Skillets and frying pans are the most commonly confused pieces of cookware. While they have a similar shape and come in almost the same sizes, there are some differences between the two. Understanding the differences between the two can help you figure out whether to use a skillet or a frying pan for different recipes.
The major difference between a skillet and a frying is that skillets are deeper than frying pans. Skillets are suitable for braising curries and thick sauces, and they have a lid. On the other hand, a frying pan has a flat bottom, which makes it perfect for browning, frying, and searing. They also don't have a lid.
Let us now check each of the cookware in detail to know many more major differences between a skillet and a frying pan.
What Is A Skillet?
A skillet is a little deeper in its design as compared to a frying pan. Additionally, the pan comes with a lid which enhances cooking.
Besides, it is excellent for preparing omelets, crepes, and stir-fries, among other similar foods. Moreover, you can choose to cook an entire dinner with a skillet.
You can find various types of skillets that consist of different materials. You can choose to buy aluminum skillets, cast-iron, copper, stainless, and carbon steel.
What Are The Types Of Skillets?
There are various types of skillets in the market based on the material used to make them. In this section, we will take you through different types of skillets that you can consider buying.
Stainless Steel Skillets:
Most professional chefs love stainless skillets. This is because they offer excellent and exciting features. Additionally, stainless material is very versatile, durable, and thus lasts longer. Moreover, the material is free from harmful chemicals as it is safe to use. If you are very good at cooking, you will find this material robust and suitable.
Aluminum Skillets:
Aluminum material is also great for cooking. However, with this kind of material, you need to watch the temperature. It is because aluminum does not work well with high temperatures. Besides, the material is safe for use.
Cast Iron Skillets:
The material is sturdy and extremely powerful for cooking services. It might not be a perfect conductor, but it retains heat when you remove it from a heat source. However, the cast-iron might require a lot of maintenance. But with proper seasoning, the material displays a natural non-stick look. It is also a great type of skillet to consider.
Benefits Of Using Skillets:
What Is A Frying Pan?
A frying pan is a flat-bottomed pan used for searing, frying, and browning different foods. You can use the frying pan to prepare separate meals of your choice. It features an excellent design that measures 20 to 30 centimeters and is available in different materials. For instance, we have stainless material, non-stick, and ceramic, among others.
What Are The Types Of Frying Pans?
Choosing a frying pan might be a challenge if you have no idea of what to consider. Check it out to understand some details on the types of frying pans in the market.
Non-Stick Frying Pan:
It is one of the suitable options to watch out for if you intend to achieve healthy cooking. Moreover, its non-stick surface allows you to use less amount of oil when cooking. Additionally, the material is suitable for use with foods that require less amount of heat to cook.
Aluminum Frying Pan:
The type of frying pan is versatile, lightweight, and extremely sturdy. Besides, aluminum is durable and non-reactive. Additionally, it is safe for Oven and electric cooktops. Moreover, there are different types of aluminum that needs various maintenance.
Stainless Steel Frying Pan:
Stainless material is good as it offers low maintenance. Additionally, the material does not react with foods; thus, you can prepare any meal. Moreover, it is resistant to corrosion and rust; therefore, it can last for long. It is also safe for any type of cooking purposes.
Benefits Of Using Frying Pans:
Major Differences Between A Skillet And A Frying Pan:
A major notable difference between a skillet and s frying pan is the shape. A skillet features a shorter design, and the sides are curved. On the other hand, a frying pan has vertical and straight sides.
Another difference is that skillets are deeper than frying pans. When it comes to frying pans, its primary purpose is cooking and searing foods. Skillets are suitable for grilling, stewing, roasting, and sautéing foods. Lastly, skillets have a lid while a frying pan lacks the lid.
Frequently Asked Questions - FAQs
Q: Can you use a frying pan like a skillet?
A: If you are wondering if you can use a frying pan in a skillet position, then the answer might be yes. It depends on the food type you would prefer to cook. Also, consider the kind of cooking method before you decide to swap the cookware.
Q: What can I use if I don't have a cast-iron skillet?
A: You can consider using any Owen-like skillet that is safe for healthy cooking. Besides, you can also use a pan as it will serve a similar purpose as a skillet.
Q: Which frying pan is best?
A: There are various types of frying pans in the market, and finding the best might be a challenge. You should conduct some research on what to consider before buying a pan. Then you probably should be able to choose one according to your preferences.
Q: What size frying pan should I buy?
A: The size of frying you should buy depends on your needs. However, buying a big frying pan will be of many advantages as compared to a small one. That means that with a big pan, you can cook dinner for several people.
Q: How good are ceramic frying pans?
A: They are lovely. It is because ceramic frying pans do not come with any chemicals. Moreover, it offers 100 % safety cooking. Read :
Best Ceramic Cookware Sets Reviews & Buying Guides.
Q: Do frying pans have lids?
A: No frying pans do not come with lids. However, if you want to make a lid for your frying pan, you can achieve it.
Q: What is considered a large frying pan?
A: A 12-inch frying a pan might be considered as a large pan. It is because the pan can be able to accommodate a large amount of food without overcrowding the pan.
Q: Are non-stick fry pans safe?
A: Yes, non-stick fry pans are safe to cook any type of meal. However, you need to maintain them highly.
Final Words:
Skillets and frying pans have similar features and might serve a particular purpose for cooking some types of foods. Besides, note that the two also come with differences, as discussed above. After comparing a frying pan and a skillet, I believe you now understand the differences between them.
Hello, This is Annie Walker, a 36-year-old blogger, founder, and editor of Cookware Guider from NY, USA. I am a cookware fanatic and passionate cooker. I love to cook with different types of cooking appliances (example: all types of cookware, rice cookers, slow cookers, etc) almost every day in my kitchen. I love to share my experience with my readers in my blog. Also, I enjoy helping people to solve their problems through my website. You can follow me on Twitter & Pinterest. To know details about my blog please check the about us page.