonda is the pasta delivery service for you. A hybrid of a meal delivery service and a recipe subscription box, Nonna Tonda delivers two pasta dishes a week. The choice is whether to go meat or vegetarian or a combo – there’s only two of each on the menu. Just boil the pasta, reheat the sauce, and dinner is served. You can also add an antipasti selection to your order, which changes weekly. Portions serve two, four or six – you could have leftovers the next day if you're cooking for one. We were impressed by how compact our delivery was, deceptively containing two pastas to serve two, and two antipasti selections in a cardboard box. Each pasta, cheese and sauce comes in a sleek cardboard box, so it's clear which elements go together. A lot of the packaging is recyclable and reusable – we kept the resealable bags that our ciabatta and pasta came in to use again. Finished recipes were impressive, and we'd definitely be tempted to order more as a treat for busy weeks. Sign up to a Nonna Tonda pasta subscription Chefs For Foodies Try out a Chefs for Foodies recipe box here Best for video learning Score: 4/5 Pros: Chef-led video to watch Complex recipes made simple Learn a new skill Cons: Lots of plastic packaging No physical recipe card Read our full Chefs for Foodies review Chefs for Foodies describes itself as 'recipe kits by award-winning chefs'. It's not a recipe subscription box – it's more like a restaurant meal kit, so you just pick one recipe you want to try at a time. Chefs and restaurateurs share their skills and expertise in signature recipes, whether that's a chicken tikka masala from the head chef of an Indian restaurant, pizza kits from Italian masters of pizza dough, or classic recipes such as beef wellington from MasterChef winners. There was more range when we tested the kit, but currently on offer are pizza, pasta or dessert recipes. We tested the chicken tikka masala, and appreciated the breakdown of step-by-step results and delivery of complex spices that would be tricky to source on our own. The amount of plastic packaging was disappointing, but Chefs for Foodies has told us that they're working on it. Try out a Chefs for Foodies recipe box Are recipe boxes worth it? The decision over whether a recipe subscription box suits you will depend on your lifestyle and what you’re hoping to get out of them. For busy weekdays or when you’re trying to reset your routine (recipe boxes often see a spike in demand after Christmas), recipe subscription boxes can take the stress out of meal planning and grocery shopping. You don't need to find time to go food shopping as everything arrives measured and ready to go, which saves time and reduces waste. On the plus side, they introduce variety and can help you learn new cooking skills, with clear recipes and fresh ingredients delivered to your door. Some services such as Gousto or HelloFresh offer hundreds of recipes a week to choose from, so you can break out of your traditional recipe rotation. Others, such as Pasta Evangelists and Nonna Tonda, are essentially delivering fully cooked meals with minimal cooking at all – good for busy weeks when you'll be home late. But they’re not perfect for everyone: the cost per meal is usually higher than shopping yourself, and the packaging can feel excessive. If you love choosing your own ingredients or eat very specific diets, the pre-selected meals might feel restrictive. Ultimately, they’re worth it for some, especially when life gets hectic, but less so if cost and control are your top priorities. What to consider when choosing a recipe box There are lots of recipe subscriptions to choose from, and finding the right one for you means thinking about a few things: How much cooking do you want to do? Some boxes will deliver elaborate recipes that can be great weekend projects or ideal for keen cooks, whereas others deliver you fully prepared meals that you essentially just reheat. Do you have specific dietary restrictions? Not all subscriptions can cater to all requirements, so check that there are enough dishes on offer that you want to eat. How many people are you cooking for? Not all boxes offer deliveries for one (Gousto and Pasta Evangelists do), and most only go up to servings for four people. Consider ingredients – for example, Riverford could be a suitable choice if eating organically is important to you. Flexibility – if your schedule is regularly changing, make sure you check that the recipe box you sign up to is equally flexible. Lots of schemes let you opt in and out for different days and cancel when you need, whereas others have strict delivery days you have to adhere to. How we tested recipe box subscriptions Members of the Good Food digital and cookery teams each tested a week of each recipe box subscription. There were several key criteria that teams based their verdict on: Range of recipes: was there plenty to choose from, and did recipes rotate regularly if you were going to repeatedly buy? Were all dietary options covered? Was it possible to scale recipes up or down to serve different family sizes? Ease of cooking: we looked for clear instructions (photos and obvious step-by-step methods were a bonus), accurate suggested cooking times and clear ways to distribute ingredients between elements and steps. Quality of the ingredients: some of the recipe boxes provided organic ingredients, but regardless we were looking for ethically sourced, fresh, high-quality ingredients. Packaging: with small quantities of ingredients individually sent, packaging can quickly add up. We looked for packaging to be sustainable, with minimal plastic where possible. Quality of the finished recipes: the all-important cooking results! After accurately following the recipes, we wanted delicious meals that we would want to cook again. Portion size and whether the meals were balanced were other consider. Value for money: how does the subscription compare to cooking from scratch? Would it be practical to regularly get a recipe delivery, or would it be more of a one-off purchase? Related reviews Best meal delivery services Best healthy recipe boxes tried and tested Best meat delivery boxes tried and tested Best veg boxes Best chocolate subscriptions Best baking subscriptions Are you signed up to a recipe delivery service? We'd love to hear about your experiences. Leave a comment below... This review was last updated in January 2026. If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews, or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk.
