SEASONED
KEEP THEM CLEAN
Be sure to clean your pans as soon as they’re cool enough to handle. Scrub gently with a stiff-bristle brush or a non-scratch scouring pad. Water leads to rust, so avoid submerging your cast-iron cookware. As to whether to use soap— that’s up to you. We avoid it when possible to protect the seasoned surface.
KEEP THEM DRY
After rinsing, it’s crucial to dry your cookware completely. Wipe dry with a clean kitchen towel and then rub a very thin coat of vegetable oil all over the cooking surface. Heat on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in a 300° oven until dry, about 10 minutes. Let cool; wipe the surface with a clean towel, and heat for 5 minutes more.
RESPECT YOUR CAST IRON
Taking care of your cookware means understanding its likes and dislikes. Cooking with fats, cleaning gently, and storing in a clean, dry place are the keys to preserving your pans’ seasoning. Harsh abrasives, acidic foods, and moisture can break down the finish or cause rust.
ENAMELED
BE GENTLE
The finish on enameled cast iron is delicate, so handle your pieces carefully to avoid chipping. Never use metal utensils since they can scratch the surface.
GREASE THEM UP
Unlike seasoned cast iron, enameled cast iron is not a nonstick surface. To avoid sticking, cook over medium heat using adequate amounts of oil or fat. If sticking does occur, use dish soap, water, and a non-scratch scouring pad to scrub away the mess. For extra-stubborn, stuck-on bits, try boiling water in the piece with a bit of dishwashing liquid.
MAKE THEM SHINE
Over time, enameled cast iron can become discolored or stained. To remove stains, soak the cooking surface in hydrogen peroxide mixed with baking soda, and then scrub with dish soap, water, and a non-scratch scouring pad to keep your enameled cast iron looking as good as new.
You can discover more when you read “Cast Iron Care” in our March/April 2023 issue or by visiting southerncastiron.com.
