Cast iron cookware is one of the oldest and most reliable cooking tools in the world. Whether you’re making crispy dosas in India or searing steaks abroad, cast iron delivers unmatched flavor, durability, and health benefits. If you’re new to cast iron, this guide will walk you through how to prepare, use, and care for your cookware—step by step.
Why Choose Cast Iron Cookware?
Before we dive into the “how-to,” let’s understand why cast iron is perfect for beginners and professionals alike:
- ✅ Naturally non-stick when seasoned properly
- ✅ Adds iron to your food (great for health)
- ✅ Works on gas, induction, oven, and open flame
- ✅ Lasts for generations with simple care
At Rosh Cookwares, Chennai, we provide pre-seasoned cast iron cookware that is ready to use, making it easy for beginners to get started.
Step 1: Preparing Your Cast Iron for First Use
Most quality brands (including Rosh Cookwares) sell pre-seasoned cast iron cookware, so you can cook right away. Still, a simple extra step can enhance performance:
- Heat the cookware gently.
- Add 1–2 teaspoons of oil.
- Sauté an onion until golden brown.
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Discard the onion and wipe the surface clean.
This traditional method creates a smooth cooking surface and strengthens the seasoning layer.
Step 2: Cooking in Cast Iron
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Preheat properly – Always warm your pan on low-medium heat for 2–3 minutes before adding food.
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Start with oil-rich dishes – Deep Frying dishes like making poori, papad frying help build seasoning.
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Avoid acidic foods initially – Skip tamarind, tomato-heavy, or vinegar-based dishes until your pan is well seasoned.
Step 3: Cleaning Cast Iron After Cooking
Caring for cast iron is easy if you follow these steps:
- Let the cookware cool slightly (never shock with cold water).
- Rinse with warm water; use a mild soap only if necessary.
- Scrub gently with a soft scrubber (no harsh steel wool).
- Dry immediately with a cloth.
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Place on the stove for 10–20 seconds until all moisture evaporates.
Apply a thin layer of oil before storing to prevent rust. Use wooden or steel spatulas – Cast iron is tough and can handle it.
Step 4: Maintaining Your Cast Iron Cookware
- ✅ Cook often – regular use makes it smoother and more non-stick.
- ✅ Store in a dry place – moisture causes rust.
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✅ If rust appears – scrub it off, repeat the onion sauté method, and re-season.
With each use, your cookware becomes more seasoned, more non-stick, and more
Beginner Tips for Success
- Use it daily for best results.
- Don’t soak in water or leave food inside overnight.
- Start small—choose a dosa tawa, frying pan, or kadhai as your first piece.
Conclusion
Cooking with cast iron may feel new at first, but with these simple steps, it quickly becomes second nature. Not only will you enjoy healthier, tastier meals, but you’ll also own cookware that can last a lifetime.
At Rosh Cookwares, Chennai, we offer the best pre-seasoned cast iron cookware in India—crafted for modern kitchens yet rooted in traditional cooking.
👉 Explore our range of cast iron tawas, pans, and kadais—perfect for beginners and seasoned chefs alike!
