How to Re-Season Cast Iron Cookware

Before using cast iron cookware for the first time, it must be seasoned. Seasoning prevents rust and creates a natural non-stick surface. If the surface of your cast iron pot or pan has become damaged, you can re-season it, and it will be good as new again. With proper care, cast iron cookware can be used for many decades and passed down from one generation to the next.

Things You'll Need

• Scouring pad
• Dish towel
• Oven
• Bacon fat or lard

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.

2. Remove the old seasoning layer by scrubbing the cookware with a scouring pad in hot water. This will also remove any food or dirt that may be stuck to the surface.

3. Dry the pot or pan with the dish towel.

4. Coat the inside of the cookware with lard or bacon grease. Do not use vegetable oil, or the surface will be sticky.

5. Place the cookware in the oven for 15 minutes.

6. Remove the cookware from the oven, and drain off any excess grease. Be careful, as it will be very hot.

7. Place the cookware back in the oven, and bake for another two hours.