Stop Ruining your Cast Iron and Clean it the Right Way!
Cast Iron is one of the best materials for kitchen tools that you’ll ever buy. These glorious skillets are heavy, sturdy and most of all worth every penny. Most people are aware of the chemicals that are present in some non-stick pans and mind you they are very harmful and detrimental to our health. A properly seasoned pan will develop a natural nonstick coating along the way.
These pans are so versatile that you can use them for almost everything from frying to sauteéing and even baking, due to its capability to heat foods evenly. Furthermore, these pans can be passed down to the next generation when properly cared for. Cleaning your cast iron after each use isn’t rocket science. It is a bit tedious, but you will absolutely be pleased with the results.
Here we have listed effective methods on how to clean your beloved cast irons. So grab your essentials and start cleaning your pans!
Prepping a Brand New Pan
It is essential to give your brand new pan some seasoning. Simply wash your cast iron with hot and soapy water, then dry it thoroughly. Grab a cooking oil and buff the interior and exterior of the pan including the handle. Then put the seasoned pan upside down in a preheated 450 deg F oven for about 30 minutes to an hour. Turn off the oven and let it cool and you may now start cooking.
For Lightly Soiled Pan
For light sauteéing and frying, to clean your pan, begin with pouring a bit of cooking oil into your pan. Using the Clean n’ Wipe Cloths, rub the pan until its clean and food particles are gone.
For Pans with caked-on Food
Simply sprinkle some kosher salt and scrub the pan using Non-scratch scouring pads. Scrape the food particles then buff the pan with cooking oil.
For Hard to Clean Scorched Pans
For pans that are really stuck with food on them, worry not! Wash your cast iron with hot and soapy water and using Non-scratch scouring pads, scrub the gunk out of your pan and rinse. Make sure you don’t soak your pan too long with water, otherwise it may rust.
You may use a towel to dry your pan, but the single most effective way of drying your pan is to take it back to the burner and heat it for a minute until all water evaporates. Then, rub your skillet with cooking oil and remove excess grease with a paper towel, throw it back over the burner and heat it, just until it is lightly smoking. Let it cool then store in a dry place.
Resolving Rust Issues
No matter how meticulous you are in taking care of your cast iron, over time, it will develop a little rust once in a while. It’s not the end of the world! Potato will help save the day! These tuberous crops contain oxalic acid which is effective in removing that annoying rust. Simply, cut the potato in half, sprinkle a bit of baking soda and rub your worries away. Rinse with water, dry and re-season with oil.
At the end of the day, taking care of your cast iron can be a little bit tedious, but with these few techniques, you will surely be able to keep your pan clean, free from rust and of course evenly-seasoned. Do you also use the same cleaning technique? Share your comments below - we would love to hear from you.
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