If you are looking for a pan that distributes heat moderately and evenly, serve several functions in your oven as well as on your stovetop, yet last for a lifetime, then cast iron pans are your best choice. Although they are nothing like aluminum pans, they are not only several times more massive but also take a lot of time to heat appreciatively. Cast iron pans are relatively affordable, and even though it takes a while to get heated to an appreciable level, once they become hot, it maintains that temperature for a very long time.

Cast iron pans are one of the oldest cooking utensils in the world and its use dates as far back as 206 BC. It is created from an impure form of iron known as ‘pig’ iron.

When it comes to caring for your cast iron pan, it could be a daunting process. There are several misconceptions and myths about cleaning and seasoning cast iron pans, and it could be intimidating. However, in the next few paragraphs, you will discover the perfect ways to care and use a cast iron pan efficiently.

Keeping your cast iron pans in a pristine condition

If you are using your cast iron pan for the very first time, follow the steps outlined below:

Wash, then dry your cast iron pan completely – Remove any rust spots on your cast iron pan using steel wool. Then after wiping the pan with a towel, place it on your stove so that any lingering water can be dried off. This is a step you should always follow anytime you want to use your cast iron pan. This is because water can hasten the rusting of your cast iron pan and this should be discouraged as much as possible by thoroughly drying the cast iron pan before use.

Rub the inside of your pan with unsaturated cooking oil – Now this step is debatable as people who made use of unsaturated cooking oils like corn oil or canola have had different experiences. While some have stated that the use of canola oil or other industrial oils makes everything to stick – such as meat, eggs, you name it – others have said otherwise. However, using bacon grease to season your pan has proven to be very useful. Therefore, rub every part of the cast iron pan with bacon grease and then buff everything off.

Heat the cast iron pan in your oven – Place the pan upside down in the oven and switch it on for about thirty minutes at a relatively high temperature. To catch any bacon grease that may drip off the cast iron pan, you should consider placing a silicone sheet or mat underneath the pan. Expect to see some smoke, but this is normal.

Repeat the oiling, as well as the cooking procedure at least twice or up to four times – You, need to do this so that you can get a base layer of seasoning. You need to be careful since the cast iron pot will be very hot at this time.

Caring for your cast iron pan

Follow these steps:

Make use of plastic scrubbers to get rid of stuck bits – This is very effective, though if you have lots of food stuck in your cast iron pan, you can make use of coarse salt.

Use only hot water to wash your pan – Do not use soap when cleaning your cast iron pan. Use hot water only.

After drying the pan on your stove, allow it to cool before putting it away.