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### Step-by-Step Instructions
**Step 1: Preheat the Pan**
Place your clean, dry pan on the burner and heat it over **medium-high heat** for 2–3 minutes. You want the pan hot, but not smoking.
**Pro Tip**: To test if your pan is ready, sprinkle a few drops of water onto the surface. If the water beads and dances around before evaporating, your pan is at the perfect temperature.
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**Step 2: Add the Oil**
Once the pan is hot, **add just enough oil to coat the bottom**—usually 1–2 tablespoons. Swirl it around to evenly distribute.
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**Step 3: Let the Oil Heat Up**
Allow the oil to heat for about **30 seconds**. It should shimmer slightly. This step is key! Hot oil on a hot pan creates a natural layer between the food and the metal, preventing sticking.
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**Step 4: Wipe Off Excess (Optional)**
For some recipes (like frying eggs or pancakes), you might want to **carefully wipe away excess oil** with a folded paper towel, leaving behind a thin film. Be careful—your pan is hot!
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**Step 5: Add Your Food and Cook as Usual**
Now, add your ingredients—eggs, fish, crepes, chicken, whatever you like. You’ll be amazed at how smoothly it cooks without sticking!
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### Why This Hack Saves You Money
– **No need to buy expensive non-stick pans**
– **Easier cleanup = less time scrubbing**
– **Extends the life of your existing cookware**
– **Avoids harmful coatings and chemicals**
Plus, if you’ve ever thrown away a perfectly good pan because food kept sticking, this trick could literally save it from the trash.
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### Bonus Tips
– **Avoid adding cold food to the pan**—let it come to room temperature for better results.
– **Don’t rush the heat-up process**—proper temperature is key to creating that non-stick barrier.
– **Clean with care**—don’t use harsh abrasives that can damage the pan’s surface or seasoning.
– **Don’t deglaze with cold liquids** in a hot pan too quickly—it can warp your pan over time.
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### The Takeaway
This easy kitchen trick proves that you don’t need high-end cookware to cook like a pro. With a little heat and a touch of oil, **you can transform almost any pan into a non-stick wonder**, saving you time, money, and frustration.
Give it a try the next time you’re cooking breakfast or searing dinner. Your wallet—and your perfectly cooked eggs—will thank you.
**Happy cooking, the non-stick way!**
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