Saute/səʊˈteɪ/ Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Quick Technique Saute means cooking food rapidly; it doesn't suit slow-cooked dishes. While making stir-fry, saute vegetables quickly to keep them crisp. Pro Tip 2/3Heat Level Sauteing requires moderate to high heat to ensure proper cooking. Saute the onions over high heat until they're translucent. Pro Tip 3/3Minimal Fat Using too much fat can turn sauteing into deep frying. Just a tablespoon of butter is enough to saute these mushrooms.