An electric skillet is a versatile cooking appliance that can be plugged into an electrical outlet and controlled via temperature controls. You can cook anything in an electric skillet that you would cook in a regular skillet.
When using an electric frying pan, it is necessary to carefully follow the use and maintenance instructions to avoid injury and possible damage to the appliance. You can read in the user manual that your electric skillet is dishwasher safe once it is removed from the base.
Are Electric Skillets Dishwasher Safe?
When it comes to washing, no matter what the instruction manual says, learn from experienced chefs and hand wash the non-stick surface to keep your device working longer.
If you still clean the pan in the dishwasher, the non-stick cooking surface may wear out quickly. Machine detergents attack the non-stick cooking surface and can significantly impair its functionality. For this reason, it is advisable to wash your nonstick pan by hand. It is easy to wipe and clean as food does not stick. Another mess-reducing feature of electric skillets is the high sides, which help prevent oil splatters and keep your countertop clean.
If you wish, you can clean the lid in the dishwasher, but be sure to dry it completely before storing it.
How to Clean an Electric Skillet
1. Cleaning Before the First Use
It is necessary to wash your new kitchenware before using it. Washing removes dust and other contaminants from the manufacturing process. You must remove the pan from the base before washing as the electrical parts are not suitable for contact with water. Also, be sure to wash the lid. Wash the pan in the sink with lukewarm water and mild dish soap. Rinse with clean water and allow to dry completely.
2. Cleaning After Each Use
The first and most important step is to unplug your pan before you start cleaning. The non-stick surface makes cleaning a breeze. In most cases, you can wipe it with a paper towel to remove any food particles.
Always allow the appliance to cool completely before washing the pan. This protects the pan from damage and deformation. However, do not leave the pan unwashed for a long time, as food residue is easier to remove after cooking. Wash the pan and lid in the sink with warm, soapy water and a soft sponge.
Wipe the exterior with a sponge soaked in soapy water. Use a non-abrasive scrubber if necessary.
To remove more stubborn stains, soak the pan in water with dish soap for a while, then gently remove food residue with a plastic brush or nylon scraper. Never use steel wool or other abrasive cleaners.
Dry the connector and base with a clean cloth. Make sure that no water gets into the connection entrance.
3. How to Clean a Burnt Electric Skillet
If you have trouble with stubborn burn marks, heat the pan to a temperature of 150 degrees, then unplug it and remove the pan from the base. Mix 2 teaspoons of baking soda with 2 teaspoons of water. Apply a thin film of the paste to the affected area and leave it on for 1 hour. When the time is up, gently remove dirt with a nylon cleaning pad and then wash the pan with warm, soapy water and a non-abrasive sponge. Rinse with warm water, towel dry, and allow the pan to air dry completely.
Storage
The device must be bone dry before storing or connecting to power. This device can take up a lot of storage space. Store the device in a dry place, such as on a shelf in your cupboard or pantry.
The power cord and temperature control unit can be placed in the pan, keeping all parts in one place. Some models (such as the Presto 06857 16-inch Electric Folding Pan) are designed to tuck the base into the pan for more convenient storage. Don’t forget to put a paper towel in the pan to protect the non-stick surface from scratches.
What Utensils to Use?
When cooking in an electric skillet, use wooden, nylon, or silicone utensils and spatulas. Metal utensils can scratch the non-stick surface. For the same reason, do not cut the food in the pan.
Useful Tips
- Do not heat the skillet to the maximum temperature, as high temperatures can shorten the lifespan of the non-stick surface.
- Due to the position of the heater, some parts of the pan may heat up more than others. Therefore, for even cooking, it is necessary to turn the food over and mix it.
- Do not leave your electric skillet to boil dry as this can damage the non-stick coating.
- Using oil can prevent sticking. Never use cooking sprays because they stick to a nonstick surface and can be difficult to remove.
- Make it a habit to unplug the pan immediately after use to avoid possible accidents.
Advantages of an Electric Skillet
An electric frying pan can offer some practical advantages over traditional frying pans:
- It’s ideal if you need more cooking space and more meal options on vacations and parties.
- For small apartments without a stove, an electric skillet can be the solution.
- An electric frying pan is more energy-efficient than an electric stove or oven.
- To keep food warm before serving, you can use an electric skillet.
An electric skillet can add variety to your kitchen space and assist you with everyday cooking tasks. If you take good care of it, it will last you a long time.
