How To Clean A Cast Iron Pan Before First Use
Foods that are moist and acidic such as spaghetti sauce or applesauce absorb more iron than other foods when prepared in cast iron cookware.
How to clean a cast iron pan before first use. Prolonged exposure to water will increase the likelihood of rust. Follow cleaning instructions before first use. The first is that since oil is used to season the cast iron skillet and create a nonstick surface soap would effectively wash away the cure that you worked so hard to build. Clean your cast iron skillet immediately after use. Dry it thoroughly with an absorbent towel to prevent rust spots.
Do not soak the pan. Never clean in dishwasher. Use a scrubbing brush and really go at it to clean all the undesirable bits off the pan. Hot water and a stiff nylon brush or plastic scraper are all you need to clean the skillet after each use. The myth that you shouldn t wash your cast iron skillet with soap is just that a myth.
If there are pesky stains on the inside of the pot that won t go away after a thorough cleaning bring water to a gentle simmer in the pan on the stove with either a small amount of dish soap or baking soda then scrub and rinse carefully says nate collier of le creuset. Take a second paper towel or cloth dip it in oil and wipe the cast iron until it is clean. It retains the heat for longer and keeps the food warm until you are ready to serve it. For searing allow your iron to heat for 4 to 5 minutes. If you used enough fat for cooking you might not need more than a quick rinse with warm but not soapy water and a gentle scrub.
Next coat the pan in olive or vegetable oil with a paper towel. How to season a cast iron pan. 3 if the food is impossible to dislodge bake the cast iron. Cleaning while it s still warm will make it easier to remove stuck on food. Cast iron is by its very nature heavy and the use of enameled cast iron offers a whole range of benefits.
Skimp on the soap. For best performance always pre heat your victoria cast iron before using on low to medium heat. For starters it is easiest to clean your pan while it is still warm. It s driven by two theories. To clean enameled cast iron wash it with hot soapy water just as you would with any other cookware.