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Cling wrap or plastic wrap, the thin transparent sheet that we often see chefs placing gently over a custard, to prevent it from forming a ‘skin’ on the top layer, is in fact an efficient cooking aid in the kitchen. We’ve all had our mothers pack sandwiches snugly in cling film as we venture on picnics or field excursions or see cut vegetables in the supermarket peeking from under one of these sheets. From preserving the freshness of food to helping avoid spillage, the versatile roll of plastic is one that is worth keeping stock of, in your pantry; especially if a packed lunch is what you most often have to carry through the week.
Preserve Food
Cling film wrap is commonly used to wrap and cover leftover food or fruits and vegetables to keep them fresh for longer. It creates a tight seal, helping to prevent air exposure and moisture loss, which can help maintain the quality and extend the shelf life of perishable items. Similarly, wrapping sandwiches or fresh parathas in cling wrap, before they are carried to school or work, allows them to retain their texture without going soggy or spilling all over your day bag.
Store Food
Cling wrap can be used to wrap individual portions of food to keep them protected and fresh. It can also be used to cover bowls or containers of food to prevent spills and maintain freshness in the refrigerator. Most times, cling wrap can also be used to separate one layer of food from another, to avoid them mixing and turning unsanitary. Sealing bowls or jars with a small sheet of cling wrap is the best way to store food if you’ve run out of lids, which also prevents it from dehydrating in the refrigerator.
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Freezer Protection
When storing food in the freezer, cling film wrap can help prevent freezer burn and maintain the quality of the food. It forms a barrier between the food and the cold air, reducing the risk of moisture loss and preventing the formation of ice crystals. Use it to seal cleaned and processed meat, marinated proteins like paneer or chicken, wrap an opened block of cheese or even to preserve the freshness of baked bread for longer.
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Sous Vide Cooking
Cling film wrap is often used in sous vide cooking – a technique where food is sealed in airtight bags and cooked in a water bath at precise temperatures. Cling film wrap provides a reliable and watertight seal, ensuring that the food remains protected and cooks evenly. Since sous vide cooking also involves cooking food for a longer period of time than most other cooking techniques, cling wrap allows food to cook evenly, without hindering the transfer of heat or rise in temperature.
Splutter Guard
When using a blender or mixer, you can place a sheet of cling film wrap over the top to prevent splattering and minimize mess. This can save you from having to clean up excessive splashes or stains on your kitchen surfaces. Wrapping the mouth of jars or food containers that contain food items that have potential leaking properties is also possible with cling wrap, especially in the case of having ill-fitting lids or tops that are slightly loose.
Aid In Baking
Covering dough or batter while it's rising with cling wrap helps to create a warm and moist environment that promotes proper fermentation. Additionally, it can be used to line baking pans or moulds, making it easier to remove baked goods without sticking. It also helps in keeping freshly baked bread, cake or cookies moist and retain their freshness for days on end, even without placing it in any other container or storing at a lower temperature.
