Do you know this feeling?

You get out your Dutch oven, grill grate or cast iron pan – and suddenly rust has formed. This is annoying, but no cause for concern. With a few simple steps, cast iron can quickly be restored to good condition.

First, carefully remove rust spots with a wire brush or fine sandpaper. Then, the cast iron is re-greased and seasoned to form a protective patina again.

This is where BBQ-Toro's DOPFWUNDER seasoning & care paste comes in. Before seasoning, the Dutch oven, grill grate or pan is lightly rubbed with the paste. Then the cast iron is heated – either on the grill, over a flame or in the oven.

If you prefer to work with oil, you can alternatively use the DOPFHELD seasoning & care oil.

After a short time, the cast iron is ready to use again and has a new protective layer.

Regular cast iron care

For cast iron to last a long time, simple care after use is sufficient.

After cooking or grilling, you should:

1. clean the cast iron with hot water
2. dry thoroughly
3. apply a thin layer of DOPFWUNDER care paste or DOPFHELD care oil

Regular care helps to build up a stable patina. This natural protective layer prevents rust and ensures that food is less likely to stick.

Seasoning a Dutch oven – how it works

To season, the Dutch oven is first cleaned with hot water and then dried thoroughly. After that, it is lightly rubbed with DOPFWUNDER seasoning & care paste or DOPFHELD care oil.

For seasoning, a kettle grill or an oven is suitable, for example.

The Dutch oven is then:

• upside down at about 200 °C
• for about one hour
• heated in the grill or oven

The heat causes the oil to bond with the surface of the cast iron, forming a durable patina. Excess grease can then be evenly distributed with a cloth.

This treatment can be repeated occasionally to strengthen the protective layer and permanently protect the Dutch oven from rust.

Many BBQ-Toro Dutch Ovens are already pre-seasoned and can be used directly. However, additional seasoning can be useful to further build up the patina.

Cleaning and care of Dutch Ovens and cast iron accessories

For cleaning Dutch ovens, pans or grill grates, hot water and a brush are usually sufficient.

⚠️ Important:
Dishwashing liquid or aggressive cleaning agents should be avoided as much as possible, as they can damage the patina.

After cleaning, the cast iron should be thoroughly dried and then lightly oiled.

It is also recommended:

• not to store food residues in the Dutch oven
• to remove ash and coal residues after use

Otherwise, moisture in combination with ash can promote rust formation.

Storing your Dutch oven correctly

For longer storage, a simple preparation is recommended:

• lightly rub the Dutch oven with DOPFWUNDER care paste or DOPFHELD care oil
• place a sheet of kitchen paper inside
• do not fully close the lid so that air can circulate

The Dutch oven should then be stored in a dry place. This way, the cast iron remains optimally protected.