Effective Ways To Clean Your Appam Pan At Home

The appam pan is a versatile cookware item that can be used to make a variety of dishes, from traditional Indian fare like appam and paniyaram to international treats such as Danish Ableskiver balls and Japanese Takoyaki. With its multiple cavities, the appam pan allows for batch cooking, making it a convenient option for families. While some appam pans are made of cast iron, non-stick varieties are also available, which are easier to clean and maintain. To ensure the longevity of the appam pan, it is recommended to hand wash it with hot water and detergent instead of using a dishwasher or metal scrubber.

Use paper towels to wipe off grease from the cavities

Paper towels are a versatile tool that can be used to effectively wipe off grease from the cavities of your appam pan. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

Step 1: Pre-treat with Vinegar

Before you reach for the paper towels, it's a good idea to use vinegar as a pre-treatment. Vinegar's natural acidity can break down grease, making it easier to wipe away. Simply spray or dab some white vinegar onto the greasy cavities and let it sit for 5-10 minutes.

Step 2: Choose the Right Paper Towel Technique

When it comes to wiping off grease, the technique you use matters. Instead of rubbing the paper towel back and forth, which can spread the grease around, try dabbing instead. Hold a folded paper towel over the greasy cavity, press down gently, and lift. This will help absorb the grease without smearing it.

Step 3: Double Layer Your Paper Towels

Appam pans have small cavities, so it's important to use a paper towel that can effectively reach and clean these tight spaces. Try using a double-layered paper towel for better absorption and a stronger grip. Fold a sheet of paper towel once or twice to create a compact square with four layers. This will help you clean the cavities more thoroughly.

Step 4: Wipe in One Direction

When wiping the cavities with your paper towel, remember to wipe in one consistent direction. This technique ensures that you're moving the grease towards one direction, reducing its spread. Start from one end of the cavity and wipe towards the other end with even pressure. Avoid backtracking to prevent redepositing grease.

Step 5: Check for Residue

Even after wiping, there might be some grease residue left behind. To check for this, position yourself so that the light source is behind the appam pan. Tilt the pan towards the light and look for any streaks or spots that indicate residue. If you spot any, use a clean paper towel to wipe it away.

By following these steps, you can effectively use paper towels to wipe off grease from the cavities of your appam pan, leaving it clean and ready for your next delicious batch of appams!

Pour hot water and detergent into the pan and let it sit

Once you're done cooking with your appe pan, it's time to clean it. The first step is to wipe the grease off the cavities with a dry paper towel. Next, pour some hot water and detergent into the pan and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help to loosen any remaining grease or food particles. Finally, scrub and rinse the pan until it is clean. It is recommended to not wash the appe pan in the dishwasher or use a metal scrubber to ensure its longevity.

Scrub and rinse the pan

Once you're done using the appam pan, the first step is to wipe off the grease from the cavities with a dry paper towel. Then, pour some hot water and detergent into the pan and set it aside for a few minutes. Finally, scrub and rinse the pan. To ensure its longevity, do not wash the pan in the dishwasher or use a metal scrubber.

Do not use a dishwasher or metal scrubber to clean the pan

To clean an appam pan, it is best to avoid using a dishwasher or a metal scrubber. While a dishwasher may seem like a convenient option, it is not suitable for all types of pans. The harsh conditions inside a dishwasher, including high temperatures and strong detergents, can damage certain materials. For example, cast iron pans should never be put in the dishwasher as the hot and wet conditions can cause them to rust and strip away the seasoning, which is the protective non-stick coating.

Similarly, the high temperatures and detergents can react negatively with the materials of an appam pan. The appam pan is usually made of non-stick aluminium, stainless steel, or a combination of both. The harsh conditions of the dishwasher can cause the aluminium to corrode and develop a dull finish over time. The high temperatures can also damage the non-stick coating of the pan, rendering it useless.

Instead of using a metal scrubber, which can be too abrasive and damage the surface of the pan, it is recommended to use a softer alternative, such as a nylon scrubber or a wooden stick, which are often included with the purchase of an appam pan. These softer alternatives effectively clean the pan without causing any scratches or degradation to the non-stick coating.

To clean an appam pan, it is best to follow these steps:

• Allow the pan to cool down before cleaning.
• Use a soft sponge or cloth, such as a non-abrasive scrubber or wooden stick, to wipe away any excess oil or residue.
• If needed, use a mild detergent with warm water to gently clean the pan. Avoid harsh detergents as they may strip away the non-stick coating.
• Rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water to remove any soap residue.
• Dry the pan completely before storing to prevent rusting.

By following these steps and avoiding the use of a dishwasher or metal scrubber, you can effectively clean your appam pan and maintain its non-stick properties for a longer period.

Avoid using metal scrubbers or washing the pan in a dishwasher

To ensure the longevity of your appam pan, it is best to avoid using metal scrubbers or putting the pan in the dishwasher. Instead, hand wash the pan with hot water and detergent. After cooking with your appam pan, first wipe the grease off the cavities with a dry paper towel. Then, pour some hot water and detergent into the pan and set it aside for a few minutes. Finally, scrub and rinse the pan.

Frequently asked questions