How to Use a Silicon Basting Brush

Silicone Pastry Brush

Basting brushes come with bristles made from a variety of natural and synthetic materials. From boar bristles to nylon fibers to goose feathers, the type of brush you select should reflect the application for which you intend to use it. Unlike basting brushes with nylon bristles, silicone-bristled brushes can withstand temperatures from 500 to 800 degrees F, which makes them useful for applying marinades and sauces to items on the grill or hot broiler pan. Unlike natural porcine bristles and goose feathers, silicone bristles stand up to washing in the dishwasher, which ensures adequate sterilization in the hot water cycle and is useful if you'll be using your brush to apply a raw egg wash.

Things You'll Need

• Silicone basting brush

Instructions

1. Before you use your silicone basting brush for the first time, wash it using warm water and a mild dish soap. Inspect it for any defective bristles. Because silicone brushes are typically molded and not fashioned from individual bristles, you should not encounter loose bristles. However, there may be defects in the manufacturing that are worth inspecting. Also, it's a good idea to inspect the brush from time to time to guard against wear-related damage. After washing, allow your silicone basting brush to air-dry, bristles pointing up.

2. Use your silicone basting brush to apply egg washes or glazes to pastries, and marinades, sops or sauces to grilled or broiled foods. Dip the brush into the liquid you wish to apply, then paint it on in broad, smooth strokes. Aim for total coverage, and take more than one pass over the item, if necessary, to ensure it is well coated.

3. Although silicone does not pick up stains or odors, cleanup is easiest if performed right after use. If the handle is removable, as with certain brands that have wood handles, remove it before cleaning. You can wash the silicone pastry brush in the dishwasher or by hand. If washing it by hand, use your fingers to work the dish soap lather among the bristles to dissolve any lingering grease.

4. Allow your basting brush to air-dry with the bristle-end up. To store it, hang it, lay it flat in a drawer or place it in a utensil holder with the bristle-end up.

5. Periodically, swish the bristles of your brush in a solution of 1/2 cup warm water mixed with 1/2 tsp baking soda. Rinse well with cool water and let air-dry.

Tips & Warnings

• If you select a silicone basting brush with the intention of using it for basting items on the grill, be sure to get one with a long handle so your arm is protected from the heat.

• As with any basting brush, be careful to avoid cross-contaminating your food by keeping raw egg away from anything that will be consumed without being cooked. When using marinades on meat, poultry, or fish, do not apply any during the last five minutes of cooking, so that bacteria present in the marinade (introduced by touching the basting brush to the meat and then returning it to the marinade) can be killed off before consumption.