Cast Iron Pan: Seasoning And Cooking Tips

So, you've got a new cast-iron pan. What now? Well, first things first: you'll want to season it. This involves washing the pan with warm, soapy water, coating it with a thin layer of cooking oil, and then heating it in the oven at a high temperature for around 30 minutes to an hour. You'll need to repeat this process a few times to build up a good layer of seasoning, which will protect the pan and give it non-stick properties. Once you've done this, you're ready to start cooking! Cast-iron pans are great for searing, frying, baking, roasting, and braising. They're versatile, durable, and affordable, and with the right care, they can last for decades.

How to season a cast iron pan

A cast iron pan is a versatile and durable piece of cookware that can be used for various cooking techniques such as searing, frying, baking, and roasting. While cast iron pans are often pre-seasoned, seasoning your pan can make it non-stick and help prevent rusting. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to season a cast iron pan:

Step 1: Wash and Dry the Pan

Start by giving your cast iron pan a good scrub with warm, soapy water. This is especially important if you're seasoning a new pan, as you want to ensure it's clean before its first use. After washing, dry the pan thoroughly with a towel. You can also place the pan on a stovetop flame for a minute or two to ensure all surface moisture is gone.

Step 2: Coat the Pan with Oil

Once your pan is clean and dry, it's time to rub it all over with cooking oil. This includes the inside, outside, and handle of the pan. Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or corn oil. Be sure to rub the oil thoroughly and buff the pan so that it no longer looks greasy. Excess oil can pool during seasoning, forming hardened droplets or turning sticky if left unused.

Step 3: Heat the Pan in the Oven

Place the oiled pan in a preheated oven. The ideal temperature is around 450°F (230°C). Leave the pan in the oven for about 30 minutes to an hour. The oil will polymerize and form a hard, plastic-like coating. Using the oven ensures even heating, which is important for effective seasoning. Place a baking sheet or aluminium foil on the rack below to catch any oil drips.

Step 4: Repeat the Process

Remove the pan from the oven after the time is up. Remember to use oven mitts, as the pan will be hot! You can then rub the pan with oil again and buff it out before placing it back in the oven for another round of seasoning. It's recommended to repeat this oiling-and-heating process three to four times to build a good initial layer of seasoning.

Step 5: Let the Pan Cool

Once you've completed the desired number of seasoning cycles, simply let the pan cool down. Your cast iron pan is now ready for cooking!

Maintenance Tips:

• Using the pan regularly will help build up and maintain the seasoning.
• Each time you cook with oil or fat, you're adding to the seasoning.
• Avoid cooking acidic foods in a cast iron pan, as they can break down the seasoning and lead to rusting.
• Avoid soaking the pan and always ensure it's dry before storing.
• Re-season the pan as needed, especially if it starts to look dry and patchy.

How to clean a cast iron pan

A cast iron pan is a versatile and durable piece of cookware that can last for decades if properly cared for. Here are the steps to clean and maintain your cast iron pan:

Step 1: Wash the Pan

Wash your cast iron pan with warm soapy water to remove any dirt, dust, or buildup. This is especially important if you're using the pan for the first time or if it has been exposed to moisture, as it will prevent rust from forming. You can use a soft scrub brush or a sponge to gently scrub the surface. Ensure you thoroughly dry the pan after washing to prevent rust.

Step 2: Remove Stubborn Residue (if needed)

If there are stubborn bits of food or residue stuck to the pan, you can use a chainmail scrubber, a plastic scraper, or a nylon brush to remove them. You can also add some coarse kosher salt to the pan with a bit of oil and use the scraper to loosen the residue. Avoid using metal scouring pads or abrasive utensils as they may damage the pan's seasoning.

Step 3: Dry the Pan

After washing and removing any residue, thoroughly dry the pan. You can place it on a stovetop flame for a few minutes to ensure all moisture is gone. Make sure the pan is completely dry before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Oil the Pan

Once the pan is clean and dry, rub it all over, inside and out, with a thin layer of cooking oil, including the handle. You can use vegetable oil, canola oil, corn oil, or any other neutral oil with a high smoke point. Buff the oil into the pan until it no longer looks greasy. This step helps to season the pan and create a non-stick surface.

Step 5: Heat the Pan in the Oven

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Place the oiled pan upside down in the oven and bake for about an hour. This step helps to polymerize the oil, creating a protective coating that prevents rust and makes the pan non-stick. Place a baking sheet or aluminium foil on the rack below to catch any oil drips.

Step 6: Cool the Pan

After an hour, turn off the oven and let the pan cool down inside. This ensures that the oil has bonded properly to the metal.

Step 7: Repeat the Process (if needed)

If your pan is new or has lost its seasoning, repeat the oiling and heating process 3 to 4 times to build up a good initial layer of seasoning. This will enhance the pan's non-stick properties and protect it from rust.

Step 8: Regular Maintenance

After each use, clean your cast iron pan with hot water and a towel or paper towel. Avoid using soap as it can strip the seasoning. If there is stuck-on food, use a small amount of coarse salt and a paper towel to scrub the pan clean. Make sure to dry the pan thoroughly after each use and apply a thin layer of oil to maintain the seasoning.

