The Ultimate Guide to Cast Iron Care & Cooking

When it comes to kitchen essentials, few tools are as versatile, durable, and beloved as cast iron. From crispy cornbread to perfectly seared steaks, this classic cookware has earned its place in kitchens for generations. But if you’re new to cast iron—or just looking to up your game—you’ve come to the right place!We’re thrilled to welcome our friend and expert homesteader, Allison from Hillside Homesteader, to share her wisdom. Known for her rustic recipes and passion for all things sustainable, Allison is truly the queen of cast iron. Her practical tips and tricks will help you unlock the magic of this timeless kitchen staple.

The Ultimate Guide to Cast Iron Care & Cooking

I spend a lot of time in the kitchen preparing meals for my family and recently when asked what my favorite kitchen tool is, without hesitation, I responded “My cast iron skillet of course!”. Cast iron is durable. Built to last a lifetime and beyond. The versatility is unmatched. You can take a dish directly from the stovetop to the oven, or even to the campfire! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary novice, understanding how to properly maintain and utilize cast iron can enhance your cooking experience and extend the life of your cookware. Let’s dive into the essentials of cast iron care and the delicious possibilities it offers in the kitchen.

 

Why Choose Cast Iron?

Cast iron cookware is beloved for its durability, versatility, and unparalleled heat retention. Its ability to go from stovetop to oven makes it a staple in many kitchens. Additionally, when seasoned correctly, it provides a natural non-stick surface that can even improve with use over time. Buying a nonstick pan from the store means they are coated with a carcinogenic chemical called perfluorooctanoic acid. Not only does it leech into the food when cooked at high temps, but it also creates toxic fumes that disperse into the air. I got rid of my storebought non-stick pans years ago and invested into cast iron.

 

Benefits of Cast Iron Cookware

· Durability: Cast iron is built to last a lifetime, often becoming a family heirloom.

· Heat Retention: It maintains heat exceptionally well, perfect for frying, searing, and baking.

· Versatility: Use it on the stove, in the oven, or even over a campfire.

· Health Benefits: Cooking with cast iron can increase the iron content of your food.

 

Caring for Your Cast Iron

Proper care is essential for maintaining the performance of your cast iron cookware. I think this is the part that scares most people off from utilizing cast iron. But I’m here to tell you it doesn’t have to be complicated! Here’s how to keep it in top condition:

 

Seasoning Your Cast Iron

Seasoning is the process of applying a layer of fat, which polymerizes and bonds to the iron, creating a protective coating. Ideally this is done one or two times before you start cooking with it and then won’t need to be done again unless you refinish it.

1. Clean: Scrub your cast iron with hot, soapy water and a stiff brush. Rinse and dry thoroughly.

2. Apply Oil: Rub a thin layer of grapeseed oil, tallow, vegetable oil or melted shortening over the entire surface, inside and out. Wipe off any excess. Using an oil with a high smoke point is really important when seasoning your skillet!

3. Bake: Place the cookware upside down in the oven on the middle rack at 375°F (190°C). Put a sheet of aluminum foil on the lower rack to catch any drips. Bake for one hour, then let it cool in the oven.

 

Cleaning Your Cast Iron

1. Washing: After cooking, clean your cast iron with hot water and a stiff brush or sponge. You can use soap if you need to, a gentle dish soap with stiff brush works wonderfully on tough stuck on foods.

2. Dry Immediately: To prevent rust, dry your cast iron immediately with a paper towel. Place your cast iron on the stovetop on a high heat to help any remaining moisture evaporate. Rust is cast irons enemy.

3. Reapply Oil: After drying, while the pan is still hot, apply a light coat of oil to the surface to maintain the seasoning.

 

Storing Your Cast Iron

· Keep Dry: Store your cast iron in a dry place to prevent rust. If stacking, place a paper towel between pans to absorb moisture.

 

Cooking with Cast Iron

Cooking with cast iron is both an art and a science. Here are some tips to get you started:

Recipes to Try

· Searing Steaks: Preheat your cast iron until it’s smoking hot. Season steaks with salt and pepper, then sear them for 3-4 minutes on each side for a perfect crust.

· Crispy Skillet Chicken: Sauté chicken thighs skin-side down in a cast iron skillet until the skin is golden and crispy. Flip and finish in the oven.

· Cornbread: Bake a classic buttermilk cornbread in a preheated cast iron skillet for a crispy crust and moist interior.

 

Tips for Success

· Preheat Properly: Always preheat your cast iron before adding food to ensure even cooking.

· Use the Right Oil: Opt for oils with a high smoke point, like canola or vegetable oil, for cooking and seasoning.

· Avoid Acidic Foods: While fine for short periods, prolonged cooking of acidic foods can erode the seasoning layer.

 

Troubleshooting Common Issues

· Rust: If your cast iron rusts, scrub it with steel wool until the rust is gone, then reseason.

· Sticky Surface: This can occur if too much oil is applied during seasoning. Simply clean and reseason with a thinner layer of oil.

 

Conclusion

Caring for and cooking with cast iron is a rewarding experience that can elevate your culinary creations. With proper maintenance and care, your cast iron cookware will remain a versatile and reliable tool in your kitchen for years to come. Embrace the timeless charm of cast iron, and enjoy the rich flavors and textures it brings to your family’s table.