RACO Reliance Chef's Casserole 28cm: What to Cook
By RACO Australia | Published: 2026-10-29
Category: Product Reviews
Discover the best dishes for your RACO Reliance 28cm stainless steel chef's casserole, from braises to soups, plus care tips for induction cooktops.
Quick answer
The RACO Reliance 28cm chef's casserole excels at slow braises, hearty soups, and one-pot stews thanks to its generous 5.7L capacity and tri-ply stainless steel construction that heats evenly on induction and gas cooktops.
Why size and material matter for your cooking
The 28cm diameter and 5.7L volume give you room to brown meat in batches without overcrowding, then add liquid and vegetables for a full meal. The stainless steel body with an aluminum core distributes heat evenly, reducing hot spots that can scorch delicate sauces or dairy-based soups.
Because the casserole is fully induction-compatible, it works on all cooktop types. The wide base also makes it suitable for searing before braising — something a narrower pot cannot do as effectively.
What this casserole does best
Braised meats like beef brisket or lamb shanks benefit from the even, steady heat and the tight-fitting lid that traps moisture. Soups and stews — from minestrone to beef bourguignon — fit comfortably with room for stirring. The tall sides also make it a good choice for cooking pasta sauces that need to simmer for an hour or more.
For one-pot meals such as a chicken and rice pilaf, the wide surface allows the rice to cook evenly without clumping. The stainless steel interior is non-reactive, so acidic ingredients like tomatoes or wine will not affect the flavor or the pot's finish.
What to avoid or adjust
Avoid using high heat for dry searing or shallow frying; stainless steel can cause food to stick if the pan is not preheated properly. Instead, preheat the casserole over medium heat for 2–3 minutes before adding oil, then wait until the oil shimmers before adding food.
The casserole is not designed for deep-frying or cooking very small quantities (e.g., a single serving of sauce) because the large surface area may cause the liquid to evaporate too quickly. For those tasks, a smaller saucepan is more practical.
Diagnosis: Is the RACO Reliance Chef's Casserole Right for Your Dish?
- Symptom: Food sticks to the bottom: Likely cause: Pan not preheated enough before adding oil, or heat too high. Corrective action: Preheat over medium heat for 2–3 minutes, then add oil and wait until it shimmers before adding food. If sticking persists, reduce heat slightly. Preheat properly to avoid sticking.
- Symptom: Liquid evaporates too fast: Likely cause: Heat too high or lid not used. Corrective action: Reduce heat to a gentle simmer and always use the lid when cooking soups or stews. If the recipe requires reducing, leave the lid off but watch the liquid level. Use the lid to retain moisture.
- Symptom: Food scorches on the bottom while top is undercooked: Likely cause: Casserole too full or heat uneven. Corrective action: Do not fill beyond ¾ capacity. Stir occasionally and ensure the burner size matches the 28cm base. If using induction, the entire base should be covered by the cooking zone. Avoid overfilling and match burner size.
- Symptom: Casserole is too heavy to lift when full: Likely cause: The 5.7L capacity with food and liquid can weigh over 6 kg. Corrective action: Use two hands or a silicone trivet to slide the casserole off the cooktop. For smaller portions, consider a smaller pot. Handle with care when full.
Product facts
- RACO Reliance Stainless Steel Induction Chef's Casserole 28cm/5.7L: RACO Reliance is a broad collection of superior quality cookware that perfectly represents the RACO brand — affordably priced, excellent quality and designed to perform. This casserole delivers professional-level performance at a reasonable price point, making it a practical investment for everyday family cooking.
RACO Reliance Stainless Steel Induction Chef's Casserole 28cm/5.7L
