Tips For Caring For Your Cast Iron Cookware

Caring for your cast iron cookware is the best way to make sure that these pots and pans will last. It’s easy to care for cast iron cookware.

Caring For Your Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron cookware is used in many different types of cooking, from stew to barbecue and everything in between. Cooks prefer cast iron cookware for the ease of use, low-fat cooking ability, and non-stick characteristic. However, cast iron cookware is often associated with heavy usage and can start to rust if not seasoned properly. In addition, the cookware that has a non-stick coating is especially difficult to clean and may contain deposits that will leave food sticking or releasing an acidic taste.

Once heated, it is important to evenly brown the top side of the food with a bit of oil or butter to prevent burning. The pan can be held in one hand while using another to flip the food. A wooden spoon or silicone spatula can be used to accomplish this task. Once the bottom side of the food has browned, it can be flipped to avoid overheating.

Make Sure The Cookware Is Seasoned

The cast iron surface of this type of cookware should be lightly seasoned before use. This preparation reduces the likelihood of rusting and preserves the surface of the pan. Once seasoned, baking soda will help repel bacteria and should be mixed with a little water in the pan. The acid in the baking soda keeps the pan from rusting and also helps keep food from sticking during the cooking process.

To help keep cast iron cookware from rusting, coated pans should be stored in an unheated area, such as an oven drawer or a cupboard. Aluminum foil can be wrapped around after every cooking session to further prevent rusting. Pans that are stored while damp can become very dark and have a burnt taste to them. To restore their original color, brush the pan with soapy water and then rinse out the pan.  You will then need to season your cookware again.

Caring For Your Cast Iron Cookware Means Cleaning It Properly

Non-stick pans with cast iron contents can also be cleaned by simply using water and a gentle dish detergent soap. Brushing with this solution will remove any residual food seasoning and grease from the pan. After thoroughly rinsing the cookware, always dry the pan by hand and let it sit for a while before using.  This type of cleaning shouldn’t be done on solid cast iron cookware, only on coated cast iron pots and pans.  You shouldn’t need to use soap on solid cast iron.

There are a variety of cookware available to consumers today. From frying pans to dutch ovens, each piece is designed for a specific purpose. When purchasing cast iron cookware, make sure that it will fit your needs, it will last for years to come. If you season and clean your cast iron cookware carefully you will be able to enjoy these cooking utensils for many years to come.