How to Buy an Electric Frying Pan

Electric frying pans are good to have around the house for those "just in case" cooking times, and can be used both indoors and outdoors. They come in handy at upscale tailgating parties, and provide additional cooking help during holiday meal preparation.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Determine the size you want to buy. If you're not sure what size you'll need, it's better to buy an electric frying pan that's too large rather than too small.

2. Select the type of surface you prefer. Just like frying pans used on the stove, electric frying pans come with a choice of non-stick or traditional surfaces. Use your preference for stove top frying pans to help you decide.

3. Choose an electric frying pan with an insulated handle. Some electric frying pans come with stainless steel handles, while other ones come with heat resistant insulated handles. Unless you're sure you'll always have a potholder with you when you're cooking, it's best to buy an electric frying pan with a heat resistant stainless steel handle.

4. Look for the UL approval seal, which means that the electric frying pan was rigorously tested and meets the requirements as set forth by the Underwriters Laboratory for safety. If the electric frying pan doesn't have the UL seal, don't buy it.

Tips & Warnings

• Some new non-stick coatings are safe for use with metal utensils.

• An electric frying pan may also be sold under as an electric skillet, depending upon your region and the store you buy from.