Nonstick pans are a boon to our culinary world. They make cooking and cleaning much easier than traditional cookware. However, sometimes we tend to use these pans in a way that is detrimental to their longevity. In this blog post, we’ll cover basic tips for using nonstick pans properly.
What is a nonstick pan?
Nonstick pans have a special coating on the surface that minimizes the amount of food that sticks to them. This coating facilitates easy removal of food from the pan and makes cleaning a breeze. Nonstick pans are made from a variety of materials, such as aluminum, stainless steel, ceramic, and even titanium.
How to use non-stick pan correctly?
1. Preheat your pan
Every nonstick skillet needs to be preheated on medium-high heat for a few minutes before cooking. This helps the pan reach a steady temperature and distribute heat evenly. Not preheating the pan will result in uneven cooking, causing food to stick to the pan.
2. Use the correct utensils
Never use metal utensils when cooking in nonstick pans. Over time, the metal can scratch the coating and weaken it. It is best to use silicone, wood or plastic utensils to avoid damaging the pans.
3. Use minimal oil
One of the main benefits of nonstick pans is their nonstick surface quality. So there is no need to top up the pan with oil. A teaspoon of oil or cooking spray is enough. The coating on the pan can’t absorb much heat, which can cause the oil to burn or smoke, making food stick to the pan.
4. Avoid high temperature
Most nonstick pans don’t handle high heat very well. It can damage the coating, cause discoloration, and cause food to stick to the surface. Cooking over medium heat is sufficient for most foods, except when roasting meat, sautéing vegetables, or boiling water.
5. Clean with care
Cleaning is an important part of maintaining your nonstick pan. However, some clean technologies can do more harm than good. First, don’t let the pot sit in the sink for too long. This can cause the pan to rust or lose its luster. Second, never use abrasive brushes, steel wool, or harsh cleaners to clean nonstick pans, as they can strip the finish. Instead, clean it with a soft sponge, mild dish soap, and warm water.
6. Safekeeping
Nonstick pans require proper storage to keep their nonstick properties intact. Avoid stacking them with other cookware that can scratch the surface. You can use pot holders or dividers in your kitchen drawers to store them.
Why should you follow these tips?
Following these tips is critical to extending the life of your nonstick pans. Using them incorrectly can damage the surface of the pan, causing it to lose its non-stick properties. Additionally, frequent cooker replacements can be costly and environmentally harmful.
In summary
Once you know the basic tips for using a nonstick pan properly, you’ll be cooking with ease. Remember to preheat pans before cooking, use the correct utensils, use less oil, avoid high heat, clean them carefully and store them properly. Happy cooking!
Post time: Mar-16-2023
