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Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Gear Forum :: Camp Cookware
 
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pastorjsackett
04/12/2025 07:43PM
  
I have the nice BWJ aluminum cast fry pan and love that. What I'm lacking is a big enough pot/pan to boil and cook with. I think it will be the Deep Alpine for me.


I blame you all.



 
pastorjsackett
04/13/2025 08:43PM
  
I've thought about the Deep Alpine so much that it's a cinch I'll buy it.


The tab is still up on my computer as I type this!


I have a real problem with gear acquisition.....
 
THEGrandRapids
04/13/2025 12:23PM
  
I've twice emailed the owner to see if they would do a 3 1/2" deep expedition. She has replied both times that she'd look into it, but alas, never heard back either time.
 
pastorjsackett
06/06/2025 05:55AM
  
Okay folks. I bought and used the Fry-Bake.


Our group went from Stuart River entry to Iron in one day and the guys were torched. Two of them had rolled ankles on the nasty portages between Stuart and Iron. At the end of dinner I put some Sweet Martha's cookie dough in the bottom of the Fry-Bake and popped it on the fire and put twigs on top. Cody, one of our group noticed and said "What you got going there?" A little surprise, I said. A few minutes later I opened it up and there was a perfect, golden brown mega-cookie.


An audible gasp went up from the group. They devoured it.


Later on the trip I made mini-pizzas using pre-made crusts, cheese and toppings. Big hit.


This thing is the real deal and it made me a hero among our guys for one night. Loved that feeling.


I'm buying a bigger one someday.
 
Lawnchair107
04/13/2025 09:22AM
  
I use the deep alpine the most. High enough sides to be able to boil in, yet wide enough for eggs, hashbrowns, steak, etc
 
apk
04/11/2025 10:39PM
  
Haha, sorry! but try it out! The bake option is fun and it’s light weight. So if those two features appeal to you on top of having a non stick and bomb proof frying pan I think you will be happy with it. I like the expedition size with the larger diameter.
 
timatkn
05/22/2025 12:35PM
  
Could be worse, you could be addicted to gambling or cheating on your spouse :) both of those will cost you way more :)


Have fun with the new cook pan...I've still been able to hit delete on my computer after having it in my cart a few times :)


T
 
pastorjsackett
05/22/2025 09:40PM
  
haha! I will sure send in a review. I love getting new gear. Merry Christmas in May to me. I deserve it. Off to Iron Lake next Thursday morning.
 
bombinbrian
04/06/2025 06:27PM
  
I’ve been using two Graniteware 4 qt bean pots and various skillets over the years. My pots have gotten beat up and are chipping.

We usually have four in our group, but on occasion, we have six. We cook on a fire and on stoves, so that adds a wrinkle. We do eggs and hash browns on days we don’t move and a couple nights of fried fish. Most dinners are box rice meals that we put fish in.

I’m looking at getting new cookware. I need two pots and two skillets. What should I get?
 
THEGrandRapids
04/07/2025 10:08AM
  
Banks Fry Bake for the win. I have all three, but primarily use the expedition from egg skillets to grilled cheese to frying walleye to simmering lake trout and fainlly baking carrot cake, giant monster cookie, and brownies. Favorite piece of non canoe gear.
 
Tryin
04/07/2025 06:11PM
  
Another happy Banks user here. However, the Agawa cookset looks very nice and may join my collection. On a budget, Cooks (JC Penny) has a good hard-anodized skillet that retails for less than $20 during regular sales.


I have a "problem" with stoves and cookware, it's an addicting little side hobby. Cast iron, carbon steel, stainless steel, hard-anodized aluminum, titanium, Teflon: I've owned and used several variations of each. I generally pick a titanium pot and an anodized skillet when I head out and plant to cook more than water.


Banks cosmetic seconds are a good bargain as well.


https://frybake.com/


https://agawagear.com/products/carbontrail12-adventure-cook-set


https://www.jcpenney.com/p/cooks-hard-anodized-12-frying-pan/







 
THEGrandRapids
06/09/2025 10:28AM
  
pastorjsackett: "Okay folks. I bought and used the Fry-Bake.



