Cooking with hot oil or grease requires caution and attention to safety to avoid accidents and burns. Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when working with hot oil or grease:
Choose the right cookware: Use a deep and sturdy pot or pan with high sides to contain the oil or grease properly. Avoid using shallow pans that can cause splattering.
Use a cooking thermometer: It's essential to know the temperature of the oil or grease. Use a cooking thermometer to monitor the temperature and prevent it from overheating and smoking.
Start with clean and dry food: Make sure the food you're cooking is dry, as any moisture can cause the hot oil to splatter. Pat the food dry with paper towels before adding it to the hot oil.
Add food gently: Carefully lower the food into the hot oil to prevent splashing or spilling. Avoid dropping the food from a height as it can cause the oil to splash.
Don't overcrowd the pan: Cook food in small batches to prevent the oil temperature from dropping too much. Overcrowding the pan can also cause the food to stick together and not cook evenly.
Keep a lid nearby: In case of a small grease fire, you can smother it by covering the pan with a lid. Do not use water to extinguish a grease fire as it can cause the flames to spread.
Use long cooking utensils: When stirring or flipping food in hot oil, use long-handled utensils to keep your hands and arms away from the heat and potential splatters.
Stay attentive: Never leave hot oil or grease unattended on the stove. Hot oil can reach dangerous temperatures quickly, and a fire can occur if it overheats.
Be prepared for emergencies: Have a fire extinguisher rated for grease fires nearby, as well as a box of baking soda to help control small fires. Never use flour or water on a grease fire.
Cool down and dispose of properly: Once you've finished cooking, allow the oil or grease to cool down completely before handling or disposing of it. Do not pour hot oil down the sink, as it can clog pipes. Instead, let it solidify and dispose of it in a sealed container or recycle it if possible.
Keep children and pets away: Ensure that children and pets are kept at a safe distance from the cooking area when working with hot oil or grease.
By following these tips and practicing caution, you can safely cook with hot oil or grease and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.