What is the primary purpose of using a nonstick sauté pan?

The primary purpose of using a nonstick sauté pan is to prevent food from sticking. Nonstick surfaces are designed to create a barrier between the food and the pan, allowing for easy release of food items during cooking. This quality is especially important for delicate foods such as eggs, fish, and pancakes, which are prone to sticking to traditional cookware. By minimizing sticking, nonstick pans not only make it easier to flip and maneuver food but also simplify the cleaning process afterward.

While a nonstick sauté pan may indirectly contribute to cooking food faster and reducing oil absorption, those are not the primary reasons for its design. The enhancement of flavor is also not directly associated with the use of nonstick materials; rather, flavor often comes from the ingredients and cooking techniques employed. Therefore, the standout feature of a nonstick sauté pan is its ability to reduce sticking, making it a preferred choice for many cooks.