Do not use olive oil or butter to season your cast-iron pan — they're great to cook with, just not for initial seasoning. Place the pan upside down on the top rack of the oven and bake for 1 hour. For a seasoning bonus, cook bacon, thick pork chops or a steak in the pan for its first go-round.12 Apr 2021
What is the best way to season a cast iron skillet?
- Scrub skillet well in hot soapy water.
- Dry thoroughly.
- Spread a thin layer of melted shortening or vegetable oil over the skillet.
- Place it upside down on a middle oven rack at 375°. (Place foil on a lower rack to catch drips.)
- Bake 1 hour; let cool in the oven.
What is the best oil to season a cast iron skillet?
All cooking oils and fats can be used for seasoning cast iron, but based on availability, affordability, effectiveness, and having a high smoke point, Lodge recommends vegetable oil, melted shortening, or canola oil, like our Seasoning Spray.
How many times do you season a cast iron skillet?
— To get the best out of your cast iron skillet, it's recommended that you oil it after each use. However, depending on how frequently you use it, 2-3 times a year is sufficient. How can I tell when my skillet is seasoned properly? — A well-seasoned skillet will be noticeably dark with a shiny, semi-gloss finish.18 Jan 2022
Do you season cast iron every time you use it?
Season a cast-iron skillet regularly, and you've got a kitchen workhorse for a lifetime. Every time you use your cast-iron skillet, you're wearing some of the seasoning down, and eventually it won't function as well. So season it again whenever you see dull spots.23 Jun 2018
Do you have to season a cast iron skillet after every use?
After the skillet is clean, it's important to do a quick re-oiling and heating before storing to get the skillet ready for its next use. But if you start to notice food constantly sticking, it's time to season your skillet again. Or, if you notice a bit of rust, it's definitely time to season.18 Apr 2017
Can you season a cast iron too many times?
It's up to you how many times you repeat, but the more you do it, the better your patina will turn out. Each time, the layer of oil gets a little thicker and a little shinier. It's important to use a very light coat of oil.7 Feb 2014
Should you season a cast iron skillet more than once?
It's up to you how many times you repeat, but the more you do it, the better your patina will turn out. Each time, the layer of oil gets a little thicker and a little shinier. Seasoning a pan with too much oil will cause it to be sticky, and then you'll just have to start over.7 Feb 2014
Do you have to season a new cast iron skillet?
Classic cast iron skillets need to be seasoned before you can use them. Beyond that, the key really is just using the pan. (The more you use it, the more the seasoning can build up.) And then oiling it after you wash it out.9 Dec 2020