The best woks for making stir-fried food
A good wok is a versatile piece of kit that every home cook should own. From non-stick to traditional carbon steel, discover the best woks for every budget and cooking style.
The wok is a kitchen powerhouse. Its deep, bowl-shaped design heats quickly and evenly, with enough surface area to toss ingredients confidently, which is why it’s perfect for stir-fries. But I use mine for far more than that. A good wok can handle sautéing, braising, boiling, deep-frying and, if it comes with a lid, steaming too. Traditional carbon steel woks with rounded bottoms are brilliant for achieving that smoky 'wok hei' flavour, but they do need seasoning and a bit more care. Modern versions with flat bases and non-stick coatings are often better suited to home hobs. I’ve tested a wide range to find the best woks for 2026, whatever your cooking style or budget. Discover more top-rated cookware in our guides to the best pan sets, best frying pans and best knife sets. View Affiliate Playlist on the source website Best woks at a glance Best mid-range all-rounder wok: Kuhn Rikon Allround Wok Non-Stick, from £82.95 Best hybrid wok: HexClad 30cm Hybrid wok, £139 Best non-stick wok: Le Creuset toughened non-stick wok, from £199 Best lightweight cast-iron wok: Netherton Foundry 33cm iron wok, £159.10 Best cast-iron wok: Tramontina Trento 32cm cast-iron wok, £99.99 Best premium wok: Samuel Groves classic non-stick stainless steel tri-ply wok, £210 Best wok for induction hob: Kuhn Rikon easy induction wok, £74.95 Best budget wok: School of Wok Wok & Roll 33cm round bottom wok, £27.58 Best wok for families: Circulon Ultimum high-density forged 36cm wok, £165 Jump to: Best woks to buy in 2026 What types of woks are there? How we tested woks How to clean a wok Best woks to buy in 2026 Kuhn Rikon all-round wok Available from Kuhn Rikon (from £82.95) Best mid-range all-rounder Pros: Very impressive non-stick Lightweight enough for easy handling and tossing Dishwasher safe Suitable for all hob types Lifetime guarantee Cons: Not scratch-proof Small flat-bottomed surface area may limit portion size Star rating: 4.5/5 On first unboxing, the appearance of Kuhn Rikon’s all-round wok didn’t particularly stand out, but once we started cooking, its performance spoke volumes. The non-stick surface seriously impressed — our pad Thai slid effortlessly across the surface, with almost no sticking at all, even when dealing with sticky noodles, sauces and egg. We also appreciated the lightweight design which made it easy to handle and perfect for tossing ingredients mid-stir-fry. Not only does the handle stay cool while cooking, it’s also short enough that this wok could easily fit inside a drawer, although it does also have an integrated loop for those who prefer to hang their pans — both great options for anyone lacking kitchen space. The only minor downside is the size. The diameter at the top is 28cm, while the flat cooking surface is just 13cm across the bottom, meaning you’ll need to stir frequently to ensure even cooking and making it less suitable for large, family-size portions. While this wok handles temperature changes well and works with all hob types, it’s worth noting that it isn’t completely scratch-proof, so you’ll want to avoid using metal utensils — stick to wood or silicone as the brand suggests. For those looking for an affordable, versatile wok for everyday use, the Kuhn Rikon Allround Wok is a great option, particularly for anyone cooking for small numbers and seeking a wok that’s easy to store and clean. undefined HexClad 30cm Hybrid wok Available from Hexclad (£139) Best hybrid wok Pros: All recyclable packaging Sturdy Two handles Good shape for tossing Lifetime warranty Cons: Heavy Some sticking Can't cook at high temperatures Star rating: 4.5/5 We’ve tested the HexClad frying pan and we’re thoroughly impressed. But we had one major question before testing the HexClad wok: wok cooking is all about cooking quickly and at very high temperatures, so how would the HexClad wok perform considering the brand advises cooking on a medium heat? To put this to the test, we made a pad Thai. Despite seasoning the wok beforehand, we noticed some sticking around the edges when scrambling egg. Other than this slight sticking, everything else cooked well, though we’d be hard pushed to call what we did wok-cooking. With each ingredient added there was a notable absence of wok-sizzle. Although HexClad claims that cooking at a medium temperature in their cookware is equivalent to cooking at medium-high with other cookware, we disagree. What we ended up doing was sautéing. As a result our pad Thai took around 10 minutes to cook - considerably longer than expected. On the plus side, the finished