Removing burnt food from pots and pans can be challenging, but there are several effective methods you can try:
Soaking in Hot Water: Fill the pot or pan with hot water and let it soak for a few hours or overnight. This will help loosen the burnt food particles, making it easier to scrub them off later.
Baking Soda and Water: Make a paste using baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the burnt areas and let it sit for a while. Then, scrub the pot or pan using a non-abrasive sponge or scrubber.
Vinegar and Water: Create a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water. Bring it to a boil in the pot or pan, then let it sit for a few minutes. Remove from heat and scrub away the burnt food.
Lemon Juice: Squeeze fresh lemon juice onto the burnt areas and let it sit for a while. The acidity of the lemon juice can help break down the burnt residue. Then scrub and rinse.
Baking Soda and Vinegar: Sprinkle baking soda on the burnt spots, and then add some vinegar on top. This will create a fizzy reaction that can help lift the burnt food. After a few minutes, scrub the pan.
Salt and Oil: Pour a layer of coarse salt into the pan, add a little cooking oil, and then scrub with a sponge or brush. The abrasive nature of the salt will help lift the burnt food while the oil acts as a lubricant.
Commercial Cleaners: There are various commercial cleaning products specifically designed to remove burnt-on food from pots and pans. Follow the instructions on the product's label.
Remember always to use appropriate tools and scrubbers that won't damage the surface of your pots and pans. For instance, avoid using steel wool or other abrasive pads on non-stick pans, as they can scratch the coating and reduce its effectiveness.
Preventing burnt-on food in the first place is the best approach, so try to use lower heat settings and non-stick cooking spray or oil when cooking. If you accidentally burn food, try to remove it as soon as possible to prevent it from becoming more challenging to clean later.