Circulon Generic Hard Anodised 26 cm Chef's Casserole - Black

I have had the whole Circulon Infinity range for over 8 years, very happy with it. However, I now find the pots and pans heavy to move around and I am gradually replacing with lighter Circulon as I do cook a lot. I flirted for a while with other lighter and cheaper pots and pans, but they had no longevity as the non-stick did not last well, even though I use wooden and plastic cooking spoons. Upon researching I came across the lighter circular range and, as it is no longer important to have perfectly matching pots and pans, I pick and choose the ones I need, provided the ones that are within eyesight are black, with the Circulon slightly raised heating surface. I have been surprised by the huge Circulon range, from very heavy (Infinite range) to a red, lighter Stir Fry pan. I am now building my Circulon range based on my needs. I have evaluated the cost effectiveness, but although much more expensive than some, I have come back to Circulon for its quality and longevity. I can report that that the Circulon Generic Hard Anodised 26 cm Chef's Casserole - Black fulfils my needs. The base sits well on my ceramic hob. The interior has slightly rounded sides, making it ideal when sitr-frying or sautée(ing) vegetables. I also think that it could double-up as a wok in an emergency as I think that it would be ideal for stir frying Chinese noodles: Due to the shape of the pot, the noodles will naturally fall back into the bottom of the pan (but perhaps with a little help). I have used it to sauté Purple Sprouting Broccoli and to make a curry. I have used a cloth and hot water to wash it after use, and conditioned it with a little amount of cooking oil well rubbed in with kitchen paper. I would definitely recommend Circulon for being well-made, sturdy (even the lighter ranges) and for having a superior non-coating surface. I had had a lifetime of evaluating non-stick pots and pans!

I love the brand but this new piece is a real let down. I have only used it a couple of times and I noticed that the seals on the lid have split and are of no use. Although a lifetimes satisfaction is guaranteed , there appears in reality to be only a one month warranty and there is no drop down section to return the faulty product . Very disappointing !!!

I would have liked to have given this pot 5 stars, but there are two major concerns I have with this. The first one is related to the handles which get hot during the cooking process, and believe me it's quite easy to forget this when in a hurry to check the cooking. The second problem for me is cleaning the rim on the glass lid which can get quite greasy. I've had glass lids before and know how difficult or virtually impossible it is to clean the hardened grease from this area. It's a shame that Circulon have ignored this altogether (because I'm sure other customers must have complained about this). If these two problems were addressed, then this is the brand to buy since everything else about it is fantastic.

Bought Chefs Casserole 26cm to replace the identical one I bought 13 years ago. Using it pretty much on daily basis and always happy with the quality. I fully trust this brand, made it my main cookware in my kitchen. You wouldn't regret to have Circulon for sure.

The size and shape of this pan make it useful for lots of different dishes. However there are a few things that potential buyers should consider.The lid doesn’t provide an effective seal. So if you make dishes which require long simmering times then you will find that liquid evaporates very quickly. The lid has no insulation between the glass and the handle so becomes too hot to hold. The same is also true for the handles at the side of the pan.The handles at the side are small uncomfortable to hold. I cannot hold the pan if I wanted to pour from it.