Frequently Asked Questions about Cast Iron Cookware

In this section, we'll explore frequently asked questions about cast iron cookware in general and specifically delve into queries related to The Indus Valley's offerings. 

 

Whether you're new to cast iron or experienced user, you'll find valuable insights here. 

 

ABOUT CAST IRON 

 

Q. What is cast iron cookware?

 

A. Cast iron cookware is a range of cooking utensils that is made of natural materials.

 

Cast iron utensils are made by pouring melted iron into different moulds to bring the desired shape of cookware.

 

Actually, cast iron material is made up of iron-carbon alloy with more than 2% of carbon in it.

 

READ MORE ABOUT CAST IRON

 

Q. What is the difference between cast iron and iron cookware?

 

A. Cast iron utensils are heavier and tougher than sheet iron cookware. They won't easily get scratched or damaged.

 

Once you use and season cast iron cookware regularly, they get naturally non-stick finish. Nothing sticks to them, making it easy to cook and clean.

 

Cast iron lasts longer and you can even pass it down to generations.  

 

 

KNOW MORE ABOUT: DIFFERENCE BETWEEN CAST IRON AND IRON COOKWARE

 

Q. Does cast iron cookware rust?

 

A. Yes, if exposed to water for a prolonged period of time. 

 

Always wash your cookware after use. Wipe dry your entire cast iron cookware well. Season it to get back the natural non-stick finish.

 

Q. Why does cast iron weigh so much?

 

A. Cast iron cookware is sturdy, thick and has a durable body. That makes it ideal for rough and tough daily cooking.

 

Owing to heavy-gauge construction, the cast iron kadai can resist damage, scratches, chipping and extreme heat. It endures high heat and extreme temperatures, without bending or breaking.

 

Q. Is cast iron cookware non-stick?

A. Cast iron cookware becomes non-stick naturally after seasoning. Repeated usage and regular seasoning maintains this natural non-stick finish.

 

 

PREVENTION OF CAST IRON RUSTING

 

Q. What should I do if I notice rust on my cast iron cookware?

 

A. Here is what you can do if you see rust on your cast iron cookware:

 

1. Make a solution of half cup water & half cup vinegar.

 

2. Spray this solution on rusted cookware. 

 

3. Allow it to rest for a maximum of 15 minutes. The cookware will corrode if left beyond 30 minutes. 

 

4. Scrub the rust away with a metal scrubber. 

 

5. Wash the surface with warm, soapy water.

 

6. Wipe it dry & season it. Your cookware is now good to use.

 

7. Your cookware is now good to use.

 

Q. How do I prevent my cast iron cookware from rusting?

 

A. Do not soak your cast iron cookware in water. Always wipe it completely dry with a cloth after every wash. Post wash, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the entire cookware surface. After applying oil, you can store the cookware until next use. 

 

Q. Is it necessary to season my cast iron cookware regularly to prevent rust?

 

A. It is recommended to season your cookware after every wash.

 

The cookware surface when treated with oil gives a natural, non-sticky finish. It helps prevent rusting too. 

 

If your cast iron cookware becomes dull, grey or rusty, re-seasoning will make it as good as new. 

 

Q. How to restore the seasoning on old or rusted cast iron?

 

A. If your cast iron cookware is rusted. Don’t get upset. You can make the cookware as good as new simply by re-seasoning it. 

 

Steps on how to restore rusted cast iron cookware:

 

1. Make a solution of half cup water & half cup vinegar.

 

2. Spray this solution on rusted cookware. 

 

3. Allow it to rest for a maximum of 15 minutes. The cookware will corrode if left beyond 30 minutes. 

 

4. Scrub the rust away with a metal scrubber. 

 

5. Wash the surface with warm, soapy water.

 

6. Wipe it dry & season it. Your cookware is now good to use.

 

 

Q. Can I use vinegar to remove rust from my cast iron pan?

 

A. Yes you can use vinegar to remove rust from cast iron cookware. Here is a simple guide for the same:

1. Make a solution of half cup water and half cup vinegar.

 

2. Spray this solution on rusted cookware. 

 

3. Allow it to rest for a maximum of 15 minutes. The cookware will corrode if left beyond 30 minutes. 

 

4. Scrub the rust away with a metal scrubber. 

 

5. Wash the surface with warm, soapy water.

 

6. Wipe it dry & season it. Your cookware is now good to use.

 

Q. What's the best way to store cast iron cookware to avoid rust?

 

A. Always clean cast iron cookware immediately after use. Pat dry and season the cookware before you store it for next time use.

