Are there signs of rust on your steel pan? Don't panic! Not even if you find a rusty steel pan at your grandmother's house. This treasure can be saved. We'll show you how in 5 easy steps.
Rust is a natural reaction where iron reacts with moisture and oxygen. Rust can appear on steel if you forget to dry your pan thoroughly or it's left in a damp environment for an extended period. But the pan definitely doesn't belong in the bin.
If rust appears on a steel pan, there is no reason to panic. In most cases, it is a cosmetic flaw that can be easily removed.
Remove minor surface rust mechanically until the surface is clean. Use:
For more significant rust, a more thorough approach is required:
After removing rust, the pan should be:
Place the pan on the stove, pour in a thin layer of oil and heat it to medium temperature (it is necessary to reach the smoke point of the oil - for example, rapeseed oil has it around 240°C). The oil will start to smoke, and this process will create the desired protective layer. Once the oil stops smoking, let the pan cool down and wipe away excess oil with a paper napkin.
Preheat the oven to at least 200°C and place the oiled pan inside. You can place a baking tray or foil underneath it in case any excess oil drips from the pan. Heat the pan in the oven for at least an hour and then let it cool down slowly in the oven.
Notice that the pan has regained its typical dark colour and subtle sheen.
If you want the pan's surface to be truly non-stick and durable, repeat the seasoning process. Each process will strengthen the pan's protective layer.
