What You Need: Coarse salt Paper towel Steps: Heat the pan on medium heat. Add a thin layer of coarse salt and let it heat for a few minutes. Use a paper towel to rub the salt around the surface (wear gloves to avoid burns). Discard the salt and rinse the pan—this technique smooths out minor scratches and improves stick resistance.
Alternative: Use a Cooking Spray or Extra Oil:
Add a little more oil or a cooking spray before cooking to minimize sticking.
Safety Considerations Check for Damage: If the pan shows signs of deep scratches or exposed metal, especially if it’s made from aluminum, it might be safer to replace it due to potential health risks from leaching. Avoid High Heat: Without a non-stick coating, pans can get hotter faster, which may lead to food burning or sticking. Do Not Overuse Damaged Pans: Prolonged use of severely scratched pans may lead to ingestion of small particles, which is undesirable.
When to Replace the Pan If the non-stick coating is completely gone or flakes are coming off regularly, it might be time to invest in a new, high-quality pan. Consider alternatives like stainless steel or cast iron, which are durable and naturally non-stick when maintained properly.
By seasoning or applying these fixes, you can restore your pan’s functionality and avoid waste. Let me know if you’d like detailed instructions for a specific method!
