How to Season Your New Iron Skillet

A brand new iron skillet must be properly seasoned before it's used. Here are a few simple steps to follow.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• New iron skillet
• Hot soapy water
• Melted shortening
• Foil
• Cookie sheet
• Soft cloth or paper towel

1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Wash your new iron skillet in hot, soapy water. Rinse completely and then dry completely.
3. Next, use a soft cloth or paper towel to apply a thin coating of melted shortening, (like Crisco), or vegetable oil all over the skillet.
4. Turn the skillet upside down and place it on the top rack of your oven.
5. Take your cookie sheet and cover it with aluminum foil. Place it on the bottom rack of the oven. This will catch the drips coming from the skillet above.
6. Bake for one hour.
7. At the end of the hour baking time, turn the oven off. DO NOT OPEN THE OVEN. Allow the skillet to cool down completely in the oven. This will take several hours.
8. Expect there to be a film on the cookwear. The film will come off after use, but it will take a few times. Enjoy!

Tips & Warnings

• It's worth the time it takes to season your new iron skillet.