Cleaning Tawa Pans: Simple Steps For Sparkling Cookware

Tawa pans are a popular cookware item, especially in Indian kitchens, due to their ability to cook crispy, non-sticky food. However, like any other pan, they can be a challenge to clean, especially when food is burnt or stuck to the surface. Here are some tips to help you clean your tawa pan effectively.

Use vinegar and baking soda

If your tawa pan is visibly charred, a mixture of vinegar and baking soda should help loosen and remove any black residue. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Create the Mixture

Create a mixture of white vinegar, water, and baking soda directly in your tawa pan. Pour in enough water to cover the bottom of the pan, along with a 1:1 ratio of white vinegar and baking soda (2 tablespoons each is a good starting point).

Step 2: Boil the Mixture

Place the pan on the stove and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue stirring for about 5 minutes to encourage any burnt residue to loosen.

Step 3: Cool the Mixture

After boiling for 5 minutes, remove the pan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool completely.

Step 4: Rinse the Pan

Once the mixture has cooled, discard the vinegar solution and rinse the pan with warm water.

Step 5: Wash the Pan

Continue with regular washing by adding some dish soap to the pan and using a sponge to scrub away any remaining residue. Rinse the pan again with warm water.

Step 6: Dry the Pan

Finally, dry the tawa pan using a soft cloth or a clean dish towel.

Additional Tips:

• It is recommended to wash your tawa pan properly after each use to prevent the accumulation of grime and to maintain its health benefits.
• Avoid soaking the tawa pan in water for an extended period, as this can lead to rusting.
• Always use a soft sponge or scrubber to clean the tawa pan to prevent scratching the surface and removing the top layer.
• When cooking, use wooden or silicone utensils instead of metal ones to avoid scratching the pan.
• Store your iron tawa in a dry place when not in use, and avoid placing heavy objects on top of it.

Avoid harsh detergents

When cleaning a tawa pan, it is important to avoid harsh detergents. This is because tawa pans are susceptible to damage from harsh cleaning products. Strong detergents can strip away the seasoning on a tawa pan, which is what gives it its non-stick properties. The more seasoned a tawa pan is, the better its non-stick properties are. Therefore, using harsh detergents can make your tawa pan less non-stick over time.

Harsh detergents can also cause rusting. Tawa pans are susceptible to rusting if they come into contact with water or moisture, and harsh detergents can speed up this process. To prevent rusting, it is important to dry your tawa pan immediately after washing and to rub it with oil.

In addition, harsh detergents can scratch the surface of your tawa pan. This is especially true if you use a harsh scrubber, such as steel wool, to apply the detergent. Scratches on the surface of your tawa pan can impact its performance and make it more difficult to clean.

Instead of using harsh detergents, opt for mild dish soap and a soft sponge or cloth when cleaning your tawa pan. This will effectively remove any residue without damaging the pan.

Wash by hand

To clean a tawa pan by hand, start by washing it by hand after every use. Avoid using a dishwasher, even if the manufacturer labels it as dishwasher-safe. Instead, opt for a mild, soft soap and a soft cloth or sponge. Lukewarm water is best—avoid hot water as it can shorten the life of your pan.

If there is burnt food stuck to the pan, squirt about a teaspoon of dish soap into the pan, place it in a stopped-up sink, and fill the sink with warm water. Let the pan soak for ten to twenty minutes, then hand wash it. Dish soap helps to remove bacteria and break up grease and residue.

For stubborn gunk, create a paste with equal parts water and baking soda. Dip a non-metallic brush or sponge into the paste and gently apply it to the sides and interior of the pan. Allow the paste to sit for fifteen minutes, then rinse the pan thoroughly. Avoid using steel wool or any metallic sponge to scrub the pan, as baking soda is abrasive and can scratch and damage the coating.

Another method for removing burnt-on food is to heat oil and salt in the pan. Pour two tablespoons of vegetable-based oil into the pan and heat it over medium heat. Add three tablespoons of salt, then lift the pan from the heat and shake until the oil and salt are evenly distributed. Once the pan has cooled, follow up with hand washing.

Always dry your tawa pan by hand with paper towels or a soft dish rag. Never put your pan away while it’s still wet, as this can cause rusting.

Soak in warm, soapy water

To clean a tawa pan, you'll need to soak it in warm, soapy water. This is a simple yet effective method for removing minor burns and stains from your tawa pan. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Prepare the Soaking Solution

Fill your sink with warm water and add a mild dish soap. Squirt about a teaspoon of dish soap into the water and use your hand to mix it, creating a soapy solution. Avoid using hot water as it can damage the pan's surface.

Step 2: Soak the Tawa Pan

Submerge the tawa pan completely in the warm, soapy water. Ensure that the stained or burnt areas are fully covered by the soaking solution. Let the pan soak for at least ten to twenty minutes. The longer it soaks, the more effective it will be at loosening the stuck-on food and stains.

Step 3: Wash and Rinse the Pan

After soaking, remove the tawa pan from the sink and wash it gently with a soft sponge or cloth. Rinse the pan with lukewarm water to remove any remaining soap and food residue. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or steel wool, as they can scratch and damage the pan's surface.

Step 4: Dry the Pan

Once the pan is rinsed, dry it immediately with a soft dish towel or paper towels. Ensure that all parts of the pan are completely dry before storing it away. Proper drying helps prevent rusting and keeps your tawa pan in optimal condition.

Soaking your tawa pan in warm, soapy water is a gentle and effective way to clean it. Remember to be cautious when handling the pan to avoid any burns, especially if it has just been soaked in hot water. By following these steps, you'll be able to maintain the condition of your tawa pan and keep it ready for your next cooking adventure!

Dry immediately

Drying your tawa pan immediately after washing is crucial to prevent rusting and maintain its longevity. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure your tawa pan is dried effectively:

• Use paper towels or a soft dishcloth to dry the pan by hand. It is important to gently and thoroughly dry the pan's interior and exterior surfaces.
• Ensure that all parts of the pan are completely dry before storing it away. This includes the handles and any crevices where water might accumulate.
• If you have a dish drying rack, you can place the pan on it to air dry for a while before putting it away. However, make sure to hand dry it first to absorb most of the moisture.
• If your tawa pan has any wooden components, such as a wooden handle, ensure that those parts remain dry. You can use a dry cloth to wipe down these areas to avoid any water damage to the wood.
• In addition to drying, proper storage is essential. Store your tawa pan in a cool, dry place, ensuring that it is not stacked with other pans or objects that could cause moisture retention.
• If you live in a humid climate, consider storing your tawa pan in a well-ventilated area or even in a sealed container with a desiccant packet to absorb any moisture in the air.
• Finally, regular maintenance is key. After each use, clean and dry your tawa pan promptly. This will prevent the buildup of food residue and grease, which can lead to rusting over time.

By following these steps, you can effectively dry your tawa pan and ensure that it remains in good condition for a long time.

Frequently asked questions