How to Salvage Your Old Cast Iron Pots and Pans
By Colleen Donnelly, GalTime.com
Although it is classic, durable, and extremely versatile, most people shy away from Cast Iron due to its high maintenance rumor.
However, the Krazy Coupon Ladies have compiled an easy Cast Iron cleaning and caring tutorial, which could turn a rusted pan a like new skillet.
Avoid buying a new pan, recover your old one
1. In the dry pan, pour an even ratio of coarse salt and vegetable or olive oil in the center. The Krazy Coupon Ladies usually start with ¼ cup of each.
2. Using 2-3 folded paper towels rub the salt mixture in small circular motions all over the inside and outside of the pan. You will see the rust lifting almost immediately, it is that easy!
3. Add more oil or salt if needed. If your pan is very rusty, you may want to repeat the entire process a second time.
4. Once you are completely satisfied with your clean rust free pan, throw out the salt mixture. Using mild dish soap, give your pan a good washing to get rid of the last traces of rust and yuck.
5. Place your restored pan on the stovetop over medium-low heat for about 3-5 minutes to dry (remember, that rust you just scrubbed off was caused by improper drying).
Related: 4 Quick Fixes for the Kitchen
Create your personal, safe, non-stick surface, and make your pan ready for use
1. Coat the inside and the outside of the pan with an even layer of cooking oil; ideally the same type of oil you used to clean the pan.
2. Bake at 350 degrees for an hour.
Result: Shiny black cast iron and a surface that can compete with most pricey non-stick pans on the market.
Caring
- Wash with mild soap (a rough scrubber is perfectly safe for rugged cast iron).
- Always dry your pan with heat to evaporate all traces of water.
- Along with drying thoroughly after each use, regular seasoning is equally important in maintaining the integrity of your pan. You can season weekly, monthly, or whenever your pan looks a little dull.
It is important to keep up with the maintenance of your Cast Iron pots and pans. In the long run, it will save you both money and time!
More from GalTime:
