Pan-fries are a type of cooking method that involves frying food in a shallow pan with a small amount of oil. The term is often used interchangeably with sauteing, which is a similar cooking technique that also involves frying food in a pan. Pan-fries are typically cooked over medium-high heat and require frequent stirring to ensure even cooking. The result is a crispy, flavorful dish that can be served as a side or main course.