How to Recondition Cast Iron Pans

If you ever wondered why cast iron pans have remained popular for the kitchen, you either haven't used one yourself or you have not maintained your pans for optimum cooking. Cast iron pans heat food evenly, practically guaranteeing that your meal is cooked to perfection, and are virtually nonstick. Cast iron does require regular care to maintain its nonstick surface and to prevent rusting. Fortunately they are easy to maintain with minimal effort.

Things You'll Need

• Paper towels
• Vegetable oil
• Steel wool

Instructions

1. Wipe pans clean with a soft cloth or paper towel whenever possible. Although you can wash them in warm soapy water, the less exposure to water, the better. Wash quickly and rinse with hot water. Wipe the pan dry with a dry cloth.

2. Place the pan on a medium high burner to allow all moisture to evaporate.

3. Add 2 to 3 tablespoons of vegetable oil. Swirl the pan to distribute the oil to all areas of the pan. Heat until the oil begins to smoke slightly. Turn off the burner and allow the pan to set until cool.

4. Wipe the inside of the pan with a paper towel. Be sure to coat the sides of the pan as well as the bottom. Your pan should have a thin coat of oil, but should not be greasy to the touch.

5. Repeat the procedure after every use to keep the pan in optimum condition.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid soaking cast iron pans in water. Remove rust from cast iron pans with steel wool and follow the steps for seasoning the pan.

• Monitor pans with oil carefully. Hot oil can ignite quickly.