 

Do not leave your cast iron cookware soaked in water. Like any good quality piece of iron, it will attract rust.

 

Do not allow cast iron cookware to air dry after washing. Always wipe it completely dry with a cloth after every wash. The cookware can also be dried by mildly heating it on the stove.

 

Post wash, apply a thin layer of cooking oil to the entire cookware surface.   

 

Q. Can I leave food in my cast iron cookware overnight without it rusting?

 

A. It is advisable to transfer the food to a serving bowl after cooking and wash the cookware immediately.

Q. Does using metal utensils on cast iron contribute to rusting?

 

A. No it doesn't. You don't have to worry about using metal spatulas or ladles in cast iron cookware.

Q. Can I use soap to clean my cast iron skillet without causing rust?

 

A. Yes you can use mild dishwashing soap for cleaning cast iron cookware. You can wash cast iron cookware with warm, soapy water and a steel scrubber or scrub pad.

Q. Is it safe to use abrasive scrubbers to remove rust from cast iron?

 

A. Yes, you can use a metal scrubber to scrub away the rust. 

 

BENEFITS OF CAST IRON COOKWARE

 

Q. Is cast iron cookware good for health?

 

A. Cast iron cookware adds iron to food that is good for our health. Thus, it is a healthier alternative to non-stick cookware that has harmful chemical coatings.

 

Q. Is it true that cooking in cast iron adds iron to the food?

 

A. Scientifically it has been proven that cast iron cookware releases iron content in food which helps in fighting iron deficiency.

 

It transfers only the right amount of iron as required by a healthy person. 

 

Q. Is non-stick cookware bad for me?

 

A. Most non-stick utensils are coated with harmful chemicals. These toxins get released in food on high temperatures, which in turn enters our body and can harm our health.

 

In fact these toxins remain in the body forever and so, are also referred as “Forever Chemicals”. Considering this factor, non-stick cookware can be bad for us.

 

READ: THINGS YOU DIDN’T KNOW ABOUT NON-STICK COOKWARE 

 

Q. Can cast iron cause iron overload in the body?

 

A. Not at all. Cast iron cookware transfers only the right amount of iron as required by a healthy person.

 

HOW TO START USING CAST IRON COOKWARE?

 

Q. What to do before starting cooking in cast iron cookware?

 

A. When a new cast iron pan is received, just wash the pan with hot water. It is recommended to use mild soap or dish wash liquid or soapy water for cleaning to remove any impurities. 

 

Once done, dry the pan with a dry soft cloth and apply a coating on the pan with cooking oil.

 

You may have to do it a few times before you start cooking in it as it will remove all the residue on the pan.

 

ISSUE OF CAST IRON COOKWARE MAKING FOOD BLACK

 

Q. Why is my food becoming black?

 

A. The cast iron cookware will release black residue at first. Don’t worry; it’s been seasoned with 100% vegetable oil.

 

One quick hack you can try is to saute some onion or vegetable waste a few times to get rid of this black residue.  

 

Q. How to prevent black residue from cast iron cookware?

 

A. The cast iron cookware will release black residue at first. Don’t worry; it’s been seasoned with 100% vegetable oil. 

 

The Solution:

 

1. Apply a paste of oil & salt. 

 

2. Spread it entirely on the cookware. 

 

3. Rest it for three hours. 

 

4. Scrub the salt-oil paste with a metal scrubber. 

 

5. Wash the surface with warm, soapy water.

 

6. Wipe it dry & season it. 

 

CAST IRON COOKWARE CLEANING

 

Q. How do I clean cast iron cookware?

 

A.  Cleaning cast iron cookware is easy. Here are simple cleaning steps:

 

1. Wash cast iron cookware with soapy water & a scrub pad.

 

2. Heat it mildly on a gas stove until completely dry. 

 

3. Apply cooking oil all over to prevent rusting. 

 

 

Q. Is it safe to use soap to clean cast iron?

 

A. You can use mild dishwashing soap or soapy water to clean cast iron cookware. Harsh dishwashing detergent might damage the natural non-stick finish of the cookware. 

