A cast-iron skillet is a must have for all cooks. Not only does a cast iron skillet retain hot temperatures, but also cooks evenly as it distributes heat equally from your stovetop. Though, when it comes to cleaning, it is not as simple as scrubbing your cast-iron cookware with soap as this can strip your seasoning in a snap; plus, it’s a common rule to never put your seasoned or unseasoned pan in the dishwasher...ever. Though, the cleaning process isn’t that difficult to abide by to ensure your skillet stays in tip-top shape. Now, some people use a cloth to remove any food bits from their skillet and don’t do anything else, but there is another way to keep your seasoned cast-iron skillet “well-seasoned.” You’ll want to rinse your skillet in hot water, and use a soft sponge or cloth to remove any food debris. If burnt remnants are tough to remove, pour some coarse salt into your pan, scrub and rinse. You will want to make sure you dry your cast-iron skillet or else you run the risk of it rusting. Some people place their skillet on their stovetop burner, and turn it on a low heat for a few minutes to evaporate residual water. Then, go ahead and coat your pan with oil or shortening so it is ready for your next meal.
Photo by: cbertel
