Does a saute pan need a lid?

by Richard Calcutt
(London, UK)

Hi Chef Todd,

I am at the point where I'm investing in my first proper set of pans. However, I find that after watching your videos and reading your online info, most of the saute pans on the market (in the UK at least) are more like frying pans, and vice versa.

The pan I am seriously considering is a 28" Le C SS frying pan. However, unlike most 'saute pans' that are being sold, it does not come with a lid. So essentially, do you think I will encounter many situations that will require a lid in the saute process?

Thanks for any help.

Rich


Chef Todd Says:
A saute pan should not have a lid. Saute is a direct source, dry cooking method. You want to apply heat in an intense fashion from one source. If you put a lid on a saute pan, you're steaming or roasting the item. The heat becomes moist and convective, like poaching or braising.

Saute pans will have one handle and sloped sides. A fry pan will have one or two handles, straight sides, and a lid.

But, a 28 inch saute pan? Are you cooking for 30 people? I'd suggest a 7inch non-stick pan for omelets, and a 10inch stainless with a composite material foot on the bottom for all other saute jobs.

Chef Todd