 

Q. Can I put my cast iron skillet in the dishwasher?

 

A. No cast iron cookware is not dishwasher safe.

 

Q. How to remove stubborn stains from cast iron?

 

A. To remove stuck or burnt food, simmer a little water for 1 minute on the stove. Then use a scraper to remove the stuck food particles and wash off. 

 

CARE & SEASONING CAST IRON COOKWARE

 

Q. How to make my cast iron non-stick?

A. Cast iron cookware surface when treated with oil gives a natural, non-stick finish. It helps prevent rusting too.

 

Q. What is meant by seasoning in cast iron cookware?

 

A. Seasoning is a process where the cast iron surface is treated with oil or fat and then heated. This creates a protective layer that prevents food from sticking to the surface and adds flavour to your dishes.

 

Q. What are the benefits of seasoning cast iron cookware?

 

A. To ensure the best performance of the new cast iron cookware, seasoning it before use is recommended. 

 

The cookware surface when treated with oil gives a natural, non-sticky finish. It helps prevent rusting too. If your cast iron cookware becomes dull, grey or rusty, re-seasoning will make it as good as new. 

 

Q. Is The Indus Valley Cast iron Cookware seasoned?

 

A. Yes, all The Indus Valley's Cast Iron Cookware are seasoned with 100% vegetable oil.

 

Q. If it is pre-seasoned, why do I still need to season it?

 

A. Seasoning is important to maintain the natural non-stick finish of the cast iron cookware. It also prevents the cookware from rusting. 

 

A pre-seasoned cast iron cookware does not mean it won't rust. So it is necessary to season the cookware periodically. 

 

On receiving new cast iron cookware, simply wash it with hot water. It is recommended not to use soap or dish wash liquid for cleaning as the pan is already pre-seasoned.

 

Q. How often should I season my cast iron cookware?

 

A. You have to season your cast iron cookware periodically or depending on your usage. We recommend you to season the cookware after every wash. 

 

Q. How do I season a new cast iron cookware?

 

A. Here is an easy guide to season new cast iron cookware:

 

1. Boil water in the new cast iron cookware. 

 

2. Once cooled, wash it with warm, soapy water and a steel scrubber/scrub pad. 

 

3. Rinse thoroughly and dry the cookware with a paper towel/cloth. 

 

4. Place it on the gas stove. Heat it till water evaporates. 

 

5. Spread a layer of cooking oil (any edible oil) on the entire cookware - top and bottom.

 

6. Heat the cookware till smoke is visible. 

 

7. Saute chopped onions or vegetable waste till it turns brown. 

 

8. Discard the content. 

 

9. Wipe thoroughly and store cookware in a dry place until next use. 

 

CLICK TO KNOW HOW TO USE CAST IRON COOKWARE FOR FIRST TIME

 

Q. Can I use any type of oil for seasoning my cast iron cookware?    

 

A. Any edible cooking oil will maintain your cast iron cookware - preferably vegetable oil. You can also use any kind of fat, like butter.

Q. How to store Cast Iron Cookware?

 

A. Always clean cast iron cookware immediately after use. Pat dry and season the cookware before you store it for next time use. 

