OLLIS The Foundry Pan

The central idea behind OLLIS The Foundry Pan is integration: a skillet and a Dutch oven designed as a single system. According to the maker, the skillet that sits on top as a lid is a fully capable frying pan, so one set covers the work of two pieces of cast iron.

Design and handling

The look keeps the texture of classic cast iron while adopting a more contemporary, minimal shape. The maker says the thick body spreads heat evenly, aiming for a crisp sear outside and juicy interior on meat, and gentle cooking that brings out sweetness in vegetables.

Cast iron's familiar drawback is weight. OLLIS says it has addressed this by optimizing the position and shape of the grip handles for easier lifting and better balance, reducing strain on the wrist during cooking. The pieces are also designed to stack compactly for storage.

Materials and seasoning

• No PTFE (Teflon) or PFOA coatings, according to the maker
• Described as made from 100% natural materials and safe at high temperatures
• Seasoning layer builds with use, which the maker says makes it less prone to sticking over time
• Stackable design for compact storage

Like other cast iron, the pan is meant to improve with use. The maker compares its aging to leather goods, and notes that with proper care cast iron can last for decades or be passed between generations.

The company

OLLIS was founded by three longtime friends who share an interest in cooking and craft. The brand frames its philosophy around using honest, functional, well-made objects for a long time. The Foundry Pan was introduced as a Kickstarter project, which according to the source exceeded its funding goal by a wide margin; the source also mentions possible future sizes, shapes and non-kitchen uses such as camping gear, though nothing specific has been announced.