How to Clean Burnt Stainless Steel or Aluminum Pans
Using simple kitchen staples, there are several effective methods to clean badly scorched pans.
Ingredients Needed:
-Baking soda
-Water
-White vinegar
-A scouring pad or scraper (e.g., a wooden spatula)
-A fresh lemon, halved
Method 1: The Baking Soda & Water Technique
1. Create a Paste: Mix 3 parts baking soda with 1 part water to form a paste.
2. Apply the Paste: Spread the paste over the scorched areas of the pan. For a full pan bottom, mix 1 cup of baking soda with 1/3 cup of water.
3. Let It Sit: Cover the pan’s bottom with a thin layer of warm water, then let the paste sit for a few hours or overnight.
4. Scrub: Add more baking soda as needed and scrub with a nylon brush or scour sponge.
5. Optional Boiling: If you’re short on time, add ½ cup of water to thin the paste, place the pan on the stove, and bring it to a boil. Remove from heat quickly to avoid reburning the pan.
Method 2: The Baking Soda & Vinegar Approach
1. Add Vinegar: Pour enough white vinegar into the pan to cover the bottom with at least ½ inch of liquid.
2. Boil: Heat the vinegar and let it simmer for a few minutes.
3. Add Baking Soda: Remove from heat and stir in 1 cup of baking soda. Let the fizzing settle.
4. Scrub: Dispose of the liquid and scrub the pan with a nylon brush or sponge, adding more baking soda as necessary.
5. Rinse & Dry: Rinse the pan thoroughly and dry.
Method 3: The Baking Soda & Lemon Trick
1. Add Water & Baking Soda: Keep a thin layer of water in the pan and generously sprinkle baking soda over the bottom.
2. Scrub with Lemon: Use the cut side of a fresh lemon to scour the pan, combining the juice with the baking soda to create a slurry.
3. Restore Copper Shine (Optional): If the pan has a tarnished copper bottom, flip it over and use this method to clean and polish the surface.
With these simple techniques, your burnt pots and pans can be as good as new!
