What it is
A frying pan provides a broad surface for cooking food against the base. Variants include sloping-sided pans and deeper shapes.
When to use it
Use it to sauté meat and vegetables or cook eggs and omelets. Shape and coating help determine which pan suits the task.
How to use it
Keep the handle turned inward and stay nearby while cooking. Use tools that will not scratch the finish on nonstick surfaces.
Cleaning and storage
Wash food-contact surfaces with hot, soapy water between uses; rinse and dry. Check the material’s care instructions before choosing a dishwasher or abrasive cleaners.
Common mistakes
Do not cut food inside a nonstick container or use tools that scratch its coating.
Safe use
Use oven mitts to handle hot cookware. Turn handles inward on the stove and keep cloths away from flames.
Frequently asked questions
Which tasks is it useful for?
Use it to sauté meat and vegetables or cook eggs and omelets. Shape and coating help determine which pan suits the task.
How should it be cleaned after use?
Wash food-contact surfaces with hot, soapy water between uses; rinse and dry. Check the material’s care instructions before choosing a dishwasher or abrasive cleaners.
What precaution should I remember?
Use oven mitts to handle hot cookware. Turn handles inward on the stove and keep cloths away from flames.
Sources and review
Sources consulted for this utensil’s documented uses, care and characteristics.
- Safe Food Handling | FDA www.fda.gov/food/buy-store-serve-safe-food/safe-food-handling
- Essential Kitchen Equipment and Utensils www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/cooking-skills/meal-planning/essential-kitche…
- Organize Your Space - Spend Smart Eat Smart spendsmart.extension.iastate.edu/cook/organize-your-space/
- Cleaning — Food Standards Scotland www.foodstandards.gov.scot/consumer-advice/food-safety/food-safety-in-the-kitchen/cleaning
- Cook’s Tools — Alice Henneman, University of Nebraska Extension, hosted by Purdue Extension extension.purdue.edu/foodlink/includes/pubs/Kitchen%20Utensils.pdf
