Cleaning and maintaining a cast-iron skillet is essential to ensure it lasts a long time and continues to cook your food to perfection. While cast iron is tough and able to withstand a lot of wear and tear, it also requires a delicate touch when it comes to cleaning. Soaking the skillet or running it through the dishwasher is not recommended, as it can strip away the seasoning and nonstick patina that develops over time. Instead, a simple pantry staple like salt can work wonders in scrubbing away stuck-on food without damaging the surface of the pan.
To clean your cast-iron skillet like a pro, it’s important to act quickly while the pan is still warm. Adding warm water to the skillet a few minutes after removing it from the heat can help loosen food particles and make cleaning easier. Using a wooden spoon or soft bristle brush, gently scrape away any remaining food residue. For stubborn, stuck-on foods, sprinkle the skillet with kosher salt and scrub gently with a flat-ended wooden spoon or spatula. A cast-iron safe brush can also be used for tougher cleaning tasks.
Drying your cast iron skillet immediately after cleaning is crucial to prevent rusting. The best way to dry the skillet is to use heat from the stovetop or oven, which will dry the skillet from the inside out. You can also use a dry rag to dry the skillet thoroughly. After drying, it’s recommended to give the skillet a quick reseasoning with a cast-iron seasoning wax or high-heat cooking oil. This will help maintain the seasoning and nonstick surface of the skillet.
One common question when it comes to cleaning cast iron is whether dish soap can be used. While a small amount of soap is safe to use, harsh soaps should be avoided as they can erode the nonstick patina and affect the flavor of the food cooked in the skillet. It’s important to use a minimal amount of soap and to rinse the skillet thoroughly to prevent any residue from affecting the seasoning. By following these cleaning tips and maintaining your cast-iron skillet properly, you can ensure that it will continue to serve you well for years to come, turning every meal into a work of art.
