logo
Advertisement

A cast iron skillet will last for generations when properly it has been properly seasoned and taken care of. They evenly distribute heat, have a natural non-stick surface when seasoned, and won't warp when exposed to high temperatures for extended periods of time. Cast iron pans are durable and versatile enough to go from the home to the campfire and back again. They are a popular choice for professional chefs.

Don't Be Afraid to Clean Cast Iron

Cast iron skillets are made from iron, so rust is their natural enemy. You may have heard a list of "don'ts" regarding their care and cleaning. The two most important caveats are not to soak the pan and to avoid pitting by cleaning the pan immediately after use. Don't panic if the pan starts to rust, that is natural, and can be remedied by re-seasoning.

Frying Egg in a Cooking Pan in Domestic Kitchen GMVozd / Getty Images

 

Advertisement

What is A Seasoned Pan?

Seasoning a cast iron skillet means that it has been undergone a simple process to create a non-stick layer. In a nutshell, fat is rubbed into the pan and is heated to create a polymerized non-stick surface. You will want to protect this surface during the cleaning process by using the least abrasive products that will still do the job. It is not difficult to re-season a pan if required. Do so when the pan begins to rust or look dry.

Spaghetti Carbonara with Garlic Bread LauriPatterson / Getty Images

 

Advertisement

Basic Method to Clean a Cast Iron Skillet

Start by using the least abrasive method. If the pan is properly seasoned and cleaned immediately after use, it should be simple to clean. To dry and store cast iron after cleaning:

  • Wipe any remaining food and oil out of the skillet with a paper towel.
  • Use a food scraper to remove any particles that are stuck on the pan.
  • Rinse under running water.
  • This may be all that is needed except drying.

Tongs turning meatball in frying pan NicolasMcComber / Getty Images

 

Advertisement

Scrubbing Cast Iron

A scrub brush and kosher salt or baking soda can be used to remove food that is really stuck on the pan. Food sticking can be an indication that it is time to re-season the pan. Cast iron skillets are the easiest to clean when warm. Add a tablespoon of kosher salt and use a scrub brush to remove any food. If stains or lingering odors are a problem, use baking soda and a brush. Rinse well before drying.

Homemade Berry Cobbler in a Cast Iron Skillet rudisill / Getty Images

 

Advertisement

Soap and Steel Wool

Due to its abrasiveness, steel wool is recommended as a last resort when cleaning cast iron. If needed, use a fine grade and be careful not to scratch the surface of the pan. Soap has long been heralded as a natural enemy of cast iron and should be used as little as possible. Detergents dissolve grease and oil, and the polymer layer on cast iron that resists sticking is created with oil. That said, you can safely use a couple of drops of soap when washing the pan.

Penne pasta prepared with vegetables and parmesan cheese served in metal plate, close-up Drbouz / Getty Images

 

Advertisement

Drying a Cast Iron Skillet

Properly drying a cast iron skillet is essential for preventing rust. Either dry it completely with a paper towel after washing and rinsing or place it on a warm burner on the stovetop for a few minutes to ensure it is completely dry. Cast iron can be used on any type of stove, but due to its weight, be careful when placing it on a glass top.

Spanish Seafood and Rice Dish in Skillet rudisill / Getty Images

 

Advertisement

Oiling a Skillet

After the skillet is dry, use a paper towel and wipe a small amount of cooking oil into the pan. Buff it well until the oil is completely absorbed by the skillet and paper towel. The paper towel may have black streaks, but this is natural and does not affect the flavor or performance of the pan. This layer helps protect the pan from moisture and preserves the seasoning.

ausages with Scrambled Eggs and Toast LauriPatterson / Getty Images

 

Advertisement

Storing Cast Iron Skillets

How often you use cast iron will affect how it is stored. The most preferable include leaving it on top of the stove or hung from a rack. These two methods reduce the risk of rust, especially in humid climates. Cast iron skillets can be stacked on each other and placed in a cabinet. You may want to place a liner under the bottom skillet and a paper towel between each layer to reduce moisture.

Chef preparing vegetables in a cast iron skillet lenakorzh / Getty Images

Advertisement

Testing Cast Iron

A simple test to determine if a pan needs to be re-seasoned is to place butter in the skillet, let it get hot and cook a fried egg for a few minutes. If the egg sticks, it is time to season the pan. Of course, rust or a dry, gray appearance are also signs that the pan should be seasoned.

Homemade cinnamon rolls or buns baked in a cast iron skillet and covered with cream cheese icing. Lauren King / Getty Images

Advertisement

Cooking with Cast Iron

Cast iron works best when preheated and with the addition of oil or butter. You can use it to bake in, greasing it slightly just like a cake pan. Unlike non-stick surfaces, you can use metal or any type of spatula when cooking with cast iron. You can cook anything in cast iron, soup, stew, tomatoes, beef, chicken, and baked goods. Cast iron skillets conduct heat more evenly and retain it longer than thinner pans. Once you learn how to clean a cast iron skillet and properly care for it, it will last a lifetime.

Strawberry and Blueberry Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream in a Cast Iron Skillet LauriPatterson / Getty Images

Scroll Down

for the Next Article

Advertisement

Popular Now on Facty


Disclaimer

This site offers information designed for educational purposes only. The information on this Website is not intended to be comprehensive, nor does it constitute advice or our recommendation in any way. We attempt to ensure that the content is current and accurate but we do not guarantee its currency and accuracy. You should carry out your own research and/or seek your own advice before acting or relying on any of the information on this Website.

logo

Do you want to advertise on Facty.com?
Let’s talk about this! Contact us!
advertise@facty.com

© 2024 Assembly Digital Ltd. All rights reserved.