frying pan

A stainless steel frying pan

A frying pan, also called frypan or skillet, is a flat-bottomed cookware used for frying, searing and browning foods. It typically ranges from 20 to 30 cm (8 to 12 in) in diameter with relatively low sides that flare outwards, a long handle and no lid. Larger pans may have a small loop handle on the opposite side to the main handle. A pan of similar dimensions, but with less flared, more vertical sides and often with a lid, is called a sauté pan. While a sauté pan can be used as a frying pan, it is designed for lower-heat cooking.