What it is
A saucepan is a deep, round pan with a long handle, often supplied with a lid. Its size suits smaller quantities of liquid.
When to use it
Use it for sauces, rice and other grains, vegetables or small batches of soup. It can also reheat food when a large pot is unnecessary.
How to use it
Turn the handle inward to avoid knocks or snagging and watch the contents as they heat. Use protection when touching hot cookware.
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.
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 for sauces, rice and other grains, vegetables or small batches of soup. It can also reheat food when a large pot is unnecessary.
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
