HOW TO: Restore Cast Iron Cookware

The thing about cast iron cookware is that it will last for generations. Good care will make for a great cooking experience. But even if the pan has been neglected, it can be restored.

Often cast iron cookware simply needs to be cleaned and greased properly to continue its kitchen service. However, if the pans have spots of rust or the seasoning has been scrubbed or soaped off, then a complete restorative seasoning is required.

If your collection needs to be re-seasoned, or perhaps you’ve picked up some tired cast iron pans at a yard sale, here are the details on how to bring it back to glory.

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How To Restore a Cast Iron Pan, aka Season

1. Scrub & Wash Clean

   • Using a stainless steel scrubber & some elbow grease, remove all rust and old debris

   • Follow the scrubbing with a thorough wash in hot soapy water

   • Ensure that absolutely everything has been cleaned from the surface

   • Rinse well with water

2. Dry

   • Set pan over medium-low heat to dry out any remaining moisture

3. Grease

   • Use vegetable shortening on a clean dry rag OR a paper towel to lightly “grease” the full surface, both inside and out

   • Shortening should be used to “grease” the pan. Here’s how:

     • Use a clean dry rag OR a paper towel, folded to create 4-8 layers

     • Add 1/4-1 tsp shortening to the pan (amount depends on cast iron surface area)

     • Rub the rag (or paper towel) in the shortening and over the entire surface, rubbing the shortening into the cast iron but not leaving any excess

       • Why shortening and not liquid oil? Over time, a pan greased with just about any liquid oil will develop a sticky residue. But a pan greased with plain vegetable shortening will simply get smoother and smoother, with no discernible tackiness.

4. Bake

   • Place a layer of tinfoil on the lower oven rack

   • Invert the greased cast iron cookware, placing on the top rack

   • Bake at 350F for ~1 hour

   • Allow to cool completely in oven

5. Repeat Step 3 (Grease) and Step 4 (Bake), if needed. It may take three or four cycles to properly season.

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Brenda’s tips:

• Seasoning cast iron cookware is the main reason you can find shortening in Brenda’s kitchen

  • Whether you use your cast iron every day or occasionally, using vegetable shortening will ensure that it maintains a smooth, non-tacky surface for the next time you need it.

• Here is a great video from Lodge on how to restore cast iron cookware