The cast iron skillet is a timeless kitchen essential for generations. It’s one of the staple kitchen appliances in the world. Both professional and amateur cook’s favorite in the kitchen is skillet because of its durability, heat retention and versatility. However, with great power comes great responsibility and keeping the durability of your cast iron skillet requires using the right cleaning and care methods. In this post, we’ll walk you through the process of cleaning and caring for your cherished cast-iron skillet to make sure it lasts for many years to come.
Materials Needed:
- Hot water
- Soft-bristle brush or non-abrasive scrubber
- Mild dish soap
- Paper towels or clean cloth
- Cooking oil
- Stove or oven
Step-by-Step Cleaning Process:
- Cool Down: Allow the cast iron skillet to cool down slightly after cooking. Working with a hot skillet can be dangerous and may lead to burns.
- Wipe Out Residue: Use a paper towel or a cloth to wipe out any excess oil or food particles from the skillet. This step prevents the accumulation of debris and helps make the cleaning process easier.
- Rinse with Hot Water: Rinse the skillet under hot running water. Use a soft-bristle brush or a non-abrasive scrubber to gently remove any remaining food particles. Avoid using metal utensils or harsh scouring pads that can scratch the skillet’s surface.
- Use Mild Dish Soap (Optional): For stubborn residues, you can add a small amount of mild dish soap to the hot water. However, using soap too frequently can strip away the skillet’s seasoning, so reserve this step for when it’s truly necessary.
- Scrub Gently: If needed, gently scrub the skillet’s surface with the soft-bristle brush or scrubber to remove any stubborn bits. The goal is to clean without removing the skillet’s seasoning.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Ensure that all soap residue is thoroughly rinsed off the skillet. Soap residue can affect the taste of your food and interfere with the skillet’s seasoning.
- Dry Thoroughly: Pat the skillet dry with a clean cloth or paper towels. Excess moisture can lead to rust, so make sure the skillet is completely dry.
- Apply a Thin Layer of Oil: To maintain the skillet’s seasoning and prevent rust, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the entire surface of the skillet, including the handle. Use a towel to spread the oil evenly.
- Heat on Stove (Optional): Place the skillet on a stovetop burner over low to medium heat for a few minutes. This helps to further dry the skillet and ensures the oil is properly absorbed.
- Cool and Store: Allow the skillet to cool before storing it. Store the skillet in a dry place to prevent moisture from accumulating.
Caring for your cast iron skillet is like taking care of a treasured friend. With a little effort, you’ll enjoy amazing cooking and keep it strong for years. Your skillet will thank you with tasty food and a strong, non-stick surface that keeps improving over time
