Cleaning cast iron utensils typically involves removing food residue, rinsing, drying thoroughly, and sometimes re-seasoning. Based on some methods, like the one shown in the provided reference, you can use water and even dish soap, particularly in specific situations.
Steps for Cleaning Cast Iron
Keeping your cast iron in good condition requires careful cleaning to preserve its seasoning – the baked-on layer of oil that makes it non-stick and prevents rust.
Here's a general approach:
1. Scrape Excess Food
- While the pan is still warm (but not too hot to handle), scrape away any stuck-on food bits using a stiff brush, a plastic scraper, or even coarse salt and a paper towel.
2. Wash
- Using Water and Soap: According to the reference provided, it is possible to use water and dish soap to clean a cast iron pan. The presenter in the video explicitly shows this method, noting that while some people advise against soap, they are using it because the pan has salt in it. This suggests that in certain scenarios, or perhaps with modern dish soaps that are less harsh than older lye-based versions, a small amount of soap can be used, especially if you plan to re-season or if the pan is particularly dirty.
- Using Hot Water and Scraper: A common method is to simply rinse the pan with hot water and use a stiff brush or scraper to remove residue.
3. Rinse Thoroughly
- Rinse away all soap or food particles under hot running water.
4. Dry Immediately and Completely
- This is a crucial step to prevent rust. Dry the pan completely with a clean towel. You can also place it on a low heat setting on the stove for a few minutes to ensure all moisture is evaporated.
5. Lightly Re-season (Optional but Recommended)
- Once dry and slightly cooled, apply a very thin layer of cooking oil (like vegetable, canola, or flaxseed oil) to the entire surface of the pan, inside and out, using a paper towel.
- Wipe off any excess oil so the pan looks matte, not greasy. This step helps maintain the seasoning layer.
Why the Soap Controversy?
The historical advice against using soap on cast iron stems from older lye-based soaps that would strip the seasoning layer. Modern dish soaps are often gentler. However, frequent or excessive soap use can still degrade the seasoning over time. The reference video demonstrates a situation where soap was used despite this common advice, highlighting that methods can vary based on specific circumstances (like having salt in the pan) or personal preference.
Cleaning your cast iron properly ensures it remains a durable and effective cooking tool for years.
