How To Clean Cast Iron Cookware Like A Pro: 3 Simple Steps With Tips And Tricks
Cast iron cookware has been a staple in kitchens for generations. It’s durable, versatile, and can last years if properly cared for. However, many people shy away from cast iron because they believe cleaning is difficult. In this comprehensive guide we will dive into the secrets of cleaning cast iron pans and cookware.
Are you one of those who is tired of struggling to clean their cast iron cookware after each use?
Do you want to ensure that your favorite pans last for years to come?
Cleaning cast iron is as simple as rinsing the pan with hot water, scrubbing away any remaining food particles with a stiff-bristled brush, and drying it thoroughly before re-seasoning it with oil or fat after each use. Avoid soaking the pan in water, using soap, or scraping it with metal utensils.
In this blog post, we’ll share some tips and tricks for cleaning cast iron cookware like a pro so that you can enjoy your favorite pans for years.
The Basics Of Cast Iron Cookware:
Cast iron cookware is made of iron and carbon, which means it’s prone to rusting and can be damaged by acidic foods. However, it’s also incredibly durable and retains heat well, making it ideal for cooking everything from steaks to pancakes. Before diving into cleaning cast iron cookware, it’s essential to understand the basics of caring for it.
How To Clean Cast Iron Cookware: 3 Simples Steps To Follow
Here are the simple steps you must need to follow if you want to extend the lifespan of your cast iron cookware:
1. Washing
To properly wash your cast iron cookware, hand washing is recommended. Using a small amount of soap and a pan scraper for any stubborn, stuck-on food is okay.
For more challenging cases, simmering a bit of water for 3-5 minutes can help, and then wait for the pan to cool before using the scraper.
2. Drying
After cleaning, it’s essential to dry your cast iron cookware promptly and thoroughly using a lint-free cloth or paper towel. Don’t be alarmed if you notice some black residue on the towel – this is just the seasoning and is perfectly normal.
3. Spray the Oil
Apply a very light layer of cooking oil or seasoning to maintain your cast iron cookware. Spray onto the surface of the pan. Use a paper towel to wipe the surface until no oil residue remains.
What Steps To Follow In Cleaning A Rusty Cast Iron Pan?
Follow these steps to clean and restore your rusty cast iron pan to its former glory.
Step 1: Assess the Damage of Your Cast Iron Pan
Check the extent of the rust on your cast iron pan. You can remove it with steel wool or sandpaper if it’s only a tiny amount. However, if the rust is severe, submerging the pan in a mixture of white vinegar and water may be necessary to dissolve the rust.
Step 2: Scrub the Pan
Remove any loose rust and debris from the pan’s surface using a scrub brush. If necessary, use steel wool or sandpaper to remove stubborn rust.
Step 3: Soak the Pan
Create a mixture of one part white vinegar to four parts water and submerge the pan for a few hours or overnight.
Step 4: Rinse and Dry
After soaking, rinse the pan thoroughly with water and dry it with paper towels.
Step 5: Remove Any Remaining Rust
If there’s still some rust on the pan, create a paste with equal parts baking soda and water and apply it to the rusted areas. Let it sit for a few minutes, then scrub it away with a brush.
Step 6: Re-Season the Pan
Once you remove the rust, it’s crucial to re-season the pan to prevent future rusting. Apply a very light layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray onto the pan’s surface and use a paper towel to wipe away any excess fat.
Step 7: Store the Pan
Store the pan in a dry place to prevent rust from forming again.
Tips and tricks for Maintaining Cast Iron Cookware
Keep Your Cast Iron Cookware in Top Shape by following these cleaning tips.
- Store your cast iron cookware in a dry place to prevent rusting.
- Re-season the pan with oil or fat after each use to maintain its non-stick surface.
- If your pan develops rust, use a scrub brush or steel wool to remove it and then re-season it.
- Avoid cooking acidic foods in your cast iron cookware with extreme temperature, as they can damage the seasoning.
Cleaning Cast Iron Cookware: Dos And Don’ts:
When cleaning cast iron cookware, following the dos and don’ts is essential to avoid damaging the pan. Here we have enlisted the best tips to ensure the maintenance of your cast iron cookware.
Do’s For Cleaning Cast Iron Cookware:
- Rinse the pan with hot water immediately after cooking to remove any food residue.
- Use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub away any remaining food particles.
- Dry the pan thoroughly with a towel or heat it on the stove to evaporate any remaining water.
- Re-season the pan with oil or fat after each use to maintain its non-stick surface.
Don’ts For Cleaning Cast Iron Cookware:
- Soak the pan in water for extended periods, which can cause rust.
- Use soap, as it can remove the pan’s seasoning and make it more susceptible to rusting.
- Scrape the pan with metal utensils, as they can scratch the surface.
How do I clean cast iron for the first time?
If you’re cleaning a new or used cast iron skillet for the first time, using mild dish soap and water is recommended. This initial wash helps remove any factory residue or rust particles. It’s important to rinse and dry the skillet thoroughly after washing to prevent any water from causing rust.
How do you dry cast iron after cleaning?
Once you have finished rinsing, thoroughly dry your cast iron using a clean cloth. Then, place it on the stovetop and apply low heat to allow it to dry for a few minutes. Afterward, use either a cloth or paper towel to apply a thin layer of shortening or a neutral high-heat cooking oil onto the surface.
Does boiling water in cast iron clean it?
Immersing the pan in water can erode the seasoning and promote the development of rust. However, boiling water for around 10-15 minutes can help to loosen any stubborn baked-on residue. Additionally, the resulting liquid can sometimes be used to create a sauce, but be sure not to use soap during cleaning. This technique is known as deglazing.
How to cook cast iron after cleaning?
To eliminate any remaining moisture from your cast iron skillet after wiping it dry with a towel, set it over low heat for 5-10 minutes. This step also has the advantage of opening up the metal’s pores.
Can I use baking soda to clean cast iron?
In a nutshell, it’s possible to utilize baking soda as a cleaning agent for cast iron pans. After cooking:
- Rinse the pan in warm water.
- Apply a small amount of baking soda.
- Delicately scrub using a nylon brush.
Baking soda is effective at eliminating flavors and aromas from previous cooking, and it also possesses antibacterial qualities.
Can vinegar be safely used on cast iron?
It’s advisable not to soak your cast iron in vinegar for more than 8 hours as anything beyond this timeframe may harm the pan’s long-term well-being. However, it’s essential to keep monitoring your cast iron while it’s soaking, as the necessary duration can differ.
Conclusion
Get ready to become a cast iron cleaning pro!
Cleaning and maintaining cast iron cookware may seem intimidating, but it’s simple. By following these tips and tricks, you can ensure that your favorite pans last for years and always provide delicious meals.