Farm To Fork
Are You Cleaning Your Cast Iron Pan Properly? Don't Make These Mistakes!
by Darius Campeau
on
Sep 25, 2024
When it comes to cooking the perfect steak, the type of cookware you use can make all the difference. While there are many types of pans available, one material that stands out for steak lovers is cast iron.
Here are a few reasons why cast iron pans are great for cooking steaks:
Superior Heat Retention: Cast iron is known for its ability to retain heat. This means that once the pan is heated, it will stay hot, ensuring that your steak cooks evenly and thoroughly. The heat retention also allows you to achieve a nice sear on the outside of the steak, which can help lock in juices and create a delicious crust.
Durable: Cast iron pans are known for their durability and can last for generations with proper care. This means that investing in a high-quality cast iron pan can be a worthwhile investment for any steak lover.
Natural Non-Stick Surface: With proper seasoning and care, cast iron pans can develop a natural non-stick surface. This means that you can cook your steak without worrying about it sticking to the pan, which can make it easier to flip and reduce the risk of tearing or shredding the meat.
Easy to Clean: While cast iron pans may require a bit more maintenance than other types of cookware, they are relatively easy to clean. All you need is a bit of hot water and a scrub brush to remove any food residue. Plus, the more you use your cast iron pan, the more seasoned it will become, making it even easier to clean over time.
Avoid These Common Mistakes When Cleaning Your Cast Iron Pan
1. Using soap, soaking your pan in water or placing it in the dishwasher.
Clean your pan while it is still warm, remove any large food particles with a paper towel, add warm water to the base of the pan and use a wooden spoon to lift any stuck on bits.
2. Putting Your Cast Iron Pan Away Wet.
Moisture can cause your pan to rust. Dry your pan well with a towel after using. If your pan has rusted, use a steel wool and continue with the cleaning process.
3. Forgetting to Season.
Season your cast iron pan with a flavourless oil like avocado oil, this creates a barrier on the inside surface of your pan and improves the non stick surface over time.
The steps below will make seasoning easy:
● Heat your cast iron pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat and rub with an
avocado oil oil-soaked paper towel or rag. Use tongs to hold the towel and rub
until the oil has absorbed and the pans surface appears to have dried.
● Repeat this process until your cast iron pan looks glossy and smooth, this should
take approximately 3 rounds.
● Let cool and rub with a final light coat of oil and store in a dry place.
Cast iron pans are an excellent choice for cooking steaks. With their superior heat retention, versatility, natural non-stick surface, ease of cleaning, and durability, they are an investment that can pay off in delicious, perfectly cooked steaks for years to come.