Removing rust

1. Depending on the pan's size, pour 2 to 4 tbsp. salt into the middle of the pan. Add an equal amount of vegetable oil.

2. Scrub the pan vigorously with a folded paper towel, concentrating on the rusted spots but covering all surfaces with the oil and salt mixture. Add more salt or oil as needed.

3. For more serious rust spots, scrub with fine steel wool.

4. Wash the pan with dishwashing liquid and rinse well with hot water. Dry completely.

Seasoning the pan

1. A well-seasoned cast-iron pan will resist rust and create a virtually nonstick surface for cooking. To season it, brush vegetable oil lightly over all its surfaces.

2. Heat the pan in an oven at 250°F (120°C) for 1 hour, recoating it with more oil after 30 minutes.

3. Wipe the pan well with paper towels, and let it cool completely before using it.

4. To preserve this natural, protective coating, do not use soap when cleaning a seasoned pan. Instead, scrub it with salt and oil, rinse it with hot water, then dry it completely over low heat before storing it.