Circular pots and pans are more common in cooking for a few reasons:
Heat Distribution: Circular pans distribute heat more evenly compared to pans with sharp corners or edges. When heat is applied to a circular pan, it spreads uniformly across the entire cooking surface, ensuring consistent cooking results. In contrast, square or triangular pans may have hotspots or uneven heat distribution, leading to uneven cooking.
Stirring and Mixing: Circular pans provide a practical shape for stirring, tossing, and mixing ingredients. The curved edges allow for easy movement of utensils, promoting efficient cooking techniques like sautéing and stirring.
Ergonomics and Handling: The circular shape of pots and pans makes them easier to handle. The rounded edges provide a comfortable grip when lifting, moving, or pouring contents from the pan. The shape also allows for better control and maneuverability while cooking.
Manufacturing and Material Efficiency: Producing circular pots and pans is generally more cost-effective and efficient from a manufacturing standpoint. The circular shape is simpler to mold or form, and it minimizes wasted material compared to more complex shapes like triangles or squares.
While circular pans are the most common, it's worth noting that there are cookware options available in different shapes, including square or rectangular pans, for specific cooking purposes. These shapes may be suitable for dishes like lasagna, brownies, or certain types of baking where the shape of the dish itself affects the outcome of the recipe. However, for general stovetop cooking, circular pots and pans remain the preferred choice due to their practicality and performance.