The Ultimate Guide To Cast Iron Griddle Pan Care

Cast iron griddle pans are a valuable, essential kitchen tool that can be used to create delicious meals, from spongy pancakes to juicy steaks. With the proper care, a cast iron griddle pan can last for several lifetimes. Here are some tips on how to care for your cast iron griddle pan:

- Always allow the cast iron griddle to cool completely before cleaning.

- Use a paper towel to wipe away food particles, grease, or drippings while the griddle is still warm.

- For stuck-on food, use a plastic scraper to loosen it before wiping it away.

- Clean with mild dish soap and hot water, and avoid using abrasive sponges or metal scrubbers that can damage the surface.

- Dry the griddle thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel immediately after washing.

- Apply a light layer of cooking oil or seasoning spray to the surface and wipe off any excess.

- Store the griddle in a dry place, ensuring it is completely dry before storing.

- Season the griddle at least twice a year or more if used frequently, using vegetable oil or flaxseed oil.

- Never place the griddle in the dishwasher or soak it in water, as this can lead to rusting and damage the finish.

How to clean a cast iron griddle pan

Step 1: Allow the Griddle to Cool

Always let the cast iron griddle cool down before cleaning. Putting a hot griddle into water can cause it to crack and weaken the iron.

Step 2: Wipe Away Food Particles

Use a paper towel to wipe away food particles, grease, or drippings from the surface while the griddle is still warm. If there is stuck-on food, use a plastic scraper to loosen it before wiping it away.

Step 3: Clean with Soap and Water

Dampen a non-abrasive sponge with hot water and add a couple of drops of mild dishwashing liquid. Wipe the entire surface of the griddle. Avoid using too much soap, as it can break down the seasoning on the pan. Never leave the griddle to soak in a sink of water!

Step 4: Rinse and Dry

Rinse the griddle with hot water and dry the surface immediately and thoroughly with a cloth or paper towel. Water left on cast iron can cause rust to form.

Step 5: Lightly Oil the Griddle

Apply a light layer of cooking oil to the griddle's surface with a paper towel. Remove any excess oil with a clean paper towel.

Step 6: Store Correctly

Never store a cast iron griddle if it is still damp. Place the griddle over a medium-low heat source or in a warm oven (250-300°F) for 5-10 minutes to ensure it is completely dry before storing.

Tips:

• Clean your griddle by hand after each use.
• Never put your cast iron griddle in the dishwasher.
• Season the griddle at least twice a year, or when food starts sticking to the surface.
• Always dry the griddle completely before storing to prevent rust.
• Cool the griddle completely before storing.
• Never leave the griddle to soak in water, as this can cause rusting.
• Avoid using the griddle right after taking it out of the oven, as the difference in temperatures can cause thermal shock and make the pan crack or warp.
• Avoid using cold water in a hot pan.
• Always heat the griddle gradually to prevent thermal shock.
• Wipe away excess oil when seasoning to avoid a sticky coating.
• Keep the oven hot when re-seasoning to help the oil bond to the cast iron surface.

Removing Rust:

• If your cast iron griddle has rust, take it outside and use a non-metallic scraper or stiff-bristled nylon brush to remove loose rust particles.
• Mix one tablespoon of lemon juice with one cup of baking soda. Apply this paste to the rusty areas and cover the griddle with plastic wrap.
• Wait 24 hours, then scrub the griddle with a stiff-bristled brush to remove the residue. Rinse and dry the griddle well before re-seasoning.

Testing Your Griddle's Seasoning:

• A well-seasoned griddle will be dark and semi-glossy.
• Check for dull, dry spots or signs of rust.
• If the griddle is greasy or sticky, it may need to be re-seasoned.
• Try the fried egg test: fry an egg in the griddle using one tablespoon of cooking oil. If it sticks badly, it's time to re-season.

How to season a cast iron griddle pan

Seasoning a cast iron griddle pan is a simple process that will ensure the pan forms a non-stick coating and does not rust.

First, wash and dry the pan thoroughly. Use hot soapy water and a sponge or brush, avoiding anything metallic or too abrasive. Dry the pan with a towel, and then heat it over a medium flame to ensure it is completely dry.

Next, oil the pan. Use a piece of kitchen paper to rub a thin layer of oil all over the pan, including the handle if it is cast iron, and the outside. You can use sunflower, vegetable, canola, corn, or flaxseed oil. Buff the pan with the oil, leaving the thinnest coating possible. There should be no excess drips of oil anywhere.

Now, heat the pan over a medium-high flame. The pan will start to smoke a little. Once the smoke has died down, the pan is seasoned. You can add another layer of oil and heat again if you wish.

Alternatively, you can place the pan in the oven to season it. Preheat the oven to 220-240°C/450°F/Gas 9. Place the pan upside down on a rack, with a tray on the rack below to catch any potential drips. Leave for 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the temperature of your oven. You can then reapply the oil and heat for another 30 minutes if you wish.

Repeat this process three to four times to set down a good initial layer of seasoning.

How to remove rust from a cast iron griddle pan

Cast iron griddle pans are durable and can last for generations if properly cared for. However, if you notice rust forming on your cast iron griddle pan, don't panic! Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide on how to remove rust and restore your pan:

Step 1: Remove Rust

• If there is stuck-on food or grease, use a plastic scraper to loosen it, then wipe away the residue with a paper towel.
• For minor surface rust, use a scouring pad or kitchen towel to rub about 1/3 cup of kosher salt onto the pan until the rust spots are removed.
• For more serious cases, create a mixture of equal parts water and distilled white vinegar in a container large enough to submerge your pan completely. Ensure the mixture covers the entire pan, including the handle, and soak for up to eight hours. Check the pan regularly to prevent over-soaking, and remove it from the solution once the rust easily flakes away.
• Alternatively, you can use a non-metallic scraper or a stiff-bristled nylon brush to scrape away loose rust particles, especially if you are dealing with a lot of rust buildup.

