Cast Iron Pan: Removing Fish Odor

Cast iron pans are a kitchen staple, offering optimal heating and durability. However, their porous surfaces can trap strong odours, particularly when frying fish. The good news is that there are several simple methods to eliminate fish odours from your cast iron pan and restore its freshness.

Boil the pan in water

Boiling your cast iron pan in water is an effective way to remove the strong odour of fish. This method works by releasing the fish odour from the pan, which is then absorbed by the water.

To boil your cast iron pan in water, you will need a larger pan or skillet that can fit your cast iron pan. Fill the larger pan with water and place it on the stove. Be sure not to fill it to the top to prevent water from spilling when you submerge your cast iron pan. Once the water reaches a boil, carefully place your cast iron pan inside and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, remove the cast iron pan and discard the water. Repeat this process as needed, as the fish smell is rarely eliminated after the first boil.

Alternatively, you can boil water directly in your cast iron pan. Fill the pan halfway with water and place it on low heat. Bring the water to a boil and let it boil for 15 to 20 minutes. Then, carefully remove the pan from the stove and replace the water with fresh water. Repeat this process as necessary until the fish odour is completely gone.

While boiling your cast iron pan in water is an effective method, it may require multiple repetitions to fully eliminate the fish odour. Additionally, this method may not be ideal for cleaning the exterior of the pan.

Use baking soda

Cast iron pans are a staple in most kitchens, providing optimal heating and a virtually indestructible cooking surface. However, the porous nature of cast iron means that strong, unpleasant odours, such as that of fried fish, can linger in the pan even after thorough washing with soap and water. Luckily, there are several methods to combat this issue and deodorize your cast iron pan. One of the most effective methods is to use baking soda.

Baking soda is a powerful odour absorber, and when used correctly, it can leave your pans smelling fresh and clean. To start, create a baking soda solution by mixing one part baking soda with five parts water directly in your cast iron pan. You can also prepare the solution separately and then pour it into the pan. Place the pan with the solution on an open flame and cook it until most of the moisture has evaporated. This process should take between 10 and 30 minutes, depending on the size of your pan.

As the solution boils, the heat will cause the pan to expand, releasing the trapped fish oil from its porous surface. The baking soda in the solution will quickly absorb these odours, preventing them from leeching back into the pan. To ensure that all odours are eliminated, remove the pan from the heat while there is still some baking soda solution left at the bottom.

Let the pan cool down to room temperature and leave it to rest overnight. This extended period will allow the baking soda to continue working, extracting any remaining residue and odours. The next day, wash your cast iron pan thoroughly with water and, if needed, a mild soap to ensure all traces of baking soda are removed. Finally, dry the pan and season it before using it again for the best results.

Using baking soda is an effective and straightforward way to remove unwanted fish odours from your cast iron pans. By following these steps, you can keep your pans smelling fresh and ready for your next culinary adventure.

Heat the pan in the oven

Heating your cast iron pan in the oven is an effective way to remove the fishy odour. This method works by heating the pan to a high temperature, which causes the pan to expand and the existing fish oil residue to dry up and evaporate.

To use this method, first ensure your cast iron pan is completely made of iron, with no plastic or rubber parts. Set your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the pan upside down in the oven to allow the fish oil to slip out and dry up. Heat the pan for 30 to 45 minutes.

After heating, carefully remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool. Check if the fish odour has completely disappeared. If the smell persists, return the pan to the oven and heat for another 30 minutes at the same temperature.

This method is not only effective in removing the fish odour but also saves you from the hassle of cleaning up oil, as you would if you were to heat a thin layer of oil in the pan.

Use white vinegar

White vinegar is an excellent agent for absorbing smells. To use it to get rid of fish odours in a cast-iron pan, follow these steps:

Step 1: Prepare a White Vinegar Solution

Mix equal parts water and white vinegar in your cast iron pan. You can also prepare the solution separately and pour it into the pan if you prefer. Ensure the solution is large enough to fill the pan almost halfway.

Step 2: Boil the Solution

Place the pan containing the solution on an open flame. Bring the solution to a boil and let it boil for around 20 to 25 minutes. The boiling solution will help to release the fish oil trapped within the porous surface of the pan.

Step 3: Let the Solution Sit

After boiling, do not throw away the remaining solution. Instead, leave it in the pan and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours. The household acid in the vinegar will continue to work to neutralise and eliminate any remaining fish odours and oils.

Step 4: Wash and Dry the Pan

Once 24 hours have passed, discard the vinegar and water solution. Wash the pan thoroughly with cold water and, if necessary, a mild soap. Dry the pan completely before using it again.

Additional Tips:

• If the fish smell persists, you may need to repeat the process or try a different method, such as using baking soda or lemon juice, before re-seasoning your pan.
• While it is a common misconception that you cannot use soap on cast iron, doing so will help with smells and improve the seasoning of your pan.

Use lemon juice

Lemon juice is a great way to remove the fishy smell from your cast iron pan. The citric acid in the lemon juice will help to clear the fish oil and the resulting unpleasant smell. The process is simple and can be done in a few easy steps.

Firstly, squeeze 2 to 4 lemons into your pan, depending on its size. The amount of lemon juice should be proportional to the size of your pan. Then, add an equal quantity of water to the lemon juice to prepare a lemon juice solution. Set the pan aside for about an hour. This will allow the citric acid in the lemon juice to work on the fish residue and absorb most of it.

After an hour, place the pan on a burner or an open flame. Bring the solution to a boil and let it heat for a few minutes. The solution will neutralize any remaining fish residue, providing an in-depth clean.

Finally, remove the pan from the heat. Discard the remaining lemon juice solution and wash your cast iron pan with cold water before cooking in it again.

If the fishy smell persists, you can try using another method, such as boiling the pan in water, using baking soda, or heating it in the oven, before re-seasoning your pan to get rid of the smell for good.

Frequently asked questions