This process, called seasoning, gives the iron its nonstick properties and protects it from rust.Seasoning involves coating the skillet with a thin layer of vegetable oil, then baking it in the oven. The skillet should be smooth with and a … So I bought a cast-iron skillet a while ago. TIP:  do NOT use bacon grease or any meat-based fats to season the pan. You don't allow time for the pan to heat up. The Best Lightweight Cast Iron Skillet: Lodge Blacklock 10.25-Inch Skillet. One of the beautiful aspects of the cast iron skillet is the seasoning process. You’re supposed to use oil. Normally, cast iron skillets must be treated before they can be used for the first time. My cast iron skillet was overheated/dripped on/ generally abused from being storage in what I thought was the storage drawer on my new (to me) gas range, but turned out to be the broiler! No, you didn't ruin it. It had sticky discolored splotches all over it. My cast iron skillet was overheated/dripped on/ generally abused from being storage in what I thought was the storage drawer on my new (to me) gas range, but turned out to be the broiler! Now, it will not season at all. ... Field Cast Iron Skillet. Soda does not ruin cast iron and the best way to clean cast iron is with a wire brush. It was removing the rust immediately. Once it has cooled to room temperature, remove the skillet from the oven. And soda did not ruin the pan, and it's also a great way to remove any food particles that are stuck on. It is known for its durability, non-stick properties, and ability to retain heat. Did the soda really ruin it? Your friend's pan will be just fine if you follow my method. With a cast iron, however, you are never to soak it in water. I said something like wow it’s working. It can also be a little overwhelming if you are a newbie. Cold water, no soap, and it got a good little bit of grease off of the pan. I've read that cast iron has "pores" that allow it to be seasoned. A cast-iron skillet is great for everything from searing a T-bone to roasting a chicken, and it will become naturally nonstick over time. She can wash the pan with soap and water, then re oil it. Use a "high heat" oil such as corn oil or peanut oil for best results. A cast-iron skillet is a deeper frying pan made from cast iron material. This new line of cast iron cookware from Lodge is clearly trying to capitalize on the renewed interest in vintage-style cast iron, especially now that the market has become crowded with startups attempting to revive the old cast iron standards of lighter weight and smoother surfaces. Is it ruined for good or is there any way I can fix it? Best heavy skillet. THE TAKEAWAY: It takes a lot to kill a cast-iron skillet. The fusion of the glaze with the cast iron prevents rusting, eliminates the need to season the metal, and allows more thorough cleaning. Oh, it’s my roommates and I told him I’d replace it if it cannot be fixed. The Theory: … Turn off the oven and allow the skillet to cool inside. I've purchased really old cast iron pans from flea markets and rehabbed them this way. If yours has a crack in it from improper use or storage, or if it has literally rusted through, it’s time to throw it out, but unless the structure of the pan has been truly compromised, there isn’t much that can “ruin” a cast-iron skillet. It’s a bit of a smelly and smoky process so keep the windows open and temporarily disable the smoke alarms. Now it’s ruined. There are plenty of online tutorials showing how to season cast-iron cookware. If you apply seasoning to the cast iron, you can prevent rust from forming on it. My cast iron skillet is rusted, is it ruined? What's For Dinner #448 (February 2021) - Cozy Comfort Foods? The cast iron pan is not ruined. Use often: Cast-iron skillets love to be loved. It will make your skillet rust and completely ruin it. It had sticky discolored splotches all over it. All that needs to be done now is to re-season the cast iron skillet to restore a baked-on carbon coating which will protect it and make it fairly non-stick.