The Lodge Chef's Collection Skillet is a kitchen essential that combines expert-grade performance with timeless design. Many people aren't aware of the exceptional heat retention and distribution cast iron offers, ensuring professional treatment whether browning, frying, searing, grilling, baking, braising or sautéing. And when it comes to experts who know how to forge it, there are none more celebrated than Lodge. These guys helped define the quintessential skillet design and have been making them for 127 years in their famous Tennessee foundry, the oldest of its kind in the U.S.A.

As opposed to most modern pans made with synthetic coatings, cast iron is both safe (nontoxic, PFOA & PTFE free) and, with a little seasoning, non-stick. In addition to the classic design, this model comes with a useful second handle, which helps with manoeuvring when cooking and serving up. Its versatile nature makes it suitable for various cooking methods, including stovetop, oven, grill, and even campfire. Some wrongly assume that skillets are only useful as frying pans, but that's a huge oversight; it's just as simple to make pizzas, pies, stews and bakes in them. Working just as well with induction hobs as they do with the gas variety, they really are multipurpose in the truest sense of the word.

For those less au fait with Lodge it's worth pointing out, these aren't their basic, entry level line (which you'll see in lots of stores). This skillet is from the upgraded Chef's Collection; a distinct level above, for those who care about higher quality. These are lighter, with a more refined finish, larger pour spouts, a longer, more ergonomic handle that stays cooler longer and sloped sides that make it easier to flip and turn foods.

These skillets come pre-seasoned with natural vegetable oil, enhancing their non-stick properties and rendering them ready to use right out of the box. In addition, Lodge is so sure of their craftsmanship, they offer a lifetime guarantee against any defects (although we can't see you using it, they last generations).

Whether they're a professional chef or enthusiastic home cook, this skillet is a reliable, durable, multi-purpose classic that will elevate their cooking for as long as they're in the kitchen.