Cast iron pans are widely known for holding heat for a maximum amount of time. Also for their even heat distribution which results in smooth and perfect cooking. Cleaning cast iron pan is not an issue because of the numerous products that have been introduced nowadays. However, it should not be forgotten that there may not be products suitable for every problem that occurs with your pan. For that, we are going to list down below some of the home remedies and hacks on how to clean a cast iron pan that cut down your cleaning time to less than half.
Table of Contents
Removing Rust From Cast Iron Pan
It’s not easy to remove rust from cast iron pans especially if left there for a long time. Rust builds up when the seasoning in the pan withers away due to using for a long time or cooking with coarse utensils. It may also be that the quality of the pan is below average. Seasoning protects the exterior of the pan and prevents it from rusting. Make sure to clean the cast iron pan as soon as you notice it getting rusty.
Things You Will Need:
- Steel wool scrubber
- Dishwashing soap
- Paper towels
- Olive oil
- Aluminum foil
- Oven
- Coarse/abrasive brush
Instructions:
- First, you need to remove all the rusty spots from the pan. Wash the pan with water and pour some dishwashing soap. Take the steel scrubber and buff the pan in circular motions to loosen up the rust. Do not hesitate to apply pressure if needed.
- After you’ve seen the rust come off to wash the pan again with lukewarm water and a few drops of soap.
- Dry the pan with your paper towels.
- Cover the pan with olive oil. Also, apply it to the backside and the handle.
- Open your oven and place a sheet of aluminum foil on the bottom rack.
- Place the pan upside down on the middle rack and turn on the oven at 350 Fahrenheit for 50 minutes.
- After the timer is off, take out the pan and let it cool completely.
Removing Stubborn Food Residues WIth Salt
Being one of the most common problems of cast iron pan owners. Just turning away for 5 minutes can leave your food badly stuck on the bottom of the pan. It’s not only frustrating as it ruins the aroma of the food hence making it less appealing. It also lines up a ton of work for you to do to clean the pan. Here’s how you can clean that sticky mess.
Things you will need:
- Kosher salt
- Steel wool scrubber
- Piece of kitchen cloth
- Vegetable oil
- Paper towels
- Baking glove
Instructions:
- Wet the pan by washing it with lukewarm water.
- Take the steel wool and gently scrub the food sticking on the pan.
- Wipe the residue with the kitchen cloth make sure there’s nothing left inside.
- Pour the oil inside the pan. Depending upon the size, it should fill in about one-fourth of the diameter.
- Turn on the heat on medium and let it be for 5 minutes
- Take the pan off the heat and add one-fourth cup of kosher salt.
- Wear the baking glove and with the same hand make a tight grip on the panhandle so you won’t get hurt.
- Take a bunch of paper towels and fold them. Place them inside the pan and with a utensil of your choice buff the paper towels inside the pan. Opt for something that can hold the towels in place and helps you to move them, like tongs.
- When you feel the pan is cleaned drain the remaining mixture and clean your pan with hot water.
- Dry the pan and let it cool before cooking.
Removing Burns
Discoloration caused by burns is the most common problem faced with cast iron cookware. Discoloration, in general, is also possible and restoring the old color is difficult. To remove the burns and restoring the pan here’s a trick you can apply and achieve successful results.
Things You Will Need:
- White vinegar
- Coarse scrubbing brush
- Water
Instructions:
- Take your pan and pour a mix of half vinegar half water.
- Let it soak for about six to eight hours. Longer if you don’t see the burnt area get better.
- After draining the water, take the coarse brush and scrub the bottom of the pan removing any debris that’s inside.
- Season the pan in the oven as mentioned above and use normally.
Clean Cast Iron Pan With Baking Soda
If your pan is non-enamel you can easily use baking soda and not worry about the after-effects. The smell of food after cooking can be bothersome and also incorporate with the next batch of food cooking in the pan. Baking soda will not only remove the smell but also is known to kill any form of bacteria that are living inside your pan. It will help you clean cast iron pan and get that sparkling new shine. You can easily season it afterward according to your liking. The steps are easy and work immediately.
Things You Will Need:
- Baking soda
- Stiff bristled brush
- Dishwashing soap
Instructions:
- Add two and a half tablespoons of baking soda to your pan. Mix water to make a thick paste.
- Do not add too much water it will cause the paste to become runny.
- With the scrubbing brushwork your way around the bottom in circular motions to let the paste do its work thoroughly.
- It will also release a tiny bit and pieces of food stuck on the pan.
- After applying a generous amount of elbow grease rinse your pan with water.
- Add two drops of dishwashing soap and rub with a soft sponge.
- Rinse thoroughly with water and season normally.
Cast iron pans are made with little technology and most people who are old school prefer to cook in their vintage or hereditary cast iron utensils. Some of which are even 70 years old. To maintain and clean cast iron pans it is important to remember that these pans require a lot of care hence it’s essential to wash them after every cook. To achieve success in the above-mentioned hacks you have to make sure you remain consistent. Many cooks prefer cast iron over the other range of cookware and that is the main reason why an awful lot of us love to cook in them as well.
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