How to Season and Clean For Cast Iron Cookware

Your collection of cookware plays a significant role in your cooking process. It influences the types of meals you can make and even contributes to the presentation of your creations. Cast iron cookware is a must have for all passionate home cooks. Available in so many different forms including pans, casserole dishes and woks, it can be intimidating to use cast iron if you haven't before and are not familiar with how to season and care for it properly. Not to worry! We have a simple guide on how to make the most of your cast iron cookware, including helpful step by step instructions on how to season your cast iron and how to clean and care for it after use.

Read more below and don't forget to check out the amazing value range of cast iron cookware now available at Spotlight!

Quick Links

• Types of Cast Iron: Raw vs Enamel Cast Iron
• How To Season Raw Cast Iron Cookware
• How To Clean Cast Iron Cookware
• Why We Love Cast Iron Cookware
• An Exceptional Range Of Cast Iron Cookware With Culinary Co By Manu
• Recipes You Can Create With Your Cast Iron Cookware

Types of Cast Iron: Raw vs Enamel Cast Iron

Before learning how to care for your cast iron cookware, it's important to learn the difference between the main types of cast iron construction. Often, the two most common forms of cast iron we see are raw cast iron and enamel cast iron. Raw cast iron means that it simply does not have a coating, whereas enamel cast iron refers to cast iron that has been treated with an enamel coating. Both raw and enamelled cast iron offer incredible heat retention and can be used for a range of recipes, however there are some key differences when it comes to caring for them.

How To Season Raw Cast Iron Cookware

While enamel cast iron does not require seasoning, raw cast iron cookware requires a little more preparation before you begin your cooking. In this case, seasoning does not necessarily refer to adding flavour to your dishes, but instead adding a protective, non-stick coating to your cast iron cookware. This step also assists in preventing your cookware from rusting.

1. Apply Oil To Your Cookware

Make sure to wash your cast iron pan before seasoning to ensure a clean base to work with. Using a paper towel, apply unsaturated cooking fat such as cooking oil to the entire surface of your cast iron.

2. Lock In Seasoning By Heating The Pan

Once you've wiped away excess oil, you now need to heat the pan. It is important to heat the pan on a high heat, past the smoke point in order to create the non-stick layer. Allow the pan to cool and wipe clean. You may repeat the process if necessary for a thicker, non-stick coating.

How To Clean Cast Iron Cookware

In order to enjoy your cast iron cookware for years to come, it's important to understand how to care for cast iron. Professionals usually advise against washing cast iron cookware in the dishwasher as this can damage the seasoning and non-stick coating. Instead, it is recommended to hand wash cast iron cookware.

1. Remove Any Food Residue

When cleaning your enamel cast iron, it's important to let it cool down before you begin. Once cooled, gently scrub away food residue in warm soapy water. When dealing with raw cast iron, left-over food residue may harden when cooling, so to avoid this it's important we first clean away this leftover residue. This is easier to do if your cookware is still hot. When cleaning raw cast iron, if you find you have let the pan cool and are left with a large amount of scorched ingredients, pour salt in the cookware, set it on the heat and rub the pan with a towel to remove the residue. The salt in this case acts as an abrasive that won't impact the seasoning. Make sure to rinse immediately after this step.

2. Rinse And Wipe Down With Water

Once left over food residue has been scrubbed, rinse your pan down with water. You may use mild soap if you believe it to be necessary, however it is best to avoid this and any other harsh cleaning tools like steel wool as it may strip the seasoning of your cast iron. Water is the best tool for this. Do not wash in the dishwasher - simply wash your cast iron cookware by hand in warm water with a damp cloth.

3. Ensure You Dry Thoroughly

It is important to dry cast iron thoroughly. Water can cause rust to build up on your cast iron, requiring more cleaning. Once clean, wipe down your cookware with a lint free cloth or paper towel.

4. Raw Cast Iron: Rub With Oil

Enamel cast iron requires no further seasoning or care once washed, however if you do find left-over tough stains, you can create a paste with baking soda and water and wipe with a soft sponge for an extra step. Make sure to still rinse your cookware after this.

For raw cast iron, on the other hand, you will need to preserve the seasoning and appearance by continuing to season your pots and pans after use and washing. You may also decide to season your pan naturally by cooking foods high in fat, however, ensure you preheat your cast iron cookware before use to prevent ingredients from sticking to your pan.

You're probably thinking oiling your cookware after cleaning seems counter-productive. It does sound like it, however, it is a handy step in preparing your cookware for its next use. The oil acts as an additional layer of seasoning. Simply rub an unsaturated cooking fat or food-safe cooking oil and wipe away the excess to complete the care process for your cookware.

