Eggshell ingenuity: Eco‑friendly solutions for kitchen woes
A scorched pan can certainly dissuade you from cooking again. Not only did the dish not turn out as expected, but now you also have to contend with scrubbing the pan. The simplest solution might be to use a scouring pad, though this isn't appropriate for delicate surfaces. A gentler and more ecological solution is to use remnants of food products that usually end up in the bin.
In an ideal world, nothing should stick, but in practice, this disagreeable event often occurs even for experienced cooks. Fortunately, there's an effective solution for a scorched pan right at your fingertips. All you need to do is make use of eggshells—blended into a fine powder, they will swiftly restore the pan to its former glory.
Don't throw away eggshells
Eggshells consist primarily of calcium carbonate, which makes up approximately 95% of their composition. The remaining 5% comprises other organic and mineral compounds, including proteins, collagen, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and sodium. Due to their composition, eggshells are a valuable addition to compost and make an excellent fertiliser for plants. Moreover, after blending, you can use them to clean scorched surfaces. They work like a gentle sandpaper.
Due to their alkaline nature, eggshells can also help neutralise the taste of sour coffee. Before adding them to your morning brew, wash them thoroughly and pour boiling water over them. Then, dry and blend them into a fine powder using a blender. Add them to the filter in a drip coffee maker or to the infuser in a coffee pot—this is the best way to alter the coffee's taste and quickly separate the shells from the "drink of the gods".
Eggshells can also be incorporated into a home spa routine. Mix them with hand cream and massage into your hands to strengthen your nails. Use them to create a natural homemade scrub for cleansing the skin on your face and body.
How to make eggshell liquid for cleaning pans?
Using eggshells, you can prepare a simple and eco-friendly cleaner for scorched surfaces of cookware.
Ingredients:
- 6 eggshells,
- 250 ml of warm water,
- 1 tablespoon of baking soda.
Preparation:
- Wash and dry the eggshells thoroughly, then blend them into a fine powder. You can use a blender or mortar.
- Add warm water and a tablespoon of baking soda. Mix and apply to the dirty surface.
- Wipe with a sponge, then rinse with water.
For greasy surfaces, it's advisable to add a bit of washing-up liquid. Do not use this mixture to clean Teflon pans due to the risk of damaging the non-stick coating. However, it is effective for cast iron, steel, and ceramic pans, as well as for cleaning ovens. You can also use it for washing sinks, washbasins, or bathtubs. It effectively removes limescale and restores a white colour.
