Every home cook has faced the frustration of dealing with burnt pan bottoms. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner, a charred pan can be discouraging. Traditional scrubbing and soaking methods are time-consuming and often ineffective.
Fortunately, there’s a simple solution my nana taught me — a hack that cleans burnt pan bottoms in just 3 minutes, with virtually no effort.
1. The Common Kitchen Dilemma: Burnt Pan Bottoms
Burnt pan bottoms happen when food residues or oils are left on high heat for too long, creating a stubborn, blackened layer. This not only affects your cookware’s appearance but can also impact the flavor of future dishes.
Typical methods like scrubbing with steel wool or soaking overnight are often ineffective and can damage your pans.
2. The Origins of Nana’s Hack
This cleaning hack has been passed down in my family. My nana discovered it during the post-war era when people relied on simple household items. Using baking soda and vinegar, she found an easy, affordable solution that didn’t require harsh chemicals.
3. Why This Hack Works Wonders
The magic is in the reaction between baking soda and vinegar. When combined, they create a fizzy reaction that lifts and dissolves burnt residue without damaging your pan.
Gentle on cookware
Works on stainless steel, non-stick, and cast iron
Environmentally friendly and non-toxic
4. The Science Behind the Hack
Baking soda (a base) reacts with vinegar (an acid) to form carbonic acid, which quickly breaks down into carbon dioxide gas and water. The fizzing action helps lift burnt residue.
Baking soda’s mild abrasiveness also helps remove stubborn spots without scratching the surface.
5. Step-by-Step Guide to the Hack
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