How to Season a Cast Iron Skillet
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
10 mins
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Cook Time
1 hr
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Additional Time
1 hr
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Total Time
1 hr 10 mins
How to Season a Cast Iron Skillet
Description
Seasoning a cast iron skillet begins with a warm, soapy wash using a stiff brush to remove residues, which is a rare occasion for soap use on cast iron. After rinsing, the skillet is dried completely to prevent rust. A thin layer of vegetable oil or another suitable fat is applied evenly over the entire skillet, inside and out, including the handle.
The skillet is placed upside down in a preheated 350°F oven for one hour, with foil on the rack below to catch drips. After baking, the skillet cools in the oven to set the seasoning. An optional extra thin coat of oil may be applied afterward for additional protection.
This repeated seasoning builds a durable layer that improves the skillet's cooking surface over time. The skillet should be stored dry to maintain the seasoned layer. Rapid seasoning can be done by repeating the oil application and baking steps several times.
Ingredients
- Dish soap
- Stiff brush (I don't recommend using a sponge , as all the little spongy pieces will break off on the rough surface)
- Dish towels
- vegetable oil , shortening or olive oil
- paper towels
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
- Wash the cast iron cookware with warm, soapy water and a stiff brush. This will be one of the few times you clean your cast iron with soap.
- Rinse and thoroughly dry the skillet.
- Pour a small amount of desired oil into the skillet, you only need enough to coat the inside and the outside of the skillet.
- Use a paper towel to lightly coat oil around the entire skillet- inside and out, even the handle! This needs to be a light touch, too hard and your paper towel will leave all little bits on the cast iron.
- Place the skillet upside down on the center rack. You can place a sheet of aluminum foil below the rack to catch any drips. Bake for 60 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and allow to the skillet to cool completely before removing from oven.
- Apply another very thin layer of oil to the skillet.
- Store in a dry place.
- If you've tried this techinque, come back and let us know how it was!
Notes
- Repeat the oil application and baking steps multiple times to speed up the seasoning process if desired.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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