How to Do Cast Iron Seasoning

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By Pamela Rappaport
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cast iron seasoning

Properly done cast iron seasoning will make your cast iron cookware last for generations. A well seasoned piece of cast iron cookware will be nonstick and a dream to cook with. Follow the steps below for cast iron seasoning done the right way.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

cast iron cookware
oven
vegetable shortening or bacon fat or lard

Step 1

If you just purchased cast iron cookware it is coated with an oil which needs to be removed first. Wash it well with soap and water. This is the only time you can freely use a scrub brush or steel wool. Dry well and even let air dry for a while. You don't want to start with a damp pan.
Step 2

Cast iron seasoning of older cookware starts a little differently. If it is crusty looking, place in the oven during a cleaning cycle and it will burn off. Then scrub well like above. If it is rusty, clean as above to remove rust. If it has only lost it's nonstick coating, simply wash and dry, no scrubbing.
Step 3

Heat your oven to 300 degrees.
Step 4

Proper cast iron seasoning depends on using the proper fat. Use vegetable shortening or animal lard. Vegetable oil will leave a sticky residue. Coat the entire piece inside and out including handles.
Step 5

Place in the oven upside down with a cookie sheet on the next shelf underneath to catch any drips. Bake it for least 2 hours.
Step 6

Turn off the oven allowing the cast iron to cool in the oven.
Step 7

For the best results with your cast iron seasoning, repeat 2 or 3 more times, skipping the washing steps.
Step 8

Once your cast iron seasoning is done, do not scrub your cookware. traditionally soap is not used in a cast iron cookware. Wash with hot water and dry immediately to preserve the nonstick finish.
Step 9

For more complete information on care a link to an eHow article on the subject is included in the resource section. Proper cleaning will prolong the life of your cast iron seasoning.