To preserve the coating even further, make sure to wait until the pan is fully seasoned to prepare meals with acidic ingredients, as they can strip seasoning from your cookware.

Why We Love Cast Iron Cookware

From cooking to cleaning, cast iron cookware offers a range of benefits to make your life in the kitchen a breeze. This durable cooking companion is able to withstand everyday use and is incredibly versatile for a range of recipes.

Easy To Clean And Durable Construction

When properly seasoned, your cast iron won't bend, chip or break from everyday use and storage, making it a durable addition to your cookware collection. When properly seasoned, it results in a non-stick coating that allows you to cook almost anything without having to add extra oils or fats. This non-stick coating results in an easy to clean base for your cookware that assists in preventing a buildup of rust.

Strong Heat Retention For Hearty Meals

Offering sufficient heat retention, cast iron cookware stays hotter for longer when compared to other cookware. This makes cooking through thicker, hearty meals such as pasta bakes, casseroles, soups and roasts an easier process.

Versatile and Nutritious Meals Fast

Cast iron is a great option for those looking to incorporate plenty of fresh meat and vegetables into their diet. It is perfect for searing, pan frying, roasting and braising meat and vegetables without using too many oils or fats. Cast iron is a versatile kitchen companion that opens up your world to many amazing recipes for the whole family.

Discover An Exceptional Range Of Cast Iron Cookware With the Culinary Co By Manu Range

Cast Iron is a powerful material that is utilised in the construction of a range of cookware. Exclusive to Spotlight, the Culinary Co by Manu collection offers a range of great value, high-quality cast iron cookware that will have you preparing your meals like a professional chef in the comfort of your own kitchen. Check out a few of our favourite cast iron cookware items right here:

Shop the Culinary Co By Manu Range

Cast Iron Pans and Woks

When updating your selection of cookware, start with the basics. A quality cast iron pan or wok will be a versatile addition to your kitchen. Great for preparing eggs and bacon for breakfast or putting together a delicious stir fry for a family dinner, the Culinary Co by Manu range of cast iron pans and woks are sure to be valued cookware in your kitchen.

Make Delicious Casseroles With A Cast Iron Casserole Pot

With a range of different sizes available, the Culinary Co by Manu range of casserole pots features a luxurious gold handle on the lid for a subtle sophisticated touch. The golden handle complements the red, black and green colour options to effortlessly elevate your selection of cookware. Available for use on the stove, induction cooktop or in the oven, these casserole dishes will have you cooking delicious meals with ease.

Grill Or Bake With Ease With A Cast Iron Grill & Flat Plate

The key to a delicious, barbecued meal is quality cookware. That's where cast iron grill and flat plates come in! The non-stick coating of a cast iron grill pan and plate will have you preparing meals with ease. Created with a thick base, the cast iron grill and flat plate provides even heat distribution and perfect cooking results. Whether you're preparing tender steaks or crispy vegetables, this selection of cast iron cookware offers a generous surface area for preparing flavourful family meals.

Cast Iron Trivet For A Sturdy Base

Protect your kitchen surfaces and dining table by incorporating a cast iron trivet into your cast iron collection. In particular, cast iron trivets offer exceptional heat resistance that will assist in preventing damage often caused by servingware. The Culinary Co by Manu trivets also boast an intricate design, bringing not only functionality, but style and aesthetic appeal to your kitchen.

Recipes You Can Create With Your Cast Iron Cookware

Cast iron cookware unlocks a whole world of recipes that you can create in the comfort of your own kitchen. From a hearty fish pot pie in a cast iron casserole dish to perfectly barbecued beef skewers on a cast iron grill, you can elevate your everyday meals or prepare a flavourful culinary creation for your next dinner party with our range cast iron cookware. Check out our inspiring blog article for some of our favourite recipes, as well as celebrity chef Manu's very own recipes, that you can make with cast iron cookware.

Learn How To Care And Season Your Cast Iron Cookware To Transform Your Cooking Experience at Home!

Shop the Culinary Co by Manu range at Spotlight for a stunning selection of cast iron cookware and discover how to care and season your cast iron cookware to elevate your food preparation experience.

Shop the full range online and we'll deliver your order straight to your front door. You can also visit your nearest Spotlight store, where our bargain-savvy team will help you find the perfect cookware to create any meal. Discover the extensive kitchen essentials range and cookware sets, as well as beautiful dining ware, table linen and dinner sets at amazing value prices at Spotlight.

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