Cast Iron Frying Pan

[smurfchops]

I have a cast iron frying pan which over the years (20 at least) has become black and when I touch it ... well, it just needs a good clean. Would anything get all the gunge off, and perhaps bring it back to its original colour, or am I asking too much ?? Works fine and hubbie won't part with it, so I would just like it to look a little nicer ..

[radiogaga]

try filling with salty water and put on heat until its bubbling nicely, simmer like this for 10 15 minutes.
after scour with a brillo pad.

[nonomaybe]

For cast-iron ware to be at it's best you should allow the coating to build up over the years.you obviously clean it between jobs with v.hot water and a cloth or bit of kitchen roll but do allow the "crust" to build .

[smurfchops]

Oh there's plenty of crust alright ... yuk ...

[nonomaybe]

If it doesn't come off with v.hot water and a cloth or a plastic brush it's fine. If you find this offensive, you might just as well have non-stick pans. To cook on a brillo'd cast-iron pan misses the whole point of having it , additionally you may end up with a metallic taste if it is "clean-as-new".However it IS your pan.

[smurfchops]

I know they are supposed to have that lived-in look but I would like it a little cleaner and less sticky ..

[SeaJayPea]

Do you mean on the outside? If so, try some oven cleaner, but only on the outside.

[shylock73]

Try BQ cleaner

[Clanad]

Ewww.... never, never use a scratching pad on a precious old and honorable cast iron skillet. Just as one would never use a chemical, such as an oven cleaner on the pan. No... just place water in the pan and set in the oven or on the range top until the water boils for a short while... remove, empty water and wipe out with a paper towel. Then... place a couple of tablespoons of a good cooking oil or even non-Extra Virgin Olive oil in the pan and wipe it around thoroughly. It's set for storage and awaiting it's next delectable cooking chore...
That black color is to be cherished. One would not want one back to original color. We have pans and Dutch Ovens that are over 50 years old and the kids are already arguing over who'll get them...