cast iron care and maintenance

The Warrior Garden Guide to the Art of Cast Iron Cookware

Care, Use, and Maintenance

As anyone who has experienced it will attest, cast iron cookware is a timeless asset, celebrated through generations for its durability, versatility, and even distribution of heat. Such exceptional performance doesn’t come without some level of responsibility however. Proper care is essential to keep your cookware in prime condition, prevent rust, and maintain the natural non-stick surface. This guide covers all you need to know about using, cleaning, seasoning, and storing your cast iron cookware so you can enjoy it for generations.

The number one rule with cast iron cookware is the seasoning. Seasoning is essential to form a durable, protective layer that prevents food from sticking and prevents the pan from rusting. The more you use and season your cast iron, the better this layer will develop over time.

How to season cast iron cookware

• Begin with a clean, dry cast iron pan. Rinse it with hot water and scrub away any residue with a stiff brush, then be sure to dry it thoroughly.

• Next you need to apply a very thin layer of high-smoke-point oil, like flaxseed or grapeseed oil, over the entire surface of the pan - do not forget the handle!

• Then you place the pan upside-down on the middle rack of a preheated oven at 450°F (230°C). We would recommend a sheet of aluminium foil on the lower rack to catch any oil drips.

• Bake for one hour - this is to help the oil to polymerize, forming a smooth, durable layer.

• Let the pan cool completely - in the oven - before you remove it. 

Your pan is now perfect. But how to ensure it stays that way? We have a few top tips.

First off, never use soap during your daily cleaning, as it can strip the seasoning. Instead, stick to hot water and a stiff brush. And be sure to lightly coat your pan with oil after each use to maintain the seasoning and prevent any rust. We would also recommend that you avoid cooking acidic foods, like tomatoes or citrus (specifically in newer pans), as they can weaken the seasoning. And always preheat your cast iron slowly to avoid warping. We would recommend starting with a low heat, gradually moving to medium or high depending on the recipe.

Why cast iron cookware?

It might sound high maintenance, but cast iron cooking is versatile and unique. It’s ideal for high-heat cooking methods, like searing meat, frying, and baking. Keep in mind too that cast iron retains heat very well, so you may need to adjust the stove temperature slightly lower than you would with other cookware.

On gas stoves, cast iron heats evenly, making it ideal for cooking. With induction, ensure your cast iron is compatible, as not all types work well with induction burners. In the oven, cast iron can be used for baking or finishing dishes.

For bakes such as bread, pies, or even pizza, your cast iron’s ability to retain and evenly distribute heat ensures a perfect crust. Trust us! Simply preheat the pan in the oven before adding the dough for the best results.

How to clean your cast iron cookware:

When it comes to cleaning - wait until your pan has completely cooled, then rinse under hot water. You can use a brush or chainmail scrubber to loosen any stuck-on food. If your encounter anything tougher on your pan, sprinkle a handful of kosher salt into the pan and scrub it with a soft cloth or paper towel, then rinse well. Always dry your pan well with a towel, then place it on the stovetop on low heat to evaporate any remaining moisture. As tempting as it may seen: never put cast iron in the dishwasher!

If rust does develop, scrub the rusted area with steel wool, rinse, and dry the pan completely. Then re-season it using the steps above.

Storing cast iron cookware:

When it comes to storage, always store your cast iron in a dry place, and avoid stacking it directly with other cookware to prevent scratching and moisture buildup. If space is an issue and you need to stack it, place a paper towel or cloth between the pans to absorb any moisture and protect the seasoning.

By nature, over time the seasoning layer may dull, and you might find that food begins to stick more easily. When this happens, you can re-season as you did originally, and your cast iron will be easily brought back to life.

It’s perhaps unsurprising that we’re a huge fan of cast iron cooking here at Warrior Garden, as cast iron is one of the few types of cookware that can handle the direct flames of an open fire, making it ideal for campfire cooking. Just remember that extremely high heat can weaken the seasoning, so we always re-season after every wild use.

It might seem like a lot of work, but with consistent seasoning, gentle cleaning, and proper storage you will have a well- maintained cast iron pan, and put simply, a cast iron pan is a lifetime investment, letting you cook with tradition, strength, and reliability.

Good luck on your cast iron journey from all of us at Warrior Garden - see you by the fire!