Olympia Mini Cast Iron Round Pan GJ553 User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Olympia Mini Cast Iron Round Pan GJ553. This manual provides essential information for the proper use, care, and maintenance of your new cast iron pan. Following these instructions will help ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your cookware.

This mini cast iron pan is designed for individual servings and is suitable for a variety of cooking tasks, including frying, sautéing, and oven-to-table presentations. Its robust construction and dual pouring spouts offer both durability and convenience.

Image 1.1: The Olympia Mini Cast Iron Round Pan GJ553, showcasing its compact design and integrated handle.

2. Important Safety Instructions

• Heat Retention: Cast iron retains heat exceptionally well. The pan and its handle will become very hot during use. Always use oven mitts or a heat-resistant handle cover when handling the pan.
• Surface Protection: Always place hot cast iron on a heat-resistant surface, such as a trivet or wooden board, to protect countertops and tables.
• Oven Use: This pan is oven safe. Ensure proper ventilation when using in an oven, especially during initial seasoning.
• Children and Pets: Keep hot cookware out of reach of children and pets.
• Lifting: Despite its mini size, cast iron can be heavy. Lift with care, especially when full.
• Induction Compatibility: The pan is compatible with induction cooktops. Ensure the pan is centered on the induction zone for even heating.

3. Initial Setup and Seasoning

Your Olympia Mini Cast Iron Pan comes pre-seasoned, but an initial seasoning process is recommended to enhance its non-stick properties and protect against rust. Proper seasoning creates a natural, durable cooking surface.

3.1 First Use Preparation

1. Wash: Wash the pan thoroughly with warm water and a mild dish soap. Use a brush or sponge to remove any manufacturing residues. This is the only time soap should be used on cast iron.
2. Dry: Immediately dry the pan completely with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. You can also place it on low heat on a stovetop for a few minutes to ensure all moisture evaporates.

3.2 Seasoning Process

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Apply Oil: Apply a very thin, even layer of high smoke point cooking oil (such as flaxseed, grapeseed, or vegetable oil) to all surfaces of the pan, inside and out. Use a paper towel to wipe off any excess oil; the pan should look dry, not greasy.
3. Bake: Place the pan upside down on the middle rack of the preheated oven. Place aluminum foil or a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any drips.
4. Bake Time: Bake for one hour.
5. Cool: Turn off the oven and allow the pan to cool completely inside the oven.
6. Repeat: For best results, repeat the oiling and baking process 2-3 times. This builds up a strong, non-stick layer.

Image 3.1: Top view of the pan, showing the cooking surface and dual pouring spouts.

4. Operating Instructions

4.1 Preheating

Always preheat your cast iron pan gradually over medium-low heat for 5-10 minutes before adding food. This ensures even heat distribution and prevents food from sticking. Cast iron heats slowly but retains heat very well.

4.2 Cooking

• Cooking Oil: Always use a small amount of cooking oil or fat when cooking in your cast iron pan, even if it is well-seasoned.
• Heat Settings: Due to excellent heat retention, you will often need lower heat settings than with other types of cookware.
• Suitable Foods: Ideal for searing meats, frying eggs, sautéing vegetables, baking small desserts, or serving individual portions.
• Acidic Foods: Avoid cooking highly acidic foods (e.g., tomatoes, wine, citrus) for extended periods, especially in a newly seasoned pan, as this can strip the seasoning.

4.3 Pouring Spouts

The pan features dual pouring spouts on opposite sides, designed for easy draining of liquids or serving sauces without drips. This design accommodates both left and right-handed users.

Image 4.1: Side view highlighting the ergonomic handle and dual pouring spouts.

5. Care and Maintenance

Proper care is essential for maintaining your cast iron pan's seasoning and preventing rust.

5.1 Cleaning

• Hand Wash Only: This pan is not dishwasher safe. Always hand wash.
• Avoid Soap (Generally): For routine cleaning, avoid using soap as it can strip the seasoning. Hot water and a stiff brush or scraper are usually sufficient. For stubborn food, a small amount of mild soap can be used, but re-seasoning may be necessary afterward.
• Scrubbing: For stuck-on food, use a pan scraper or a coarse salt scrub.

5.2 Drying

Immediately after washing, dry the pan thoroughly with a lint-free cloth or paper towel. To ensure complete dryness and prevent rust, place the pan on low heat on the stovetop for a few minutes until all moisture has evaporated.

5.3 Re-seasoning

If your pan starts to lose its non-stick properties, food begins to stick, or rust spots appear, it's time to re-season. Follow the seasoning process outlined in Section 3.2. For rust, scrub the affected area with steel wool or a stiff brush until the rust is removed before re-seasoning.

5.4 Storage

Store your clean, dry, and seasoned cast iron pan in a dry place. If stacking with other cookware, place a paper towel between the pans to prevent scratching and absorb any residual moisture.

6. Troubleshooting

7. Product Specifications

• Model Name: GJ553
• Brand: Olympia
• Material: Cast Iron
• Color: Black
• Capacity: 150 Milliliters
• Rim Diameter: 115 mm (approx. 4.5 inches)
• Base Diameter: 100 mm (approx. 3.9 inches)
• Height: 26 mm (approx. 1 inch)
• Overall Length (with handle): 160 mm (approx. 6.3 inches)
• Item Weight: 380 Grams (approx. 13.4 ounces)
• Special Features: Non-Stick (when seasoned), Oven Safe, Dual Pouring Spouts
• Compatible Devices: Gas, Smooth Surface Induction, Oven
• Product Care: Hand Wash Only, Not Dishwasher Safe

Image 7.1: A hand holding the pan, illustrating its compact dimensions.

8. Warranty Information

Olympia products are manufactured to high-quality standards. This product is covered by a standard manufacturer's warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Please retain your proof of purchase for any warranty claims. For specific warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the documentation provided at the time of purchase or contact Olympia customer support.

9. Customer Support

If you have any questions, concerns, or require assistance with your Olympia Mini Cast Iron Round Pan GJ553, please contact our customer support team. Contact details can typically be found on the Olympia brand website or on your purchase receipt.

For more information and tips on cast iron care, you may visit reputable online resources dedicated to cast iron cookware maintenance.