Yuki Tanaka
Many people avoid buying cooking spray because they are slightly expensive compared to normal oil. Others also avoid using it because of health and environmental problems. Non-stick cooking pans are common in modern times. This is because food particles do not stick at the end of the pan as compared to the other cooking pots. Most cooking sprays sold in markets contain more than just oil. Getting an alternative for cooking sprays is important because they do almost everything, from greasing a pan, lubricating measuring cups, and helping remove sticky substances such as honey. Some of the perfect substitutes for cooking spray are;
1. Butter
Butter is one of the best alternatives for cooking sprays. They are soft to the touch and spread easily into pans, even when working with your fingers. Alternatively, using this product, you can choose not to get your hands dirty. You can use a paper towel to help you grease your cooking pan. Butter is strongly flavored as compared to the oils found in cooking sprays. Butter gives flavor to baked foods.
2. Flour
Some recipes require you to use flour in place of oil in greasing the pan. This is because flour is a perfect way to prevent cakes and muffins from sticking on the pan. There is a way of making flour to prevent foods from sticking on pans. All you have to do is to mix all-purpose flour and vegetable oil in the same quantity. Store the mixture in the refrigerator and use the mixture to grease your pan.
3. Normal Oil
You can use your regular cooking oil because it is healthy and has a high temperature, making it the best for cooking. Cooking sprays are pasteurized and are oils that are in water form. Some healthy oils include olive oils, sunflower, or avocado oil. You can use any oil of your choice. If you are keen on the amount of oil you are consuming, pour a small quantity of oil into a paper towel and use the paper towel to grease your pan.
4. Buy a refillable spray bottle
Instead of buying expensive cooking spray, you can improvise and buy your spray bottle. Get a refillable spray bottle from the store, add your favorite oil, and spray your cooking pans. This is a perfect alternative for a cooking spray bottle. Furthermore, you can use your improvised spray bottle to spritz your salads lightly. Spritzing your salad is preferred as compared to tossing them in heavy dressing.
Summary
Do not feel pressured with the option of buying a cooking spray. You can choose from other available alternatives such as using flour, regular oil, or butter. All these substitutes give the same result. Spraying cooking oil can at times lead to excess oil use, and that is why it is preferred that you use your favorite oil, spread it in a paper cloth, and use the paper cloth to rub your pan.
FAQs
What can I use in place of cooking spray?
You can use alternatives like butter, margarine, vegetable oil, or even parchment paper to prevent sticking in cooking and baking.
Can I use vegetable oil instead of cooking spray?
You can use vegetable oil to grease pans instead of cooking spray. Simply apply a thin layer using a brush or paper towel.
Is cooking spray just olive oil?
Cooking spray can be made with different types of oils, including olive oil. Various formulations are available, some containing only olive oil while others might have a mix of oils.
How do you make non-stick cooking spray?
You can make a simple non-stick cooking spray by combining water and vegetable oil in a spray bottle. A common ratio is 1 part oil to 5 parts water. Shake well before using to ensure proper emulsification.
