How To Care for Cast Iron Pan
By The Sous Chef Team
Ensuring the proper care of your cast iron pan is not just about maintenance; it's a commitment to preserving a kitchen essential! Proper care improves the pan's lifespan, preventing rust and ensuring it remains a reliable companion for countless recipes.
A well-cared-for cast iron pan will repay you with incredible performance. Beyond durability, it will develop a patina that helps it become increasingly non-stick and easier to use. This guide will help you understand the multifaceted benefits that come from treating your cast iron pan with the care it deserves.
TRY: Read our buyer's guide on cast iron pans and check out our cast iron cookware collection!
Daily cleaning for your cast iron pan
Daily use means daily maintenance for your cast iron pan. And daily use involves adopting the right cleaning practices. We highly suggest having a cast iron cleaner kit. This ensures the removal of cooking residues without compromising the seasoned surface, maintaining the pan's optimal performance.
Even without a cast iron cleaner kit, using warm water and a mild soap will help you maintain cleanliness for your cast iron pan.
Aside from washing, drying techniques too can safeguard your pan against moisture, a common enemy of cast iron. Properly drying your cast iron pan prevents rust and ensures cast iron pan's longevity.
Mastering these simple yet effective methods ensures your pan remains in top-notch condition, ready for your next culinary masterpiece.
Seasoning cast iron pan
Understanding the significance of regular seasoning goes beyond maintaining the visual appeal of your cast iron pan. It plays an important role in enhancing its non-stick properties, preventing rust, and extending its overall lifespan. The process involves creating a protective layer on the pan's surface, promoting optimal cooking performance.
Regular seasoning not only ensures easy food release but also contributes to the development of a rich, natural patina.
This patina, built over time, adds a unique flavour to your dishes and improves the pan's resistance to sticking. Embrace a straightforward seasoning routine to keep your cast iron pan in top-notch condition, providing you with reliable and flavorful cooking experiences.
If you’re new in taking care of cast iron pans, read our guide on how to season your cast iron pan.
Should I oil my cast iron pan after use
Yes. After each use, it's advisable to apply a thin layer of oil to the pan's surface while it's still warm. This process, known as oiling or "greasing" the pan, helps replenish the protective layer and prevents rusting.
Use a cloth or paper towel to spread a small amount of oil evenly across the interior and exterior surfaces. Commonly used oils include vegetable oil, canola oil, or flaxseed oil. This quick and simple step ensures that your cast iron pan stays well-seasoned, ready for the next culinary adventure.
How do you keep cast iron pans from rusting
After each use, ensure thorough drying by towel-drying immediately and placing the pan on low heat to evaporate any remaining moisture.
Additionally, applying a thin layer of seasoning oil after cleaning acts as a protective barrier against rust. If rust spots do appear, a simple solution is to scrub them away using a mixture of salt and oil.
These preventive measures, coupled with regular seasoning, contribute to the resilience and rust resistance of your cast iron pans, ensuring they stay in top-notch condition for years to come.
Properly store your cast iron pan
Proper storage is key to preserving the quality of your cast iron skillet. To avoid damage and maintain its seasoning, store your pan in a cool, dry place.
If stacking is necessary, place a layer of paper towels between pans to prevent scratches. Additionally, avoid storing food in the pan to prevent odours and potential moisture issues.
To provide extra protection, consider using pan separators or individual pan bags. These simple steps ensure that your cast iron skillet remains in prime condition, ready for exceptional cooking each time you reach for it.
Tips on cooking with cast iron pan
Cooking with a cast iron skillet can be a delightful experience when you follow some essential dos and don'ts.
- Do preheat your pan before cooking to ensure even heat distribution and optimal results.
- Do use high smoke point oils to avoid a burnt taste in your dishes. Do season your pan regularly for better non-stick performance.
- Don't use metal utensils that can scratch the seasoning—opt for wooden or silicone utensils.
- Don't soak your cast iron pan for extended periods or put it in the dishwasher; instead, hand wash and dry it promptly.
Following these simple guidelines enhances your cooking experience and preserves the integrity of your cast iron skillet.
Here at Sous Chef, we have a buyer’s guide on cast iron pan just for you! It includes everything you need to know about cast iron cookware, including the best brands to buy and how to care for your pans to ensure they last forever.
About the author
The Sous Chef team spends all day, every day hunting out the most exciting flavours, trends and recipes from across the world.
Every single team member tastes ingredients weekly, and cooks with the most up-to-date and classic cooking tools regularly. We're experts in ingredients and cookware from around the world.
We are constantly tasting new products, trying new recipes, and speaking to expert producers. For recipes and inspiration from the Sous Chef team, sign up for emails here.
