How to Clean and Care for Cast Iron Pans
Cast iron pans are loved for their durability and performance in the kitchen. The more you use them, the better they get. And with proper care, they’re made to last a lifetime, elevating your every cooking adventure. Here are our top tips for cleaning and maintaining your cast iron pans to ensure they last for generations to come.
How to Season Cast Iron Cookware
Seasoning is the foundation of cast iron care. Doing so creates a natural non-stick surface on the pan, enhancing cooking performance, building flavour and preventing rust. Before use and seasoning for the first time, soak the pan in hot soapy water for five minutes then wash, rinse and dry. Heat on the hob or in the oven for a few minutes more to remove excess moisture, then dry with a tea towel to ensure it’s thoroughly dry. Coat the pan with a thin layer of good quality vegetable oil, rubbing in gently with a cloth or kitchen paper. Place upside down in your oven at a high heat of 240°C for at least an hour then let it cool slowly in the oven. Repeat the process again for a double layer of seasoning and optimum results.
Ensure to re-season your pan after every wash by following a similar process. Apply a very light layer of vegetable oil to the surface. Then, heat on the hob until smoke appears before turning off the heat and allowing the pan to cool to room temperature. Wipe off any excess oil before storing. This is a simple re-season which will help to maintain the cookware’s natural non-stick surface and provide great cooking every time.
Just remember, the most beautifully seasoned cast iron patina isn’t created in a day. As you turn up the heat and cook with your pan time after time, layers of natural seasoning build that only make your pan easier to cook with, and easier to clean. And every time you sear, fry or char with a cast iron skillet or pot, a unique flavour profile develops which will add a little extra depth to every dish.
How to Clean Cast Iron Pans
Keeping your cast iron cookware clean is the best way to maintain its naturally seasoned patina. Clean while the pan is still warm after cooking for the easiest results that will keep your cooking surface smooth. Scrub gently with warm water (never pour cold water into a hot pan), a soft sponge or brush and a small amount of washing up liquid. Always avoid harsh detergents or scouring pads as these may strip away the natural seasoning.
Dry thoroughly as soon as the pan is washed to avoid rust. Warm on the hob or in the oven for a few minutes to evaporate any leftover water droplets then finish drying with a tea towel. Rust is the enemy of cast iron cookware so it’s more effective to use a little heat rather than a tea towel alone (which can leave dampness behind!).
Removing Stubborn Residue from Cast Iron Cookware
To clean off stubborn food, consider boiling water in the pan to loosen before scrubbing. If your cast iron pan has developed stubborn residue or rust over time, you can remove this with a simple paste. Create a paste using equal parts salt and vegetable oil then rub onto the affected areas with a soft cloth or paper towel. The abrasive nature of the salt will help to remove the residue, while the oil helps to condition the cast iron pan. Wipe off the paste with a clean cloth and re-season the pan to restore its protective coating.
Avoid Dishwasher Cleaning
While cast iron pots and pans are robust, they are not dishwasher safe. The high water pressure, harsh detergents and prolonged exposure to water can compromise the seasoning and lead to rusting. Stick to hand washing your cast iron pans with minimal soap, careful scrubbing and thorough drying for years of faithful performance.
Store Cast Iron with Care
Storing your cast iron pans safely will also go a long way towards maintaining their performance. To prevent scratching, stack pans with a cloth between. If storing for an extended period, consider placing a desiccant or some uncooked grains of rice in the pan to absorb any moisture and prevent rust.
Discover the Stellar Cast Collection
Our collection of cast iron cookware is expertly pre-seasoned and ready to use from the box. Its durable non-stick surface is created by a double layer of vegetable oil for a chemical-free surface that can be restored time after time. Stellar Cast is made from 100% recycled cast iron at an historic foundry in the UK. Each piece comes with a Lifetime Guarantee.
Caring for cast iron cookware is a simple process that rewards with reliable performance for a lifetime of adventurous meals. Remember to season after every wash, clean and store with care to ensure your cast iron pans stand the test of time. With these tips, you’ll not only enjoy the benefits of well-maintained pan but can pass down a culinary legacy to be cherished by future generations.
