How To Clean Cast Iron First Time
Then dry the cast iron item carefully with a dishcloth and store it in a dry place.
How to clean cast iron first time. Basically you can make a cast iron pan non stick by seasoning it aka treating it with oil then baking it. To clean enameled cast iron wash it with hot soapy water just as you would with any other cookware. Mild soap may be used on lodge cast iron products but is not necessary. More from rachael ray. Don t use soapy water to clean your cast iron skillet.
Next coat the pan in olive or vegetable oil with a paper towel. Save pin it see more images. Dry the pan and coat with a thin layer of oil. To clean cast iron cookware use a plastic scrubber and hot water to remove food. For a quick seasoning that works well with new cast iron skillets simply wash your new pan with warm soapy water and then dry it with a dry cloth or paper towels.
Add a thin coat of more oil but make sure the oil doesn t pool anywhere one teaspoon wiped across the entire cooking surface is just right for most pans. To be extra sure the cast iron is dry place it on a hot burner and let it warm up so any water will evaporate. The oil fills holes in the metal and creates a coating that seals the surface which can help prevent rust over time and keep your cast iron in overall tip top shape. To catch excess oil place a baking sheet on the oven rack below the cast iron. Click below to find more helpful information for cast iron care.
Before using your cookware for the first time place your cast iron under hot running water and quickly rinse off every surface to remove any dust or packaging residue. To re season the cast iron apply a high smoke point cooking oil over the entire surface then heat in the oven for an hour at 176 c 350 f. 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. Stay connected sign up for our monthly emails here. You may have to wash your new pan a few times to get rid of all the gray residue.
Store until ready to use. You may wipe off any excess oil remaining on the cast iron. Don t use soap and water. Dry it thoroughly with an absorbent towel to prevent rust spots. Hot water and a stiff nylon brush or plastic scraper are all you need to clean the skillet after each use.