TikTok has a cooking hack to make cleaning dishes easier. But experts have warnings

TikTok creator @Doiknowyou racked up over three million views on their video frying chicken in a pan on top of parchment paper. The hack is supposed to help make the cleanup easier than scraping off and scrubbing a crispy pan after cooking. — AFP

TikTok’s latest cooking hack is causing a stir among chefs and experts online — and there may be dangers that come along with the idea, some warn.

TikTok creator @Doiknowyou racked up over three million views on their video frying chicken in a pan on top of parchment paper. The hack is supposed to help make the cleanup easier than scraping off and scrubbing a crispy pan after cooking.

While some viewers thought the idea was genius, others had reservations.

“I feel like the pan adds flavour,” one viewer commented on a stitch of the video. “And the oil helps certain pans and pots.”

“Anyone else concerned about a fire?” another asked.

Some chefs are, Today reported.

Parchment paper is grease and moisture-resistant, according to Martha Stewart’s website, and can be used under high heat, including in ovens and for baking. Wax paper, however, cannot stand high heat and could melt and ignite.

Even though parchment paper can withstand high heat, if it’s torn even slightly by a knife or other cooking utensil, the material could ignite in flames, culinary producer Katherine Stilo told Today.

“My only concern would be that I use a gas range at home,” Today culinary instructor Chris Spear said. “So, if the paper overhangs, is there any chance that the paper is going to catch fire now?”

Other viewers shared stories in the comments of the TikTok video. One person confirmed Spear’s concerns that parchment paper on the stove top only works for electric appliances — not gas.

“My friend’s house nearly went up (in flames) as she tried to do this and fry chicken on a gas stove,” the commenter said.

“A lot of houses and apartment complexes about to go up in flames this weekend for people that don’t know the difference (between wax and parchment paper),” @josedahype wrote under his stitched video of the original TikTok.

Reynolds Kitchens, a producer of parchment paper, does not specify on the packaging if parchment paper is safe for stove top use. According to the labeling, parchment paper is “oven-safe up to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (223°C).” – The Charlotte Observer/Tribune News Service