dish was delicious, and many of the construction elements of this wok scored full marks. We loved the size: it’s 30cm, so great if you’ve got lots of mouths to feed, it is a lovely shape to toss food in, and the handles are not only comfortable but remained cool too. If you’re slightly intimidated by the ferocious temperatures required for wok cooking, this HexClad wok is a great introductory model. But if you’re well-versed, carbon steel is a better choice. Find out more about HexClad in our guide: Is HexClad worth it? Available from: Hexclad (£139) Le Creuset toughened non-stick wok Available from Amazon (£172), Nordic Nest UK (£201.40), John Lewis & Partners (£205) Best non-stick wok Absolute quality is achieved by Le Creuset, who use a toughened non-stick coating on this forged aluminium wok. The two riveted handles are unlikely to come loose or wobble, even after years of use. This wok reaches a searing heat without a problem, retaining the temperature as ingredients cook and even after the dish is finished and taken to the table for guests to help themselves. The pan isn’t too heavy at all, although obviously in a good grade of metal. A useful pan we’ll use for so much more than stir-fries. Latest Deals Netherton Foundry 33cm iron wok Available from Amazon (£159.10) Best lightweight cast-iron wok Netherton Foundry is a popular choice with serious cooks because it combines everything you’d want in a pan, but make it light, easy to use and lovely to look at. We love the branded oak overlaid handle on this wok, which, like other varieties in the range, is constructed from spun iron. Not only does it have superior heat-conducting qualities, there’s none of the extreme heft of some of the big cast iron models in the test, making it easier to use. Although you can use this wok straight from the box, it’s best to give it a seasoning first. It’ll be the start of a long cooking adventure – this one is made to last. Available from: Amazon (£159.10) Tramontina Trento 32cm cast iron wok Available from Robert Dyas (£46.99), Amazon (£59.09), Wilko (£60), Harts Of Stur (£81.95) Best cast-iron wok This is an absolute whopper of a enamelled cast iron wok from this Brazilian brand. Don’t limit it to frying – there’s a lot more it can handle. For starters, it’s far and away the heaviest model on test, so you’ll need muscles to move it around. Because of its sturdiness, this is a great choice for those times when stability is key – for tempura frying in hot oil, for example. It’s also going to keep heat in your dish with its stainless-steel handled lid, and looks great as a rustic table centrepiece. A no-frills classic, this is a pan that will only get better over time, adding flavour to dishes if you allow it to build up a patina and keep it oiled every month or so. undefined Samuel Groves classic non-stick stainless steel tri-ply wok Available from Fortnum and Mason (£210) Best premium wok This top-quality British-made wok comes in a hessian presentation bag. When cooking, the riveted long handle and grab bar opposite feel great and secure. Because these are also in tri-ply steel, this wok can be placed in the oven and under grills, too. Admittedly, this doesn’t crop up in Chinese, east, south or southeast Asian cooking very often, but it adds to the versatility of such a quality pan, which is a bonus considering the higher cost. You can also brown steak mince in this for ragu, which adds a nice char and colour to the meat. Samuel Groves pans are always a delight to use and this wok was no exception. Available from: Fortnum and Mason (£210) Kuhn Rikon easy induction wok Available from Harts Of Stur (£46.95), Debenhams (£74.95), Kuhn Rikon (£74.95) Best wok for induction hob This non-stick wok is specially designed to be used on induction hobs and has a smooth, polished base that's easy to clean and stays in great shape even after enthusiastic stir-frying. The pan has an anti-scratch coating and three-layer titanium coating for extra durability. We like the feel of this pan, which has a smoother inner than most – ingredients slide effortlessly around over the surface, making it easy to cook everything evenly with a bare minimum of oil. undefined School of Wok Wok & Roll 33cm round bottom wok Available from Amazon (£29.95), Harts Of Stur (£31.50) Best budget wok From the School of Wok cookery school in London’s Covent Garden, this was the best traditional-style wok we tested. Round bottomed and made of carbon steel, this wok requires a gas hob and does need a bit of prep before use. First, the protective layer of lacquer (that stops the wok rusting in the shop) needs to be scoured off and then the metal needs to be seasoned with two ‘burns’ over a hot hob or with a blow torch. Seasoning keeps the metal in