In any professional kitchen, the right cookware makes all the difference. Matfer Bourgeat's black carbon steel pans are a top choice for chefs and foodservice operators seeking durable, high-performance tools. Recognized by America’s Test Kitchen as the #1 brand for carbon steel pans, Matfer Bourgeat offers cookware that combines reliability, precision, and long-lasting durability—perfect for a busy kitchen.
Whether you’re using their paella pan, crepe pan, or frying pan, Matfer Bourgeat’s black carbon steel pans are engineered to deliver exceptional heat retention, precise temperature control, and a natural nonstick surface that improves with each use. This guide will explain why black carbon steel a must-have for your kitchen and how to care for your pans to ensure they perform at their best for years to come.
Whether you’re preparing a traditional Spanish paella, delicate crepes, or crispy fried foods, Matfer Bourgeat’s black carbon steel pans ensure exceptional heat retention and a natural nonstick surface that improves with each use. In this guide, we’ll explore why black carbon steel cookware is essential for your kitchen and provide tips on how to care for your pans to keep them performing at their best.
What is Black Carbon Steel?
Black carbon steel, made from a combination of iron and carbon, is known for its exceptional heat retention and responsiveness. This makes it ideal for high-heat tasks like searing, sautéing, and frying. The unique property of black carbon steel is its ability to develop a natural nonstick surface through seasoning, adding even more appeal to this cookware.
Seasoning involves bonding oil to the surface of your black carbon steel pan. This not only improves its nonstick capabilities but also prevents rust. With each use, the seasoning layer deepens, resulting in a smoother and more durable cooking surface.
Benefits of Black Carbon Steel
- Natural Nonstick Surface: Once seasoned, black carbon steel pans develop a naturally nonstick surface, making cooking and cleaning easier. Unlike traditional nonstick coatings, these pans are PTFE and PFOA-free, giving you peace of mind while cooking.
- Durability and Longevity: Matfer Bourgeat’s black carbon steel pans are built to last. The high-quality welded steel handle, free from rivets, eliminates food getting stuck in hard-to-clean crevices. This design also reduces the risk of bacterial growth, making it a hygienic choice for any professional kitchen.
- Versatility: Whether you're cooking on a stovetop, in the oven, or over an open flame, black carbon steel pans excel in all cooking methods. These pans are compatible with all hob types, including induction, and can withstand extremely high temperatures. This versatility makes them ideal for a wide range of culinary tasks.
Matfer Bourgeat offers a range of black carbon steel pans designed to meet the diverse needs of the foodservice industry:- Paella Pan: With a broad surface and sloped walls, this pan is perfect for making traditional Spanish paella, as well as sautéing, shallow frying, and grilling.
- Crepe Pan: Featuring shallow, sloped walls, this pan is ideal for flipping delicate dishes like crepes, pancakes, and eggs. It’s also great for searing and sautéing.
- Fry Pan: Known for its excellent heat retention, the fry pan is perfect for high-heat tasks such as searing meats, cooking eggs, and sautéing vegetables.
How to Season Your Black Carbon Steel Pan
Seasoning your Matfer Bourgeat black carbon steel pan is a key step in ensuring its nonstick surface and rust protection. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to season your new pan:
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Wash Your Pan: Begin by washing the pan with warm water and a small amount of soap to remove the factory coating. Use a sponge or brush to scrub it clean.
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Season with Potatoes: Peel two large potatoes and sauté the skins in ½ cup of oil and ¼ cup of salt on medium-high heat for about 15 minutes. As the pan heats up, the oil will bond to the surface, giving the pan a golden-brown color.
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Wipe Clean: After the potato skins become crisp, discard them and wipe the pan with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess oil.
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Repeat if Necessary: For deeper seasoning, you can repeat the process until the pan reaches a consistent golden-brown hue. Once completed, your pan is ready to use!
It Only Gets Better with Time
Fresh from the Factory
Your Matfer Bourgeat pan is made from a single, pressed piece of high-carbon steel and comes with a vegetable oil-based coating to protect it during shipping.
After 3-5 Uses
After the initial seasoning, your pan will take on a light brown hue. The seasoning process continues with each use, developing a protective layer.
After a Few Months of Use
With continued use, your pan’s seasoning will deepen. It may appear spotty or streaky, but that's part of the natural seasoning process.
For years to Come
Eventually, your well-seasoned black carbon steel pan will develop a smooth, consistent black patina. With proper care, your pan will offer excellent nonstick properties for years.
Matfer Bourgeat’s black carbon steel pans are an ideal choice for any commercial kitchen, offering superior heat retention, durability, and versatility. These pans will enhance your cooking experience, and with proper seasoning and maintenance, they will continue to perform optimally for years.
