The Non-Stick Pan Conundrum: Oil Or No Oil?

Non-stick pans are a handy tool in the kitchen, especially for beginner cooks. While it is possible to cook without oil in a non-stick pan, the protective layer will eventually start to degrade. Adding some oil will not only protect the pan's surface but will also enhance the flavour of the food. It is recommended to rub about a teaspoon of oil or butter on a cold pan each time before use.

Non-stick pans do need oil to protect the surface layer and enhance flavour

Protecting the Pan's Surface

Non-stick pans are coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), which acts as a barrier to prevent food from sticking to the metal surface. However, this protective layer can degrade over time, especially if the pan is not properly seasoned or cared for. By adding a small amount of oil or butter to the pan before cooking, you can enhance the non-stick properties of the pan and prolong its lifespan. This is because the oil acts as a lubricant, filling in any pores or micro-scratches in the surface, and preventing food from sticking.

Enhancing Flavour

Butter or cooking oil is often used in recipes to add flavour to dishes. Using a small amount of oil or butter in your non-stick pan can improve the taste of your food, making it more flavourful and appetising. Additionally, oil or butter can speed up the cooking process by helping to cook the parts of the food that are not in direct contact with the pan's surface.

Tips for Using Oil in Non-Stick Pans

• Choose the right type of oil: Common choices include olive oil, canola oil, vegetable oil, grape seed oil, coconut oil, sunflower oil, and butter. If you are following a clean-eating diet, virgin olive oil and virgin coconut oil are considered healthier options.
• Avoid cooking sprays: Cooking sprays can leave a sticky buildup on your pan that is difficult to remove. Instead, use a small amount of oil or butter.
• Add oil to a cold pan: Before heating your non-stick pan, add a teaspoon of oil or butter to the pan and rub it with a paper towel. This will enhance the non-stick effects and prevent the pan from emitting unhealthy fumes.
• Don't overuse oil: A little oil goes a long way in a non-stick pan. Too much oil can make your food greasy and may defeat the purpose of using a non-stick pan.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions: Refer to the manual or care instructions that came with your non-stick pan. Some companies may have specific recommendations or restrictions on the type of oil to use.

Cooking spray is not recommended for non-stick pans

Non-stick pans are extremely useful in the kitchen, especially for whipping up frittatas, pancakes, stir-fries, or anything that might stick to the pan. However, despite the name, non-stick pans do need a little extra care.

It is important to note that cooking sprays are not recommended for non-stick pans. While convenient, cooking sprays can damage the non-stick finish of your pan. They leave a stubborn film that adheres to the non-stick surface and is difficult to remove with conventional soap and water cleaning methods. Over time, this buildup of residue can compromise the pan's performance, and food may start to stick.

The issue lies in the composition of cooking sprays, which often contain additives, propellants, and lecithin. When applied to a heated non-stick pan, these sprays may leave a residue that accumulates over time. This buildup can pose challenges for removal through standard cleaning methods. Additionally, certain cooking sprays may break down at elevated temperatures, resulting in the deposition of a sticky residue that negatively impacts the non-stick coating. The chemical composition of these sprays can interact with the non-stick surface, potentially compromising its integrity.

Therefore, it is best to avoid using cooking sprays on your non-stick pans. Instead, opt for a small amount of oil or butter, or use a refillable manual oil mister, which can be filled with your preferred cooking oil. Add the oil or butter to a cold pan before heating to enhance the non-stick effects and prevent the emission of potentially unhealthy fumes.

Pans should be seasoned before use

Seasoning a pan is a crucial step in maintaining its non-stick properties and preventing rust. Seasoning a pan is the process of creating a natural, non-stick coating on the surface of the cookware. This is done by applying a thin layer of oil and heating the pan to a specific temperature, which polymerizes the oil and forms a protective layer that prevents food from sticking.

