Views: 245 Author: Vickey Publish Time: 2023-08-18 Origin: Site
Can soap be used on cast iron pan? This article explains how to properly clean a cast iron skillet and covers what you should and shouldn't do to protect your priceless cookware.
Cast iron's ability to season itself after frequent usage is one of the things that makes it so fantastic for cooking. In essence, seasoning is an oily coating that is baked into the pan's surface. The seasoning will develop with each oil- or fat-based cooking session. It eventually renders the pan almost nonstick.
It's crucial to be cautious while washing because that laboriously acquired seasoning could unfortunately come off in the wash. Here are some cleaning tips for cast-iron skillets, along with some dos and don'ts.
Once it has cooled down a bit, clean your cast iron in the sink with warm water rather than cold to get rid of stuck-on food particles like eggs and stop them from hardening and clinging to the pan. You may add a glass of hot water to the pan while it's still on the heat if you don't want to wait. Yes, it is acceptable to moisten your pan. However, avoid soaking the cast-iron skillet. It is not immune to corrosion! Ensure that it only comes into contact with water occasionally.
Contrary to common perception, you can use a small amount of dish soap to help loosen the difficult bits if plain water isn't working. Regular use of soapy water will help remove stuck-on food and require less effort. Scrub your pan as needed using warm water and mild dish soap.
However, avoid using harsh cleaners like steel wool or scouring pads since they can remove your well-earned seasoning. Use a brush instead, such as a nylon scrubbing brush or a pan scraper. If you have stubborn residue, utilizing kosher salt as a natural buffer will help you remove it.
Wipe your pan down with a fresh cloth or paper towel as soon as possible, rather than letting it sit on the rack to dry. Avoid using a delicate towel since cast iron may discolor it. Rust will not form as a result. Even better, you can dry the pan in the oven. After a wash, reapply your seasoning. Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the pan while it's still heated, using a paper towel. But avoid letting the oil collect! To absorb the additional liquid, use another paper towel.
You must season or re-season your pan before using it, regardless of whether you recently purchased a brand-new cast iron skillet or had to scrub the rust out of it.
Apply a thin layer of vegetable oil to the whole pan—outside and handle included—starting with the clean, rust-free pan. Bake your cast iron skillet for 1 hour at 350 degrees Fahrenheit; place a layer of aluminum foil on the lowest rack to collect any possible drips. Leave it in the oven to cool once the timer goes off. You now possess a well-seasoned pan.
