What is a skillet pan used for?

A skillet pan, also known as a frying pan, is a versatile kitchen essential used for a wide range of cooking tasks. Here's what it's typically used for:

General Cooking:

* Frying: The most common use is for frying foods, such as eggs, bacon, pancakes, chicken, fish, and vegetables. The flat surface allows for even cooking and browning.

* Sautéing: A skillet is perfect for quickly cooking food in a small amount of oil or butter, bringing out flavors and textures.

* Pan-frying: Similar to frying, but with less oil, using a skillet to achieve a crispy exterior while cooking food through.

* Searing: Using high heat to quickly brown the surface of meat before continuing cooking.

Other Uses:

* Baking: Some skillets, particularly cast iron, can be used in the oven for baking bread, casseroles, and other dishes.

* Cooking sauces: The flat surface makes it ideal for making sauces, reducing liquids, and thickening them.

* Serving: Skillets can be used to serve food directly from the stovetop to the table.

Specific Uses:

* Grilling: Some skillets have ridged surfaces that mimic the grill marks of an outdoor grill.

* Making omelets and crêpes: The flat surface makes flipping these delicate dishes easier.

Different Types of Skillets:

Skillets come in different materials, sizes, and shapes, offering various benefits:

* Cast Iron: Durable, heats evenly, and can be used on stovetops and in ovens.

* Stainless Steel: Long-lasting, dishwasher-safe, and heats evenly.

* Nonstick: Easy to clean and prevents food from sticking, ideal for delicate dishes.

* Copper: Heats quickly and distributes heat evenly, but can be expensive.

Ultimately, the specific uses of a skillet pan depend on the material, size, and shape. But, in general, it's a versatile tool that every kitchen should have.