Mastering Pan Control: Preheating and Heat Zones
Learn the essential technique of preheating your pan and utilizing heat zones to achieve perfect cooking results every time.
Notes
Understanding heat zones allows for versatile cooking within a single pan. Always use oven mitts to handle hot pans safely.
Steps
- 1 Select the right pan for your cooking needs, ensuring it's clean and dry.
- 2 Preheat your pan on medium heat for 2-3 minutes before adding any ingredients.
- 3 Create heat zones by adjusting your burner to high in one area and low in another, if your stove allows.
- 4 Add oil or butter to the hottest part of the pan and let it shimmer but not smoke.
- 5 Place delicate ingredients in the cooler zone to gently cook or keep warm.
- 6 Sear meats or quickly cook vegetables in the hotter zone for a nice crust.
- 7 Monitor the heat and adjust as needed to maintain the desired cooking temperature.
- 8 Finish cooking with a lid or move ingredients around zones to achieve even doneness.
Ingredients to explore
Almond Butter
A velvety, nutty spread crafted from finely ground almonds, offering a rich and satisfying flavor that's both comforting and indulgent.
Alfredo Sauce
Creamy, rich, and utterly indulgent, Alfredo sauce is a dreamy blend of butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Its velvety texture and savory depth make it a beloved staple in Italian-American cuisine.
Recipes to try
Maple Pecan Bread Pudding with Vanilla Sauce
Warm, spiced bread pudding drizzled with maple syrup and crunchy pecans, served with a silky vanilla sauce.
White Bean Chicken Chili with Green Chiles
A hearty, creamy chili brimming with tender chicken, buttery white beans, and a kick of smoky green chiles.