Onion Power: Cleaning Pan Bottoms Naturally

Burnt pans are a common problem, but there are several solutions that don't require heavy-duty cleaning products. One such hack, courtesy of TikTok user @kamanabhaskaran, involves using an onion and some white vinegar to clean a burnt pan. The natural acidity of the onion and vinegar breaks down burnt food and stains, and the onion's fluids can loosen dirt and grease. To try this method, cut up a quarter of a large onion, leaving the peel on, and put it into your burnt pot or pan with a quarter of a cup of vinegar. Bring this mixture to a boil, and the stains and burnt pieces should lift from the bottom of the pan.

Using an onion to clean a pan

Cleaning dirty pans can be a tedious task, but an onion can be used to clean a burnt pan naturally and effectively. This method is not only cost-efficient but also safer and more environmentally friendly than using chemical cleaning products.

TikTok user @ramdeep.osahan and Instagrammer Kamana Bhaskaran (@kamanabhaskaran) have shared a simple, two-ingredient cleaning tip that they learned from their grandmothers to restore burnt pans to their former glory.

What You'll Need:

• One large red onion (with the peel on)
• About 1/4 cup of distilled white vinegar
• A pot or pan with burnt stains
• A wooden spoon or rubber spatula
• A scouring sponge or scrubber pad

Instructions:

• Cut about 1/4 of the onion and dice it into smaller pieces.
• Place the onion pieces into the burnt pot or pan.
• Add the distilled white vinegar to the pot. You want the vinegar to completely submerge any black staining, so add more if needed.
• Place the pot on the stovetop and turn the flame to high. This will cause the onion-vinegar mixture to boil.
• Once the mixture is boiling, use a wooden spoon or rubber spatula to gently lift and remove the burnt particles from the bottom of the pan. The natural acidity of the onion and vinegar will break down the grease stains and burnt food.
• After removing the burnt pieces, wait for the pan to cool down, then dump out the contents.
• If there are any leftover bits or stains, use a scouring sponge or scrubber pad to remove them.
• Dry off the pan and admire its new shine!

The onion's natural acidity and fluids can loosen dirt, stuck-on food, and grease, and the natural juices also have antibacterial properties that can sanitise the pan. This method is not only effective but also adds a bit of flavour to your cooking!

Boiling water to clean a pan

Boiling water is an effective way to clean a pan, especially when combined with other household items. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Fill the pan with water

Add enough water to cover all of the scorched areas of the pan. For stainless steel pans, you can simply bring the water to a boil. However, if you are dealing with caked-on foods or a greasy mess, it is recommended to add a few drops of dish detergent to the water and swirl the mixture to spread the soap.

Step 2: Bring the water to a boil

Place the pan on the stove and turn the heat to high. Allow the water and detergent mixture to boil for approximately 5 to 10 minutes. The boiling water will help loosen and lift the burnt particles from the bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Cool and scrub the pan

After boiling, remove the pan from the heat and let it cool completely. This may take around 20 minutes. Once cooled, discard the water and detergent mixture. The pan should already look cleaner. Next, scrub the pan with hot water and dish detergent to remove any remaining burnt film and debris.

For stubborn scorch marks, you may need to use a scrubbing sponge or tool. Avoid using steel wool pads as they can scratch the bottom of the pan. Instead, opt for sponges covered with plastic netting, which can effectively remove scorch marks without scratching the pan.

Variations and Additional Tips:

• For glass or metal baking dishes, simply add boiling water and let it sit for several minutes before using the scrubby side of a sponge to wipe away any residue.
• To clean cast iron pans, rinse with hot or boiling water. If there is still residue, use kosher salt, warm water, and a soft sponge to loosen it, then rinse again.
• To prevent hard-to-clean pans in the first place, line your pans with aluminum foil, parchment, or wax paper, or use a non-stick cooking spray.
• If you are dealing with burnt milk or need to remove scorch marks from the outside of a stainless steel pot, make a paste with baking soda and a few drops of water. Apply the paste to the scorch marks and let it sit for about 15 minutes, then scrub the pot with a nylon-coated sponge.

By following these steps, you can effectively use boiling water to clean a pan and remove stubborn scorch marks.

Using baking soda and vinegar to clean a pan

Burnt pans can be frustrating, but there are several ways to clean them using baking soda and vinegar. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Remove Excess Food and Debris

Use a spatula or scraper to remove as much burnt food and debris from the pan as possible. This will make the cleaning process easier and help prevent scratches during scrubbing.

Step 2: Boil Water and Vinegar

Fill the pan with water, covering the bottom of the pan with at least half an inch of liquid. Add a quarter to half a cup of white vinegar to the water. Place the pan on the stove and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it simmer for a few minutes. The vinegar will help loosen the burnt residue.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda

Remove the pan from the heat and add one cup of baking soda. The baking soda will react with the vinegar, creating a fizzing reaction. This reaction helps to break down the burnt food and grease. It is recommended to do this step in the sink, as the reaction can be quite vigorous.

