Leaving Pots Dirty Overnight
It is a common mistake for many families to enjoy their dinner and not wash the pots and pans immediately, leaving them until the next morning. This allows food residue to harden and adhere more firmly, making it more difficult to clean.
Scrubbing Pots with Steel Wool
Some people believe that black stains can be scrubbed away with steel wool. However, this is a misconception as vigorous scrubbing can damage the pot’s surface. Instead, use moderate force to avoid scratching the surface.
Washing Pots While Still Hot
If you have a habit of washing pots immediately after cooking while they are still hot, especially with non-stick cookware, it is best to break this habit. Doing so can cause deformation and damage to the non-stick coating. Always allow your pots and pans to cool down completely before washing them.
Stained and burnt cookware is a common issue for many home cooks.
Leaving an Empty Pot on a Hot Stove for Too Long
An empty pot left on a hot stove will burn and discolour, making it challenging to clean. This is especially true for non-stick cookware, which can degrade faster when exposed to temperatures between 200 – 250 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it is essential to avoid leaving an empty pot on a hot stove for an extended period.
How to Fix It
First, heat your stainless steel pot or pan on a low setting and gradually increase the temperature to high for 1-3 minutes. Then, test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water skitters and rolls, the temperature is ideal for cooking without sticking.
On the other hand, if the water only sizzles without rolling, wait for 30 seconds to let the pan reach the ideal temperature. Next, pour in some oil and heat it until it sizzles and rolls. Finally, add your food and cook as usual. If you are frying or sautéing, wait until the food is golden on one side before turning it over and cooking the other side.
Additionally, to prevent food from sticking to your stainless steel cookware, consider the following tips: Ensure that your food is completely thawed before cooking, as frozen food is more likely to stick. Also, make sure that your food is dry before placing it in the pan to improve the non-stick effect when frying or sautéing.
Notes on Using and Storing Stainless Steel Pots
Always use your pots for their intended purpose and choose the right size for your cooking needs. Do not leave pots on the heat for extended periods, as this can lead to burning and make cleaning more difficult. Avoid cooking extremely acidic or salty dishes in stainless steel pots, and refrain from using sharp objects to clean them. Instead, opt for wooden, plastic, or silicone utensils to protect the surface.
After each use, clean and dry your pots thoroughly. Avoid stacking other items on top of them to prevent scratching. For new pots, it is advisable to clean them and then boil a mixture of water and vinegar for 5-10 minutes before using them for cooking. This will enhance the taste of your dishes and prolong the life of your pots. When removing labels, avoid using sharp objects like knives or scissors. Instead, use a soft cloth and warm water to gently remove any remaining adhesive.
Source: Family & Society
