Also, guys why are you so in love with your cast iron frying pan? Or maybe you have a cast iron Dutch oven that brings joy by creating warming stews and casseroles for your family? But if in your kitchen you have a kind of cookware, then obviously they are great for cooking different kinds of meal. They are very good at spicing up your food! Did you also know that a cast iron skillet requires special care to maintain it in the best condition? Actually, as you love your toys or books well and need to be cared for the same way with car iron portion.
Dos and Don'ts for Taking Care of Cast Iron
This is what you can do to maintain a good appearance and function of your cast iron cookware:
1) DO wash your cast iron cookware immediately after you use it! If you must, hot water and a touch of soap is acceptable. Clean it up with a soft sponge or cloth. After washing rinse and immediately dry with a towel your pots. Thus, it avoids making the blade rusty.
NEVER put cast iron cookware in the dishwasher Dishwashers are very tough and can destroy your cookware. Also, do not keep it immersed in water for longer hours. It can rust if left in water for too long and we definitely don't want that!
YES season your cast iron cookware often. The process of seasoning is basically adding a thin layer over your cast iron. This layer that prevents the water acumen to rust shade also helps it not stick on food during cooking. That way, your food will not fall off the pan because wearing and cleaning is easy!
NEVER use metal utensils on your cast iron cookware. Otherwise, metal utensils will simply scratch the surface and damage your seasoning. Instead use wooden or silicone utensils. Those ones are softer, so they will not damage your cookware.
DO store your cast iron cookware in a dry location with good air circulation. Remember to dry it well so that there is no chance of rust. When stacking your cookware, place a paper towel or cloth in between each piece. Your Little Tony Starks are going to be scratching up that black lacquer if you do, and nothing good can come of it.
How to Remove Stubborn Stains from Your Cast Iron
Even with the proper care, however, one still may find themselves in a dilemma where they cannot remove some of these tougher stains out. Well, here are some tips to help remedy this:
Fill the pan for some burnt food, and fill it with warm water to soak for a few hours. This will help the burnt food to finally loosen a bit. Lightly scrub the pan with a soft brush or sponge after soaking to remove food particles. If the odor and stain are still present, create a paste with baking soda and some water. Rub this paste gently on the stain.
The last tip I have for you is that if your sink has rust stains, mix 2 tbsp of vinegar and about the same amount in baking soda. Combine it and apply to the rust stain. Leave this on for a couple of minutes to get it doing its thang Next, use a gentle brush or sponge to scrub the pan. Then, clean the pan by rinsing everything with water and drying well. This will clean the rust.
How to Make your Cast Iron Last a Lifetime
These are a gift to us, if treated properly they can last for years-generations! Check out some tips to make it last longer :
It helps to season your cast iron cookware every time after use, or at the very least once a month if not used that much. This would maintain it in good state.
When cleaning your cast iron cookware, remember to not use harsh chemicals or those hard scouring pads. They can ruin the surface and kill the season. Use soft clean process.
If you care for it properly afterwards (remove the excess oil, clean and dry) your cast iron will not rust but always store in a dry place with good air circulation.
But if you see any rust or damage, it's crucial to address the issue immediately. Acting fast can save you from costly damage to your stuff and keep the cookware in tiptop shape.
Care tips for your cast iron care
One of the most delightful tools in any kitchen is a piece of cast iron cookware, but one that needs care to keep it at its best. So, in short,these are the do and dos that one must remember about it:
A cast-iron pan with seasoned cold water and no chemicals DO wash your cookware after every use in hot soapy water (so it doesn't rust)
NEVER put your cast iron cookware in the dishwasher or allow it to soak for extended periods of time.
Correct:DO season or re-season your cast iron every so often to avoid rust, and keep it non-stick.
While cast iron is almost indestructible, avoid using metal utensils on your cookware to prevent any wear and tear.
YES do store the cast iron cookware in a dry place with good air, and if you stack them put a paper towel or cloth between each piece.
By following these tips, you will have your Cast Iron Cookware in tip-top shape and will avail to the many years of delicious cooking & baking ahead on it!