Equipment
Choose the Right Pan for the Task
Match the pan to the cooking method. A broad skillet encourages evaporation; a tall saucepan contains liquids and splashes.
What you need
- A skillet
- A saucepan
- A sheet pan
- An oven-safe dish
Put it into practice
Check whether handles and coatings are oven-safe before using the oven. Heat an empty nonstick pan only according to its manufacturer instructions.
The detail that makes a difference
You do not need a large collection to cook varied meals. Begin with the sizes you actually use and add tools when a recurring task justifies them.
Make it work in your kitchen
Start with a small batch and taste as you go. Keep a note of the ingredients and proportions you prefer so you can repeat the result. For substitutions, consider texture and cooking time as well as flavor; a softer ingredient often needs less time than a firm one.
These are practical cooking guides, not laboratory-tested recipes. Cooking times vary with ingredients, equipment and portion size. Follow package instructions where applicable.