Step 4: Let it Sit

Set the pan aside and wait for the fizzing and bubbling to stop. The length of time this takes will vary, but it is important to let the mixture do its work. The baking soda and vinegar combination creates a powerful cleaning solution that can break down even the toughest residue.

Step 5: Scrub the Pan

Once the fizzing has stopped, discard the liquid and begin scrubbing the pan. Use a nylon scrub brush or a scouring sponge, adding more baking soda as needed to create a gentle abrasive. Scrub until all the burnt residue is removed. Rinse the pan thoroughly with clean water and dry it with a cloth or towel.

Additional Tips:

• For lighter cleaning, create a paste of baking soda and water, applying it to the pan and letting it sit for a few hours or overnight before scrubbing.
• For heavier duty cleaning, especially for burnt stainless steel or aluminum pans, try the "deglazing technique." Heat the pan until a droplet of water sizzles, then add water or a mixture of water and vinegar. Use a spatula to deglaze the bottom of the pan, loosening burnt food. Sprinkle the pan with baking soda and scrub vigorously with a wet scouring sponge.
• Always be gentle when scrubbing to avoid scratching the pan's surface.
• For non-stick pans, avoid using metal tools or abrasive scrubbing pads, as these can damage the non-stick coating. Instead, use a nylon brush or non-scratching sponge.

Cleaning cast iron pans

Step 1: Wash the Pan

Start by washing your cast iron pan by hand using hot water and a sponge or stiff brush. Avoid using a dishwasher, as it can damage the pan's seasoning. If there is stuck-on food, you can use a small amount of soap, but be cautious as large amounts can strip the seasoning. For stubborn residue, simmer a little water for 3-5 minutes and then use a pan scraper after the pan has cooled. Make sure to dry the pan promptly and thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.

Step 2: Remove Rust (If Necessary)

If your cast iron pan has developed rust, don't panic. You can remove it by scouring the pan with warm, soapy water and steel wool. Rinse and dry the pan thoroughly after removing the rust.

Step 3: Re-Season the Pan

After cleaning and removing any rust, it's important to re-season your cast iron pan. Apply a thin layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray to the surface of the pan. Use a paper towel to wipe the surface until no oil residue remains. Place the pan in the oven upside down on the top rack and bake at 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit for one hour. Allow the pan to cool, and repeat the process if necessary.

Step 4: Maintain Your Pan

To maintain your cast iron pan, clean it immediately after use while it is still hot or warm. Avoid soaking the pan or leaving it in the sink, as this can lead to rusting. For stuck-on food, boiling water in the pan can help loosen the residue. Dry the pan thoroughly and apply a light coat of vegetable oil or shortening to the inside, buffing to remove any excess. Store the skillet in a dry place.

Tips:

• If you accidentally use soap or put your cast iron pan in the dishwasher, don't worry. Just rinse it well and re-season the pan.
• For a more powerful cleaning agent than water, you can use coarse salt or baking soda.
• If your pan rusts, scrub or rinse the rust off and rub it with oil. It can be restored.
• For stubborn bits, add boiling water to the pan to loosen them.

Using Alka-Seltzer to clean a pan

Burnt pans are a common problem, but there are ways to solve this issue without resorting to harsh chemicals. One such method is to use Alka-Seltzer tablets, which can be dropped into a sink full of hot water along with your pans and utensils. After an hour of soaking, much of the burnt food will come off, and the rest can be scrubbed away with ease.

Alka-Seltzer is an antacid and pain-relief medication that has been used since 1931. The tablets fizz when dropped in water, releasing their active ingredients. The same fizzing action that helps to calm an upset stomach can also be used to clean your home. The citric acid in the tablets, along with the effervescence, can leave your toilet bowl gleaming. It can also be used to clean tiles, floors, and even white clothes.

• Fill your sink with hot water.
• Drop in 4-5 Alka-Seltzer tablets and let them dissolve.
• Place the pan in the sink and let it soak for about an hour.
• Use a sponge or cloth to wipe away any remaining residue.
• Rinse the pan thoroughly and dry it with a clean cloth.

Alka-Seltzer can also be used to clean other items in your kitchen, such as coffee makers and vases. To clean a coffee maker, mix 3-4 tablets with about 10 ounces of water and pour the solution into the machine. Run it through a complete cycle, followed by a couple of additional cycles to clear out any residue. For vases, fill them halfway with water and drop in 2 tablets. Wait for the fizzing to stop, then rinse.

So, the next time you have a burnt pan, don't despair. Reach for the Alka-Seltzer and let the fizzing action do the hard work for you!

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