Maintain Carbon Steel Pan: Tips & Tricks

Lodge carbon steel pans are a great addition to any kitchen. They are lighter than cast iron pans, heat up faster, and are easier to handle. However, they require proper care to keep them in good condition. Here are some tips to keep your Lodge carbon steel pan working effectively:

- Always heat and cool your pan gradually to avoid warping.

- Use metal, wood, or high-temperature silicone utensils to avoid scratching the surface.

- Use a handle holder or oven mitt when handling the pan, as the handles get hot.

- Protect your countertops with trivets to avoid damage from hot cookware.

- Wash your pan by hand with warm water and a mild soap, if needed. Avoid soaking the pan to prevent rust.

- Dry the pan promptly and thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.

- Rub a light layer of cooking oil onto the surface of the pan after drying.

- Re-season the pan as needed to maintain its non-stick properties.

Wash with mild soap, dry, and rub with oil

To keep your Lodge carbon steel pan working efficiently, it is important to follow the correct cleaning and maintenance routine. Here is a detailed guide on how to wash, dry, and rub your pan with oil:

Washing with Mild Soap:

When washing your Lodge carbon steel pan, always use mild soap. A small amount of mild soap can be used to clean the pan effectively. Avoid using a large amount of soap, as it can strip the seasoning from the pan's surface. If you do accidentally use too much soap and remove the seasoning, don't worry—you can easily re-season the pan. Gently wash the pan by hand with warm water and a mild soap. Avoid using abrasive scrubbers or sponges, as they may damage the pan's surface. Instead, opt for a soft cloth or sponge to clean the pan gently. If there is stuck-on food, you can fill the pan with warm water and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes before scraping the food residue with a pan scraper once the pan has cooled.

Drying:

After washing, it is crucial to dry your carbon steel pan promptly and thoroughly. Use a lint-free cloth or a paper towel to dry the pan. Ensure that you dry the pan as soon as possible after washing to prevent rust formation. If needed, you can place the pan on a stovetop burner for a few minutes to ensure that any remaining moisture is evaporated.

Rubbing with Oil:

Once the pan is completely dry, it's time to rub it with oil. This step is essential for maintaining the pan's seasoning and preventing rust. Choose a type of cooking oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil. Avoid using oils like olive oil, butter, or flax-seed oil, as they may not provide the best results. Take a small amount of your chosen oil and rub it onto the surface of the pan using a cloth or paper towel. Ensure that you apply a very light layer of oil, buffing away any excess. You want the pan to look dry, but there will still be enough oil to create a protective coating.

By following these steps consistently, you will maintain the performance and longevity of your Lodge carbon steel pan.

Avoid soaking to prevent rust

Water is carbon steel's number one enemy, so it's important to avoid soaking your Lodge carbon steel pan to prevent rust. Carbon steel will rust if exposed to moisture and humidity, so it's crucial to ensure your pan is bone-dry before putting it away.

• After washing your pan, thoroughly dry it with a lint-free cloth or paper towel.
• Place the pan on a stovetop burner or in the oven to evaporate any remaining moisture. This step is crucial, as even a light coating of rust can form quickly on wet steel.
• If you live in a humid climate, rust is more likely to occur. Take extra care to ensure your pan is completely dry before storage and consider storing it in a dry place.
• If your pan does develop rust, don't panic! You can remove it with steel wool and a paste of baking soda and vinegar. Just remember that this will also remove the seasoning, so you'll need to re-season your pan afterward.
• To prevent rust, regularly re-season your pan. This will create a protective, non-stick coating that acts as a barrier against water.
• Avoid using dish soap, as it can strip the seasoning and leave an unpleasant residue. Instead, use a small amount of mild soap if necessary, or simply wash your pan with warm water.
• Avoid putting your carbon steel pan in the dishwasher, as this will remove the seasoning and likely cause rust.

Use metal, wood, or high-temp silicone utensils

When cooking with a carbon steel pan, it's important to use the right utensils to avoid damaging the pan's surface and to ensure your safety. The cooking surface can get very hot, so it's crucial to use utensils that can withstand high temperatures. Suitable materials include metal, wood, and high-temperature silicone. These materials can handle the heat without melting or warping, and they won't scratch or damage the pan's surface.

It's important to note that you should avoid using metal utensils with unseasoned carbon steel pans, as they can mar the seasoning. For these pans, it's better to use wooden or high-temperature silicone utensils until the pan is properly seasoned.

When using metal, wood, or high-temperature silicone utensils, be careful not to scrape or scrub too hard, as this can strip the seasoning. The seasoning is essential for maintaining the non-stick properties and protecting the pan from rust. By using the correct utensils and handling them with care, you can help maintain the integrity of your carbon steel pan.

