The term FRYING VESSEL can be summarized by two crossword solutions: PAN (3 letters) and WOK (3 letters). A PAN is a shallow, flat-bottomed vessel with low sides that is used for frying, sauteing, and other cooking techniques. It is usually made of metal, such as aluminum or stainless steel. A wok is a round-bottomed cooking vessel originating from China. It is used for stir-frying, deep-frying, steaming, and braising. It is typically made of cast iron or carbon steel. Both pans and woks are essential tools in the kitchen, and are used to prepare a variety of dishes.