Cast Iron Grill Pan = Ruined?

[CoOKFRo]

Hi everyone

I was just wondering, does this cast iron grill pan look rusted? Or does it look like left over residue I can get out? I've made the mistake of putting in salt to clean when it was too hot and the salt turned black and I think stuck to the pan a little. I also burnt my chicken a little the other night and some burnt residue seem to be left behind. When I boil water in the pan however, I can't get this out:

Does that look rusted to you or is it just the normal wear and tear from using it? (I've only used it about 3 times so far, initially seasoned it with flax seed oil and has worked great). Anything I can do to get that out?

 

[Andy M.]

Not even close to being ruined.

Those dull black areas are not rust, they are burned on food residue. Boil water in it then scrub it with a non-stick safe scrubber sponge. You can use a toothbrush to get into the grooves.

 

[CoOKFRo]

Not even close to being ruined.

Those dull black areas are not rust, they are burned on food residue. Boil water in it then scrub it with a non-stick safe scrubber sponge. You can use a toothbrush to get into the grooves.

Thanks will try that out.

 

[Kayelle]

I think the only way a cast iron pan is ruined is if it cracks. I had it happen once, but I don't know how it happened and I've never heard of anyone else having a cracked cast iron skillet. It must have been defective.

 

[pistos]

I think the only way a cast iron pan is ruined is if it cracks. I had it happen once, but I don't know how it happened and I've never heard of anyone else having a cracked cast iron skillet. It must have been defective.

Cast iron is relatively brittle, and with all the thermal stresses from heat up and cool down, a microscopic defect would be enough to fracture one.

 

[letscook]

I would sand it all down, or put a wire brush attachment on a drill and clean it all up and then reseason it and it will be great. I have done this many a times with my garage sale finds.

 

[life is good]

Any one know how long to deep fry leg of lamb