good condition and prevents sticking. There are helpful instructions on how to do this and online videos if you get stuck. Though a little time consuming, the prep is worth it for the searing and flavour produced by a traditional carbonised wok. Reasonably priced, this wok has a comfortable bamboo handle, heats fast, is light and well-balanced. Latest Deals Circulon Ultimum high-density forged 36cm wok Available from Circulon (£165), Amazon (£165) Best wok for families This large capacity wok is ideal for feeding large families or a crowd of friends. Its large flat base keeps good contact with an induction hob and works equally well on gas and electric. It does require some storage space but thankfully has two cast stainless steel handles rather than a long stick. The handles do get hot so keep your oven gloves close to hand. The wok heats evenly and fast. Circulon’s signature ridged surface together with a hard-wearing non-stick coating means stir-fry glides around the pan. Impressively, the non-stick is proof to 260C and it comes with a large domed lid making it a versatile pan for steaming and poaching. A solid, durable wok that’s easy to clean, too. Available from: Circulon (£165) Amazon (£165) What types of woks are there? Round or flat If your hob is gas, a traditional round-bottomed wok is a great option, but bear in mind you will need a wok ring to keep it steady. For electric, flat is best as round woks can reflect heat back on the element, damaging it. Similarly, for induction hobs you'll need a broad, flat base for decent contact between hob and wok. Material Traditional carbon steel woks are durable, lightweight and inexpensive. They provide rapid heat conduction to quickly sear food, which is essential for stir-frying. However, they do require more maintenance, as without regular seasoning (coating with oil) they will rust. Similar to carbon steel, cast iron needs to be seasoned. It takes longer to reach a high heat, but will maintain temperature well. Cast iron is very heavy, so not the best option if you like to toss your stir-fries. Non-stick coatings have developed over the years to withstand the higher temperatures needed for stir-frying. They still don’t sear the food in quite the same way as carbon steel, but they do a good job and are certainly easier to clean and maintain. How we tested woks When our team tested woks, we concentrated on stir-frying. We tossed, stirred, tilted and shimmied to see how much food might escape from the pan. A variety of utensils were used to test convenience of shape and durability of surface. What we looked for in a wok Balance and weight: We looked for wok’s that could be lifted easily by the handle without drastic tilting. Some long-handled woks have a small second handle to help with balance. Handles: We looked for handles that were comfortable and safe to hold. Long-stick handles are better suited to tossing stir-fries and keeping your hand away from the heat. Short handles either side of the wok are more convenient for storage and can also be used for tossing – just remember to use your oven gloves. Shape: Woks with deep curved sides that kept food in the pan were preferred. Temperature: We considered how fast and evenly the wok heated and how well the food seared. We rejected those that stewed rather than browned the veg, and those with uneven hotspots that resulted in burnt food. Sticking: Whether seasoned carbon steel or non-stick coated, we looked for ease of movement in the wok. Woks are subject to vigorous activity so non-stick coatings need to be hard wearing and scratch-resistant. Sustainability: Woks that come with plastic packaging and short warranties score poorly. We want to see sustainably sourced materials both for the wok itself and it's packaging. How to clean a wok Give woks a coating of oil with kitchen paper to keep them in top condition and never use harsh or abrasive cleaners on them. Always try to use wooden chopsticks or spatulas rather than metal implements, to protect the surface from scores. Plunging your pan in the washing up bowl from the hob is another no-no, as you don’t want it to warp or crack. Leave it to cool fully before cleaning and for maximum care, hand-wash rather than put in the dishwasher to protect the coating. More pan reviews Best non-stick frying pans Best saucepans Best pan sets Best griddle pans Best saute pans Best pancake pans Best cast-iron skillets Best casserole dishes Best paella pans How to store pans How to care for non-stick cookware Best stainless steel frying pans Wok recipes Our top stir-fry recipes Chicken stir-fry recipes Vegetarian stir-fries If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. Are you a fan of wok cooking? We'd love to hear your product suggestions...
