How to Season Cast Iron

Maybe It's Already Seasoned

Before you begin the process of seasoning your cast iron cookware, it's important to determine if it needs to be seasoned in the first place. Most brand-new cast iron cookware comes pre-seasoned, so check the packaging to see if this is the case. Additionally, if your cast iron is vintage and in good shape, you may be able to skip the seasoning process and simply give it a routine maintenance seasoning.

If you're unsure, you can always wash the cookware and see if it's smooth and black, which indicates a seasoned surface. Otherwise, continue with the seasoning process.

Steps for Seasoning

To season your cast iron cookware, follow these simple steps:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.

2. Scour any rusty spots on the skillet with dry steel wool or a metal scrubby. For new skillets, this step can be skipped.

3. Wash the skillet in warm water, using a stiff brush or scouring pad if necessary. Dish soap can be used, but is not necessary.

4. Dry the skillet thoroughly, and repeat steps 2 and 3 if there are still rough, rusty spots.

5. Massage the skillet all over with neutral cooking oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, using a lint-free rag or paper towel.

6. Place the skillet face-down on a rack in the middle of the oven, with a sheet of foil below to catch any drips. Bake for 1 hour.

7. Turn off the oven and let the skillet cool completely before removing it.

8. Examine the skillet and repeat steps 5 and 6 if necessary.

How to Strip Cast Iron

If your cast iron cookware is in a total disaster and the regular seasoning process hasn't helped, there are a few methods you can try to strip it:

1. Method 1: Hot Coals - Build a campfire and let the coals calm down until they are glowing and plentiful. Dig a pit, place the cast iron in it face down, and bury it in more hot coals. Leave it overnight and unearth it the next day.

2. Method 2: Self-Cleaning Cycle in Oven - If your oven has a self-cleaning function, place the cast iron in it face down on the rack. Run the self-cleaning cycle and allow the skillet to cool before removing and washing it.

3. Method 3: Electrolysis - This method is more complex and requires specialized equipment. For detailed instructions, refer to resources such as The Cast Iron Collector website.

What Is Seasoning

Seasoning refers to the finish and the process of applying a slick layer over the surface of cast iron cookware. It is what gives the cookware its black appearance and creates a nonstick coating. When oil is thinly spread over the cast iron and heated for a long time, the fatty acids in the oil oxidize and bond with the iron, filling in the small gaps and creating a smooth surface.

In simple terms, seasoning is a do-it-yourself, non-toxic nonstick coating for your cast iron cookware.

What Oil to Use for Seasoning

When choosing an oil for seasoning, it is recommended to use one with a high smoke point, especially if the cast iron is in bad shape. Neutral oils such as soybean oil, vegetable oil, and canola oil work well for this purpose. However, for routine seasoning, the specific kind of oil isn't as essential. Remember to ensure that the skillet is well-coated with oil during the seasoning process.

How To Maintain Your Seasoning

To keep your cast iron cookware well-seasoned, it is advisable to perform routine seasoning after most uses. This process is simple and doesn't require much time:

1. Set the clean cast iron pan on the stove over high heat until it's dry.

2. Add a small amount of oil, less than a teaspoon, and spread it evenly with a paper towel or lint-free rag.

3. If the skillet looks greasy, wipe it out again.

By regularly seasoning your cast iron cookware, you can maintain its nonstick properties and extend its lifespan. Remember that the seasoning may ebb and flow depending on what you cook, and it may require additional attention and oil massages from time to time.