How to Clean a Cast-Iron Skillet

Known for its durability, heat retention, and ability to withstand high temperatures, the cast-iron skillet is one of the most dependable tools in the kitchen. Able to cook everything fromfried chickentos'mores,有一些食物can'tcook in cast iron. So, how do you keep yourLodgeorLe Creusetsafe from wear, tear and rust? While caring for a cast-iron skillet can be a little more work than cleaning your average nonstick skillet or Dutch oven, knowing the aftercare routine is the first step in keeping this thing in top-notch shape for a long time.

Cleaning a Cast-Iron Skillet

First off, don't wait until your cast-iron is cold to do some cleaning. Obviously, you shouldn't scrub your skillet the moment after it comes out of the over, but a warm cast-iron makes for easier cleanup.
A sponge orchainmail scrubberworks wonders — especially when dealing with burnt-on cheese or caramelized onion. However, the dependability award definitely goes to theFull Circle Tenacious C. The built-in scraper removes stuck-on bits while the brush scrubs away all evidence of dinner.
Run your cast-iron under hot water and add a little soap. It's worth mentioning there's a tiny bit ofcontroversy concerning the use of soapwith cleaning a cast-iron skillet (i.e., that you should never do it). But don't let that scare you off; dish soap isn't going to ruin your skillet.
For food hanging on for dear life, the next step is returning your cast-iron to the stove.
Place your pan on the burner and add enoughvegetable oil to coat the bottom, according to Cook's Illustrated.
Next, add enough kosher salt to form a paste with the oil. Throw on some oven mitts, grab a few paper towels and scrub. This step is especially helpful if you're trying to get rid of rust spots.
When your pan looksblack and slick, it's time to oil it up. Set your oven to 350 degrees F (or 177 degrees C), apply a thin layer of vegetable oil all over (even the handle), and place upside down on the middle rack for an hour. (This step is known as"seasoning"your cast-iron skillet.)
Turn your oven off, allow your cast-iron cool down, pat dry with paper towels, and call it a night.

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