How to Condition a Frying Pan

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Condition cast-iron frying pans in the oven.

Frying pans are a staple of any well-stocked kitchen. They come in a variety of sizes and types, including cast iron and those with nonstick coatings. The pans benefit from conditioning, a process that prepares the interior of the pans for cooking. It increases the nonstick properties and extends the life of the cookware. Nonstick and cast-iron frying pans require different methods for conditioning, as they consist of different materials. The process should be done upon purchasing the pans and again if foods begin to stick.

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Conditioning Nonstick Frying Pans

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Step 1

Wash the frying pan with hot water and dish detergent.

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Step 2

Rinse the pan with clear water and dry it with a kitchen towel.

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Step 3

Place enough vegetable oil in the pan to cover its bottom. The exact amount necessary depends on the size of the frying pan.

Step 4

Put the pan on a stove burner and turn the heat to medium. Leave it there until the oil begins to bubble. Remove the pan from the heat.

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Step 5

Use a paper towel to wipe the oil away after the pan cools. Wash it again in hot soapy water.

Conditioning a Cast-iron Frying Pan

Step 1

Set the oven temperature to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.

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Step 2

Moisten a paper towel with vegetable oil.

Step 3

Rub the inside of the frying pan with the oil until it is thoroughly coated.

Step 4

Position a baking sheet on the bottom rack of the oven.

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Step 5

Place the cast-iron frying pan into the oven upside down, directly above the baking sheet so that the dripping oil doesn't make a mess inside the oven.

Step 6

Allow the pan to bake for 60 minutes. Turn the oven off, but leave the pan in the oven until it is cool enough to touch.

Step 7

Wash the oil away with hot water. Place the pan over high heat on the stove top until the water dries.

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