Home cooks across the UK are flocking to IKEA after a renowned culinary expert declared one of its budget frying pans superior to designer brands costing ten times the price.
The Chef's Surprising Endorsement
Nagi Maehashi, the celebrated Australian cook behind the popular RecipeTin Eats platform, has revealed she abandoned spending hundreds of pounds on high-end European cookware after discovering IKEA's HEMKOMST range. She now champions the affordable pan as her kitchen workhorse, claiming it performs just as well as models priced over £240.
"The best non-stick frypan is from IKEA," Nagi stated emphatically on her Instagram Stories. "I stopped buying £300 European brands years ago. This IKEA one does the job just as well, lasts just as long and is a fraction of the price."
Why This Pan Stands Out
Maehashi, a best-selling cookbook author, praised the pan's practical design and versatility. She highlighted its compatibility with induction hobs, oven-safe construction, and steep sides that maximise the flat searing area. She owns all three sizes: the 24cm (£20), 28cm (currently £23, down from £28), and 32cm (£31).
"28cm is my all-rounder," she explained, noting its suitability for standard stove elements. She reserves the largest for cooking large quantities and the smallest for tasks like toasting nuts or frying a single egg.
The tip came from a professional chef, who mentioned using the pans in his restaurant. The HEMKOMST pan features a stainless steel body with a non-stick coating and works on gas, electric, and induction hobs.
Shoppers Confirm the 'Nagi Effect'
The recommendation has triggered a wave of purchases, with fans dubbing the surge the "Nagi Effect." Many confirmed long-term satisfaction with the pan. One supporter wrote, "If Nagi says they're the best, then you'd best believe I'm heading to IKEA."
Online reviews echo the praise. The 28cm version boasts over 225 five-star ratings. One shopper raved, "Best frypan I've owned... Non-stick is great, heats quickly on induction and cleaning is a breeze." Another long-term user noted, "I started using these about eight years ago. Totally rate them."
The sentiment highlights a shift towards value-driven kitchenware, proving that a smart design at an accessible price point can outperform luxury labels, changing how both home cooks and professionals equip their kitchens.
