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Camp Chef: Cast Iron Cookware Do’s and Don’ts

Natalie Barratt with Camp Chef shows you how.


You do need to maintain that seasoned finished on the cast iron, and that can be done in just a few easy steps.

How to clean cast iron?

1. Remove all food particles from cast iron cookware using a plastic pan scraper.

2. Fill pot with hot water, and allow to sit for a period of time. If you have burnt food in it, it may require the water to be boiled to help loosen the food.*

3. With a stiff bristled brush, scrub the remaining food residue away and off of the iron. Rinse thoroughly, pat dry with a towel.

4. Once cast iron is completely dry, apply a thincoat of cast iron conditioner. You may also use Crisco, or another type of oil, but make sure it is something that will not spoil easily. Over time this process will make your cast iron black, creating a finish called a “patina.” This patina will enhance your cast iron by creating a glasslike, nonstick surface.

*Many people feel comfortable using hot water and soap to clean their cast iron. This is fine, but remember to rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue from cast iron pores. Some acidic dish soaps can cut through and removed seasoning from your cast iron.

What to do if you have a Rusty oven?

Though there are many methods for cleaning rusty ovens, the one that we have found to be the easiest to use is a can of cola. If the inside is rusty pour the cola in and let it do its job. Depending on how rusty the oven is will depend on how long you will need to leave the cola on the rusty spot. If you have an issue with the outside of an oven use a sponge to apply the cola, or place the cast iron in a large bowl or bucket with enough cola to dissolve the rust (some rotating may be necessary). After rust is removed be sure to wash and re-season your cast iron.

How to season your cast iron?

If you happen to have an old piece of cast iron that has lost its seasoning, or if you purchase a new one that is not already pre-seasoned, here is how you can easily bring it back to life!

1. Coat the entire surface of the cast iron with cast iron conditioner or all natural oil. (i.e. Crisco, vegetable oil)

2. Place in heat source upside down and heat to between 400 and 450 degrees. This can be done in an oven, or on top of a Camp Chef stove.

3. As the cast iron begins to smoke remove carefully from heat.

Your cast iron cookware is now ready for use!


For more information, go to www.campchef.com

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