When I think of cookware, I think of pots and pans. However, there are a lot of different types of pots and pans made for various types of cooking and different methods of creating culinary goodies.

I really don’t care to cook much and is probably because I really don’t know much about how to cook. So, I’d like to share some information that I found online about different types of pots and pans, and what they are used for.

Skillet – also known as the frying pan; as in “mama hit daddy over the head with the fryin’ pan!”. Okay, maybe that’s just my family. A typical skillet is made of material that is responsive to heat, like lined copper or stainless steel with an aluminum core. Anodized and my person favorite, cast iron, are also popular. These come in several sizes, often with a lid.

Roasting pan - generally a rectangular shape with low sides. This allows heat from the oven to expose the entire surface of the meat. Often a short rack is placed inside the roasting pan to keep the meat out of it’s own juices. Yes, this is what makes “au jus” for dipping your roast beef sandwich in. These pans are made of a variety of materials including stainless steel, aluminum with non-stick surface, clay and granite.

Saucepan – This post might call the kettle black. It’s a round pot with high straight sides and a flat bottom. It can be used for several purposes like cooking soup, stew or making sauces. There are, however, some special saucepans. Here comes the complicated, cook like you know what the hell you are doing in the kitchen, pans.  Windsor, sides that flare. Saucier, sides are rounded. I didn’t find out why or what they are specifically used for.  Saucepans come in several sizes and usually have a lid.

Stir-fry pan - a round, deep pan that may have straight sides with a slightly rounded base or more commonly a round base that slopes out and upward. Sizes and handle length can vary to match the cooking process. Heat is evenly distributed across the base while the sloping sides make it easier to stir and turn the ingredients.

Tip: Basic pot set: Large pot for cooking pastas and boiling potatoes, medium and small sauce pans, frying pans in at least 2 sizes