Cleaning, drying, and storing your cast iron skillet properly are crucial steps to maintain its quality and extend its lifespan. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
Cool Down the Skillet: After cooking, allow the cast iron skillet to cool down to a safe temperature. Avoid placing a hot skillet under cold running water, as rapid temperature changes can cause warping or cracking.
Wash with Hot Water and Soft Brush/Sponge: Rinse the skillet with hot water to remove any food residues. You can use a soft brush or sponge to gently scrub the surface. Avoid using soap, as it can strip away the seasoning. If there are stubborn bits stuck to the pan, you can add some coarse salt to the water and use it as a gentle abrasive.
Dry Thoroughly: After washing, use a clean towel or paper towel to dry the skillet thoroughly. Make sure there is no moisture left on the surface, as moisture can cause rust.
Heat on Stovetop: To ensure the skillet is completely dry and to prevent any remaining moisture from causing rust, place the skillet on the stovetop over low to medium heat for a few minutes. This process helps evaporate any residual water.
Apply a Thin Coat of Oil: Once the skillet is dry and warm, apply a thin coat of cooking oil or vegetable shortening to the entire surface, including the exterior and handle. You can use a paper towel to spread the oil evenly. This step helps maintain the seasoning and protects the skillet from moisture and air.
Store Properly: Finally, store the cast iron skillet in a dry place. You can stack it with other cookware, but if you do, place a paper towel or cloth between the pans to prevent any moisture or scratches.
Additional Tips:
- Avoid using metal utensils on the skillet to prevent damaging the seasoning.
- If you accidentally end up with some rust on your skillet, you can follow the steps mentioned in a previous response to remove it and re-season the pan.
Regularly following these cleaning and maintenance steps will help keep your cast iron skillet in excellent condition and ensure it provides you with many years of reliable and enjoyable cooking.