Our group went from Stuart River entry to Iron in one day and the guys were torched. Two of them had rolled ankles on the nasty portages between Stuart and Iron. At the end of dinner I put some Sweet Martha's cookie dough in the bottom of the Fry-Bake and popped it on the fire and put twigs on top. Cody, one of our group noticed and said "What you got going there?" A little surprise, I said. A few minutes later I opened it up and there was a perfect, golden brown mega-cookie.



An audible gasp went up from the group. They devoured it.



Later on the trip I made mini-pizzas using pre-made crusts, cheese and toppings. Big hit.



This thing is the real deal and it made me a hero among our guys for one night. Loved that feeling.



I'm buying a bigger one someday. "


One recipe I found early on said to use coconut shreds on the bottom of the fry bake pan when baking, its edible, but also takes the char if it gets to hot and can throw in the garbage. I like to eat it after as long as its not charred, but it has helped me make oh so good carrot cake in the BW without burning. The beveled edged spatula makes clean up so easy. No worry about scratching a pan
 
davidveale
06/09/2025 05:01PM
  
Love the idea of the Banks Fry-Bake, but hate the idea of using the black nylon spatulas (when frying). I assume these or something similar is a requirement to save the finish on the aluminum. Anyone found something which is safe for such pans but not plastic, and still works effectively for flipping a pancake or something like that? Adding flame retardants to my food (as is the case with the black plastic utensils) is something I'd like to avoid.
 
OCDave
06/09/2025 07:10PM
  
davidveale: "Love the idea of the Banks Fry-Bake, but hate the idea of using the black nylon spatulas (when frying). I assume these or something similar is a requirement to save the finish on the aluminum. Anyone found something which is safe for such pans but not plastic, and still works effectively for flipping a pancake or something like that? Adding flame retardants to my food (as is the case with the black plastic utensils) is something I'd like to avoid."


No need to use plastic utensils with the Fry-Bake pans. I use sand and rocks to scour the pan when necessary.
 
THEGrandRapids
06/09/2025 08:17PM
  
The spatula it comes with is metal, and has a beveled edge for scrapping the bottom and the sides. The thing is bombproof. I also used sand/ gravel to scrub the bottom. I don’t even bother brining a plastic spatula.
 
pastorjsackett
06/09/2025 10:28PM
  
That Fry Bake "serverspoon" as they call it got used throughout the trip. As others have noted, it is the go-to for serving out of the pan and it is NOT plastic!


Pam threw it in to my order as a gift. Just the best.
 
pastorjsackett
06/13/2025 06:57AM
  
My wife had some "Sweet Martha's" (state fair style) that she bought in the freezer section. I tossed them in the cold pack on a whim. All I did was press them in the bottom (maybe there were 7-8 of them) and placed over the fire (not super direct heat but enough to get it hot) and then a small twig fire on top. I think any cookie dough would do--homemade or whatever. It came out in my expedition deep to be about the depth of a regular cookie and all the way to the sides.


If you want to chat more about any of it e-mail me any time about gear, food, etc at jsackett@celebrationlutheranchurch.com. I'm not an expert, I just geek out over this stuff. It's a good diversion from the stress of life.


Good luck!
 
pastorjsackett
06/10/2025 04:56PM
  
I am sold on the Fry Bake. But I understand people not wanting to pay the price. I splurged. We baked a large cookie and did three nights of pizzas with pre-made crusts and toppings. Could we have lived without it? Yes. Could you find cheaper options? Sure. But I still enjoyed using it. I got a deep expedition but wish I had bought the larger. I will buy it sooner or later.


Super fun to use. Buy the set. I go on trips to have fun and try stuff. Cool gear is fun.
 
Frenchy19
06/12/2025 02:26PM
  
Late to the party, but I must agree that the fry bake pan is incredible.
 
