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Learn how to care for your cast iron and enjoy it for years and years to come, as in forever.
How to Season a Cast Iron
“Seasoning” means baking fat or oil into the iron to create a natural nonstick coating. To season your pan, use a paper towel to coat the pan with a thin layer of fat, such as shortening or any food safe oil. Coat the entire pan, including the exterior, bottom, and sides. Then place in a 200-degree oven for 20 minutes to seal in the fat. Cool to room temperature before storing.
How to Wash a Cast Iron
When you first purchase a cast-iron skillet, use mild soapy water for the first washing. Avoid using soap thereafter or you’ll need to re-season your pan.
Hyvee Culinary Expert Tip
Make sure you don't leave a cast iron skillet soaking in water. This could cause it to rust. To dry it thoroughly, use a dish towel or heat it in the oven.
How to Keep a Cast Iron Clean
After each use, wipe out any bits of food with paper towels or a soft reusable towel.
How to Scrub Bits of Food Off a Cast Iron
To remove stuck-on food, add kosher salt to the skillet and gently scrub with a rag. Discard the salt and rinse the skillet with hot water.
Hyvee Culinary Expert Tip
Avoid using steel wool to clean a cast iron skillet. This will scrub away the "seasoned" base layer that makes it non-stick. But the good news is, you can always re-season your pan as needed.How to Prevent a Cast Iron from Rusting
Dry your skillet immediately with a kitchen towel or heat the skillet over medium-low heat to evaporate the moisture.
How to Store a Cast Iron
Keep your cast iron skillets in a dry place with the lids off to avoid rusting. If rust appears, scour your cookware with steel wool and re-season.
