Aluminum foil, also known as the "silver friend" of the kitchen, is today an indispensable accessory for every household. However, its story begins long before it became part of our everyday life. It was first produced in 1910 in Switzerland, when aluminum began to be rolled into thin sheets, similar to today. Its use was quickly adopted due to its versatility and lightness, and it soon replaced tin foil, which had been used for food storage until then. Interestingly, in the early years of production, aluminum foil also found its way into the world of art and industry, as it was used to protect pictures and electronic devices.
Today, when you open a new roll of aluminum foil, you have probably ever thought, which side is the right one to use – glossy or matte? Although this question seems to be purely trivial, it has caused a great dilemma among home chefs and even some professionals. But the truth is surprisingly simple and goes back to the way the film is made. Whether you use it for wrapping food, baking or even for odd household tricks, it's important to know how to use it in the most efficient way.
Photo: amazonGlossy or matte side: what is the truth?
Many believe that the difference between the shiny and matte sides of the foil is important in cooking, but experts confirm that this is not the case. The shiny side of the film is the result of a manufacturing process where two layers of film are pressed together to prevent tearing. The matte side is the one that was in contact with the second layer, while the shiny side was formed on the outside.
For cooking, this is only important if you use foil marked "non-stick". With this foil, the food must come into contact with the matte side, as it is coated with a coating that prevents sticking. If you use regular foil, it doesn't matter which side is facing up or down, as both sides perform their function equally for baking and wrapping
Photo: envatoTricks for using aluminum foil
Besides cooking, aluminum foil can be used in many creative ways that can make your life easier in the kitchen and beyond.
Cleaning the grill
To clean your grill quickly, simply fold a piece of aluminum foil into a ball and rub it over the grill grate. Aluminum will effectively remove burnt food residues.
Sharpening scissors
You can resharpen old scissors by cutting through several layers of aluminum foil a few times. This will remove minor irregularities on the blade.
Wi-Fi signal improvement
If you have problems with the Wi-Fi signal, you can use aluminum foil as a makeshift antenna. Shape the foil into a curved shape and place it behind your router - this can improve signal strength in the direction you want it to propagate.
You can therefore play with aluminum foil in different ways and improve everyday tasks in the kitchen and elsewhere. No matter which side of the foil you use, the most important thing is to use it correctly and creatively!
