How I inherited Cast Iron Skillets from my Grandmother
In the heart of my family’s culinary history lies a collection of cast iron skillets, each seasoned with memories and passed down through generations. These timeless kitchen companions have become more than just cookware; they are a tangible link to my grandmother’s culinary legacy. Join me on a nostalgic journey as I share the story of how I inherited cast iron skillets from my Grandmother.
Keeping the cast iron pans in impeccable shape as they transform into treasured family heirlooms. From the sizzling tales of generations past to the secret recipes that seasoned these beloved pans, discover the enduring legacy of these kitchen treasures and the culinary traditions they carry forward.
Growing up, my parents & grandparents always cooked on cast-iron cookware. Although, I never really appreciated cooking in cast iron until I was married for a few years. After a while, I bought a few skillets that came as a set. I remember trying to figure out the process of caring & seasoning. I just couldn’t figure it out & I gave up on them for a long time.
Several years later my sister & I were chatting about the cast iron she had gotten from our grandparents & I told her I would love to start cooking in cast iron. She cooked on them all the time & made the best fried chicken & cornbread. She told me she would give me some of our grandparent’s old cast iron skillets that she had acquired from them. I was so excited that I would be using the very same cast iron that my grandmother & grandfather cooked on a daily basis.
The cast iron cookware was in good shape and seasoned very well. Then my dad gave me a chicken fryer (deep skillet) that he & mom cooked in. Then before you know it, I was addicted to cooking in them. I purchased some lodge cast iron skillets from our local stores. Then we added two more large skillets to my collection. Then along came the cast iron Dutch oven & a few other pieces. I was hooked!
We cook and bake in them daily
The baking is a little tricky but I am still learning. I am always searching online for tips & tricks. So for the last several years, we only cooked in cast iron & we haven’t looked back! We even got rid of our old frying pans.
I was constantly researching & learning how to care for them. I even found a group on Facebook dedicated to cast iron that had people who are experts in caring for and cooking in cast iron skillets. Not to mention all the yummy food posts too 🙂 The more I used cast iron to cook the more I fell in love with it. It became second nature to use. My husband & kids were on board too. Oh, & the food tastes SO much better!
The key to caring for cast iron is to keep them well-seasoned.
There are a lot of debates on what oil to use but for me, I use Crisco shortening. Just a little goes a long way to season your cast iron. Make sure your skillets are completely dry. I dry my skillets on the stove… once dried, I add a dab of Crisco shortening on a (lint-free) tea towel (you can use a paper towel if you like) & rub it all over the skillet including the handle & bottom. Do not leave the oil caked on or it will get rancid. Wipe it til all the oil is spread evenly. Your skillet is now ready for the next time you cook.
How to Care for Cast-Iron in 3 Easy Steps
By incorporating these simple steps into your cast-iron care routine, you’ll not only preserve its good shape but also contribute to the development of a beautifully seasoned family heirloom. With a little care and attention, your cast-iron skillet will continue to serve up delicious meals for generations to come. Caring for your cast-iron skillet is not only essential for maintaining its longevity but also for enhancing its cooking performance. Follow these three easy steps to ensure your cast-iron skillet remains in top-notch condition for generations to come:
1. Clean with Hot Water
After each use, rinse your cast-iron skillet with hot water. Mild soap is ok to use. However, instead, use a brush or sponge to gently scrub away any food residue. The hot water helps to loosen stubborn residues without compromising the skillet’s seasoning. For more stubborn food particles, use some coarse salt and take a sponge & rub the salt all over to loosen the food.
2. Season with Oil
Once clean and dry, it’s time to season your cast-iron skillet. Using a paper towel, apply a little bit of vegetable oil, olive oil, or flaxseed oil to the entire surface, inside and out. Make sure to coat the handle and any exposed metal parts as well. This thin layer of oil acts as a protective barrier, preventing rust and maintaining the skillet’s non-stick properties.
3. Heat on Medium Heat
To set the oil and further enhance the seasoning, place the oiled skillet on a medium heat source. Allow it to heat gradually for about 10-15 minutes. This process helps the oil to penetrate the iron, creating a durable, non-stick surface. Avoid using high heat, as it may lead to uneven seasoning or cause the oil to burn.
You got a new skillet, now what?