By following these steps, you can keep your cast iron pan in excellent condition, ensuring it remains non-stick, rust-free, and ready for your next culinary creation!

How to store a cast iron pan

A cast-iron pan is a versatile and durable piece of cookware that can last for generations if properly cared for and stored. Here are some detailed instructions on how to store your cast iron pan to ensure its longevity:

• Dry Your Pan: Before storing your cast iron pan, it is crucial to ensure that it is completely dry. Cast iron is porous and susceptible to rust, so any remaining moisture can lead to oxidation and damage. After washing your pan, dry it thoroughly with a towel or paper towel. You can also place it on a stovetop flame for a few minutes to eliminate any residual water.
• Oil Your Pan: Once your pan is dry, rub a small amount of neutral oil, such as vegetable, canola, or corn oil, onto the surface, including the handle. This step helps protect the pan from rust and maintains its seasoning. Use a paper towel to evenly distribute the oil, ensuring there is no excess oil pooling anywhere on the pan.
• Store with Paper Towels: To provide an extra layer of protection against moisture, place a paper towel inside the pan before stacking it with other cookware or storing it away. This is especially important if you plan to stack your cast iron pan with other pans to prevent any damage to its finish.
• Avoid Soaking: Cast iron should never be soaked in water. Its porous nature makes it prone to rust if left submerged for extended periods. Always wash and dry your cast iron pan promptly after use.
• Stack Carefully: When stacking your cast iron pan with other cookware, do so carefully. Place a paper towel or a piece of parchment paper between the pans to avoid scratching or damaging the finish.
• Store in a Dry Place: Ensure that your cast iron pan is stored in a dry place. Moisture in the air or exposure to water can lead to rust formation.

By following these simple steps, you can properly store and maintain your cast iron pan, ensuring its longevity and cooking performance for years to come.

What to cook in a cast iron pan

Cast iron skillets are incredibly versatile and can be used to cook a wide variety of dishes. Here are some ideas for what to cook in your new cast iron pan:

Meats and Proteins

Cast iron is perfect for searing steaks, lamb chops, chicken breasts, and fish fillets due to its ability to retain high heat. This makes it ideal for achieving a crispy, caramelized crust on your meat. You can also use it to cook an entire roasted chicken or a steak using the reverse-searing method, as made popular by celebrity chef Guy Fieri. Just bake the steak in the oven at a low temperature until your desired internal temperature is reached, and then finish it off in a smoking hot cast iron pan coated with oil to create a golden-brown crust.

Vegetables

If you're a fan of crispy veggies, a cast iron skillet is a great option. You can cook crispy cauliflower, pan-roasted cabbage slaw, charred peppers for tacos, or even a vegetarian chili with roasted red potatoes.

Eggs

Once your cast iron skillet is well-seasoned, it's perfect for cooking eggs. You can make fried eggs, scrambled eggs, frittatas, or even shakshuka. Just remember to use a bit of fat, such as oil or butter, to prevent the eggs from sticking to the pan.

Baked Goods

Cast iron skillets are excellent for baking goodies like focaccia, skillet cookies, apple crumble, deep-dish pizza, or French tart tatin. The even heat distribution of cast iron helps create a delicious and crackly brown crust on your baked goods. Just remember to use butter or flour to prevent sticking, especially when baking sticky or sugary treats.

Deep-Fried Foods

Cast iron's heat retention and weight make it a safer option for deep-frying. Its ability to hold heat helps keep the oil temperature steady, reducing the risk of hot oil splatters.

Campfire Cooking

Cast iron is perfect for open-air cooking due to its durability and heat retention. You can use it to cook over a campfire or on a grill.

How to avoid rusting a cast iron pan

Cast iron pans are a great investment for any cook. They are durable, affordable, and versatile. However, they do require a bit of extra care to prevent rusting. Here are some tips to avoid rusting your cast iron pan:

• Season your pan regularly: Seasoning your cast iron pan creates a protective coating that helps prevent rusting. The process involves baking a thin layer of oil onto the pan's surface. This can be done by rubbing the pan with a thin layer of oil and heating it in the oven at a high temperature (around 450-500 degrees F) for about an hour. Repeat this process 3-4 times for a good initial layer of seasoning.
• Clean and dry your pan thoroughly: After each use, clean your cast iron pan with hot water and a soft scrub brush. Avoid using soap as it can strip the seasoning. Make sure to dry the pan completely before storing it. Leaving your pan wet or moist can lead to rusting.
• Avoid soaking your pan: Cast iron is a porous material, and soaking it in water can cause rust. If your pan has caked-on food or buildup, use a chainmail scrubber, plastic scraper, or coarse salt to remove it.
• Avoid cooking acidic foods: Foods like tomatoes, citrus, or vinegar can strip the seasoning from your pan and lead to rusting. If you do cook acidic foods, be sure to clean and season the pan thoroughly afterward.
• Store your pan properly: Ensure your cast iron pan is completely dry before storing it. You can rub a small amount of oil on the pan and place a paper towel inside before stacking it with other pans to keep moisture out.
• Re-season as needed: Over time, the seasoning on your cast iron pan may erode, leaving the pan dry and patchy. Re-season your pan by following the steps outlined above.

Frequently asked questions