Cast Iron Seasoning

"Cast Iron is used for cookware because it has excellent heat retention and diffussion properties and can be produced and formed with a relatively low level amount of technology. Seasoning is used to protect bare cast iron from rust, and to create a non-stick surface." - Cast Iron Definitions

My family members love to use cast iron when cooking. They love the way the food taste coming from a cast iron skillet or dutch oven, and they love the easy way cast iron cleans up. However, some people don't know how to take care of cast iron and it might be this reason that some people don't use it often. So, I thought I would give a few pointers to help those who would love to give cast iron cooking a try!

When you first get your cast iron it needs to be seasoned. Seasoning is the process of allowing oil to be absorbed into the iron to create a natural non-stick, rustproof finish on your cook ware. The process is simple. Wash your cast iron with a hot, soapy water. Rinse and dry completely. Then apply a thin coat of melted vegetable shortening (Crisco) to the entire surface (including cast iron lid) inside and out. Place the cast iron pot or skillet on a oven rack for one hour at 350 degrees. (Some people line the oven rack with aluminum foil before) Then turn off the oven and allow the pot or skillet to sit until oven has cooled.

Store the cookware in a cool, dry place unlit you are ready to use.

Once you have seasoned it you do not want to wash it in soapy water or put it in the dish washer

To use your cast iron for cooking, you cook as if you would with other pot and pans. However, tomato are not necessarily great for your cast iron, so if you use tomato sauce you need to make sure that you clean your cast iron very well.

Cleaning the cast iron after use is simple. Rinse the pot or skillet with hot water and use a utensil to remove the food items away from the pan. When you have cleaned your pot of food, you simply add a little oil (or cooking spray) to the pot and spread it evenly into the cast iron, (to spread evenly you can use a paper towel), then dry the pot or skillet by placing it on your hot burner for a few minutes. (don't leave unattended)

It is just that easy! And think of all the extra iron that will be absorbed into your food! It is a great health benefit too.