Chapelnik: what is it and how to choose?

Having met in the text or having heard the word “chapel”, few understand what is at stake. A synonym for this concept - “frying pan”, causes more specific associations. Chapelnik is a kitchen utensil that in a classic look looks like a wooden handle with a hook and a stop. With the help of such a device, you can grab a pan (chapel) and put it in the oven or oven. In the dictionary of V. I. Dahl it is indicated that the word “chapelnik” was formed from the dialect verb “chapat”, which means “grab”.

A frying pan is a kitchen utensil that can be found in any kitchen. It should be voluminous, safe and convenient, so a removable holder will be a good solution. A frying pan with a chapel can be used for frying and stewing not only in the oven, but also on a stove of any type (gas, electric, induction). But not all types can use such a removable handle. Let us consider in more detail with which frying pans the chapel is compatible.

• Cast iron. These pans are usually not sold with a chapel, since cast iron is heavy metal. By disconnecting a poorly fixed handle, you may be injured from a fallen cast-iron pan. In addition, such dishes are very hot and, attaching the holder to it, you can accidentally get a severe burn. In ancient times, a special grip for a cast-iron frying pan was widely used. It was quite durable and had a long handle.
• Grill pan. This type is often sold with a removable handle. The chapel is easy to detach in order to put the grill pan into the oven. For this kind of cookware, this is a very convenient fixture.
• Pan for pancakes. Pancake pans are mostly with fixed handles, so it’s more convenient to hold them in your hand when cooking pancakes. But now this type of frying pan is also available with a chapel. This is a huge plus when storing cookware.

Chapelniki are usually made for specific series of pans.

The handle of the holder can be wooden or metal. But currently, the best option is a pen coated with fireproof plastic.

Frying pans with a chapel have the following advantages:

• easily transformed into a convenient holder for frying;
• can be used for all types of stoves and for the oven;
• after disconnecting the pan, the dishes are easily placed in the dishwasher;
• A pan with a removable handle is easy to store even in a small drawer.

The disadvantages include the following points:

• not on all models the chapel is put on easily and quickly;
• the holder slot overgrows with layers of grease and dirt, which interferes with the normal fastening of the handle.

Currently, there are the following mechanisms for fastening the handles to the pan.

• With a clamp. With this option, the chapel can be disconnected by unscrewing the clip attached to the holder. But the housewives have to use both hands, which is not very convenient. In addition, if the pan is hot, you can burn your fingers.
• Push button mechanism. This is a simple and convenient option, since it only requires pressing a special button on the chapel and lifting the handle up. This method is very popular among cooks, as it only takes a few seconds, and you can handle the mechanism with one hand. But you need to press the button hard, otherwise the handle will not disconnect.
• With the lever. Such a mechanism makes it possible to detach the pan with one hand, turning the lever fully counterclockwise. This option is simple, but requires some experience and skills.
• Moving button. The chapel in this case is worn on the bracket. When he falls into place, there is a click. To remove, you need to move the button away from you and pull the removable handle. The disadvantages of this mechanism are that the pan must be maintained during disconnection, and it can be very hot.

Chapelnik is also called a travel accessory for holding bowlers and cups. Most often it is made of aluminum, and it is designed for dishes with food, weighing no more than three kilograms. Such a holder is very convenient when traveling due to its light weight (approximately 45 grams) and compact size.

Chapelnik is a universal device for gripping pans, pots, metal cups. It is popular with both exemplary hostesses and tourists who love camping romance. Now the choice of removable handles is so diverse that everyone can find the right and practical option.

Other varieties of chapel can be seen in the video below.