Cleaning a cast iron skillet properly is an absolute must if you want it to last for many years. Homesteaders love their cast iron skillets because they’re durable and versatile. You can cook just about anything in one—including over an open fire.
Whether you’re new to homesteading or a seasoned pro, it’s never too late to learn how to properly care for your cast iron skillet.
In this blog we’ll explore:
A cast iron skillet is a type of cooking pan that’s made from cast iron. Known for their durability and knack for retaining heat, they’re a popular choice among homesteaders. You can use them for cooking tasks like frying, searing, and even baking in the oven. They can withstand stovetops, ovens, and open campfires.
Cast iron skillets are made by pouring molten iron heated to 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit into a skillet mold. Once the iron cools and solidifies, the skillet is removed from the mold and cleaned, smoothed, and polished to remove any excess iron or other impurities.
Some cast iron manufacturers pre-season their products before selling them. If your skillet wasn’t pre-seasoned, it’s important to make sure you complete that crucial step before cooking with it. We talk about how to season your cast iron skillet later in this blog.
Cast iron skillets have an interesting origin story. Cast iron pots and pans were used as early as the 5th century BC in China. They slowly evolved over the centuries until we ended up with the modern cast iron skillets of today that we all know and love.
The handy cookware wasn’t mass-produced until the 17th century in England. Once they became more widely available, their popularity soared. Their use continued throughout Europe and the Americas during the 18th and 19th centuries. People living in the American colonies particularly favored the skillets because they could be used over open fires.
Like the early settlers in America, homesteaders prefer using cast iron skillets because they have many benefits. If you’re not already using one, consider adding one or more to your cookware. Some of the reasons homesteaders favor them include:
Part of caring for a cast iron skillet properly is called seasoning. It involves applying a thin layer of oil to the skillet and heating it to a high temperature. Doing so creates a natural, non-stick surface.
Seasoning a cast iron skillet protects it from rust and keeps food from sticking to the surface. Some homesteaders believe it also creates a natural patina on the skillet that enhances the flavor of foods cooked in it.
Seasoning a cast iron skillet isn’t difficult when you follow this proven process.
Keeping your cast iron skillet in tip-top condition requires more than properly seasoning it. You must learn how to clean it and maintain it if you hope to pass it on to future generations. Here are some tips you can follow for getting your cookware clean without compromising its integrity.
Besides avoiding using harsh detergents for cleaning a cast iron skillet, never use steel wool or abrasive scrubbers. They can scratch the surface of the skillet, damaging it and making it unsafe for use.
Instead, use a stiff brush or scraper to remove any stuck-on food, followed by thorough rinsing with warm water. Don’t forget to re-season it for the best results.
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