Frying Pan vs Skillet: Which one should you choose?

Two kitchen essentials that often confuse home chefs are the frying pan and the skillet. Are they the same, or do they serve different purposes? Which one should you choose when starting to cook.

Before diving into the comparison, let’s establish a clear understanding of what each of these kitchen workhorses is:

Features of a Frying Pan:

Shape: Frying pans typically feature shallow, sloping sides that make it easier to flip and toss food.

Versatility: They are incredibly versatile and can handle a variety of cooking tasks, from sautéing and searing to frying and making stir-fries.
Materials: Frying pans come in various materials, including stainless steel, non-stick, cast iron, and more.

Features of a Skillet:

Shape: Skillets have straight, high sides that are perfect for tasks that involve liquids, like simmering or making sauces.

Versatility: They are excellent for one-pot meals, such as casseroles and frittatas, and can seamlessly transition from stovetop to oven.

Materials: Skillets are also available in a range of materials, with cast iron and stainless steel being popular choices.

Key differences

Now that we know the basics let’s delve into the key differences between frying pans and skillets:

Cooking Techniques:

Frying Pan: Ideal for quick, high-heat cooking methods like searing and stir-frying. The sloped sides make flipping and sliding food a breeze.
Photo by Dana Tentis
Skillet: Great for recipes that involve simmering, baking, or cooking in sauces. The higher sides prevent splattering and allow you to work with more liquid.

Food Types:

The Frying Pan is perfect for cooking foods that benefit from a quick, even sear, like steaks, chicken breasts, or vegetables.
The Skillet is best suited for dishes that involve more liquid, such as paellas, stews, and dishes that require slow cooking.

Cleanup:

Frying Pan: Non-stick frying pans are generally easier to clean, but they may not last as long as their cast iron counterparts.
Skillet: Cast iron skillets require special care to maintain their seasoning but can last a lifetime if properly cared for.

Which One Should You Choose?

The decision between a frying pan and a skillet ultimately depends on your cooking style and the types of dishes you love to prepare. Here are some guidelines:

Choose a Frying Pan If:

– You prefer quick and high-heat cooking methods.- You want something versatile that can handle a variety of dishes.
– Easy cleanup is a priority.
Choose a Skillet If:

– You enjoy slow-cooked meals with lots of sauces and liquids.- You like the idea of transitioning from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
– You’re willing to invest time in seasoning and maintaining cast iron.