How to Clean Paella Pan

Cleaning a paella pan properly ensures its longevity and maintains its performance. Here's how to clean it based on the material of the pan:

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### **1. General Cleaning Steps for All Types of Paella Pans:**
1. **Remove Food Residue Immediately After Cooking:**
- Scrape off any stuck food using a soft spatula or wooden utensil (avoid metal tools to prevent scratching).
- Soak the pan in warm water if food is stuck on.

2. **Hand Wash:**
- Use mild dish soap and a non-abrasive sponge.
- Avoid steel wool or harsh scouring pads, especially on non-stick or enameled pans.

3. **Rinse and Dry Thoroughly:**
- Rinse off soap completely with warm water.
- Use a clean towel to dry the pan immediately to prevent water spots or rust.

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### **2. Specific Tips by Pan Type:**
#### **Carbon Steel or Traditional Steel Paella Pan**
- **Prevent Rust:**
- After cleaning, dry thoroughly and apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or olive oil to coat the surface.
- Store in a dry place.
- **Re-season If Necessary:**
- If the pan has rusted, scrub the rust off with steel wool, rinse, and reseason by heating it with a thin coat of oil until it becomes shiny.

#### **Stainless Steel Paella Pan**
- **Remove Burn Marks:**
- For stubborn stains or discoloration, use a stainless-steel cleaner or a paste of baking soda and water.
- Stainless steel is rust-resistant, so drying immediately is less critical than with carbon steel.

#### **Enameled Paella Pan**
- **No Need to Season:**
- Enameled pans are rust-resistant, so seasoning isn’t necessary.
- Avoid using abrasive tools that can damage the enamel.

#### **Non-Stick Paella Pan**
- **Gentle Cleaning Only:**
- Use soft sponges and avoid abrasive cleaners to protect the non-stick coating.

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### **3. Long-Term Care Tips:**
- **Avoid Dishwashers:** Most paella pans should not go in the dishwasher, as it can cause rust or damage the coating.
- **Prevent Warping:**
- Avoid exposing the pan to extreme temperature changes (e.g., don’t rinse a hot pan with cold water).
- **Store Properly:**
- Hang the pan or place a paper towel between stacked pans to prevent scratches.

Would you like help restoring an old or rusted paella pan?