What is a frying pan use for?

* Frying: This is the most common use, where food is cooked in a small amount of oil or fat over medium to high heat. Examples include frying eggs, bacon, fish, and vegetables.

* Sautéing: Similar to frying, but with a smaller amount of oil and often at a lower heat. This technique is used for delicate foods like mushrooms, onions, and garlic.

* Pan-frying: A combination of frying and sautéing, using a bit more oil than sautéing, often to create a crispy crust on meat, fish, or poultry.

* Stir-frying: A quick cooking method where ingredients are stirred constantly in a hot pan, often with a little oil or sauce. This technique is popular in Chinese cuisine.

* Browning: A frying pan can be used to brown meat, poultry, or vegetables before they are finished cooking in another method, like roasting or braising.

* Baking: Some frying pans are oven-safe and can be used to bake dishes like brownies or cobblers.

In addition to these main uses, frying pans are also used for:

* Melting butter or chocolate

* Making sauces

* Cooking pancakes and other breakfast foods

The specific type of frying pan you choose will depend on the type of cooking you do most often. For example, a non-stick pan is ideal for eggs and delicate foods, while a cast iron pan is perfect for searing meat and achieving a crispy crust.