Best vitamin D supplements 2026, tried and tested
In the UK we’re advised to take vitamin D during the winter months, as we mainly source it from sunlight. Read our review to discover the different types of supplements you can take, and the best brands to choose
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in keeping us healthy. It is well known for its part in maintaining strong bones and teeth by helping our bodies absorb calcium, but its benefits go much further. Vitamin D also contributes to a well-functioning immune system and supports mental wellbeing. In the UK, our main source of vitamin D comes from sunlight, as our skin produces it when exposed to UV rays. However, with our often overcast weather and shorter days during the autumn and winter months, it can be difficult for many people to get enough vitamin D from sunlight alone. While certain foods, such as oily fish, egg yolks and some fortified products, do provide small amounts of this important vitamin, it is widely recognised that supplementation is often necessary to maintain healthy levels throughout the year. Sponsored by Natures Zest Shine a light on your health with Natures Zest Vitamin D Known as the sunshine vitamin, vitamin D is essential for bone strength, immunity and muscle function, yet many of us don't get enough. At Natures Zest, its premium formulas are designed for maximum effectiveness and are all backed by rigorous third-party testing for quality you can trust. <a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=102967&awinaffid=489797&campaign=VITAMIN+D+BBC&clickref=NaturesZestXGFVitD010226&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.natureszestnutrition.com%2Fproducts%2Fnatures-zest-vitamin-d3-4000-iu-high-strength-d3-vitamin-for-calcium-absorption-immune-support-strengthen-bones-teeth-muscles-vegetarian-easy-to-swallow-150-gummies" target="blank" rel="sponsored noopener noreferrer">Vitamin D3 4000IU Gummies: tasty vegetarian gummies that deliver high-strength vitamin D3 to support bones, teeth and immunity from 21p per day. <a href="https://www.awin1.com/cread.php?awinmid=102967&awinaffid=489797&campaign=VITAMIN+D+BBC&clickref=NaturesZestXGFVitD010226&ued=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.natureszestnutrition.com%2Fproducts%2Fnatures-zest-vitamin-d3-4000-iu-100%25C2%25B5g-high-strength-d3-vitamin-for-calcium-absorption-immune-support-strengthen-bones-teeth-muscles-vegetarian-easy-to-swallow-365-tabs-1-year-supply" target="blank" rel="sponsored noopener noreferrer">Vitamin D3 4000IU Tablets: convenient one-a-day tablets providing a year's supply of high-strength vitamin D3, supporting bone density, muscle health and immunity from just 4p per day. NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine): a powerful antioxidant supplement that works alongside vitamin D to help protect cells, support respiratory health and promote overall wellbeing from 24p per day. Take the step toward stronger bones and immune resilience with Natures Zest. To help you choose the most suitable option, we’ve reviewed a wide range of vitamin D supplements currently available in the UK. Our assessment includes various formats such as capsules, tablets, sprays, and liquids, making sure that there are options to suit different preferences and lifestyles. We’ve taken into account supplements suitable for vegetarians and vegans, alongside products that offer added convenience or strong value for money. Each product has been assessed based on its nutritional content, ease of consumption and compatibility with specific dietary requirements, helping you make a confident, informed choice. Our selection highlights high-quality, effective vitamin D supplements designed to support healthy vitamin D levels and maximise the benefits of this essential nutrient. Plus, find out everything you need to know about how much vitamin D to take, which form of vitamin D is best and what to look for in a vitamin D supplement below. Best vitamin D supplements at a glance JUMP TO REVIEWS Best vitamin D capsules and tablets: Dr Vegan Vitamin D3, £8.99 ZipVit Vitamin D3 4000iu, £8.49 Natures Zest Vitamin D3 4000 IU, £15.99 Prowise Vitamin D3 4000IU and K2, £11.49 Vitabright Vitamin D3, £19.99 JS Health Vegan Vitamin D, £19.99 Zooki Vitamin D3+K2, £18.49 Vitl Vitamin D3, £5.95 VitamoreD