A cast iron pan is a must-have for your kitchen. Not only are cast iron pans versatile, but they really provide the best even-temperature cooking and flavoring.
I am such a fan, that I have several, but it’s the large one that I use the most — almost every day.
To care and clean these pans, soap and water is not the answer.
Enter today’s Quick Tip Friday.
After each use, simply wipe out the pan with paper towels. If there is some baked-on food that is stubborn and not coming off, simply sprinkle some coarse salt in the pan and gently rub it around with a sponge, not more abrasive than than the one pictured below. That is so important, as you don’t want to scratch the surface.
The ONLY time you should use soap on a cast iron pan is if there is rust accumulation on the pan. Simply squirt a small amount of a gentle soap, such as Dawn, in the pan and rub it over the rust, rinsing and repeating until rust is gone and rinsing water turns clear.
Once clean, pour about a teaspoon of vegetable oil in the pan and rub it in with a paper towel. Then store until the next use.
This proper care will keep rust away from your cast iron pans, and will prolong the life of the pans – which will pretty much be forever.
This is my very favorite cast iron skillet.
Enjoy today’s Quick Tip Friday!
Barbara Beck says
How do you treat a new cast iron pan. Do you rub it with oil to preserve it ?
Brooke Fedigan says
Hi Barbara,
For a new cast iron pan, clean with warm soapy water and dry thoroughly. Spread a thin layer of shortening or vegetable oil over the pan. Place in 350 degree oven and bake for 1 hour. Wipe with paper towels and it’s ready to use. The shiny black patina happens over time.
Bekah says
I love cast iron! We are looking to buy more, ours got lost in one of our many moves :(. Thanks for the tips! Seasoning them always seemed a bit intimidating 🙂
Brooke Fedigan says
Cheers to cast iron! I included a link in my post to my favorite cast iron pan and where to buy it! Happy cooking!
Best,
B
Jessica @AvaGraceFashions says
I really wish my husband would switch to cast iron…my mom had them while I was growing up <3 nice post, thanks
Brooke Fedigan says
Once your husband tries cast iron, he won’t use anything else!! Fingers crossed he gives these pans a shot!
Best,
B
Mamaguru says
Just got one! I needed these tips!
Brooke Fedigan says
Great!! I’m so glad you needed these tips!!
Best,
B
Jennifer Dunham says
I love using cast iron! Thanks for sharing your tips!
Carole anne says
In my Route 66 class we just made deep dish pizza in cast iron and the kids were amazed at how great they were!! Thanks for the cleaning tip!!
Brooke Fedigan says
Anytime!!!!
Xo,
B
chaza says
I am glad I found this post. I just got home after shopping and I almost about to buy one of those cast iron pan. My husband told me it’s hard to keep them in good condition if you don’t give the right care. I am thinking to buy one after reading your tips. Thank you for sharing:)
http://www.hugshomemade.com
Brooke Fedigan says
I’m so happy you found my tips helpful! I do encourage you buying a cast iron pan – it really is the best every day pan to use!
Elizabeth says
I love my cast iron! Thanks for sharing this tip!