Jefflynn06
06/11/2025 08:57PM
  
Ok, so I didn't need much arm twisting. Pastor, I'm like you - I have an issue with wanting new gear! And Rapids, the answer is "yes" about the lid, the bake option, and all of the above. I don't know what I don't know. You both have convinced me to get expedition with the lid.


And now to start planning what I'm going to make! The pizzas and cookie intrigue me! My wife mentioned bringing in frozen pizza dough and making deep dish pizzas a day or two in. Love the idea!!!


So I'm taking the plunge and buying the frybake tonight!
 
Jefflynn06
06/12/2025 09:48PM
  
Pastor - what did you get/use for the cookie dough?
 
THEGrandRapids
06/12/2025 10:38AM
  
I would forgo the banks gripper and get the one Piragis has. same idea, but a wider bottom grabber and spring open action. I don't use the banks gripper anymore
 
pastorjsackett
06/12/2025 07:53AM
  
I don't think you'll be disappointed! Some videos show people mixing up dough but I simply picked up small, pre-made rounds in the pizza section of my local grocery store. Plus pizza quick sauce, motz and toppings.


I do think the expedition (bigger one) would be great so I'll probably get that one too someday--good Christmas present idea.


The cookie was delicious....and the fry bake is super lightweight. Good luck!
 
pastorjsackett
06/12/2025 09:32AM
  
My wife just asked what I want for Father's Day.


Fry Bake Expedition anyone??


HAHAHAHAHA
 
apk
06/12/2025 10:05AM
  
That would be a perfect gift. The expedition is really nice if you are cooking for 3 or 4 people.


While you're at it, pick up the grabber/lid lifter from the Banks website, too. You can make others work, but if you like a really solid connection for handling the cookware this is a good way to go. I used channel lock pliers for mine for many years, but the cast aluminum gripper is lighter. Bonus, has a hook for bales on pots.


As an alternative and lighter handle, the MSR "panhandler" is an option. For a really light lid lifter a large titanium tent stake can be used, or even a sturdy stick that you whittle down.
 
apk
06/12/2025 12:42PM
  
Yeah, I have one similar to the one that Piragis sells that I use for a really heavy griddle I use car camping. It's the same as a "pizza pan gripper" ...it is pretty solid. Just a little heavier, if you care about that.
You can get the same thing for half the price of Piragis if you purchase from a restaurant supply place.

https://www.boundarywaterscatalog.com/piragis/pot-grabber-154
 
THEGrandRapids
06/12/2025 01:33PM
  
Every restaurant supply co I found them in had either $50 shipping or a minimum order of some huge amount for free shipping. I wasn’t able to find one at the time that would have been cheaper once you shipped it. So finally just bought the Piragis. Maybe you’ve had better luck.
 
pastorjsackett
06/12/2025 04:47PM
  
Thanks Frenchy! Never late.


I have a good gripper, I got it with my Boundary Waters Journal square fry pan. Also a real winner. Do people need both? Maybe not. But I love it!


I think that is the same gripper Piragis sells....
 
Basketcase
05/23/2025 03:16PM
  
You guys are crazy. Now I need to buy this thing.


If you are looking for ultra-light, get a Jetboil Java, and get the skillet/skillet cook attachment. This thing is all-inclusive for ~2-3 people and takes up no space.
 
Lawnchair107
04/06/2025 07:32PM
  
Banks Fry- bank pans and any titanium 2-3L pot, I like Silverant products. But seriously, check out the fry-bank pans.

 
apk
04/06/2025 07:43PM
  
Agree Banks Fry-Bake is worth a look.


Titanium pots are great, but most of them are too small for a group of 4+. I would suggest looking at the Solo Stove "Pot 4000" -- it is well made stainless steel with a bail and a handle. Good 4L capacity and great for over a fire.
 
timatkn
04/08/2025 12:59PM
  
I've gotta stop reading the gear forum...I don't have any of the three mentioned and I don't think I need them...but I WANT THEM :)


T
 
THEGrandRapids
04/08/2025 06:13PM
  
I should also note I routinely use the Expedition fry banks with my dragonfly stove and on the fire grate with a twiggy fire atop when baking.
Super easy to clean as well.

 
pastorjsackett
04/11/2025 09:40PM
  
WHY bring up the fry bake??? I had just forgotten about them and now I am obsessed again.
 
pastorjsackett
05/22/2025 07:43AM
  
I ordered one. What can I say? I have the worst gear obsession of all trippers.