D3, £12.99 Performance Lab D3+K2, £19 Best liquid vitamin D: Zooki Vitamin D, £49.99 Best spray vitamin D: BetterYou D3000+K2, £4.99 Jump to section: Best vitamin D supplements to buy in 2026 How much vitamin D should I take? How should I take a vitamin D supplement? What form of vitamin D is best? How we tested vitamin D supplements All vitamin D supplements were tested within the same review period, so results could be compared fairly. Each product was tried and assessed against our set criteria, with detailed notes recorded during the process. We included a broad mix of brands and formats, from tablets and capsules to gummies, sprays and liquids, at a range of price points to reflect different budgets. We focused on the following areas: Taste and flavour: for products that were flavoured or chewable (such as gummies, liquids or sprays), we noted whether they were enjoyable to take daily, or if they left an aftertaste. Nutrient profile: each supplement was checked for the amount of vitamin D provided per daily dose, and compared against the Nutrient Reference Value (NRV). We also considered whether the dosage suited different needs, from everyday maintenance to higher support levels. Additives: we reviewed ingredient lists to see if supplements contained extras such as preservatives, artificial sweeteners or colourings, highlighting products with a simpler, cleaner formulation. Dietary requirements: suitability for different diets was factored in, including whether products were vegetarian, vegan or free from common allergens. Value for money: we compared the cost per day against quality, formulation and ease of use, weighing up whether a supplement offered good value compared with similar products on the market. Why you can trust Good Food reviews When reviewing vitamin D supplements, we combined editorial independence with expert guidance. Our health editor led the review process, working alongside a freelance nutritionist to make sure every product was judged against both practical and scientific standards. Expert insight: our nutritionist advised on dosage, formulations and safety, helping us identify which products met evidence-based recommendations. Real-life focus: our health editor considered how easy each supplement was to take, whether in tablet, capsule, spray or gummy form and whether the cost felt justified. Independence: as always, findings were not shared with manufacturers or retailers before publication, and we don’t accept payment for coverage. This guide blends expert nutritional advice with everyday usability, so you can choose vitamin D supplements with confidence. Best vitamin D supplements to buy in 2026 Best vitamin D capsules and tablets Dr Vegan Vitamin D3 Available from Dr Vegan (£8.99) Star rating: 5/5 Each tasteless capsule provides 63 micrograms (2,500 IU) of vegan vitamin D3 – a high-strength but safe daily dose. They’re easy to take with food and come in plastic-free, compostable packaging. The additive- and allergen-free formula is certified by respected industry bodies and completely plant-based. For anyone wanting a clean, reliable vitamin D3 supplement, this is a straightforward and sustainable option. Available from: Dr Vegan (£8.99) ZipVit Vitamin D3 4000iu Available from ZipVit (£8.49), Amazon (£7.21) Star rating: 5/5 This super-strength formula provides a potent dose of 100mcg vitamin D3. This amounts to 2000 per cent of your recommended daily dose, all in a one-a-day tablet and for a reasonable price. This almost-year-long supply (360 tablets) contains tablets that are suitable for vegetarians. Our testers found these small tablets easy to take, plus they have no taste or smell. Available from: ZipVit (£8.49) Amazon (£7.22) Prowise Vitamin D3 4000IU and K2 Available from Prowise (£11.49) This high-strength combo from Prowise pairs vitamin D3 (4000 IU) with vitamin K2 (MK-7), a form shown to support better calcium utilisation in the body. This can helping nutrients deposit in bones rather than soft tissues. Vitamin D3 promotes immune function, strong bones, teeth and muscle health, while K2 helps direct calcium where it’s needed most, enhancing overall effectiveness. The tablets are vegetarian, easy to swallow, offering excellent value with a six-month supply for everyday use. Available from: Prowise (£11.49) Natures