The frying pan is an important tool in any kitchen, but no matter how expensive or durable it is, if you do not maintain it properly, it needs to be replaced in a short time. So, once you purchase a high-quality frypan, it is worth putting some effort into maintaining it so that it can stand the test of time. Here are a few tips on how to extend the life span of a frying pan.
Read the Instructions
You may purchase a high-quality fry pan made of the best materials and technology, but if you aren’t particular about its cleaning and maintenance routine, you will end up reducing its life. Every cookware comes with its own care requirements. You must read the instructions carefully and follow the guidelines. If you plan to use a dishwasher, check if the product is dishwasher-safe.
Steps to Follow Before Cooking
Whether you purchase the latest induction base fry pan or a traditional cast iron fry pan, there are a few things you must do before you begin cooking in it. First, wash it clean with a mild liquid dishwash and dry it with a soft kitchen napkin. When cooking, add a little bit of oil or butter and spread it evenly on the surface. In case you want to cook food with less oil, you can use a paper towel to remove the excess or use a silicon brush to spread it.
Right Tools to Go With the Pan
After spending money on a new fry pan, it is essential to keep it free from scratches. While stainless steel pans are great and do not get scratched easily, it is still important to use the right spatula for cooking. If you are using a non-stick pan, then you must use a wooden or silicon spatula and not a stainless steel one, to keep the coating intact. They do not cause abrasion and are also easy to maneuver and clean.
Use the Right Cooking Temperature
Sometimes, while cooking in a hurry, you tend to overheat the frying pan or preheat it on a high flame. This may accelerate the cooking time, but in the long run, it can age the pan quickly. One tip you can follow while cooking is to preheat the pan on low flame till it gets hot enough to cook.
Another thing common in Indian cooking is soaking ingredients in water before use. This may expedite the cooking time, but when you add them to a hot frying pan, the sudden change in temperature could result in cracks on the surface, especially when using a coated fry pan. A good way to prevent this is to remove excess water and then add it to the pan.
Do not Scrub
Dishwashing soap is potent and creates a lot of foam. Use this along with a sponge to clean your frying pan. Avoid using scrubbers, as they are aggressive and can damage the surface of the pan. Soak the pan in soap and lukewarm water and clean it with a sponge. If you have burned the surface, opt for a soft scrubber and not a metal one to remove the contents.
These tips are great for extending the life of your frying pan, but while you use your cookware, you are likely to observe and come up with some more hacks that can help retain and maximize its use. One last tip we would love to give you here is to have more than one frying pan in your kitchen to alternate between uses, thus extending their lives,
