Covering A Pan: Creative Alternatives To Lids

There are many reasons why you might need to cover a pan without a lid. Perhaps you're in a hurry and can't find the right lid, or maybe your pan simply doesn't have one. Whatever the reason, there are several alternative ways to cover a pan. You can use a baking sheet, a pizza pan, a sheet of foil, or even another pan of a similar size. These methods may not provide a perfect seal, but they will do the trick in a pinch. Just remember to use a pot holder when removing any makeshift lids, as they can get very hot.

Use a baking sheet or cookie pan

Using a baking sheet or cookie pan to cover a pan is a common practice in restaurant kitchens. This method is perfect for trapping heat or steam during cooking, and it can easily cover most pots or pans without requiring a special fit. It is also a safer option than using aluminium foil, which can leech into food, especially when cooking for children or individuals with renal disease.

When using a baking sheet as a lid, it is important to ensure that the ingredients in the pan do not pile up higher than the sides, as this may cause the food to come into contact with the sheet. Always use oven mitts or a dish towel when removing the baking sheet, as it will heat up quickly from the rising steam. If your pan has handles that prevent you from setting the baking sheet upside down, place it right-side up with the rim in the air. This will create a barrier in case the pan slides.

While a baking sheet may be bulkier than a regular pot lid, it is a perfect substitute when you need to cover a pan in a pinch.

Try a pizza pan

If you're in a pinch and need to cover a pan without a lid, a pizza pan can be a great alternative. Pizza pans are typically round, which makes them a more convenient option than a baking sheet. They are also usually wider than a regular pot lid, but they will get the job done.

Pizza pans are commonly made from materials that are very heat resistant. However, they don't have stay-cool handles like regular pot lids, so always use a potholder when lifting them to avoid burning your hands.

While a pizza pan won't give you a tight-fitting seal, it's a good option if you're just looking to retain heat or steam during cooking. This makes it a good alternative to a pot lid when preparing dishes that don't require a tight seal, such as steaming rice.

So, the next time you're in a bind and need to cover a pan, don't fret! Simply reach for a pizza pan and you'll be good to go.

Use another pan

Using another pan is a great way to cover a pan without a lid. This method is commonly used in restaurant kitchens. It's a quick and easy solution that doesn't require any additional purchases or storage space. Here are some tips for using another pan as a lid:

• Choose a pan that is roughly the same size or slightly larger than the pan you need to cover. If you're using a frying pan, another frying pan of a similar size can be placed upside down on top of the first pan.
• If you're using a smaller pan, such as a skillet, a larger pan like a sheet pan or cookie pan can be used as a cover. It won't provide a tight seal, but it will trap heat and steam effectively.
• When using a larger pan as a cover, be careful not to let the handles of the two pans overlap, as this can create a larger gap and cause steam to escape. Instead, turn the handle of the top pan to the side to maximise the covered surface area.
• Always use a potholder or oven mitt when lifting the top pan, as it can get hot.
• This method works well when you need to retain heat and moisture but don't require a tight seal. For example, it's ideal for melting cheese on scrambled eggs or cooking thicker items like stuffed burgers.
• If you need a tighter seal, you can combine this method with other options, such as using parchment paper or foil. Place the parchment paper or foil on top of the pan you need to cover, then place the larger pan on top of that. This will help trap heat and moisture more effectively.

Using another pan as a lid is a simple and effective solution when you need to cover a pan without a lid. It's a common practice in restaurant kitchens and can be a handy technique to have in your cooking arsenal.

Foil works too

If you don't have a lid to hand, you can use a double sheet of foil to cover your pan. This is a good option if you need a closer fit than a sheet pan or frying pan would provide. It's a little more tricky to manipulate than a lid, but it's just as effective at trapping heat and moisture.

To use this method, tear off two sheets of aluminium foil large enough to completely cover the top opening of the pan. Once you've added your ingredients, place the foil over the pan and lightly scrunch it around the sides. It's best to do this when the pan isn't too hot, so you don't burn your fingers. Remember, you'll need to be able to lift the foil up gently to check on your food, so don't scrunch it so tightly that it's hard to remove.

If the sides of the pan are hot, protect your hands with oven mitts or a thin towel when applying the foil.

Bear in mind that aluminium can leech into food, so avoid this method if you're cooking for children or someone with renal disease.

Use a splatter shield or screen

Splatter screens are a great way to keep your stove and kitchen clean and safe while cooking. They are particularly useful when frying foods, as they prevent grease splatter from escaping the pan and creating a mess.

When choosing a splatter screen, it is important to consider the size of your pots and pans and the type of cooking you will be doing. Splatter screens come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, so you can find one that fits your needs. Some screens have features like folding handles for easy storage, while others have small feet to keep them off your countertop.

• Place the splatter screen over the top of the pan before you start cooking to prevent grease splatter from escaping.
• The mesh material of the screen will contain the grease while allowing steam to escape, so your food doesn't become soggy.
• Make sure the splatter screen is larger than the pan you are using to ensure that it catches all the grease splatter.
• If you need to stir your food or check on its progress, some splatter screens have openings or folding features that allow you to access the pan without removing the screen completely.
• Always use the handle to lift the splatter screen, and be careful of any hot grease that may have collected on it.
• Most splatter screens are dishwasher-safe, but you can also wash them by hand with hot water and dish soap.

By following these tips, you can effectively use a splatter screen to keep your kitchen clean and safe while cooking.

Frequently asked questions