Stainless steel pans are popular for their durability, but they can be a nightmare to clean when food gets burnt on. This often happens when food, especially sugary, greasy, or protein-rich items, sticks to the surface and gets overheated.
However, there’s a simple trick to keeping your stainless steel pan looking pristine and usable for the long haul: with just one extra step, you can prevent stubborn burnt-on food residue.
According to KitchenAid, the trick is to use water and baking soda to clean burnt stains from stainless steel pans. When food is left to burn after frying or grilling, it can cause unsightly marks, especially when cooking meat or vegetables at high temperatures, leaving charred remains without any liquid to loosen them.
The experts say that this cleaning method combines the power of heat and friction to remove burnt-on stains from pots and pans and can be applied to most materials.
Here’s how to clean your stainless steel pan and keep it looking brand new:
Remove large food particles: Start by scraping off any large pieces of food or debris.
Boil water in the pan: Place the pan on low heat, add a cup of water, and bring it to a boil. As the water heats up, use a wooden spoon to gently scrape or “clean” the burnt residue from the bottom and sides of the pan.
Pour out the water and add baking soda: Dispose of the boiled water in the sink. Then, while the pan is still warm, sprinkle in enough baking soda to cover the burnt areas, and let it cool.
Scrub the pan: Once the pan is cool, use a brush or sponge to scrub away the residue. Rinse and dry the pan as usual.
The experts also advise keeping it simple when cleaning stainless steel. “Citrus- or vinegar-based cleaning products can be damaging, so the baking soda method is a great way to harness heat for effective cleaning. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific cleaning tips and ensure that the detergent you choose won’t harm your cookware.”
Tips to Prevent Burning in Stainless Steel Pans
To avoid the hassle of cleaning burnt stainless steel pans, consider the following tips:
Temperature control: Use medium to medium-high heat for most cooking, avoiding extremely high temperatures, especially when heating an empty pan.
Use sufficient fat: Ensure you’re using enough oil, butter, or other fats when cooking to create a protective layer between the food and the pan, preventing sticking and burning.
Avoid overcrowding the pan: When cooking meat, for example, don’t overcrowd the pan, as this can trap steam and cause food to stick and burn.
Clean the pan promptly: After cooking, use a small amount of liquid and baking soda to clean the pan and prevent burnt-on food residue from building up.
Regular cleaning: Maintaining a regular cleaning routine by washing your pan after each use prevents food buildup and the likelihood of burning.
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