Tips

Have You Been Using Your Non-Stick Pan the Right Way?

"A non-stick pan is an essential kitchen tool for any household. However, not everyone knows how to use and care for a non-stick pan properly to ensure its longevity and safety. Read on as we share tips and tricks on getting the most out of your non-stick cookware."

Administrator

28 July, 2024

1 How to Use a Non-Stick Pan

– Avoid using too much oil or grease when frying foods

[captionnews]Avoid using too much oil or grease when frying with a non-stick pan[/captionnews]

Not only is this healthier for you, but it also helps protect the surface of the pan. Non-stick pans are designed so that you don’t need to use a lot of oil to prevent food from sticking, and you can even cook some foods in a non-stick pan without adding any oil at all.

Cooking with excessive oil or grease will increase the temperature of the pan, which can negatively impact its durability.

– Don’t add oil to a hot pan

For non-stick pans, if you wait until the pan is very hot before adding oil, the sudden contact with high heat can affect and cause the non-stick coating to peel. The correct way to do it is to add oil to the pan when it’s still cold, and let the oil heat up along with the pan on the stove.

– Cook on low or medium heat

[captionnews]Cook on low or medium heat when using a non-stick pan[/captionnews]

Different types of non-stick pans can withstand different levels of heat depending on the material used for the coating. At very high temperatures, the non-stick coating can break down and release harmful toxins that may cause cancer.

Therefore, avoid using a non-stick pan for cooking methods such as grilling, caramelizing sugar, or charring foods. Don’t cook on high heat, and avoid direct flames on the pan. Also, don’t heat the pan on an empty stove without oil or food inside.

While non-stick pans from reputable brands are certified as safe for health, it’s still recommended to avoid cooking on high heat to prolong the lifespan of the pan and protect its non-stick coating.

– Don’t scrub the surface of the non-stick pan with hard, sharp objects

[captionnews]Use wooden utensils when handling a non-stick pan[/captionnews]

Metal utensils with sharp or rough edges can scratch the non-stick surface. So, when using a non-stick pan, be gentle, and it’s best to use wooden utensils with smooth, rounded edges to protect the non-stick coating.

2 How to Clean and Care for Your Non-Stick Pan

– Don’t wash the pan immediately after frying

Right after frying, the pan is still very hot. Sudden contact with cold water can cause a rapid change in temperature, leading to the non-stick coating peeling off. Let the pan cool down a bit before adding water to soak any remaining food residue, making it easier to clean the pan gently.

– Use a soft sponge to wash the pan

[captionnews]Use a soft sponge to clean your non-stick pan[/captionnews]

Avoid using abrasive sponges, as they can scratch and damage the non-stick surface.

– Hang the non-stick pan separately at a higher level

[captionnews]Hanging the non-stick pan higher is a good way to protect its surface[/captionnews]

This is considered the best way to store a non-stick pan. Hanging the pan higher will prevent other utensils from rubbing against its surface, causing scratches or deformities. If you store the pan with other utensils, make sure not to stack it with other pots and pans.

– Replace the non-stick pan when the surface starts to peel

Once the non-stick coating starts to peel and food starts sticking to the pan in patches, it’s time to replace it. Even with careful use, the coating will continue to peel, and the flakes may end up in your food, which is not good for your health.

On average, a non-stick pan can last for about 2 years, or 3 years if you take good care of it.

This article has provided you with some essential knowledge on how to use and care for your non-stick pan to make it last longer and ensure safe cooking. Using your kitchen tools correctly is an important part of making delicious meals.

Frequently asked questions

A good quality non-stick pan will have a smooth, even surface with no bumps or scratches. It should also be adequately thick and heavy, with a comfortable handle that doesn’t get too hot during cooking. Look for pans with multiple layers of non-stick coating and a reputation for durability.

Always use wooden, silicone, or plastic utensils with non-stick pans. Metal utensils can scratch and damage the non-stick coating. Silicone utensils are a great option as they are heat-resistant and won’t scratch the surface.

It’s not recommended to put your non-stick pan in the dishwasher. The harsh detergents and high temperatures can damage the non-stick coating. Instead, hand wash your pan with warm soapy water and a soft sponge or cloth. Make sure to dry it thoroughly after washing.

One common mistake is using too much heat. Non-stick pans should be used over medium or low heat, as high temperatures can damage the coating and make it less effective. Another mistake is using cooking sprays, which can build up and make the pan sticky over time. Instead, use a small amount of oil or butter for lubrication.

Proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial for the longevity of your non-stick pan. Always allow the pan to cool down before cleaning and avoid using steel wool or abrasive cleaning agents. For burnt-on food, soak the pan in warm soapy water and then use a soft sponge to gently remove any residue. You can also use a paste made from baking soda and water to gently scrub the pan clean.