How to "Cure" A Cast Iron Skillet

Your cast iron skillet can be the perfect choice for everyday cooking.

Modern-day cookware is available in bright colors, appealing styles and made from new high-tech materials. As a result, many cooks often overlook the old-fashioned cast iron skillet. The pan's weight and sometimes unattractive appearance are also deterrents for some users. However, our grandmothers could teach us a thing or two about their value and utility. A new cast iron pan, properly prepared before use, will work better than most nonstick pans. It will also stand up to many years of frequent use with only minimal care.

Things You'll Need

• New cast iron skillet
• Warm, soapy water
• Paper towels
• Lard or solid vegetable seasoning

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 250 degrees F. Wash the new cast iron skillet in warm, soapy water. Dry it off gently using paper towels.

2. Rub an even layer of lard or shortening into the entire cooking surface of the skillet. Then place the greased skillet in the oven for one hour.

3. Remove the skillet from the oven. Carefully rub additional shortening into the pan. Replace in the oven for one hour.

4. Remove the skillet from the oven and allow the pan to cool. It is now cured, or seasoned, and ready for use.

References

• Food Network; How to Season Cast Iron Skillets; Emeril Lagasse; 2001
• What's Cooking America; The Irreplaceable Cast Iron Pans; Seasoning, Using, and Caring For Cast Iron Pans and Cast Iron Skillets
• Kitchen Emporium: Seasoning Cast Iron