Q. Can I leave food residues on my cast iron cookware overnight without it rusting?

 

A. It is advisable to transfer the food to a serving bowl after cooking and wash the cookware immediately.

Q. What signs indicate that my cast iron cookware needs re-seasoning?

 

A. If your cast iron cookware becomes dull, grey or rusty, re-seasoning will make it as good as new.

 

Q. Can I season cast iron in the oven?

A. Yes you can season cast iron cookware in the oven. Here is an easy guide on how to season cast iron in oven:

1. Boil water in the new cast iron cookware.

2. Wash it with warm, soapy water and a steel scrubber/scrub pad.

3. Rinse thoroughly and dry the cookware with a paper towel/cloth.

4. Place it in the oven. Heat at the highest temperature for 30 minutes.

5. Spread a layer of cooking oil (any edible oil) on the entire cookware - top and bottom.

6. Cook chopped onions or vegetable waste till it turns brown.

7. Discard the content.

8. Wipe thoroughly and store cookware in a dry place until next use.

 

Q. How many layers of seasoning should I apply to my cast iron pan?

A. It is fine to give one layer of seasoning or one coating of oil to your cast iron cookware. It is recommended to season the cookware entirely, front and back and even the handle. Doing so, prevents rusting.

 

Q. What happens if I don't season my cast iron cookware?

A. If cast iron cookware is not seasoned regularly, then it will lose its natural non-stick finish. Food will start sticking to the cooking surface. The cookware will become dull and attract rust.

 

 

COOKING IN CAST IRON COOKWARE

 

Q. Is it safe to cook acidic foods like tomatoes, lemons or vinegar based sauces in cast iron cookware?

 

A. No you cannot cook food rich with tomatoes, lemons or vinegar based curries or sauces. But you can cook dishes that contain these ingredients.

 

When cooking food with citric ingredients like tomato or lemon, it is always advisable to transfer it to a serving bowl post cooking.

Also avoid making milk recipes in cast iron. Because it will react with the material and change the taste of your recipe.

Q. Will cooking acidic foods damage my cast iron cookware?

 

A. You can cook acidic foods like dishes having tomatoes and tamarind. But it is advisable to transfer such dishes immediately after cooking into a serve ware. Acidic foods when stored for long can harm cast iron cookware. 

 

Q. How does cast iron affect the taste of food?

 

A. Cast iron cookware enhances the quality of your dishes by adding a distinct flavour. In fact you will get to enjoy restaurant-like tasty dishes!

 

Q. Does cast iron cookware provide even heat distribution?

 

A. Yes, cast iron cookware provides even heat distribution. Even heating ensures that there are no hot and cold spots so that your dish does not have any undercooked or overcooked portions. And you get perfect meals every time, with consistent cooking times.

 

Q. Is it true that cast iron retains heat longer than other materials?

 

A. Yes, cast iron cookware is excellent in heat retention. Cast iron cookware retains heat for long, even in low flame. 

 

Q. How often can I use cast iron cookware?

 

A. You can use your cast iron cookware regularly. It gets better with use.

Unlike non-stick that gets damaged with use, The Indus Valley cast iron cookware gets even better with use and regular seasoning.

Q. Is it safe to use a metal spatula to scrape off food from cast iron?

 

A. Yes you can use metal spatula to scrape off food from cast iron cookware.

 

Owing to heavy-gauge construction, the cast iron cookware can resist damage, scratches, chipping and extreme heat. So no worries about using metal spatulas or ladles!

 

Q. Can I use my cast iron skillet on an induction cooktop?

 

A. Yes you can. All flat-base cast iron cookware are induction-friendly.

 

Q. Is it safe to use cast iron cookware on a campfire?

 

A. Yes you can use cast iron cookware on a campfire. It is suitable for outdoor cooking.

 

Q. Can overheating cast iron release harmful fumes?

A. Cast iron cookware when overheated will release fumes with a metallic smell. However it is not harmful.

Q. Are there any health concerns when cooking with cast iron?

A. Not at all. In fact, cast iron cookware is very safe for health. It releases a small amount of iron into food when heated which is actually good for heat.

 

Q. What should I do if my cast iron handle gets hot easily?

A. When cast iron cookware handle gets hot, handle it carefully using a kitchen glove or cloth. A safer alternative is the silicone hot handle holder.

 

It is available on The Indus Valley. There are 2 options - one for single silicone sleeve for long handle cookware and another is, twin handles.