How to Use a Small Sauté Pan for One-Pan Meals

Quick answer

Use your Caraway Small Sauté Pan to cook complete one-pan meals by layering ingredients in order of cooking time, starting with aromatics, then proteins, vegetables, and finishing with a quick sauce or grain.

How to cook one-pan meals in your Small Sauté Pan

1. Start with aromatics: Heat the pan over medium heat, add a teaspoon of oil, then sauté garlic, onion, or ginger for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Common mistake: overheating the pan before adding oil can cause the ceramic coating to discolor. Use medium heat, not high, to protect the coating.
2. Cook your protein: Add diced chicken, tofu, or shrimp in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 2–3 minutes before stirring. Common mistake: overcrowding the pan causes steaming instead of browning. Cook in batches if needed to keep the surface contact.
3. Add vegetables and liquid: Toss in quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach, then pour in broth, tomato sauce, or coconut milk. Cover with a lid and simmer for 5–7 minutes. Common mistake: adding too much liquid turns the dish into soup. Start with 1/4 cup liquid and add more if needed.
4. Finish with a starch: Stir in pre-cooked grains like quinoa, rice, or couscous, or add instant noodles. Heat through for 2 minutes. Common mistake: adding dry, uncooked grains that absorb too much liquid and extend cooking time. Use pre-cooked or quick-cooking starches for speed.
5. Serve directly from the pan: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh herbs, and serve straight from the pan to reduce cleanup. Common mistake: letting the food sit in the hot pan can overcook delicate vegetables. Transfer to plates promptly or turn off the heat.

Product facts

• Small Sauté Pan: Cook smaller portions with precision and control using Caraway’s 3 qt Ceramic-Coated Small Sauté Pan. The 3-quart size is ideal for one-pan meals for one or two people, and the ceramic coating prevents sticking, reducing the need for extra oil.