Q:What’s the difference between a saute pan and a skillet?
A.A saute pan and a skillet can usually be used interchangeably, but there are some differences between the two. Saute pans are generally deeper and feature straight sides with a flat bottom that provides a large cooking surface. Nearly all come with a lid. Skillets are shallow and have sloped slides. They often don’t include a cover. Because of a saute pan’s taller sides, they work better for recipes that have a large liquid component.
Q: "Why does everything stick to my stainless steel pans?"
A: Stainless steel pans have pores in them and when heated these pores open and close during the heating process. If your pan is not heated properly and you put your chicken (or what have you) in the pan, the opening and closing pores will latch onto your food, causing it to stick when you go to flip it.
Q: "Why do chefs use stainless steel pans?"
A: Chefs, professional cooks, and restaurants use stainless steel cookware. They prefer it because it’s practically indestructible. The construction and material offer superior heat distribution, and when used properly, a stainless steel pan can keep food from sticking.
Q: "What is the best way to cook with stainless steel to avoid food sticking?"
A: The trick to making a stainless steel non-stick can be summarized as ‘hot pan, cold oil’. Preheat the pan thoroughly on a low to medium heat till you can place a hand above the pan and feel the heat rising. Add a bit of oil at room temperature, just enough to coat the bottom of the pan. Wait for the oil to become hot until you see wisps of vapor or the oil shows runs (legs) down the pan before adding your food (You may also listen for the oil to sizzle - this indicates the pan is ready). Then follow the recipe as directed. These processes will help you caramelize, create fonds, and attain a crisp crust you cant generally duplicate in nonstick pans. It also helps to ensure foods are as dry as possible before cooking, especially when using oil – to avoid undue splattering.
Q: "Do I need to season my stainless steel pans when I get them?"
A: Your tri-ply stainless steel pans simply need an initial soapy water wash with 1/4 cup of vinegar to remove any traces of manufacturing oils, then rinse and they are ready to go. They do not require any seasoning.
Q: "What is the best way to clean LOLYKITCH Kitchen Cookware?"
A: Your cookware is dishwasher safe; however, we recommend hand washing to preserve the beautiful finish. Remember always to allow cookware to cool to room temperature before cleaning and follow these guidelines:
To remove stubborn stains or stuck-on food, rinse pan with water. Make a paste of water and a non-abrasive, non-chlorine stainless steel cleanser such as Barkeeper’s Friend. Using a damp paper towel, rub cleanser paste in a circular motion. Wash in warm soapy water, rinse and dry. Discoloration: Using excessive heat can cause heat tints of blue or golden brown on stainless steel. These can be removed with a stainless steel cleanser, as mentioned above.