How to Remove Old Grease From Cast-Iron Corn Sticks

Corn sticks can get greasy from improper cleaning.

Generally, the more often you use cast iron, the better its nonsticking properties. Keeping cast iron properly seasoned is as simple as avoiding soap and abrasives when you scrub it. Cast-iron corn stick pans can get greasy and sticky because corn has a higher sugar content than other foods. Even though you should avoid using soap on your cast iron, you may have to use it to remove stuck-on grease from your corn sticks. Does this Spark an idea?

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Large pot
Water
Kosher salt
Plastic bristle brush
Soap
Steel wool

Instructions

- 1
  
  Boil your cast-iron corn sticks in a pot of hot water to loosen any food residue.
- 2
  
  Create a paste by mixing kosher salt and water. Scrub the sticks vigorously using this paste and the bristle brush.
- 3
  
  Rinse the corn stick pans thoroughly under running water. If grease stains persist, continue to the next step.
- 4
  
  Combine soap and water and scrub the cast-iron stick pans with steel wool. You will have to re-season the corn sticks after cleaning them with soap or a steel brush.

Tips & Warnings

Re-season pans by coating them in oil, cooking in the oven and letting them cool.
If you use soap to clean your pans, oil them before the first few uses to help build up the nonstick coating.
Wash your cast-iron utensils or cookware immediately after use. Rinse and scrub with a soft-bristled brush or dishrag to prevent food residue from sticking and limit grease stains.