Cast iron cookware has been a staple in kitchens for centuries, and for good reason. Not only do they retain heat really well, they’re also virtually indestructible. But, like any cookware, they require a little extra care and attention to keep them in pristine condition. One common issue with cast iron pans is burnt-on food. Don’t worry though, with a little elbow grease and some patience, you can get your pan looking like new again.

Step 1: Let it cool down

Before you start trying to clean your burnt cast iron pan, it’s important to let it cool down. Pouring cold water onto a red-hot pan can cause it to warp or even crack. Plus, you could end up with scalding water all over your hands. Give the pan some time to cool off before you begin scrubbing.

Step 2: Loosen the Burnt Food

The first step in cleaning a burnt cast iron pan is to loosen the burnt food. There are two ways to do this: using hot water or using salt.

Hot Water: Fill the pan with hot water and let it sit for a few minutes. The heat from the water will loosen the food, making it easier to remove.

Salt: Cover the bottom of the pan with a layer of coarse salt, then add a small amount of hot water. Use a paper towel or sponge to scrub the salt into the burnt food. The salt acts as an abrasive, helping to loosen the food from the pan.

Step 3: Scrub It

Once the burnt food has been loosened, it’s time to start scrubbing. You can use a variety of tools to scrub the pan, but be careful not to scratch the surface.

Chain Mail Scrubber: These scrubbers are made from interlinked rings of stainless steel. They’re gentle enough not to scratch the surface of the cast iron, but tough enough to remove burnt food.

Nylon Scrubber: Nylon scrubbers are a good option if you’re worried about scratching the surface of your pan. They’re soft enough not to damage the cast iron, but still effective at removing burnt-on food.

Sponge: If you don’t have a chain mail or nylon scrubber, a sponge can work just as well. Just be sure to use a gentle scrubbing motion so you don’t scratch the surface of the pan.

Step 4: Rinse It

Once you’ve scrubbed the pan, rinse it with hot water to remove any remaining food particles. Be sure to remove all the salt if you used that method. Wipe the pan down with a paper towel or dishcloth, and inspect it for any missed spots of burnt food.

Step 5: Dry it

After rinsing the pan, it’s important to dry it thoroughly to prevent rusting. Use a paper towel or clean dishcloth to dry the pan, then place it on a stove burner set to low heat and let it dry completely. This will evaporate any remaining moisture and also help season the pan.

Step 6: Season It

Once your cast iron pan is dry, it’s time to season it. This will help prevent rusting and keep your pan in good condition for years to come. Use a clean dishcloth or paper towel to apply a thin layer of vegetable oil or flaxseed oil to the surface of the pan. Rub the oil in, making sure to cover all surfaces, then wipe away any excess oil with a clean cloth.

In conclusion, cleaning a burnt cast iron pan may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little patience, it’s actually quite simple. Remember to let the pan cool down before cleaning, loosen the burnt food, carefully scrub the surface with a gentle tool, rinse and dry the pan, and then season it. With these steps, your pan will be shining like new in no time.

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