Zest Vitamin D3 4000 IU Available from Natures Zest(£15.99) <img src="https://images.immediate.co.uk/production/volatile/sites/30/2026/01/Natures-Zest-Vitamin-D3-4000-IU-for-Bones-Muscles-Immune-Support-deaead3.png" width="1920" height="1080" alt="Natures Zest Vitamin D3 4000 IU for Bones, Muscles & Immune Support supplements on a white background with a gold, circular-shaped Good Food rating badge" title="Natures Zest Vitamin D3 4000 IU for Bones, Muscles & Immune Support" /> Star rating: 4.5/5 This high-strength formula from Natures Zest provides a potent dose of 100 µg (4000 IU) vitamin D3 per tablet, designed to support immune function, calcium absorption, strong bones, healthy teeth and muscle function. These easy-to-swallow vegetarian tablets are enough for a full year’s daily intake. The tablets are made in the UK under strict GMP quality standards and contain no artificial colours or preservatives, making them suitable for vegetarians. We found Natures Zest's tablets easy to take with no taste or smell. Available from: Natures Zest (£15.99) Vitabright Vitamin D3 Available from Amazon (£16.99), Vitabright (£19.99) Star rating: 4.5/5 At the a maximum dose of 100mcg (2000% NRV) vitamin D3, it’s combined with sunflower oil for better absorption, but not vitamin K. The capsule shell contains gelatin so these aren’t vegetarian, although they are gluten- and lactose-free. The huge pack of 425 one-a-day softgels offers excellent value. This product is best suited to those who have had their vitamin D levels checked and as a result have been advised to supplement at a higher dose. Available from: Amazon (£16.99) Vitabright (£19.99) JS Health Vegan Vitamin D Available from Amazon (£19.99), JS Health (£19.99) Star rating: 4/5 Small and smooth, these capsules still contain the recommended daily dose of 25mcg (500% NRV) of vitamin D3. Combined with bran oil to help your body absorb the vitamin, these are suitable for vegans. Available from: Amazon (£17.99) JS Health (£19.99) Zooki vitamin D3+K2 Available from Zooki(£24.99), Healf (£18.49) Star rating: 4/5 The manufacturer claims that ‘liposomal technology’ increases absorption, although you might still want to take it with a high-fat food to ensure maximum absorption. These contain a generous 75mcg (1500% NRV) of vitamin D3 along with vitamin K (avoid if you’re on blood thinners). Suitable for vegans and those on a gluten-free diet. Available from: Zooki (24.99) Healf (£18.49) Vitl Vitamin D3 Available from Vitl (£5.95) Star rating: 4/5 An optimum serving of vitamin D. Supplying 25mcg (500% NRV) of vitamin D3, these vegan softgels contain sunflower oil to help you absorb more vitamin D. They’re also available in a nifty, portable little tin and are excellent value. Available from: Vitl (£5.95) VitamoreD D3 Available from Vitamore (£12.99) Star rating: 4/5 Made from calcifediol, the form of vitamin D that we make in the liver, the manufacturers claim that this form of vitamin D is more potent and better absorbed than cholecalciferol (used in the other supplements here). So no oil or vitamin K is deemed necessary. Contains 50mcg (1000% NRV) of vegan-suitable vitamin D3. The tiny capsules are very portable and easy to take. Available from: Vitamore (£12.99) Performance Lab D3+K2 Available from Performance Lab (from £19) Star rating: 3.5/5 Although a hefty initial outlay (£57), this does get you a four-month supply of the recommended daily dose of 25mcg (500% NRV). They contain vitamin K to help draw calcium into the bones, which means they aren’t suitable if you’re on blood thinners or have certain health conditions. Containing vitamin D3 from freeze-dried algae, they’re suitable for vegans. You’ll need to take them with fat-containing foods as they don’t contain any oil. Free from gluten, additives, preservatives and artificial colours. Available from: Performance Lab (from £19) Other options for supplementing Best vitamin D drinks Zooki Vitamin D Available from Victoria Health (£24.99 for two week supply), Zooki (£49.99 for one month supply) Star rating: 4.5/5 These sachets contain 75mcg (1500% NRV) of vitamin D3 plus vitamin K2 in an oil base. You can drink them straight from the sachet or add them to a smoothie. Our tester described the flavour as reminiscent of a mixed berry yogurt. Suitable for vegans (derived