How to season a pan:

• Wash and dry your pan. Give the pan a good scrub with warm, soapy water, then dry it thoroughly.
• Rub it all over with oil and buff well. Using a paper towel, coat the pan with a neutral oil like canola, vegetable oil, or corn oil, including the bottom and handle of the pan. Wipe away all excess oil so no pooling oil is visible — the oil should just coat the metal. The pan should feel practically dry to the touch.
• Heat the pan in the oven. Place the oiled pan in an oven preheated to between 300 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes to an hour. It may get a little smoky, so keep your kitchen well-ventilated.
• Repeat the oiling-and-heating process. This will set down a good initial layer of seasoning.
• Allow the pan to cool. Once the designated time has passed, turn off the oven and allow the pan to cool completely.
• Wipe down the pan with a clean cloth. Your pan is now seasoned and ready for use!

• Before your first use.
• When food starts to stick to the surface.
• When the surface of the pan starts to look grey.
• When rust is starting to form on the surface.

Other tips for using and maintaining non-stick pans:

• Cook on low or medium heat. The maximum recommended temperature for cooking with a non-stick pan is 500 Fahrenheit.
• Don't use metal utensils on your non-stick pan. Metal utensils can damage the non-stick surface as they are sharp and can scratch or scrape the top coating.
• Say no to cooking sprays. Cooking sprays create a permanent build-up on the pan which becomes impossible to clean.
• Never preheat an empty non-stick pan. Heating an empty non-stick pan will cause irreversible damage to it.
• Wash your non-stick pan using a soft sponge by hand.
• Don't leave them soaked overnight. It's better to wash the pan before heading off to bed.
• Replace your non-stick pans every couple of years.

Avoid using sharp or abrasive objects on non-stick pans

Non-stick pans are a handy tool in the kitchen, especially for beginner cooks. However, they can be easily damaged if not used and stored properly. One of the most important things to remember when using non-stick pans is to avoid using sharp or abrasive objects on their surfaces. This includes both cooking and cleaning.

When cooking with non-stick pans, it is best to use wooden or silicone utensils such as spoons, spatulas, and bamboo or plastic utensils. Metal utensils, knives, and sharp objects should never be used as they can scratch and damage the non-stick coating. Even a small scratch can impact the pan's ability to remain non-sticky and can result in the coating peeling or pitting, which would then require you to replace the pan.

When cleaning non-stick pans, it is important to be gentle and avoid using harsh cleaning tools such as steel wool, scouring pads, or abrasive sponges. These can easily scratch and damage the coating. Instead, opt for soft sponges, soft-bristled brushes, microfiber towels, or non-metallic sponges to clean your non-stick pans gently.

It is also worth noting that while some non-stick pans claim to be dishwasher-safe, hand washing them is generally a better option. The super-hot water and harsh detergents in dishwashers can accelerate the deterioration of the non-stick coating.

By avoiding sharp and abrasive objects, you can help prolong the life of your non-stick pans and maintain their effectiveness.

Hand-wash non-stick pans instead of using a dishwasher

Non-stick pans are a handy tool in the kitchen, especially for beginner cooks. They are easy to use and clean. However, it is easy to damage and ruin non-stick pans if used and stored incorrectly.

Avoid using a dishwasher

Although some non-stick pans are labelled as dishwasher-safe, it is best to avoid using a dishwasher to clean non-stick pans. The high heat and harsh detergents can ruin the coating on the pan. The coating on the pan will deteriorate much faster than if the pan is washed by hand.

How to hand-wash non-stick pans

• Wash your non-stick pan by hand after every use with mild, soft soap and a soft cloth or sponge.
• Rinse the pan with lukewarm water, as hot temperatures can shorten the life of your pan.
• If there is burnt food stuck to the pan, soak it in warm, soapy water for 10-20 minutes, then hand-wash it.
• Treat stubborn burnt-on food by applying a paste made from baking soda and water. Dab the paste onto the area and let it sit for 15 minutes, then rinse it away.
• Dry your pan immediately by hand. Don't put your pan away while it's still wet.
• Use paper towels or a soft dishcloth to dry your pan.

Frequently asked questions