Skillet & Saute Pan: The Main Distinctive Features and Applications

    When it comes to cooking, having the right tools can make all the difference.  Cast iron griddles are a versatile and essential addition to any kitchen, offering a variety of cooking options.  Whether you prefer a square cast iron griddle or a round cast iron griddle pan, both options have their own unique benefits to suit different cooking needs.

Whereas handles on skillets are often already part of it, making it an overall single piece of metal. That said, the common exception would be the French skillet which closely resembles a frypan with typically riveted handles.

Bare cast iron frying pans are uncoated and therefore prone to rust. To prevent this, they can be seasoned with oil, which closes up the pores and prevents contact with water. After seasoning, cast iron pans don't need to be washed with soap and water after every use. Simply wipe the pan down with a pot. If the pan is very dirty, it can be washed but it will have to be re-seasoned.

The home chef considering his or her options for cookware can be overwhelmed by the level of choice. It can be challenging to know which frypan is best suited to your needs without getting confused. Read on to discover what you need to consider before investing in your newest piece of cookware.

The quick answer is, no. A skillet and frying pan are different because of each’s cooking surface and design. There is often confusion because the terms “skillet” and “frying pan” are often used interchangeably. And you can typically use either one of them for many cooking preparations, even if one is better suited for a specific cooking method. Plus, both of these style pans are often made from the same materials and come in similar sizes, so it's easy to understand why there can be confusion. While similar, a skillet is technically a bit deeper and has a slightly larger cooking surface area than a frying pan. 

    Enamel cookware has been a kitchen staple for decades, and for good reason.  Its durability, versatility, and timeless style make it a must-have for any home cook.  Whether you're an experienced cook or just starting out, enamel cookware is a great investment that will last for years to come.

Difference between stainless steel and non-stick cookware

Ultimately, the type of frying pan you choose will depend on your individual cooking style, needs, and preferences. No matter which type you choose, a quality frying pan is an essential kitchen tool that will provide you with years of cooking enjoyment.

Typically made by adding a non-stick coating to aluminum pans, non-stick frying pans are ideal for cooking delicate foods with a tendency to stick, such as fish, fried eggs, and pancakes. The non-stick coating limits the amount of oils and fats needed to cook food and makes cleanup a breeze since your food won't stick to the pan. Non-stick pans are best used in low to medium heat settings to extend the coating's life. Using a non-stick pan in high-heat applications can damage the coating and cause it to smoke, peel, or flake.

Square Cast Iron Griddle

French skillets are used by those who desire to stick to a low-fat diet, such as sautéing low-fat oil vegetables and browning meats. Many people enjoy braising curries and rich sauces in modern French skillets because they come with lids.

Skillets come in various sizes, but the most common is a 12-inch diameter. The sloping edges of this pan make it ideal for stir-frying. Moving ingredients about in a skillet on a regular basis is another quick-cooking technique. This is the pan you use if you want to cook frittatas.

Frying pans also have a longer handle than other pans and an extra grip on the opposite side.

Next we’ll look at how the handles are attached. The frypan's handle is usually a separate piece that is either riveted, welded, or screwed on. You’ll commonly see riveted or welded handles these days instead of older screw-handles, which is found on cheap cookware or upper high-end European cookware.