so my parents gave me stainless steel cookware for christmas and the first time i used it i cooked chicken. it stuck to the pan and where the oil splattered it cooked on and turned it dark black and brownish. and the bottom too. i don't cook with it because i don't want to burn it on anymore but i don't know how to clean it. how do i cook without burning anything, aside from a lower flame and how on earth do i get the stains on. i've tried almost everything too! thanks.
I, too, don't like stainless steel because it is so hard to keep clean. Bar Keeper's Friend really does become your friend when you cook on stainless steel. It will remove the burnt on food, remove the dark brown stains and keep it looking new, however. And, it won't void most manufacturer's warranties on the cookware. It just takes the elbow grease to do it every time you use it. I found it is necessary to use more olive oil than you think is necessary, a lower flame than most recipes call for and a lot of patience if you plan to use it on a daily basis. I went back to my non-stick Calphelon because I am not a patient woman, I like instantaneous gratification and hate scrubbing pots and pans!
Dear pwrgrlmanda, I also use stainless steel. I have found the best way to clean any cookware that has food baked or cooked on it is by filling my sink with the hottest water possible, submerging the entire piece of cookware in the sink and then liberally sprinkling cascade powder over the top. Allow it to set overnight and usually in the morning everything will come off with a nylon scrubber. It really works! No more elbow grease. This also works for corning ware, glass baking pans, cookie sheets etc. Hope it works for you.
Hi okorder /... This article is helpful to avoid future problems. Personally, when something burned beyond burn I put water in the pan 1/2 full and heat it to a boil and simmer it 5 minutes and all the gunk is easy to remove with a scrubbie sponge and soap, water and or baking soda. I love cast iron cookware because it is a great nonstick option that does not emit toxic fumes at high temperatures like Teflon can. Seasoning it properly once in awhile is all it takes and it is indestructible. Have a great day.
Use oven cleaner. It will take off the burnt on stuff just like it does in the oven. Spray it on, put the cover on the pot and let it sit for a while. If the problem is on the outside, do the same but put the whole thing in a garbage bag to control the fumes. Wash the pot like you would normally to get the oven cleaner off. You will want to wear gloves too. Oven cleaner is very caustic. By the time you realize you are being burned by it, it's too late. The oven cleaner should do nothing to the finish of the stainless.