I'll be paddling next week. Banks assured me it will get here in time.


Now, back to shopping.....
 
alpinebrule
05/26/2025 04:33PM
  
"Benjamin" I have one word for you, Thrift Stores, ok two words. If your groups are 4-6 and you are not that weight constrained, WAY less expensive, but might take a bit of hunting. You could also replace a piece at a time. I am still using 50-year-old Palco aluminum pots, I bought then new, have replaced the pans, so what do I know.
 
BonzSF
05/27/2025 01:15AM
  
I've had an old MSR Alpine Stainless pot set like this for close to 35 years. Though it has only the two larger pots, one fry pan/lid and one smaller lid for the smaller pot. https://www.snowys.com.au/stainless-steel-pot-6-piece-set
Still works great and the Pocket Rocket 2 fits inside. I would recommend bringing the Fry-Bake too. adds all the versatility that you need for larger fish fries, cornbread, pizza. And a roll of tin foil so you can always wrap you fish (or other food) and throw it on the coals
 
pastorjsackett
06/09/2025 11:14AM
  
Great idea! The fry-bake has opened up many possibilities for my mind!
 
Jefflynn06
06/10/2025 10:08AM
  
Have two old MSR sets (one for a group of 2-4 and the other larger set for more) that have served me well. Used to carry a larger non-stick frying pan in the past but gave that up. Looking to upgrade to a pan. Torn between a carbon steel pan and the frybake pan. Definite price difference. Unless I go with the compromised rim option of the frybake (uneven height so the lid doesn't cover/seal all the way around).

Can anyone share the frequency for bake option? How often do you use that method? Is it worth getting a complete set if baking hasn't been something I've worried about? Or is the baking/lid option going to change my camp cooking life forever?

I've never considered baking anything before and wonder if I should upgrade to that or if I could go with the compromised rim and still be very happy with a new pan.


Thanks for sharing your insights. I find the input from those of you this site to be extremely helpful - and give you all more credibility with reviews than I do regular online reviews.
 
THEGrandRapids
06/10/2025 12:13PM
  
Jefflynn06: "Have two old MSR sets (one for a group of 2-4 and the other larger set for more) that have served me well. Used to carry a larger non-stick frying pan in the past but gave that up. Looking to upgrade to a pan. Torn between a carbon steel pan and the frybake pan. Definite price difference. Unless I go with the compromised rim option of the frybake (uneven height so the lid doesn't cover/seal all the way around).


Can anyone share the frequency for bake option? How often do you use that method? Is it worth getting a complete set if baking hasn't been something I've worried about? Or is the baking/lid option going to change my camp cooking life forever?


I've never considered baking anything before and wonder if I should upgrade to that or if I could go with the compromised rim and still be very happy with a new pan.



Thanks for sharing your insights. I find the input from those of you this site to be extremely helpful - and give you all more credibility with reviews than I do regular online reviews."


Are you just talking about whether you should get the lid or not? I'd highly recommend the lid regardless of whether you will bake. When I'm frying fish in it, or grilled cheese, or eggs, pretty much everything, I'm constantly putting the lid on and off to let it heat up. I think that saves time & fuel. This weekend car camping we made french toast and burgers in it. Used the top for both of those. Again, its my favorite piece of equipment. I have all three pans, but rarely use the smaller two and routinely just bring the expedition.
 
A1t2o
06/10/2025 09:18AM
  
I'm trying really hard to resist the urge to buy a new pan when I already have the Sea-to-Summit anodized aluminum pan. Maybe I'll just tell my buddy about it and get him to buy it instead.