The deep straight sides of this 3 Quart Saute Pan gives you enough room to sear meats, and then add liquid to stew or braise. The heavy gauge, hard-anodized aluminum provides even heating - no hot spots! The TOTAL nonstick system allows food to cook and release on the entire surface of the pan, but raised circles (the “Hi” area) allow a fraction of the cooking surface to take the abuse of utensils, protecting the majority of the cooking surface (the “Low” area) from abrasion. The advanced nonstick exterior ensures easy cleanup.