Do Nonstick Pans Need Oil?
Nonstick pans are supposed to allow food to totally slide out onto the serving plate, leaving behind a perfectly clean pan---this is what you see in commercials for nonstick cookware. Well, in real life, however, it isn’t always quite the same. Whether or not, food sticks sometimes depends on the food. For example, eggs are probably the biggest challenge to the nonstick claim. Another consideration is how old the pan is, as nonstick pans worsen over time with repeated use and cleaning.
It’s tempting to use nonstick pans with no oil or cooking spray, believing that a good nonstick pan shouldn’t need any extra help. But the truth is, with eggs or other super sticky foods, or with ‘aging’ nonstick cookware, a little oil yields better results. Due to healthy concerns, most of us usually shouldn’t need as much oil in a nonstick pan as it should in other types of cookware. This is still ok. But when you go completely without, you are likely to be disappointed.
The downside to using oil or cooking spray is that it can cause a residue to build up in nonstick pans. This can be removed by cleaning with a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water, boiled. You should always wash nonstick cookware by hand with a non-abrasive cloth or nylon scrubber and with only a small amount of dishwashing liquid. (See
how to clean nonstick pan for thoroughly guides) It’s probably wiser to cook with a little oil and occasionally use the vinegar and water solution to clean away residue, than to go without oil and end up with stuck on food that will ask to scrub your pan more severely than you should.
Some experts suggest to season nonstick pans before first time using. According to the Product Knowledge Network, you should season a new nonstick pan by rubbing a little cooking oil in it and then heating it over medium heat on the stove for two or three minutes. Take the pan off the heat and let it cool and then wash in mild detergent and rinse. Seasoning can also revive nonstick pans that you have been using for awhile.
