How To Use A Roasting Pan For Your Next Family Meal

What Is a Roasting Pan?

A roasting pan features a large dish that is fitted with a rack. Aside from preventing a roast from touching the pan’s bottom, the rack’s purpose is to promote even heating and allow oils and other liquids to fall through the rack. It is oven-safe and can be used on a stovetop as well, depending on the design. The most common types are stainless steel and aluminum, which may have nonstick or enamel coatings. It is best to learn how to use a roasting pan for the best dish results and flavors.

Steps to Use a Roasting Pan

1. Put the rack in the roasting pan. The first thing to do on how to use a roasting pan is to make sure that the meat rack is inside the pan. The rack will efficiently prevent overcooking or prevent the meat from being jammed to the surface of the pan.
2. Place the meat on the rack. When you place the meat on the rack, make sure that it must be kept in the pan’s center. It is also best to allow a two-inch gap from the meat to the edges of the pan. It will cook the meat evenly because of sufficient heat circulation.
3. Place the roasting pan in a pre-heated oven. Remember to place the pan at the center rack of the oven to allow even heat distribution from the top and bottom. Whenever you are ready, heat the oven to the required temperature and cooking time.
4. Cover the meat with a lid or aluminum foil. Covering the meat will keep the meat taste intact. The lid also helps the meat cook faster. A covered pan is guaranteed to have proper heating and even to cook, and it also prevents the meat from getting brown too early.
5. After cooking, keep the meat in the pan for a few extra minutes – about five to ten minutes after it has been removed from the oven. When you allow a few minutes before transferring the meat to a platter, it helps to dispense the natural juices throughout the meat, which adds to the dish’s overall flavor.

What to Look for in a Roasting Pan

Size

When deciding about the size of a roasting pan, always consider the common type of food and the food volume you will roast. You need a large pan for a large turkey. But when you opt for smaller dishes, a smaller roasting pan would suffice. You also need to consider the availability of the space that you have in your kitchen.

Shape

The shape and the design of the roasting pan must be considered as well. Take note that a pan with a raised bottom is more difficult to use when you intend to use it on a stovetop, especially when you prepare a gravy or sauce because the liquids will collect around the pan edges.

Material

Because roasting pans are made from various materials, it is best to choose an item that is not too heavy. Those made from stainless steel are highly durable and lasts longer with proper care. Those types with nonstick coatings are also nice but may be prone to scratches when not used appropriately.

Features

Some roasting pans come with a lid, while some don’t. You can always replace the lid with aluminum foil, but it will always depend on your preference. A pan with a roasting rack also offers the most advantage. It is also best to look for a pan with sturdy and convenient handles so that you can cook with the utmost comfort. More than any feature, one important thing is to know how to use a roasting pan so you can maximize its use to your advantage.