Nonstick cookware is a popular choice for many home chefs due to its convenience, ease of use, and ability to reduce the need for excessive oil and butter. One such kitchen tool that benefits greatly from nonstick technology is the appakara — a traditional South Indian griddle used to make the delicious and crispy appams, a type of pancake or crepe. However, like any other nonstick cookware, proper care is essential to ensure that it remains in top shape and continues to perform effectively. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best practices for cleaning and maintaining your nonstick appakara so that you can enjoy cooking with it for years to come.
1. Seasoning Your Nonstick Appakara
Before you start cooking on your new Nandini nonstick appakara, it’s important to season it to help develop a protective layer on the surface. This can also enhance its nonstick properties, making it easier to cook and clean.
How to season:
- Wash the appakara thoroughly with mild soap and warm water to remove any factory residues.
- Dry the griddle with a soft cloth.
- Lightly coat the surface with a thin layer of cooking oil (such as vegetable oil or coconut oil).
- Heat the appakara on low heat for about 5-10 minutes to allow the oil to bond with the surface.
- Wipe off any excess oil with a clean cloth and let it cool down.
Once seasoned, your appakara is ready to use, and the nonstick surface will perform even better over time.
2. Cleaning After Use
Cleaning your nonstick appakara properly is key to maintaining its longevity and preserving the nonstick coating. While it may be tempting to use a scrubber, harsh cleaning methods can damage the surface.
Best cleaning method:
- Cool it down: Always let your appakara cool down completely before cleaning. Sudden temperature changes can cause warping or damage the coating.
- Gentle washing: Use a soft sponge or dishcloth with warm water and a mild dish soap. Avoid abrasive sponges or steel wool, as they can scratch the nonstick surface.
- Dry thoroughly: After cleaning, use a soft towel to pat the appakara dry. This helps prevent any water spots or rusting
3. Avoiding High Heat
Nandini Nonstick cookware is designed to work best at moderate temperatures. Cooking on high heat can degrade the nonstick coating and even cause it to warp over time. For best results:
- Cook on low to medium heat when using your appakara.
- Avoid preheating the griddle for long periods without food, as this can cause the non-stick surface to deteriorate.
- If you see any smoke or smell burning, reduce the heat immediately
4. Use the Right Utensils
To protect the nonstick surface, always use utensils that won’t scratch or damage the coating. Wooden, silicone, or plastic spatulas are ideal choices for your appakara.
1. Avoid Metal utensils, as they can scrape off the nonstick coating.
- Avoid Sharp or abrasive items that can cause wear and tear on the surface.
5. Storing Your Appakara
Proper storage is important for maintaining your appakara in good condition.
- Store carefully: If your appakara is stackable, place a soft cloth or paper towel between the griddle and any other cookware to avoid scratching the surface.
- Keep it dry: Always ensure your appakara is thoroughly dried before storing it to prevent any moisture buildup, which could lead to rust or damage over time.
7. Avoiding Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overuse oil: Excessive use of oil can build up on the surface and affect the nonstick performance. Use just enough to prevent sticking, or better yet, lightly coat the surface before cooking.
- Don’t cook acidic foods: While it’s tempting to cook tangy ingredients like tomatoes or citrus, avoid cooking highly acidic foods on your nonstick appakara. They can potentially damage the nonstick surface over time.