Chloe’s Country Kitchen came about as a suggestion by a friend of mine. I have been collecting vintage cookware for many years for my own daily use, as well as for kitchen decor. My friend said to me, “you should sell this stuff!” When I left for college in the 1970’s, I was given an iron skillet, a frying pan, and a dutch oven. They were old then, and I still use them now! Iron, stainless steel and wooden kitchenware is robust and when properly cared for, will last generations. Everything in Chloe’s Country Kitchen is clean and as serviceable as new products, nothing is damaged or broken.
Care of your vintage kitchenware is important, however, not difficult. First of all, never put wood-handled items in the dishwasher because the heat and water may cause them to split. That said, let’s move on to cast iron. If cast iron has build-up on the cooking surface, I take a wire brush on a drill to them (a brush, not a wheel and be sure to use eye protection.) Then, boil water in them and then cool and clean thoroughly. You are then ready for seasoning your iron. Many opinions can be found online, however, it is my opinion that the Lodge Company website has the best information and technique. I know a fellow NW Rafters Association member who has 27 dutch ovens (a bit excessive perhaps) and seasons his with Crisco at 400 degrees for one hour. I prefer coconut (just for the color) at 375 degrees for 50 minutes. I bake the iron upside down on the center rack with a cookie sheet on the lower rack. This allows excess oil to drip off and prevent pooling.
I hope you enjoy Chloe’s Country Kitchen and if you have questions, requests, or comments just leave them in Chloe’s wallet. It’s on the stove.
Ashland Artisan Emporium
1670 Ashland St
Ashland, OR 97520
(541) 708-0577
