Remove Rust From Your Cast Iron Pan With The Help Of This Kitchen Ingredient

Cast iron pans (while great tools for creating masterful meals in the kitchen) are unfortunately susceptible to rusting over time, thanks to exposure to moisture. Cast iron is primarily made of iron, which reacts with oxygen and water to form iron oxide, commonly known as rust. When cast iron pans are exposed to moisture, either from washing or humid air, the iron surface can undergo oxidation, leading to the formation of rust. To avoid this outcome on your cookware, it's important to care for your cast iron pans properly. Fortunately, you can just reach into your refrigerator for an affordable ingredient to restore your cast iron pan: ketchup.

Ketchup serves as an effective rust remover due to its acidic nature. The main acidic component in ketchup is vinegar, which contains acetic acid. Acids can dissolve rust by breaking down the iron oxide compounds that form it. When applied to a rusty surface, the acidic properties of ketchup work to weaken the bonds between the iron and oxygen atoms in the rust, facilitating its removal. Additionally, ketchup contains other ingredients, such as tomato paste, which may also contribute to its rust-removal properties. Furthermore, ketchup's viscosity allows it to cling to surfaces, providing prolonged contact with the rusted area. So, if you've noticed some rust developing on your cast iron pan, it may be time to open a bottle of ketchup and allow it to work its magic.

First, assess the extent of rust on your cast iron pan. Ensure the pan is dry before applying ketchup. Next, generously apply a layer of ketchup over the rusted areas of the cast iron pan. Use a spoon or brush to spread the ketchup evenly, ensuring that all rusty spots are covered. After applying the ketchup, allow the pan to sit for a few hours to allow the acids in the ketchup to work on the rust. The exact duration may vary depending on the severity of the rust, but leaving it for at least an hour is recommended. For stubborn rust spots, you may need to leave the ketchup on overnight.

Once the ketchup has had time to work its magic, use a sponge or scrub brush to gently scrub the rusted areas. The combination of the acidic properties in the ketchup and gentle scrubbing will help to loosen and remove the rust from the surface of the cast iron pan. For more challenging rust spots, you can use half a lemon dipped in salt, as the acid from the lemon and the grit from the salt may help to break down the rust further. After scrubbing, rinse the pan thoroughly with warm water to remove any remaining ketchup and loosened rust particles. Then, dry the pan completely with a clean towel to prevent new rust from forming.

After removing rust from a cast iron pan, it's crucial to season it to restore its protective coating and prevent future rusting. Seasoning involves coating the pan with oil or fat and heating it to create a polymerized layer on the surface. This layer acts as a barrier, protecting the iron from exposure to moisture and oxygen, which are the main culprits of rust formation.

To season a cast iron pan, preheat your oven to around 350 to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Meanwhile, thoroughly dry the pan to ensure no moisture is left on the surface, which could interfere with the seasoning process. Then, apply a thin layer of oil or fat to the entire surface of the pan, including the handles, using a paper towel or cloth. Common oils used for seasoning include olive oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil. After applying the oil, place the pan upside down in the preheated oven, with a baking sheet or aluminum foil underneath to catch any drips. Bake the pan for about an hour, then turn off the oven and let the pan cool completely inside. Repeat the seasoning process several times to build a durable, non-stick coating on the pan's surface. Regularly seasoning your cast iron pan protects it from rust and improves its non-stick properties. This could be one of the best ways to remove rust from cast iron.