Congratulations on your new cast-iron pan! While the prospect of cooking with this versatile kitchen essential is exciting, it’s common to have a lot of questions about how to get started. Remember, your new cast-iron pan is a durable and long-lasting kitchen companion. With a bit of care and attention, it will become a cherished tool for cooking delicious meals and creating lasting memories. Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate the initial steps with your new cast-iron skillet:
1. Wash and Dry
Begin by washing your new cast-iron pan with hot water and a brush or sponge. Avoid using soap at this stage, as you want to preserve any pre-seasoning that may have been applied by the manufacturer. Once clean, thoroughly dry the pan with a towel.
2. Season the Skillet
To establish or reinforce the seasoning of your new skillet, coat it with just a little oil. You can use vegetable oil, olive oil, or flaxseed oil. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the handle. Place the oiled pan in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) and bake it for about an hour. This process creates a protective layer on the cast iron, enhancing its non-stick properties.
3. Start with Low to Medium Heat
When you’re ready to start cooking, begin with low to medium heat. Cast iron retains and distributes heat very well, so you don’t need high temperatures. Gradually increase the heat if necessary. This helps prevent food from sticking and promotes even cooking.
4. Use a Bit of Oil or Fat
While cast iron is naturally non-stick when well-seasoned, using a bit of oil or fat can enhance the cooking process. Add a small amount to the pan before cooking to ensure smooth and enjoyable culinary adventures.
5. Avoid Acidic Foods Initially
In the beginning, it’s advisable to avoid cooking highly acidic foods like tomatoes or vinegar-based dishes until the seasoning on your pan has fully developed. Acidic ingredients can temporarily break down the seasoning, impacting its effectiveness.
6. Clean with Care
After each use, clean your cast-iron pan with hot water and a scrub brush. If necessary, use a small amount of mild soap, but avoid harsh detergents. Dry the pan thoroughly and apply a light coat of oil to maintain its seasoning.
FYI: You will hear not to use dish soap to clean but it is safe to use.
What kind of cooking oils is best for seasoning cast iron skillets?
For seasoning cast iron skillets, oils with high smoke points and a neutral flavor work best. Some commonly recommended oils include:
- Vegetable Oil: Affordable and widely available, vegetable oil is a popular choice for seasoning due to its high smoke point.
- Canola Oil: With a high smoke point, canola oil is another suitable option for creating a protective layer on your cast iron.
- Flaxseed Oil: While it has a lower smoke point compared to some other oils, flaxseed oil is often recommended for its ability to polymerize, creating a durable and glossy finish on the cast iron.
- Grapeseed Oil: Grapeseed oil has a high smoke point and is known for its light flavor, making it a good choice for cast iron seasoning.
- Peanut Oil: With a high smoke point, peanut oil is a reliable option for seasoning cast iron, but be mindful of potential allergies.
Remember to apply a thin layer of the chosen oil and bake the cast iron in the oven to allow the seasoning to set. Each oil has its unique characteristics, so you can choose based on availability, personal preference, and the desired finish for your cast iron skillet.
How to do the non-stick test?
Testing the non-stick properties of your cast-iron skillet is a great way to ensure that the seasoning is working effectively. During these tests, if you notice that the eggs or bacon are sticking more than expected, or if you see any signs of the seasoning being compromised, it may be a good time to re-season your cast-iron skillet. Regular maintenance, proper cleaning, and occasional re-seasoning contribute to maintaining the non-stick properties of your cast iron for optimal cooking performance. Here’s a simple non-stick test using fried eggs and cooking bacon:
Fried Eggs:
- Heat your cast-iron skillet on medium heat.
- Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan.
- Crack an egg into the skillet and let it cook. Pay attention to how easily the egg releases from the pan and if there are any sticking issues.
- Use a spatula to flip the egg. A well-seasoned cast iron should allow the egg to slide easily without sticking.
Cooking Bacon:
- Place the cast-iron skillet on medium heat.
- Lay bacon strips in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it.
- As the bacon cooks, observe how easily it moves around the skillet. A seasoned cast iron should provide a smooth cooking surface, allowing the bacon to release without sticking.
- Flip the bacon strips as needed and continue cooking until they reach your desired crispiness.
Commonly Asked Questions
Remember, each cast-iron pan may have unique care requirements, so adapt these tips based on your specific skillet and cooking habits.
Can I use soap to clean my cast-iron pan?
While it’s generally recommended to avoid soap, a small amount of mild soap can be used if necessary. Avoid harsh detergents that may strip away the seasoning.
Why is my cast-iron pan sticky?
