How to Clean a Pan You Think Is Ruined
A burnt pot or pan is inevitable in a kitchen. There’s plenty of ways to deal with crusty and neglected pots. Here are the best ways to clean them, according to chefs.
- Wipe First. Remove any oil by going over it with a paper towel or scrubbie. This will improve things and keep fat and oil out of your pipes. For stuck-on bits use a spatula to scrape them off.
- Keep It Warm. If you’ve got a burnt pot on your hands, you’ll want to start cleaning it right away while it’s still hot. The longer you wait the harder it will be to clean. If you absolutely need to do it later, just warm it up beforehand by adding some hot water inside on medium heat. Take caution with this step and use dish gloves if available.
- Soak the Pan in Vinegar. Combine a few tablespoons of distilled white vinegar with water and boil it for a few minutes. This will take out almost everything.
- Heavy Duty Scrubber. A heavy duty scrubber is essential to cleaning a pan. Use a nonabrasive sponge to eliminate risk of steel or copper sponges contaminating food. You can also use a softer fabric sponge with texture similar to steel wool.
Source: the Kitchn