The Ultimate Guide to Cast Iron Care: Seasoning, Cleaning, and Storing

TLDRLearn everything you need to know about taking care of your cast iron pan, including seasoning, cleaning, and storing. Cast iron retains heat well, is versatile, and can last for generations. Use kosher salt to clean off rust and debris, and grease the pan with oil before baking it for an hour at 350°F to achieve a perfect seasoning. Clean your cast iron with warm soapy water, avoiding any abrasive materials that can ruin the seasoning. After cleaning, dry the pan thoroughly and apply a light coating of oil to prevent rust. Store your cast iron in a warm oven to maintain its seasoning and prevent rust.

Key insights

🔥Cast iron pans retain heat well, resulting in better searing and color on food.

🧼To clean rust and debris from a cast iron pan, use kosher salt as a mild abrasive.

🍳Cast iron pans are versatile and can be used on the stove, in the oven, and even over a campfire.

⚒️Proper seasoning of a cast iron pan involves baking it with a layer of oil to create a non-stick coating.

🌡️Storing a cast iron pan in a warm oven helps maintain its seasoning and prevents rust.

Q&A

Can I use soap to clean my cast iron pan?

Yes, it is safe to use soap and warm water to clean a seasoned cast iron pan.

What should I do if my cast iron pan becomes rusted?

To remove rust from a cast iron pan, scrub it with kosher salt or a chain mail scrubber until the rust is gone. Then, rinse and dry the pan thoroughly and re-season it.

Can I use metal utensils on a cast iron pan?

Yes, metal utensils can be used on a well-seasoned cast iron pan without causing damage to the seasoning.

How often should I re-season my cast iron pan?

It is recommended to re-season a cast iron pan every 6-12 months, or as needed, to maintain its non-stick properties.

Can I store food in a cast iron pan?

It is not recommended to store food in a cast iron pan, as it can affect the seasoning and potentially lead to food spoilage.

Timestamped Summary

00:00Introduction: The video covers all aspects of cast iron care, including seasoning, cleaning, and storing.

00:17Key Insight 1: Cast iron pans retain heat well, resulting in better searing and color on food.

01:10Key Insight 2: To clean rust and debris from a cast iron pan, use kosher salt as a mild abrasive.

01:33Key Insight 3: Cast iron pans are versatile and can be used on the stove, in the oven, and even over a campfire.

03:26Key Insight 4: Proper seasoning of a cast iron pan involves baking it with a layer of oil to create a non-stick coating.

05:54Key Insight 5: Storing a cast iron pan in a warm oven helps maintain its seasoning and prevents rust.