Additionally, always ensure that the utensils you use are designed for high-heat cooking. Some silicone utensils, for example, may not be suitable for high temperatures, so it's important to check the manufacturer's instructions or look for utensils specifically designed for high-heat cooking.

Carbon steel pans are popular among professional chefs due to their superior heat control, durability, and versatility. With proper care and maintenance, your carbon steel pan can last a lifetime.

Use trivets to protect countertops

Trivets are essential for protecting your countertops from heat damage and water stains. They are especially important if you have heat-sensitive countertops, such as quartz, or natural stone countertops, such as granite or marble. By using a trivet, you can prevent heat, chipping, or cracking issues, and also protect your counters from scratching.

There are many different types of trivets available, made from materials such as silicone, cork, wood, stainless steel, cast iron, bamboo, and rattan. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to choose one that suits your specific needs. Here are some things to consider when selecting a trivet to protect your countertops:

• Heat resistance: Choose a trivet that is heat-resistant and can withstand high temperatures without melting or transferring heat to your countertop. Silicone, cork, and wood are good options for heat protection.
• Material quality: Some materials, such as metal or ceramic, can scratch or damage countertops. Opt for softer materials like silicone or cork, which are less likely to leave marks and provide a protective barrier.
• Size: Select a trivet that is large enough to accommodate the size of your pots, pans, or dishes. A larger trivet can also help protect your countertops from heat damage and staining.
• Stability: Choose a trivet with a stable and balanced base to prevent tipping or sliding. A round or square trivet with a larger diameter can provide more stability.
• Design: Consider the design and aesthetics of the trivet, as it will be visible on your countertops. Choose a style that complements your kitchen decor and matches your personal taste.

By using a trivet that is made of the right material, size, and design, you can effectively protect your countertops from heat damage, scratches, and stains. Remember to use the trivet correctly by ensuring that it fully covers the area where hot cookware will be placed and avoid dragging heavy pots or pans across the countertop. With proper care, you can maintain the longevity and beauty of your countertops for years to come.

Re-season as needed

Re-seasoning your Lodge carbon steel pan is a straightforward process that will ensure the cookware's longevity and improve its performance. Here is a detailed guide on how to re-season your pan:

Step 1: Remove Existing Seasoning and Wash the Pan

Start by removing any existing seasoning or residue on the pan. Lodge carbon steel pans typically come pre-seasoned, so this step may not be necessary unless you need to strip the existing seasoning due to chipping or flaking. Use steel wool or a firm, flat spatula to scrape off any carbon buildup or factory seasoning. Once you've removed the majority of the seasoning, wash the pan with warm water and a mild soap. Avoid using an excessive amount of soap, as it can strip the seasoning.

Step 2: Dry the Pan

After washing the pan, it's crucial to dry it thoroughly and promptly. Carbon steel is susceptible to rusting, so ensure no water droplets are left on the surface. Use a lint-free cloth or paper towel to dry the pan.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Place the pan on a stovetop burner or in an oven preheated to 450°F (230°C). This step helps prepare the pan for the oil application by ensuring any remaining moisture is evaporated and opening the pan's pores to better absorb the oil.

Step 4: Apply Oil Sparingly

Lightly grease a kitchen towel with a neutral oil such as canola oil, vegetable oil, or grapeseed oil. Avoid using oils like lard, shortening, butter, olive oil, or flaxseed oil, as these can affect the quality of the seasoning. Rub the oiled towel onto the pan's surface, inside and out, ensuring a very thin and even coating. It's crucial to use a light hand when applying the oil, as too much oil will result in a splotchy, sticky coating. Buff away any excess oil until the pan looks dry.

Step 5: Heat the Oiled Pan

Place the oiled pan back on the stovetop burner at the highest setting or in the preheated oven. The pan will smoke heavily during this step, so ensure proper ventilation by opening windows and turning on fans. The smoking will eventually stop, indicating that the oil has transformed into a solid coating. This process may take several minutes on a stovetop burner, depending on the burner's heat output and the size of the pan, or about 30 minutes in the oven.

Step 6: Repeat as Needed

Continue applying thin layers of oil and heating them until they darken. Repeat this process until the pan develops a dark brown or black colour. The more layers you add, the better the non-stick properties of the pan will be.

Maintenance

Once your pan is seasoned, maintain it by washing it by hand with mild soap or none at all. Dry the pan promptly and thoroughly, then rub with a light layer of vegetable oil, preferably while the pan is still warm. Hang or store the pan in a dry place. With proper care and regular use, your Lodge carbon steel pan will develop an even better non-stick surface over time.

Frequently asked questions