de Buyer
de Buyer Frypan 12.5" Mineral B Element - Two Handle
Best carbon steel skillet for home cooks seeking professional searing results.
Elevate your culinary creations with the de Buyer Mineral B Element Fry Pan. Expertly crafted from a 99% iron and 1% carbon steel blend, this 11-inch pan is a favorite among chefs for its natural cooking prowess. Its unique beeswax finish protects against oxidation and simplifies the seasoning process. Lighter than cast iron and more conductive than stainless steel, it develops a superior non-stick surface over time without any chemical coatings. Perfect for searing or crafting delicate omelets, it's compatible with induction, gas, and electric cooktops. Proudly made in France, it comes with a lifetime manufacturer's guarantee.
$105.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
691
/ 2725
#691 in Skillets & Frying Pans
Price vs Category Average
-1%
Below average
Material
991
/ Carbon Steel (% iron, % carbon)
Who it's for
- Home cooks seeking professional-grade searing and browning results
- Health-conscious chefs preferring natural, chemical-free cooking surfaces
- Busy cooks needing extra stability for heavy, oven-bound meals
Who should skip it
- Casual cooks wanting low-maintenance, dishwasher-safe cookware
- Users with limited wrist strength or mobility issues
- Impatient beginners looking for ready-to-use, non-stick convenience
Performance breakdown
Searing Performance
Carbon steel delivers professional-grade crusts that outperform standard stainless steel pans.
Heat Responsiveness
Rapid temperature adjustments allow for precise control during delicate cooking tasks.
Natural Non-stick Development
The seasoning process builds a reliable, chemical-free surface over consistent use.
Build Durability
Heavy-duty construction ensures this pan survives a lifetime of kitchen abuse.
Maintenance Effort
Requires diligent hand washing and seasoning to prevent oxidation and rust.
Weight and Handling
Significantly more manageable than cast iron while maintaining excellent thermal mass.
Key Specs
Material
Carbon Steel (99% iron, 1% carbon)
Diameter
11 inches
Finish
Beeswax
Compatibility
Induction, Gas, Electric
Nonstick Coating
None (Natural after seasoning)
Origin
Made in France
Warranty
Manufacturer's lifetime guarantee
Dishwasher Safe
No
Features
- Naturally non-stick surface develops with use
- Lighter and more heat conductive than alternatives
- Ideal for searing and omelets
- Works on induction, gas, and electric cooktops
- Protective beeswax finish aids seasoning
- Durable carbon steel construction
- Made in France
- Lifetime manufacturer's guarantee
What customers say
Enthusiasts highly value this large carbon steel frypan for its professional performance, especially its superior heat retention leading to excellent searing. The dual handle design is praised for safely managing the substantial weight, improving maneuverability. While initial seasoning and maintenance present a learning curve for new users, the resulting natural, durable nonstick patina transforms the pan into a long lasting investment. Once seasoned properly, cooks find this pan indispensable, justifying its premium cost through unparalleled cooking results and generational durability.
Know before you buy
Yes, seasoning is essential for carbon steel. While the beeswax finish provides initial protection against oxidation, you must wash off the wax and perform an initial seasoning process to build the pan's natural non-stick surface before your first cook.
Carbon steel offers similar heat retention and non-stick potential to cast iron but is significantly lighter and more responsive to temperature changes. This makes it easier to handle for tasks like tossing ingredients or searing at high heat.
No, this pan is not dishwasher safe. Exposure to harsh detergents and high-pressure water will strip the seasoning and cause the iron to rust; it should be hand-washed with warm water and dried immediately.
It is not non-stick out of the box, but it develops a natural patina over time that becomes increasingly non-stick with regular use. Unlike chemical coatings, this surface is durable and will not flake or degrade over time.
Yes, the carbon steel construction is highly magnetic, making it an excellent choice for induction cooktops. It heats up quickly and provides even heat distribution across the surface.
After cooking, wipe out any excess oil or food debris while the pan is still warm. If necessary, use a soft brush or sponge with hot water—avoid soap if possible—then dry it thoroughly on the stovetop and apply a very light coating of oil before storing.
Still have a question?
Ask Hayley anything about this product before you decide.
Ready to buy?
$105