Step 2: Scrub and Wash

• Wash the pan with warm, soapy water and a mildly abrasive sponge to remove any remaining rust and grease.
• Use steel wool to scrub away stubborn rust, but be aware that this will also remove the seasoning from your pan.
• Rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water to remove any residue.

Step 3: Dry Thoroughly

• Dry the pan immediately and completely with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
• Place the pan on the stovetop over low heat for a few minutes to ensure it is entirely dry and to remove any remaining moisture.

Step 4: Re-season the Pan

• Add a very thin, even layer of cooking oil, such as vegetable oil, to the entire surface of the pan, including the inside and outside. Use a cloth or lint-free paper towel for this step, and be careful not to use too much oil to avoid a sticky finish.
• Preheat your oven to between 450-500°F (230-260°C). Place a disposable baking pan or aluminium foil on the bottom rack to catch any oily drips.
• Place the oiled pan upside down on the centre rack of the oven and bake for one hour.
• Turn off the heat and allow the pan to cool completely in the oven. This step helps the seasoning cure and adhere to the iron.

Your cast iron griddle pan should now be free of rust and ready for use! Remember to clean and dry your pan promptly after each use and to re-season it regularly to prevent rust from forming in the future.

How to store a cast iron griddle pan

Storing a cast iron griddle pan correctly is essential to prevent rust and maintain its non-stick surface. Here is a detailed guide on how to store your cast iron griddle pan:

Firstly, always allow your cast iron griddle to cool down completely before storing it away. Never put away a slightly warm or damp pan as this can lead to rusting. Once the griddle has cooled, use a paper towel or a lint-free cloth to wipe away any food particles, grease, or drippings from the surface. If there are stuck-on food particles, use a plastic scraper to gently loosen them before wiping the pan clean. Avoid using metal scrapers or steel wool, as these can damage the surface of your griddle.

After removing food particles, you can proceed to clean the griddle with soap and water. Dampen a non-abrasive sponge with hot water and add a couple of drops of mild dishwashing liquid. Wipe the entire surface of the griddle, ensuring you reach all the ridges and sides. Avoid leaving the griddle to soak in the sink, as this can cause rust. Instead, rinse the griddle well with hot water and dry it immediately with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towels.

Cast iron is susceptible to rust, so it is crucial to ensure your griddle is completely dry before storing. You can use a towel to hand-dry the pan, and then place it on a stovetop over medium-low heat or in a warm oven (at 250-300°F) for about 5-10 minutes to evaporate any remaining moisture. Turn off the heat and let the griddle cool down completely before storing it away.

As a final step before storing, apply a light coating of cooking oil to the griddle's surface. Use a paper towel to rub a thin layer of oil (such as canola, vegetable, or corn oil) onto the cooking surface. Make sure to wipe away any excess oil to prevent a sticky coating. This step will help protect your griddle from rust and maintain its non-stick properties.

Now your cast iron griddle is ready for storage! Store it in a dry, moisture-free area, and if possible, keep it away from other cookware that may trap moisture. By following these steps, you can ensure your cast iron griddle remains in optimal condition for years to come.

How to restore a cast iron griddle pan

Cast iron griddle pans are durable and can last for generations if maintained properly. Mishandled or vintage cast iron griddles are often coated with rust, but they can be restored. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to restore a cast iron griddle pan:

Step 1: Remove Rust

If possible, take the griddle outside before beginning the restoration process, as rust can stain clothes, concrete, and other surfaces. Put on work clothes and protect your surroundings. Use a non-metallic scraper or a stiff-bristled nylon brush to remove loose rust particles.

Step 2: Mix a Rust-Removing Paste

In a small bowl, mix one tablespoon of lemon juice with one cup of baking soda. Double the batch if necessary to cover all the rusted surfaces of the griddle.

Step 3: Apply the Cleaning Paste

Use your hand or a small brush to apply the baking soda paste over the rusty areas. Cover the griddle with plastic wrap or place it in a sealable plastic bag. Wait at least 24 hours for the paste to cut through the rust.

Step 4: Scrub the Griddle

After 24 hours, scrub the griddle with a stiff-bristled brush to remove all the residue. If rust remains, repeat the process. Rinse well with hot water and dry thoroughly with a dishcloth or paper towels.

Step 5: Re-Season the Griddle

Heat the oven to 450-500 degrees Fahrenheit. Use a paper towel to spread a thin, even layer of vegetable oil or cooking oil to all surfaces of the griddle. Place a disposable pan or aluminium foil on the bottom rack of the oven to catch any oily drips.

Step 6: Place the Griddle in the Oven

Place the oil-coated griddle upside down on the centre or top rack of the oven. Bake for one hour. Turn off the oven and allow the cast iron to cool completely before using or storing it.

Tips for Maintaining Your Cast Iron Griddle:

• Clean your griddle by hand after each use.
• Never put your cast iron griddle in the dishwasher.
• Season it at least twice a year or when food starts sticking to the griddle.
• After washing, dry the griddle completely to prevent rusting.
• Cool your cast iron griddle completely before storing.
• Store the griddle in a dry place, and if it has a lid, store it separately to prevent humidity from building up and causing rust.

Frequently asked questions