Using a plastic rice spatula to stir fry rice in a frying pan can potentially be harmful, especially if the spatula is not designed for high-temperature cooking. Most plastic utensils are not meant to withstand high heat and can melt or release harmful chemicals when exposed to high temperatures.
If the rice spatula that came with your rice cooker is made of regular plastic, it is not suitable for cooking in a frying pan or any other high-temperature cooking method. Using it in a hot frying pan can cause the spatula to melt, leach chemicals into the food, or even create a fire hazard.
To ensure your safety and the longevity of your cooking utensils, it's essential to use utensils made from materials suitable for high-temperature cooking. Here are some alternatives you can consider:
Wooden Spatula: Wooden spatulas are a great option for stir-frying as they do not conduct heat and are less likely to scratch non-stick surfaces.
Silicone Spatula: Silicone spatulas are heat-resistant and can withstand high temperatures, making them suitable for stir-frying and other high-heat cooking methods.
Metal Spatula: Metal spatulas, such as stainless steel or heat-resistant nylon-coated metal, can also be used for stir-frying. However, be cautious when using metal spatulas on non-stick cookware, as they can scratch the non-stick coating.
Before using any utensil, check the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines to ensure it is safe for the type of cooking you intend to do. If you are unsure about a particular utensil's suitability for stir-frying or other high-temperature cooking methods, it's best to use a safer alternative to avoid potential health risks.