Restoring a cast iron skillet, and maintaining it, will help it last for years and years.
Cast iron skillets are a kitchen staple for many cooks. They are durable, versatile, and provide excellent heat distribution for cooking. However, over time, cast iron skillets can become rusty or coated in a layer of stuck-on food. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps for restoring a cast iron skillet so that it’s like new again.
Step 1: Clean the skillet
The first step in restoring a cast iron skillet is to clean it thoroughly. Fill the skillet with water and bring it to a boil. Once the water is boiling, add 2-3 tablespoons of baking soda to the skillet. This will help to loosen any stuck-on food or rust. Use a stiff brush or a scraper to scrub the skillet, paying extra attention to areas that are particularly dirty. Rinse the skillet with hot water and dry it completely.
Step 2: Remove rust
If your skillet has rust on it, you’ll need to remove it before you can restore it. To do this, mix equal parts water and vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray the rust on the skillet with the vinegar solution and let it sit for about 10 minutes. Use a stiff brush or a scraper to scrub the rust off the skillet. Rinse the skillet with hot water and dry it completely.
Step 3: Season the skillet
Once the skillet is clean and rust-free, it’s time to season it. Seasoning a cast iron skillet helps to protect it from rust and to create a non-stick surface. To season the skillet, heat it in the oven, or BBQ at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes. Remove the skillet from the oven and rub a thin layer of vegetable oil or Crisbee Stick onto the skillet. Be sure to cover the entire surface of the skillet, including the bottom and the sides. Place the skillet back in and bake it for one hour. Once the hour is up, turn off the oven and let the skillet cool in the oven.
Step 4: Use and maintain the skillet
Your cast iron skillet is now restored and ready to use! To maintain its condition, be sure to wash it with hot water and a stiff brush or scraper after each use. Avoid using soap, as it can remove the seasoning on the skillet. Dry the skillet completely before storing it. If the skillet starts to rust, repeat the steps for removing rust. If the skillet starts to lose its non-stick surface, repeat the process of seasoning it.
With proper care and maintenance, your restored cast iron skillet will last for many years to come. Happy cooking!
