Having the right equipment can make all the difference when it comes to cooking. And one kitchen essential that every home cook should have is a frying pan or skillet. These versatile pans can be used for various cooking methods, from sautéing and frying to braising and baking. But what are some dishes that you can only cook with it? Here are thirteen delicious ideas to inspire you:
- Frittatas
A frittata is an Italian-style omelette that’s typically cooked in a skillet. The key to a perfect frittata is to cook it on the stovetop, then finish it in the oven to ensure it’s evenly cooked throughout.
- Pancakes
Whether you prefer fluffy buttermilk pancakes or thin crepes, a frying pan is essential for cooking them to perfection. The even heat distribution of a good quality pan ensures that your pancakes are cooked evenly on both sides.
- Shakshuka
Shakshuka is a Middle Eastern dish with poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce. It’s usually served with bread for dipping, making it a perfect brunch or breakfast dish.
- Burgers
Fry pans are perfect for cooking burgers as they allow you to sear the meat on high heat and then finish cooking it on a lower heat. A good quality fry pan also allows you to cook multiple burgers simultaneously.
- Steak
A good quality fry pan is essential for cooking steak as it allows you to sear the meat on high heat and finish cooking it to your desired doneness. Its even heat distribution ensures your steak is cooked evenly on both sides.
- Pan Pizza
Pizza is usually associated with an oven, but it’s possible to make a delicious pizza right in a skillet. Simply roll out the dough and add your favourite toppings, then cook on the stovetop until the crust is crispy and the cheese is melted.
- Quesadillas
Quesadillas are a Mexican dish that consists of a tortilla filled with cheese, meat, and vegetables. They’re usually cooked on a griddle or in a skillet and are the perfect comfort food.
- Stir-Fries
A stir-fry is a quick and easy meal that can be made with almost any combination of vegetables, meat, and sauce. And using a frying pan ensures that everything cooks evenly and quickly.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches
Who doesn’t love a good grilled cheese sandwich? And using a skillet allows you to get the bread crispy and the cheese melted just right.
- Crab Cakes
Crab cakes are a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion. Meanwhile, using a good quality pan ensures that the cakes get a crispy exterior while remaining moist and flavourful on the inside.
- Huevos Rancheros
Huevos Rancheros is a classic Mexican breakfast dish that consists of eggs, tortillas, and a spicy tomato sauce. And cooking the eggs in a skillet ensures that they cook evenly and that the yolks remain runny.
- Beef Stroganoff
Beef Stroganoff is a hearty Russian dish that’s perfect for a cold winter evening. Browning the meat ensures that it gets a nice sear, while the sauce can be simmered and reduced to perfection.
- Skillet Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic Southern dish that’s usually baked in a cast iron skillet. So using a fry pan allows you to achieve the same crispy crust and moist, fluffy interior without heating up the oven.
In conclusion, a frying pan is a versatile kitchen essential that can be used to cook a variety of dishes. And whether you’re in the mood for a frittata, shakshuka, or quesadillas, a skillet can help you achieve the perfect result. So next time you’re in the kitchen, consider reaching for your trusty fry pan and experimenting with some new recipes.
