Red Seal Cook Practice Exam

What should be done to cast iron cookware after each use?

1. Soak it in water for hours

2. Clean it with hot water and apply a thin layer of oil to maintain its seasoning

3. Put it in a dishwasher for cleaning

4. Leave it dirty for the next use

The correct answer is: Clean it with hot water and apply a thin layer of oil to maintain its seasoning

To maintain the quality and longevity of cast iron cookware, it is essential to clean it properly after each use. The correct practice involves cleaning the cookware with hot water, which effectively removes any food residue without damaging the seasoning that has built up over time. After thoroughly cleaning it, applying a thin layer of oil is crucial since this acts as a protective barrier against moisture and prevents rust. Additionally, the oil enhances the cookware's seasoning, ensuring that the non-stick properties are preserved for future cooking. Soaking cast iron in water for extended periods can lead to rusting, while using a dishwasher can strip away the seasoning and ultimately damage the pan. Leaving the cookware dirty would allow food particles to harden and create a difficult cleaning situation for the next use. Hence, the recommended practice is to clean with hot water and apply oil after each use to keep cast iron cookware in optimal condition.