Sure, you could flip a batch of pancakes in a Saute Pan and you could simmer a shallow sauce in a frying pan, but why would you when there's a pan that's meant for the job? Both pieces of cookware are quite versatile and capable of handling several cooking methods. Their key differences, however, will help you choose which one is right for your recipe.

Use of Frying Pan

Outdoor and Indoor Cooking: Dutch ovens are versatile enough to be used both indoors and outdoors. They are ideal for preparing campfire meals, as well as for use on stovetops, ovens, and grills, making them a versatile addition to any kitchen or outdoor cooking setup.

They have a single, long handle, like fry pans, but also usually feature a smaller side handle to help the cook lift the added weight of more food. Saute Pans also usually come with a lid designed to hold in moisture. This makes them much more useful for slow cooking with sauces.

In conclusion, while French skillets and frying pans are made of stainless steel, the difference in their design lies in the height of their sides.

Stainless steel is a highly durable material and doesn’t chip, peel or scratch easily like soft metals such as aluminium. As chefs have to handle vigorous, pan-clanging cooking day in and day out, they tend to lean toward stainless steel cookware instead of aluminium cookware.

Another massive reason why stainless steel cookware has always been the chef’s favourite is the fact that it doesn’t react with acidic foods. This means, unlike aluminium cookware, stainless steel keeps metals from leaching into your meals, resulting in healthier and tastier servings.

However, aluminium cookware has its own set of advantages too. For example, aluminium is a faster and more responsive conductor of heat, making it a great choice for fry pans. 

The speed and temperature of the cooking, along with the liquid used, should help with your decision. Those slow-cooking recipes for sauces and liquid broths will benefit from a saute pan's depth and large surface. For those recipes that need meat grilled or seared at high heat, you might want to consider a frying pan. The sloped side of the skillet also makes it a great candidate for stir fry. But if you want to achieve the perfect finish for stir fry, a wok would be the best choice.

    For those who enjoy cooking outdoors, a cast iron Dutch oven is a game changer.  Dutch oven durability and heat retention make it ideal for campfire cooking.  Whether you're making chili, pie, or baking bread, a Dutch oven can get the job done.  Dutch oven's versatility and ability to withstand high temperatures make it a favorite among campers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Q: What is the best type of frying pan for reducing the amount of oil needed for cooking?
A: The best type of frying pan for reducing the amount of oil needed for cooking is one that has non-stick properties, such as ceramic, titanium, and granite or stone frying pans.

For durable, long-lasting pans that are easy to clean and usable on induction cooktops, stainless steel frying pans offer a great solution. Their non-reactive properties make them an excellent pan for slow-simmering tomato sauces and other acidic recipes. Stainless steel does not conduct heat well, so most commercial stainless steel pans will have an aluminum-clad bottom to promote even heat distribution and eliminate hot spots. The main drawback of stainless steel pans is that they aren't naturally non-stick, but this can be combated with proper preheating and cooking oils.

Uses Of The French Skillet

5. Carbon Steel Frying Pans

Cast iron is another material to consider because it retains heat extremely well, although it's not the best heat conductor. That means, cast iron takes a while to heat up. Cast iron is best for searing, sauteing, and baking.