How To Care For an Old Cast Iron Skillet
- 1). Wash the cast iron skillet in hot water with a small amount of mild dishwashing liquid. Lightly dry the skillet with a dish towel, then place the skillet on the stove on medium heat. Dry the skillet thoroughly by leaving it on the burner for three to five minutes. Remove the skillet from the burner when it's completely dry.
- 2
Always dry cast iron on the stove
Inspect the skillet for rust, pitted spots or areas where food residue is burned onto the pan. Use fine- gauge steel wool to buff these areas clean. Repeat the washing and drying process. - 3). While the skillet is still warm, rub a light coating of vegetable oil or white vegetable shortening onto the pan. Let this sit and melt in for several minutes, then wipe off the excess with a dish towel or paper towels.
- 4). Use fine-gauge steel wool to clean and sand any wooden accouterments to the skillet. Rub mineral oil into wooden handles or attachments with your fingers. Wipe off any excess mineral oil with a corner of the dish towel.
- 5). Store your cast iron pan without any lid on it. Hang it from a pot rack or store it on an open shelf if possible, to avoid moisture collecting on it. Use your cast iron skillet often. Wash it without soaking, dry it on the stove and lightly oil it each time you use it, and your trusty kitchen friend will last for several lifetimes.
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