If your pan feels sticky, it might need to be re-seasoned. Clean it thoroughly, apply a new layer of oil, and bake it in the oven to refresh the seasoning.
How do I remove rust from my cast-iron pan?
Scrub the rusted area with a brush or steel wool. Wash and re-season the pan to prevent further rusting.
Can I use metal utensils in my cast-iron pan?
While it’s generally best to use wooden or silicone utensils to avoid scratching, well-seasoned cast iron can handle metal utensils without significant damage.
How do I store my cast-iron pan?
Store your pan in a dry place to prevent rusting. You can place a paper towel or cloth between nested pans to absorb any moisture.
Can I use my cast-iron pan on an induction cooktop?
Yes, cast iron is compatible with induction cooktops. It’s an excellent conductor of heat.
How do I deal with stubborn food residues on my pan?
Use a mixture of coarse salt and oil to create a paste and scrub the residues with a brush. Rinse and re-season afterward.
Can I cook acidic foods in my cast-iron pan?
Once well-seasoned, you can cook acidic foods, but it’s advisable to wait until the seasoning is fully developed to avoid temporary breakdown.
How often should I re-season my cast-iron pan?
Re-season your pan as needed, especially if you notice a decline in its non-stick properties or if rust develops.
10 Myths about cast-iron skillets
By debunking these myths, you can confidently enjoy the benefits of cooking with cast iron while dispelling common misconceptions. Embrace the versatility and longevity of your cast-iron skillet, knowing that a little care goes a long way in maintaining its performance.
1. Cast iron is difficult to maintain.
While it requires some care, maintaining cast iron is straightforward. Regular seasoning and proper cleaning will keep your skillet in excellent condition.
2. Soap should never be used on cast iron.
While excessive use of soap may strip the seasoning, a small amount is generally safe. The key is to avoid harsh detergents.
3. You should cook everything on high heat.
Cast iron distributes heat evenly, so there’s no need for high temperatures. Cooking on medium heat helps prevent food from sticking.
4. You can’t use metal utensils.
Well-seasoned cast iron can handle metal utensils without significant damage. Avoid aggressive scraping to maintain the seasoning.
5. Cast iron rusts easily.
With proper care, rust is preventable. Dry your skillet thoroughly after washing, and apply a thin layer of oil to protect it.
6. Acidic foods will ruin the seasoning.
While acidic foods (such as tomato sauce) can affect the seasoning temporarily, a well-seasoned pan can handle them. Just be cautious until the seasoning is fully developed.
7. You need special cleaning tools.
A simple brush or sponge is sufficient for cleaning. Avoid abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
8. Cast iron heats up slowly.
Cast iron is not only an excellent conductor of heat with a high smoke point; it may take a bit longer to heat initially, but it retains and distributes heat evenly.
9. All cast iron is pre-seasoned.
While new cast iron pan come pre-seasoned, some may require initial seasoning. It’s always good to check and, if needed, season before use.
10. Cast iron is only for frying.
Cast iron is incredibly versatile. You can use it for frying, baking, sautéing, and more. It’s a kitchen workhorse with a wide range of applications.
Final thoughts…
As you embark on your culinary journey with your cast-iron pan, keep in mind that it’s more than just a piece of cookware – it’s a reliable companion that can last a lifetime and beyond. With proper care and attention, your cast-iron pan will not only serve up delicious meals but also become a cherished family heirloom. Incorporate the simple steps of washing, seasoning, and cooking with care into your routine, and you’ll find that your cast iron develops a beautiful patina, enhancing its non-stick properties with each use. Don’t be afraid to experiment in the kitchen, using a variety of oils and fats to create a personalized seasoning that imparts a unique flavor to your dishes.
Remember, the joy of cooking with cast iron lies in the stories it holds – from the sizzle of your first meal to the memories created with family and friends. As you navigate the ins and outs of cast-iron care, you’ll likely encounter challenges, but each one presents an opportunity to deepen your understanding of this time-honored kitchen essential.
So, savor the moments spent with your cast-iron pan, relish the flavors it imparts to your favorite recipes, and pass on the traditions to the next generation. If you want to give cast iron a whirl, I recommend watching YouTube videos. There are several tutorials on how to care & season your cast iron. Once you start, you won’t look back. 🙂 If you have any questions or would like to learn more about cast iron, leave a comment below & I would be happy to help in any way I can 🙂
Warmly,
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Post Updated January 24, 2024
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