Cleaning and Maintaining Your Cast Iron Skillet March 08 2016

Cast iron skillets are a staple in just about every chef’s arsenal. But if you don’t properly take care of them, you’re in for a rude awakening - and some lousy-tasting meals. In order to extend the lifespan of your skillet and enjoy mouthwatering cuisine follow the care and maintenance tips below:

First and foremost, you need to understand that cast iron should NEVER be placed in the dishwasher. Although it may take a bit more effort, hand wash and dry your skillet every time - even before the first use. The heat of the dryer setting and detergent used in the dishwasher can damage the coating and cause excessive rust.

Secondly, it’s vital to season your cast iron prior to the first use and after each cook moving forward. To do this, rub with a light coat of vegetable oil after each wash. A little bit goes a long way when it comes to seasoning, so use just enough oil to restore the sheen.

When it comes to washing your skillet, you don’t need to use soap. Consider that cookware can reach 400°F in 4 minutes on medium heat and becomes sterile at 212°F. Refrain from using scouring pads and abrasive cleaning products - warm water and a soft cloth or sponge will do the trick. See some rust? Don’t panic. This is normal and can be washed away with some extra elbow grease.

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