Sautee is a cooking technique that involves quickly frying food in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. This method allows ingredients, such as vegetables or meats, to cook evenly while retaining their flavor and texture. The term comes from the French word "sauter," which means "to jump," referring to how food often jumps in the pan as it cooks. To achieve the best results when sautéing, it's important to preheat the pan and use the right type of oil, such as olive oil or butter. Chefs often add ingredients in stages, starting with those that take longer to cook, to ensure everything is perfectly done.