Slowly, over time, I have been switching out my cookware for nontoxic options. Cast iron and stainless steel are two of the best options to choose from! Cast iron skillets are affordable, durable, versatile, and, with proper care, can last for generations. Steak, cornbread, crispy chicken–a cast iron skillet can do it all. However, to keep your skillet in top shape, it’s essential to care for it properly. Here are some simple cast iron skillet care instructions to make sure it stays non-stick, rust-free, and ready for cooking.
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What are Cast Iron Skillets?
Cast iron artifacts date all of the way back to 5th century B.C. China. Today, cast iron cookware is still a durable, health-conscious option for cookware. It is also significantly cheaper than stainless steel.
According to the kitchn blog, “A cast iron skillet is made by pouring an alloy of molten iron into a sand mold and then allowing it to cool before breaking away the sand.” There are various shapes and sizes of cast iron to meet your different cooking needs.
What are the Benefits of Cast Iron Cookware?
Cast iron is valued due to its durability, versatility, and ability to hold heat for a long time. If you season and care for your cast iron properly, it essentially becomes naturally nonstick.
Cast iron also releases small amounts of iron into your food, which may be helpful if you are trying to increase your iron intake! I have struggled with anemia off and on, and so I am always looking for ways to increase my iron intake.
Where to Buy Cast Iron Cookware
I have a combination of cast iron cookware from Amazon and Walmart. As I mentioned above, cast iron is surprisingly affordable compared to other non-toxic cookware options!
I prefer having several sizes of cast iron pans. Lodge is a trusted brand that comes with pre-seasoned skillets. you can purchase them in a set like this to save.
Cast Iron Skillet Care Instructions
While cast iron skillets are not difficult to care for, they do require some special care to ensure that they last a long time! Here are some tips for caring for your cast iron skillet.
Seasoning Your Cast Iron Skillet
One of the most important aspects of caring for your cast iron skillet is seasoning it. Seasoning is the process of coating the skillet with a layer of oil and heating it to create a natural, non-stick surface.
Nowadays, many cast iron skillets are pre-seasoned. However, you can also season them on your own at home with just a few steps! Here’s how to season your skillet.
Clean the Skillet: Before seasoning, make sure your skillet is clean. If it’s new, wash it with warm water and mild soap (it’s okay to use a little soap on a new skillet). For older skillets, you may need to remove old seasoning or rust with steel wool.
Apply Oil: Once your skillet is clean and dry, apply a thin layer of oil. I prefer olive oil, but you could use any cooking oil. Use a paper towel or clean cloth to wipe off any excess oil. The key is to use just enough to coat the surface lightly—too much oil can create a sticky residue.
Bake It: Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the skillet upside down on the middle rack and put a sheet of aluminum foil on the lower rack to catch any drips. Bake for an hour, then turn off the oven and let the skillet cool inside. This process will polymerize the oil, creating a smooth, non-stick surface.
Repeat If Necessary: If your skillet is new or has lost its seasoning over time, you may want to repeat the seasoning process a few times to build up a strong layer.
2. Cleaning Your Cast Iron Skillet
After each use, it’s important to clean your skillet properly to maintain its seasoning and prevent rust. Here’s the best way to clean it:
Mostly Avoid Soap: Avoid using soap on your cast iron skillet as it can strip away the seasoning. Instead, use a stiff brush or a scraper to remove food bits. Then, use hot water to help loosen stuck-on food. Although it is debated, I do use a little soap from time to time if my cast iron is especially hard to clean!
Use Salt for Stubborn Stains: For tough, stuck-on food, pour some coarse kosher salt into the skillet and scrub with a paper towel or cloth. The salt acts as a mild abrasive and helps remove debris without damaging the seasoning.
Rinse with Hot Water: Rinse the skillet with hot water. You can also put an inch or two of water in the skillet, boil it, and then start the cleaning process over if the pan is especially hard to clean.
Dry Immediately: After cleaning, dry your skillet thoroughly with a towel. It’s important to remove all moisture to prevent rusting. You can also place it on the stove over low heat for a few minutes to ensure it’s completely dry. You can also add a thin layer of oil from time to time. I keep my skillets in my oven due to lack of space, but this also helps re-season them.
3. Re-Seasoning Your Cast Iron Skillet
While regular cleaning will maintain your skillet’s seasoning, it may need to be re-seasoned periodically, especially if food starts sticking or if you notice rust. Here’s how to re-season:
Scrub the Surface: If your skillet has lost its seasoning or has rust spots, scrub the surface with steel wool to remove the rust or old seasoning. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
Reapply Oil: Apply a thin layer of oil as described in the seasoning section and bake in the oven to restore the non-stick surface.
4. Storing Your Cast Iron Skillet
Proper storage of your cast iron skillet will help prevent rust and preserve its seasoning. As mentioned above, I store our cast iron pans in our oven! We have a small kitchen with limited storage, and this is one way that I make the most of the space. The heat from baking can also help re-season the pans.
Keep It Dry: Never store your skillet with moisture in it. After cleaning and drying, store it in a dry place.
Use a Paper Towel: To prevent moisture from collecting, place a paper towel or cloth inside the skillet to absorb any moisture.
Avoid Stacking: If you need to stack your cast iron skillet with other pots and pans, place a paper towel or cloth between them to protect the seasoning.
5. Cast Iron Skillet Care Instructions for Preventing Rust
Rust is the biggest enemy of a cast iron skillet, but it’s easy to prevent with the right care. Here are a few tips to keep your skillet rust-free:
Don’t Let It Soak: Never leave your cast iron skillet submerged in water. Always dry it immediately after washing.
Season Regularly: The more you use your skillet and season it, the more resilient it will become to rust.
Store in a Dry Place: Make sure your skillet is stored in a dry, well-ventilated area. If you live in a particularly humid climate, consider storing your skillet in a cupboard or on a shelf where air can circulate.
6. Cooking with Your Cast Iron Skillet
Once your cast iron skillet is seasoned and ready, it’s time to cook! Cast iron excels at retaining heat, which makes it perfect for high-heat cooking methods like searing, frying, and baking. A few things to keep in mind:
Preheat Slowly: Always allow your skillet to heat up gradually over medium heat. Cast iron can crack if exposed to sudden temperature changes.
Use the Right Utensils: While cast iron is durable, avoid using metal utensils that can damage the seasoning. Opt for wood, silicone, or plastic tools instead.
Avoid Cooking Acidic Foods: Foods like tomatoes or vinegar-based sauces can strip away the seasoning over time, so try to avoid cooking them in your cast iron skillet regularly. If you are looking for a good recipe to try, I highly recommend this Chicken Piccata recipe!
Conclusion
With proper care, your cast iron skillet can become one of the most reliable and cherished tools in your kitchen. By seasoning, cleaning, and storing it correctly, you’ll ensure it remains rust-free, non-stick, and ready to cook delicious meals for years to come. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, a well-maintained cast iron skillet is a small investment with a big impact.
Happy cooking, and enjoy the versatility of your trusty skillet!
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