5 of 12

Write now Article Tools

Non stick pans are very useful for easy cooking and its premium quality can be maintained if used properly for years.Knowing how to handle nonstick pans is the key.Silicone and cast iron pans are equally good.

Buying and prior handling of non stick pans:
While buying choose brands which are FDA approved.Never buy a nonstick pan and start using it immediately.
Instead wash it thoroughly with soap and water.Gently scouge pads and nonstick skillets of silicone should always be used.Apply oil and spread evenly.Now keep the pan in an oven preheated at 300*F for 40 min. This will ensure that your non stick coating do not get mixed with the food you prepare.

To remove tough grease: Mix salt and a little vinegar in non stick pan with little water.This will help to remove oily stains.Do not keep non stick pans in dish washer.

Avoid Scratches:Do not use any rough skillet in the pan .This will cause scratching.

Storing:If you are stacking pans one on top of another ,use towels on inner surface to prevent scratches.

Cooking:Avoid cooking nonstick pans on high flame.The coating can easily get chipped off.Avoid cooking acidic foods in non stick pans.Example:Avoid cooking food with tamarind,lemon etc in a nonstick pan.

Baking:Non stick silicone pans are available in various size and shapes for baking.Avoid oil paper/baking sheet in baking trays.

"Cast iron pans are the best," says Joyce Paul, whose Forest City kitchen is stocked with the age-old cookware. "Cast is so useful. It gives even heat. It never wears out. It's almost indestructible.
(Source:http:// www.globegazette.com/articles/ 2005/08/23/feature/doc430a4662 23db1403695553.txt)

Fine and non porous cast iron pans are always the best and it helps in slow cooking also.

So cast iron or silicone non stick pan - Proper care is the key.

Learn more about this author, Nisha Danny.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Non-stick pans: cast iron vs. silicone?
We want to hear your view. Write now!