Why is there a 'film' on my skillet after boiling pasta?

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

This thread explores the phenomenon of a 'film' appearing on skillets after boiling pasta, with participants sharing their observations and thoughts on the matter.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal, Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant, identifying as a consultant, mentions noticing a 'film' on their Family Skillet after boiling pasta, suggesting it might be related to starch.
  • Another participant agrees, attributing the film to starch and sharing that vinegar can help remove it.
  • Several users mention experiencing the same issue, with one noting that they do not salt their water, which could contribute to the residue.
  • One participant discusses using a skimmer to remove the starch and mentions that poor water quality may exacerbate the problem.
  • Another participant shares that they regularly encounter the film with their Executive Set and also assumes it is due to starch.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree that the film is likely caused by starch from the pasta, though some suggest other factors like salt residue or water quality may also play a role. No clear consensus emerges on the best method to address the issue.

Contextual Notes

Participants share personal experiences with different types of skillets and cooking practices, highlighting variations in their observations.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants who use skillets for boiling pasta may find the shared experiences and insights relevant to their cooking practices.

PamperedK
Silver Member
Messages
1,126
I only have the Family Skillet but I use it for everything! I just started using it for pasta but the last 2 times I used it for pasta, I've noticed a 'film' type thing around the top where the water boiled...it peels off and feels almost like a thin paper or plastic...I'm thinking it has to do with the starch in the pasta, but do you guys have any other ideas?
 
Winnipegk said:
I only have the Family Skillet but I use it for everything! I just started using it for pasta but the last 2 times I used it for pasta, I've noticed a 'film' type thing around the top where the water boiled...it peels off and feels almost like a thin paper or plastic...I'm thinking it has to do with the starch in the pasta, but do you guys have any other ideas?
That would be my guess, too.
 
It is starch and if you have trouble getting it all off, vinegar works wonders for it.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #4
Ok great - so I don't have to worry about it being in our food then! Thanks!
 
Do you salt your water? It could also be salt residue.
 
Winnipegk said:
Ok great - so I don't have to worry about it being in our food then! Thanks!


Do you have the skimmer? I use it to get the starch off the top, works great. We don't have very good water here and I think if your water isn't great it makes it worse. Then I started to notice that it was leaving marks in the bottom of my pots so I just put some vinegar in them and it took it off.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #7
I don't salt my water, and I don't have a skimmer yet, but it might be worth getting since I won't be getting more cookware for a while.
 
I always get that 'film' with boiling pasta in my Executive Set. I just assumed it was the starch as well.
 
I get it all the time as well..I just wash it out & hang it up. ;)
 
I've gotten it and believe it is starch the same as the others on this post.
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is there a 'film' on my skillet after boiling pasta?

The 'film' you see on your skillet after boiling pasta is likely a combination of starch released from the pasta and minerals from the water. When pasta cooks, it releases starch, which can create a cloudy residue on the surface of your cookware.

Is the film on my skillet harmful?

No, the film is not harmful. It is a natural byproduct of cooking pasta and can be easily cleaned off with warm soapy water. It does not affect the safety or quality of your cookware.

How can I prevent the film from forming on my skillet?

To minimize the film, you can try rinsing the pasta before boiling it, which helps remove some of the surface starch. Additionally, using a larger pot with plenty of water can help dilute the starch concentration.

Will using a non-stick skillet reduce the film?

Using a non-stick skillet may help reduce the visibility of the film, but it won't completely eliminate it. The starch will still be present; it may just be easier to clean off a non-stick surface.

How do I clean the film off my skillet?

To clean the film off your skillet, soak it in warm soapy water for a few minutes, then use a non-abrasive sponge or cloth to scrub the surface gently. Rinse thoroughly and dry to restore its shine.

Similar Pampered Chef Threads

  • lt1jane
  • Products and Tips
Replies
10
Views
5K
lt1jane
  • esavvymom
  • Products and Tips
Replies
7
Views
4K
millthayer
  • Poll Poll
  • jss016
  • Products and Tips
Replies
13
Views
3K
chefshawna
  • kcjodih
  • Products and Tips
Replies
12
Views
3K
Jennie4PC
Replies
2
Views
2K
RebelChef
  • Tracy99
  • Products and Tips
Replies
7
Views
2K
rlombas
Replies
2
Views
3K
PamperedchefDaly
  • babywings76
  • Products and Tips
Replies
5
Views
2K
babywings76
Replies
8
Views
17K
Intrepid_Chef
  • heat123
  • Products and Tips
Replies
7
Views
2K
rlombas
Back
Top