The Care And Keeping Of Cast Iron Pan Supports

Cast iron pan supports require regular cleaning to keep them germ-free and shiny. The best way to clean them is often the simplest method. Start by removing the pan supports from the stove and placing them in a sink full of very hot water. If there are stubborn spots, add some washing powder. Let the supports soak for about 15 minutes to loosen any food debris and grease. Next, scrub the pan supports with a nylon scrubber or dishwashing brush and some dish soap, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. Rinse and dry the supports thoroughly before putting them back to avoid rust. To keep your cast iron pan supports in good condition, add them to your weekly household cleaning routine.

How to Care for Cast Iron Pan Supports

Cleaning cast iron pan supports

The best way to clean cast iron pan supports is to use the simplest method. Food and grease can easily build up on your pan supports as you cook, so it is important to find a way to get them back to their original germ-free, shiny state.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Cast Iron Pan Supports:

• Remove the pan supports from the stove and place them in a sink full of very hot water. You can add some washing powder to the very stubborn-looking spots on your supports.
• Leave them to soak for about 15 minutes to loosen any food debris and grease that may have built up.
• Saturate a nylon scrubber or a dishwashing brush with some dish soap and scrub the pan supports all over, making sure to get into all the nooks and crannies. If you prefer, you can use steel wool instead. If using steel wool, add the dish soap to the water in the sink and make sure it thoroughly wets the pan supports as you scrub them.
• After scrubbing thoroughly, be sure to dry the supports properly before putting them back to ensure they don't become rusty.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Your Cast Iron Pan Supports:

• Do not put your cast iron pan supports in the dishwasher as they may tarnish.
• Do not use any products with bleach, chlorine, or lemon juice on your supports as these liquids may cause damage to the cast iron.
• If you spot any cracks or chips in the finish of your pan supports, replace them as soon as possible before the damage worsens.

Drying cast iron pan supports

Make sure to get into all the nooks and crannies of the pan supports to ensure no water is left behind, as this can lead to rust. You can also place the pan supports on a warm burner or in the oven at a low temperature to ensure complete drying.

Once your cast iron pan supports are thoroughly dried, it is recommended to apply a light coating of cooking oil or seasoning spray to the surface. Use a paper towel to wipe the surface until no oil residue remains. This will help protect the pan supports and keep them in good condition.

By regularly cleaning and drying your cast iron pan supports, you can keep them in their original, germ-free, shiny state.

Oiling cast iron pan supports

Firstly, it is important to understand what seasoning means in the context of cast iron. Seasoning is a protective coating that is formed by heating thin layers of fat (like oil) on the cast iron. This process, known as polymerization, converts the fat into a form of plastic, creating a hard, blackened skin that protects the metal. This skin also has non-stick properties, making cooking with cast iron much easier.

To oil your cast iron pan supports, follow these steps:

• Wash and Dry: Start by giving your cast iron pan supports a good scrub with warm, soapy water. Dry them thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. You can also place the pan on a stovetop flame for a minute or two to drive off any lingering water.
• Oil and Buff: Once your pan supports are clean and dry, rub them all over with cooking oil. Vegetable, canola, and corn oil are great choices as they are unsaturated cooking fats that are easier to spread and work effectively. Make sure to oil the pan supports inside and out, including the handles. After oiling, buff the pan supports thoroughly so that they no longer look greasy. Excess oil can pool during seasoning, forming hardened droplets or turning sticky if left unused.
• Heat in the Oven: Place the oiled pan supports in a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C) for 30 minutes. The oil will polymerize during this time, forming the first layer of the protective coating. The oven provides even heat, ensuring a more effective setting of the oil all over the pan. You can place the pan supports on a baking sheet or piece of foil to catch any excess oil that may drip.
• Repeat: Once the initial 30 minutes are up, remove the pan supports from the oven and rub them with oil again, buffing it out as before. Return the pan supports to the oven for another 30-minute session. Repeat this oiling-and-heating process three to four times to set a good initial layer of seasoning.
• Cool and Store: After the final heating session, let the pan supports cool down completely. Your cast iron pan supports are now ready for cooking and can be stored away.

Remember, cast iron is susceptible to moisture, so always ensure your pan supports are completely dry before oiling and storing. With proper care and regular use, your cast iron cookware can last for decades and even become family heirlooms!

Removing stuck-on food from cast iron pan supports

Method 1: Simmering Water

• Simmer a small amount of water in the pan for 3-5 minutes.
• Once the pan has cooled, use a wooden spatula or a pan scraper to remove the stuck-on food.
• If the food is still stubborn, you can try gently simmering the water for a little longer.
• After removing the food, be sure to dry the pan thoroughly and add a light layer of oil to prevent rust.

Method 2: Salt or Baking Soda

• Sprinkle a layer of coarse salt or baking soda over the base of the pan.
• Use a paper towel or soft scrub brush to scrub out the stuck-on food.
• Rinse the pan with warm water to remove any leftover salt or baking soda.
• Alternatively, you can mix the baking soda with a little water to form a paste and scrub the pan with a stiff brush.

Method 3: Chainmail Scrubber or Nylon Brush

• If the above methods don't work, try using a chainmail scrubber or a nylon scrubbing brush to remove the stuck-on food.
• Be gentle and avoid using too much force, as you don't want to damage the pan's surface.
• After removing the food, dry the pan thoroughly and add a light layer of oil to maintain the seasoning.

General Tips:

• Always dry your cast iron pan supports thoroughly after washing to prevent rust.
• Avoid using steel wool or metal scrubbers, as these can damage the pan's surface and remove the seasoning.
• A small amount of dish soap can be used to clean cast iron, but be sure to rinse and dry the pan thoroughly afterward.
• To maintain the pan's seasoning, rub a light layer of cooking oil onto the surface after cleaning and drying.

Avoiding common pitfalls when cleaning cast iron pan supports

Cast iron pan supports require careful cleaning to keep them in good condition. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when cleaning cast iron:

Don't Soak the Pan Supports

Avoid soaking cast iron in water for long periods, as this can cause rust. If you need to remove stubborn, stuck-on food, a better option is to simmer a little water for 3-5 minutes and then use a scraper after the pan has cooled.

Avoid Abrasive Cleaning Tools

While it is important to thoroughly clean cast iron pan supports, avoid using abrasive cleaning tools such as steel wool or metal scrubbers. These can damage the cast iron. Instead, opt for nylon scrubbing brushes or a pan scraper to remove stuck-on food.

Don't Put Cast Iron in the Dishwasher

Cast iron cookware should be washed by hand. Dishwashers can remove the seasoning and cause rust due to the combination of water and harsh detergents.

Avoid Bleach and Acidic Products

Do not use products containing bleach, chlorine, or lemon juice on cast iron pan supports. These liquids can damage the cast iron.

Regular Cleaning

Frequent cleaning will make the process easier and prevent a thick build-up of food and grease. Aim to clean your cast iron pan supports at least once a week to maintain their condition.

Dry Thoroughly

After cleaning, ensure that you dry the cast iron pan supports thoroughly before putting them back. Incomplete drying may lead to rust formation.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can effectively clean and maintain your cast iron pan supports, keeping them in good condition for the long term.

Frequently asked questions