The aluminum sheet has become an essential tool in our daily life. Especially in the kitchen, it is frequently used because of its versatile utility. We pack the well -seasoned fish in it so that it remains juicy in the oven or the chicken to avoid burning the skin too much while obtaining meat not too cooked. But is there a difference between the two surfaces? And if so, can we optimize its use?
What does both sides of the aluminum sheet mean?
Both sides of the sheet have no importance. Their different surfaces are due to the lamination process. After a long manufacturing process, cylinders of a rolling mill flattens a aluminum plate several times until you obtain a fine and fragile thickness. To prevent them from tearing themselves apart when they pass between rolling room rollers, two aluminum leaves are superimposed and laminated at the same time. The friction of the interior faces of the leaves produces the matt side. The exterior side, in contact with the cylinder, is highly polished by the rolling mill, which produces a shiny side.
How to use them?
During cooking:
If you cook chicken, toast a fish or roast vegetables, the operation of both sides is identical when they are in the oven. Aluminum is a thermal conductor that distributes heat equally on both sides. It is true that the shiny side to the outside reflects the heat and the matt side absorbs it, yet the difference is almost non -existent.
During the conservation:
For good food preservation practices, the use of different sides has a slight difference. It is advisable to keep hot dishes with the shiny side inside, because it keeps heat better. On the other hand, when you keep a cold dish, it is best to wrap it with the shiny side outside. Its reflective surface rejects heat and light, which allows it to be kept cool longer.
Errors to avoid
Use aluminum foil in the microwave:
Everyone can put a dish with aluminum in the microwave and panic when there are sparks inside. A lesson to remember and above all to avoid. Putting aluminum in the microwave is dangerous is risk of damaging the device. The metals contained in the sheet lead electricity and can cause a fire start.
Incorrect storage
Aluminum does not replace the cling film. Conservation in a wet environment does not sufficiently protect food and may have them softened.
Contact with acidic foods.
In contact with acidic foods such as tomatoes or citrus a chemical reaction can affect the taste of food, giving them an unpleasant metallic taste.
The risks
Aluminum foil can also cause problems. In contact with heat, it can be transformed into powerful neurotoxic and then deposit directly on the food. In some cases, such as cooking cakes, vegetables or pizza, baking paper can be a good alternative to the aluminum sheet.