from lichen algae) and free from preservatives. Among the most expensive of the supplement products we tested. Available from: Victoria Health (£24.99 for two week supply) Zooki (£49.99 for one month supply) Best vitamin D spray BetterYou D3000+K2 Available from Amazon (£6.37), Better You (£11.49), Superdrug (£10.99), Holland & Barrett (£10.99) Star rating: 4.5/5 Three sprays to the inside of your cheek provides 75mcg (1500% NRV) of vitamin D3. It also contains vitamin K2 to support bone strengthening and is one of the few supplements to carry a warning that people on blood thinners shouldn’t take vitamin K. Extracted from lanolin, this is not vegan. Our tester appreciated the clear instructions and the pleasant peppermint oil flavour. Available from: Amazon (£4.99) Better You (£7.49) Superdrug (£10.99) Holland & Barrett (£10.99) How much vitamin D should I take? The NHS advises a daily dose of 10 micrograms (or 400 International Units or IU) for most adults and children over the age of one, but individual requirements will vary depending on your age, skin colour, if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, and how much time you spend outdoors (with your skin uncovered). Our expert nutritionist suggests that 10-25mcg per day should be sufficient for most people. The NHS advises adults should not take more than 100mcg (4000 IU) a day. For labelling purposes, the nutrient reference value (NRV) or recommended daily amount, that you will see on labels, is 5mcg. This is the amount set by the EU for food labelling purposes, this figure has been retained and now forms part of our UK food law. How should I take a vitamin D supplement? Vitamin D is fat-soluble, so a supplement is best taken with food to improve absorption. Most people in the UK should consider a supplement daily between October and late March, although individual needs vary. What form of vitamin D should I take? Vitamin D2 and D3 can both help a deficiency, although D3 is naturally produced in the skin and is generally considered slightly more active and longer-lasting. Vegans should be aware that D3 is often sourced from sheep’s lanolin, so look for a product made from lichen or micro-algae to avoid animal derivatives. What format of vitamin D is best? Look for an oil-based formula as D3 is fat soluble. This could be in capsule (or ‘pearl’) form, in a spray (as it bypasses the gut, the delivery is more direct) or in drops which can be added to food or drink. Tablets tend not to be as easy to digest; gummies or chewables – although easier for children to take – may be more susceptible to heat and moisture which can affect stability and shelf life. Vitamin K can be a useful addition to the supplement as it helps the body use calcium appropriately (although it is not suitable for all people including those on blood thinners). Read more health and wellbeing product reviews Best personalised nutrition tests Zoe review Best collagen supplements, tried and tested Best protein powders Best vegan protein powders Best protein bars Best vegan protein bars Best kombucha Best meal prep containers Best high-protein snacks Best healthy cereals Best magnesium supplements Best iron supplements Best omega-3 supplements Best vitamin B12 supplements Best probiotic supplements Best pre-workout supplements Best creatine supplements Best calcium supplements Best joints supplements Related content Am I getting enough vitamin D? Is my child getting enough vitamin D? Vitamin health hacks Do supplements work? How to get the most out of supplements What supplements should I take? If you have any questions, suggestions for future reviews or spot anything that has changed in price or availability, please get in touch at goodfoodwebsite@immediate.co.uk. All health content on goodfood.com is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. If you have any concerns about your general health, you should contact your local healthcare provider. See our website terms and conditions for more information. Always keep supplements out of the reach of children. Unless otherwise stated we tested products available in the UK market and suitable for adults. Check the product label and ingredients before purchase to ensure it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
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