Caring For Cast Iron Camp Cookware

Cast iron camp cookware is so versatile, you may find yourself bringing it out of storage and using it year round. I love mine, and rarely is it ever packed away. But from time to time, it may need a little extra care, especially if it has been stored.

Inspect your cast iron camp cookware regularly, any sign of rust and it should be stripped clean, scoured, and re-seasoned. Let soak briefly in hot, soapy water to loosen up the seasoning, and use a scouring pad (such as Brillo) to scrub off the rust. Dry with a towel. You will need to season almost immediately to prevent the return of rust.

Seasoning cast iron cookware isn't as difficult as it looks. Starting with clean pots and pans, rub the entire surface with your choice of bacon fat, lard or Crisco, or even vegetable oil. Some say vegetable oil won't give great results, but seasoning twice in a row with veg oil works just fine.

After coating thoroughly with fat or oil, place your cast iron cookware into an oven at about 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Let this cook for a couple hours. If you notice a lot of fat building up inside the pans, empty it out about halfway through. A little bit of smoke coming off your cookware during this process is normal.

Cast iron cooking items will have a greyish color when it is new or has been recently stripped. With years of use, your cookware will turn darker and darker, giving the black look so many people associate with cast iron.

Proper use and storage will ensure your cast iron camp cookware will withstand the test of time. Rinse out your pots and pans immediately after use, scraping any burned on bits if necessary. Only use dishwashing liquid if necessary. Dry in a well ventilated area, putting pots and pans in the oven for about 20 minutes as it cools down after dinner isn't a bad idea, either.

Store your cookware without lids, so moisture does not accumulate inside and possibly cause rust. Not to mention, this avoids any musty odors becoming trapped.

Cast iron camp cookware is a fantastic investment, with just a little care it is sure to outlast many other types of camp cookware.