- [*=left]1 cup vinegar
[*=left]2 tablespoons of baking soda
[*=left]1 cup water (more or less depending on the size of your pan)
[*=left]Your burnt pan, of course
[*=left]a scourer
Once you have all of these materials within reach, you can begin the cleaning process.
1. Fill the bottom of the pan with a layer of water.
2. Add the vinegar.
3. Bring the pan to boil.
4. Remove the pan from the heat and add the baking soda. It should start to fizz.
5. Empty the pan and scour as normal. If needed, add an extra bit of baking soda.
6. If there are any stubborn marks that do not come off with scouring, make a paste of baking soda and a few drops of water. Leave the paste on the marks for a few minutes. Then, return to the pan and clean as normal.
Congratulations! Now you can rest, relax and enjoy the many hours you saved yourself from standing over the sink.
Note, this process will discolor stainless, but I've never had it affect the pan's performance.