Lifestyle Desk- After making roti, paratha or dosa, when the pan becomes very hot, many people pour water on it as soon as they take it off the gas. By doing this, the pan cools down immediately and the flour or food residue stuck on it also gets removed easily. But have you ever wondered whether it is right to suddenly pour water on a very hot pan or not? In fact, suddenly pouring water on a hot pan can not only damage the pan, but in some circumstances there can also be a risk of hand burns due to the hot steam. Its effect may vary depending on the material and temperature of the pan. Let us know about it in detail.
What happens if you pour water on a hot pan?
When cold water suddenly comes in contact with a very hot pan, the temperature changes rapidly. This is called thermal shock. The surface of the pan suddenly tries to shrink, while its interior still remains quite hot.
If the pan is made of a material that is sensitive to sudden temperature changes, it may be at an increased risk of warping, surface wear, or damage.
What effect can it have on cast iron pan?
There is a risk of thermal shock if a cast iron or iron pan suddenly comes in contact with cold water while it is still very hot. Doing this repeatedly can affect the surface and condition of the pan. To protect the iron pan from rusting, it is important to dry it thoroughly after washing and apply light oil as per requirement.
Why be careful on non-stick pan?
Suddenly cooling a non-stick pan from very hot to cold is not considered good for its coating and surface. Apart from this, immediately putting a very hot non-stick pan in water or pouring cold water on it can cause a sharp change in temperature. It is better to let such a pan cool normally for some time first. The safest option is to follow the manufacturer's guidelines when cleaning.
Pouring water on a hot pan can burn your hands.
As soon as water is poured on a very hot pan, the water can heat up rapidly and turn into steam. During this time, splashes of hot water or steam can reach the hands and face. Therefore, it is not wise to take this risk just to clean the pan quickly. Especially do not allow children to come near gas or hot pan.
What is the correct way to clean the pan?
After removing the pan from the gas, let it cool normally for some time. When the pan is no longer too hot, clean its surface accordingly.
If food is stuck on the pan, instead of scraping it off forcefully, soak it in water for some time. This can soften stuck-on residue and make cleaning easier. Use a soft sponge for non-stick pans and avoid scrubbing with metal scrubbers or anything too rough. This may damage the coating.
Is it harmful to pour water on every pan?
Not necessary. The reaction may vary depending on the material of the pan, its quality and temperature. The problem usually arises when there is a sudden and large temperature difference between a very hot metal surface and cold water. Therefore, as a matter of habit, it is better to avoid pouring cold water on a very hot pan as soon as it is taken off the gas.
the most important thing
In a hurry to clean the pan, avoid placing it under cold water or pouring water on it as soon as you remove it from the gas. Let it cool down naturally for some time and then clean it as per need. Sudden change in temperature caused by suddenly pouring water on a hot pan can damage the pan and can also create a risk of burning due to hot steam or splashes. Therefore, a little caution will not only keep your kitchen items safe, but can also save you from injury.