Frying means cooking by immersion in hot fat. Sauteing means cooking by the direct heat of a pan. ... In sauteing there usually is some fat or oil in the pan, primarily to keep the item being sauteed from sticking, and to give flavor.

What is the primary difference between sautéing?

The only true difference between a sauté and a pan fry is that in a sauté, the food is cut into small pieces and in a pan fry, it is left in larger pieces, like a fillet. The only difference between a shallow fry and a deep fry is the depth of the oil.

Is sautéing healthier than frying?

Studies show that during deep-fat frying, fat penetrates the food and vegetables dehydrate. But sauteing in a bit of healthy cooking oil, such as extra-virgin olive oil, is a great way to cook many vegetables. ... Control the temperature of your olive oil when sauteing to increase nutritient absportion.