Due to its heat-resistant and non-stick surface, parchment paper is a very popular choice for baking and cooking. Typically, we use it for lining cake pans and baking sheets to prevent cakes and cookies form sticking. But it can also be used to wrap vegetables and fish, reduce mess when making pastry doughs, and separating sticky treats for storage.
If you don’t have parchment paper on your kitchen, don’t worry. There are several alternatives that you can use. These options are likely available in your home already, you just didn’t realize it.
Here are some of the best substitutes for parchment paper:
- Cooking spray
Cooking spray is a handy alternative that can be used to cover pans and other cookware with a fine mist of oil. A spray of oil is enough to stop food from sticking and the oil doesn’t add to the fat content of what you’re cooking. If you’re on diet and watching your calorie intake, using cooking spray is a great option for you. Just a quick spray on the pan and you’re good to go.
- Silicone baking pad
Silpat or silicone baking pads are a great substitute for parchment paper. Just line one onto your baking sheet, and anything you bake or cook on it will come off without a problem. Other than that, it’s also easy to clean up.
It is really worth adding to your kitchen collection. They are affordable and can be used for lots of times. They can help keep baking sheets clean, so you don’t have to wash them after using. You can even use them as a non-stick surface when rolling out doughs.
- Non-stick sheet pans
Another suitable alternative for parchment paper is a high-quality nonstick sheet pan. It is easy to clean and perform best than other sheet pans, even if don’t add oil in it. It is also very practical and long lasting. It will take you years to replace them. Just make sure to opt for a nonstick pan with lots of positive reviews so that you don’t need to worry about anything while cooking.
- Aluminum foil
Aluminum foil is a common kitchen tool that acts similarly to parchment paper. It can be used to line pans and baking sheets. However, you must grease the top of the foil when lining pans to prevent the food from sticking. You also need to remember that dishes on foil tend to cook faster, so keep your eyes on the oven. The bottoms of the cookies will be a bit crispier, too, when aluminum foil is used.
This parchment paper substitute can also be used for cooking chicken, veggies, and fish. Just create a pouch, seal the food, and put it on the grill.
Final Thoughts
Parchment paper can help home cooks in many ways. But sometimes, you just don’t have enough of it in your kitchen. Don’t worry, you can try using the alternatives listed above. Happy cooking!
