Grease And Non-Stick Pans: A Bad Combination?

Non-stick pans are designed to prevent food from sticking to the surface, but they do have their limits. While grease won't necessarily ruin a non-stick pan, it's important to know how to properly grease and care for your non-stick pan to maintain its quality and lifespan.

Cooking spray can cause a build-up that is hard to remove

Cooking spray is an easy-to-use and healthy alternative to traditional oils that helps prevent food from sticking to pans. However, like any other cooking ingredient, it should be used in moderation. Excessive use of cooking spray can lead to a build-up of residue that is difficult to remove and can damage the surface of the cookware. This build-up occurs due to the oils and chemicals in the cooking spray that bake into the cookware.

To prevent this build-up, it is recommended to use cooking spray sparingly and only when necessary. For instance, some recipes may not require greasing the pan before baking. Additionally, foods that already contain oil, such as bacon or sausages, may not need additional greasing. It is also important to hold the can about 6 inches away from the pan and spray in short bursts to ensure an even coating.

If you do end up with a build-up of residue on your cookware, there are a few methods to remove it. One method is to use a gentle scrub brush and mild soap. Another method is to create a mixture of vinegar and water, simmer it in the pan, and then wash the pan with soap and warm water. You can also try a DIY cleaning solution by mixing 12 oz. of warm to hot water, 12 oz. of white vinegar, essential oils (optional), 2 tbsp. of dish detergent, and steel wool. However, it is important to note that if the non-stick coating of the pan has started to break down, it may be time to replace it.

Pans should be greased before heating

Greasing a pan is an essential step in the cooking process, especially when using non-stick cookware. While non-stick pans are designed to prevent food from adhering to the cooking surface, they still require proper maintenance and care. Greasing a pan before heating it offers several benefits and helps ensure optimal cooking results. Here are some reasons why pans should be greased before heating:

Facilitates Easy Release of Food

The primary purpose of greasing a pan is to create a barrier between the pan's surface and the food being cooked. By applying a thin layer of grease, such as butter, oil, or cooking spray, you can prevent food from sticking to the pan. This is especially important when cooking delicate items like fish, eggs, or baked goods. Greasing the pan before heating it allows the fat to adhere better to the pan, creating a protective coating that keeps food from sticking.

Promotes Even Cooking and Browning

Greasing a pan also helps distribute heat more evenly across the cooking surface. When food sticks to the pan, it can create hot spots that lead to uneven cooking. By greasing the pan, you create a consistent layer that allows heat to transfer efficiently, resulting in more evenly cooked food. Additionally, greasing the pan can promote better browning and searing of your food. The grease helps to conduct heat effectively, leading to a superior sear and more flavourful dishes.

Extends the Lifespan of the Pan

Properly greasing your pan before heating can also help extend its lifespan. Non-stick pans are prone to scratching and damage if not used correctly. By greasing the pan, you provide a protective layer between the pan's surface and utensils, reducing the likelihood of scratches and maintaining the integrity of the non-stick coating. This maintenance step can help preserve the quality and longevity of your cookware.

Enhances Flavour and Texture

Greasing a pan can also enhance the flavour and texture of your dishes. Different types of grease, such as butter or various oils, can impart unique flavours to your food. Additionally, greasing the pan ensures that your food doesn't dry out or burn, resulting in a more moist and tender final product. This is especially important when cooking dishes that require delicate handling, such as omelettes or stir-fries.

Prevents Burning and Sticking

One of the main reasons pans should be greased before heating is to prevent burning and sticking. When a pan is heated without grease, the food can quickly burn and stick to the surface, making cleanup more difficult. By greasing the pan, you create a barrier that prevents food from coming into direct contact with the hot pan surface, reducing the chances of burning and making cleanup easier.

Metal utensils should not be used

Once the non-stick coating has been compromised, it is recommended that you replace the pan. To avoid this, it is best to use wooden, plastic, or silicone utensils when cooking with non-stick pans.

It is also important to note that non-stick pans should be hand-washed using a soft sponge or plastic scourer. They should not be put in the dishwasher, and you should avoid using steel wool or anything abrasive to clean them.

Pans should be washed by hand

To keep your pans in good condition, it is recommended that you wash them by hand. This is because dishwashers can warp your pans and strip away their coating, causing permanent damage.

Hand-washing your pans is simple and effective. First, allow the pan to cool completely before rinsing. Then, fill your sink with warm water and add a few squirts of dish soap. Using a sponge or washcloth, scrub the surface of the pan to remove any leftover food particles. Rinse the pan again and dry it with a clean towel or paper towel.

If your pan has burnt-on food or residue, you can try the following methods:

• Soak the pan in hot, soapy water for 10 to 15 minutes. Then, scrub the burnt areas with a dish sponge and dish soap.
• Create a mixture of white vinegar, water, and baking soda directly in your pan. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring to dissolve. Allow it to cool, then rinse the pan with warm water and scrub with a sponge and dish soap.
• If you have a cast-iron pan, avoid using detergent or soap as this will remove the seasoning. Instead, clean your pan with hot water and a stiff brush. Dry the pan immediately and apply a light coat of vegetable oil.

Remember to always use non-abrasive sponges or washcloths to avoid scratching the coating of your pans. Additionally, avoid placing hot pans under cold water as this can cause warping.

Pans should not be used for storage

Non-stick pans are convenient for cooking and cleaning, but they do have their limits. Food can still burn and stick to the surface, and the pans can be delicate and prone to scratching. To avoid ruining the non-stick coating, it is important to avoid using metal utensils, aerosol cooking sprays, and high heat.

When cleaning non-stick pans, it is crucial to let the pan cool down before rinsing with warm water and soap. Use a sponge or washcloth to scrub away any remaining food particles, then rinse and dry the pan with a clean towel. If there are burnt-on residues, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda can be used to loosen and remove them.

In terms of storage, it is best to keep pans near the stove for convenience. They can be hung on a pot rack, ceiling rack, or pegboard, or stored in a cabinet with an organiser. However, pans should not be stacked inside each other, as this can cause scratches and damage to the non-stick coating.

Additionally, the oven drawer is not a suitable place to store pans, as it tends to get very hot and can damage items made of plastic, cloth, or paper. It is important to refer to the oven's manual to determine if the drawer is designed for storage or if it is a warming or broiler drawer.

Frequently asked questions