How to Recondition Rusted Cast Iron Cookware
Cast-iron cookware benefits are being recognized by a whole new generation of cooks. Due to the longevity of cast iron, it is seen as a green cookware. This means it will not be filling up landfills. Also, cast iron can be used at high temperatures and not give off toxic fumes. Some people are lucky enough to have their grandparents' or parents' old cast-iron cookware. Others find old cast iron at garage sales. It doesn't matter how it comes to you; with just a little effort, your cast iron will be as good as new. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- 80-grit sandpaper or steel wool
- Water
- Dishwashing liquid
- Foil
- Crisco or lard
- Oven
- Soft cloth
Instructions
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1
Scour off any rust or other debris with 80-grit sandpaper or fine steel wool.
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2
Wash the pan with hot water and dishwashing liquid.
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3
Put foil on the bottom rack of the oven. This will catch any grease that drips off the pan.
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4
Cover the pan inside and out with Crisco or lard.
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5
Place the pan in the oven upside down.
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Turn on the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Let the pan heat up with the oven.
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Leave the pan in the oven at 400 degrees for at least 1 hour. Then turn off the oven and let the pan cool inside.
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8
Remove the pan from the oven when cool, and wipe the pan with a soft cloth.
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Tips & Warnings
Instead of using water, clean the pan after each use with a tablespoon of salt and a little vegetable oil, then wipe the pan with a paper towel.
Never put a hot pan into cool water or a cold pan into a hot oven or area with high temperature. This can cause the cookware to shatter.
