Gudday Denny,
Sorry can't give you a magic formula to dilute the caustic soda.
In the small amounts that we are talking about, it is'nt a threat to the environment or local wildlife.
I know af a few blokes that have usrd the Molasses treatment, but yes, it is a very long wait for the process to fully do its job.
If you don't mind waiting a week just to clean your diff pan, give it a bash!