How to Season a Black Iron Pot

Seasoning your black, cast iron pot provides the cookware with a smooth, non-stick finish that makes cooking with it easier. It's not difficult to season a new cast iron pot, but be sure and complete the process before cooking with it for the first time.

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to a temperature between 350 to 500 degrees Fahrenheit.

2. Remove any packaging from the cast iron pot and wash the pot thoroughly. Use water and a small amount of soap. Allow the pot to dry completely.

3. Rub oil, shortening or fat along the inside of the pot to grease it, including the bottom and the sides. Coat it generously and wipe off the excess when you are done.

4. Place the black iron pot inside the oven, face-down. Set it on a cookie sheet or directly on the oven rack. If you do the latter, place a cookie sheet on a lower rack to catch any falling oil or grease.

5. Bake the black pot for an hour or so. Turn off the oven and let your cast iron pot continue to bake as the oven slowly cools.

6. Wipe the pot with a napkin or towel when it is cool enough for you to touch without burning your hands.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid saturated fats, such as bacon fat, as this make become rancid after you complete the seasoning process.

References

• Chef John Folse and Company: Seasonging Cast Iron