Resturant Kitchen Tip: How to Care for Your Cast Iron Cookware
Cast iron skillets are the workhorse of any kitchen, offering easy transfer from the stovetop to the oven and the versatility to make everything from the perfect dessert to a succulent roast. Caring for your cast iron correctly maintains its optimal cooking condition. Whether you use it in your home kitchen or in a commercial appliance like an industrial stove or oven, here's what you need to know about cleaning and re-seasoning your cast-iron cookware.
Cleaning Cast Iron
When it comes to cast iron cookware, knowing what not to do is perhaps most important. Avoid contact with soap and steel wool, and don't even think about putting your skillet in the dishwasher. Never soak the pan in the sink, which can cause it to rust.
For best results, clean your cast iron cookware while it's still warm. Use very hot water and scrub the cookware with a sponge or stiff brush. You may want to wear gloves to protect your hands from the water temperature. If food is stuck to the pan, add kosher salt to help scrub it clean.
Once the cookware is clean, either thoroughly towel-dry it or dry it on your stovetop over low heat. When the skillet is completely dry, rub it with a bit of vegetable oil and store it in a moisture-free location.
The Seasoning Process
Properly seasoned cast iron cookware is often passed down through generations. Telltale signs that your skillet may need to be reseasoned include a dull or rusted appearance and stuck-on food that is difficult to remove. If your piece has a smooth, shiny nonstick surface, it's been seasoned correctly.
When it's time to reseason your cookware, follow these steps for success:
● Line the bottom of your oven with aluminum foil and preheat 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
● Follow the steps above to thoroughly clean your cast iron.
● Once it's clean, rinse it and dry completely.
● Add a few tablespoons of vegetable oil or melted shortening.
● Using a paper towel or clean cloth, rub the skillet with the oil until it's completely coated. This includes the outside and the bottom.
● Place the oiled skillet upside down on the center rack of the heated oven.
● Bake for one hour.
● Turn the oven off and allow the cookware to cool completely before removing.
When you need commercial appliance service, trust the expertise of CASCO, the Commercial Appliance Service Company. We've been providing service and repairs in North Bay area restaurant and institution kitchens for more than 50 years. Contact us to schedule your commercial appliance service.
When it comes to cast iron cookware, knowing what not to do is perhaps most important. Avoid contact with soap and steel wool, and don't even think about putting your skillet in the dishwasher. Never soak the pan in the sink, which can cause it to rust.
For best results, clean your cast iron cookware while it's still warm. Use very hot water and scrub the cookware with a sponge or stiff brush. You may want to wear gloves to protect your hands from the water temperature. If food is stuck to the pan, add kosher salt to help scrub it clean.
Once the cookware is clean, either thoroughly towel-dry it or dry it on your stovetop over low heat. When the skillet is completely dry, rub it with a bit of vegetable oil and store it in a moisture-free location.
The Seasoning Process
Properly seasoned cast iron cookware is often passed down through generations. Telltale signs that your skillet may need to be reseasoned include a dull or rusted appearance and stuck-on food that is difficult to remove. If your piece has a smooth, shiny nonstick surface, it's been seasoned correctly.
When it's time to reseason your cookware, follow these steps for success:
● Line the bottom of your oven with aluminum foil and preheat 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
● Follow the steps above to thoroughly clean your cast iron.
● Once it's clean, rinse it and dry completely.
● Add a few tablespoons of vegetable oil or melted shortening.
● Using a paper towel or clean cloth, rub the skillet with the oil until it's completely coated. This includes the outside and the bottom.
● Place the oiled skillet upside down on the center rack of the heated oven.
● Bake for one hour.
● Turn the oven off and allow the cookware to cool completely before removing.
When you need commercial appliance service, trust the expertise of CASCO, the Commercial Appliance Service Company. We've been providing service and repairs in North Bay area restaurant and institution kitchens for more than 50 years. Contact us to schedule your commercial appliance service.