Choosing the Right Cast Iron Skillet.

March 15, 2019

kick ass technique to remove rust from your cast iron

There are a ton of cookware brands offering their unique line of cast iron pots and pans. Making a choice for purchasing one of these bad boys is considered a long time investment. As we all know, cast iron cookware can last for generations. 

They are durable and can take on cooking like a beast. We have created a list of pans which we think will b a great investment for those who aren't sure. 

1) Lodge Cast Iron Skillet 10.25 - inch

 Lodge Budget cast iron skillet

Lodge cast iron manufactures all of their cookware in the USA. The best part of it is that these lovely pans are one of the most affordable for the high quality. 

If you're new to cast iron pans and need something not too expensive, Lodge is the only skillet you should choose to purchase. 

2) T-Fal Pre-seasoned Nonstick Durable Cast Iron Skillet 12 - inch

t-fal cooking

These skillets come in pre-seasoned along with the added benefit of it being easy to clean. This pan has a convex bottom which prevents the oil or food for sticking to the center. Remember to avoid the use of metal spatulas or ladles on this pan, it may get scratched. 

3) The Field Company No. 8 Skillet

cast iron skillet by field

Many companies claim that they have the techniques to bring back the smoothness of vintage cast iron pans, they aren't wrong but this company has taken it to a level of perfection. The only con to this skillet is that you're paying for the quality of the pan. Weighing at around 4.3 pounds, it is very light in the category of Cast Iron skillets.

 

 

Cast iron skillets are the workhorse for most kitchens. Whether it be at a restaurant or for home use. They are pans that can be passed on from generations to generations. 

But imagine this situation, you forget to dry off your skillet or better yet, your lazy roommate "mistakenly" puts that pan in the dishwasher only to find out the layer of rust it has accumulated eventually. Thankfully, this is a fixable situation. 

Tools and materials needed to remove the rust from the cast iron cookware. 

Never cook in a rusted cast iron skillet. Always clean it completely even if there is a small spot of rust on it. 

Things needed to remove the rust - 

Liquid dish soap

Cooking oil

Vinegar (white) 

Steel wool (scrub)

Baking soda 

Cloth

1) Make a paste with some dish soap, vinegar as well as some baking soda. 

2) Dip your steel scrub in the paste and in a circular motion, scrub the cast iron. After a few circular motions, rinse the pan and repeat. 

3) A little elbow grease and some force should help release the rust off the cast iron skillet. Repeat 3 to 4 times. 

4) Rinse with warm water and dry with a clean dry towel thoroughly. 

5) To re-season, pre-heat the oven to 350°. Pour a tablespoon of grapeseed oil or canola oil onto the pan. Use a paper towel and wipe the entire pan with the oil, including the handle. 

6) Pop into the oven for an hour. Remove and set it aside. 

And there you have it. Don't forget to rock the Chef's Satchel apron when cooking your next meal with this spanking clean cast iron skillet.