Ready to reseason your favorite kitchen tool?
With a little effort, it’s easy to revive worn-out cast iron and make it glossy again.
But over-enthusiastic scrubbing,acidic foods, or excessive heat can break down that seasoning.
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Clean The Pan
One school of thought about cast iron entirely rejectsusing soap to clean it.
But there are exceptions to every rule.
Get started by scrubbing the pan well in hot, soapy water.
Credit: Caitlin Bensel
Yes, using a little soap is acceptable in this case because you arereseasoning the pan.
First, use a nylon scrub brush or fine steel wool scrubber to remove rust.
Once the pan is clean, dry it thoroughly inside and out.
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(And keep the pan dry in the future to prevent rusting.)
Another method for cleaning rust is to immerse your pan in equal parts vinegar and water fully.
Keep checking in with the progress of the skillet.
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Otherwise, use shortening.
Soak a paper towel in the oil and coat the inside, outside, and handle of the skillet.
Don’t add too much.
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You don’t want the pan to be so oily that it’s slippery.
Aim for a nice thin coating.
Coat the entire pan, not just the interior.
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For long-term care, it is best practice to oil an iron skillet after each use.
A well-seasoned skillet has a distinct look to it.
It is noticeably dark with a shiny, semi-gloss finish.
Credit:Brian Woodcock
Put a sheet of aluminum foil on the lower shelf to catch any drips.
Bake the pan for one hour to season it.
You might need to repeat the baking step to achieve a newly seasoned skillet’s good look and feel.
When the pan is cool, wipe away excess oil with a paper towel.
If a skillet is not completely dry, it will take on rust.
Unseasoned cast ironcauses many issues, including sticking and rusting.
Avoid problems by not cooking acidic foods, fish, or eggs in cast iron.
It only takes 20 minutes of active cooking time to prepare, which your family is sure to love.
It’s rich, creamy, zesty, and packed with comfort-food flavors.
This deep-dish treat is gooey, chocolatey, and crispy around the edges.
Serve with ice cream or enjoy them entirely on their own.
A cast-iron skillet can be placed right on the grates and provides a nice sear.
A splash of Worcestershire sauce in the ground beef makes the burgers even more savory.
This is the secret to a nice, thick crust around the edges.
