SEASON CAST IRON

Cast Iron cookware in its natural state is not nonstick. The cookware can become nonstick using a method called seasoning. Today, cast iron cookware is sold pre-seasoned, so that customers can start using it immediately upon purchasing the product. After using the cookware for a few months however, you may notice that the signature shiny black finish looks tarnished, and the bottom of the pan becomes brittle, rusty and bumpy. When this occurs, the cookware will need to be re-seasoned. This can easily be done by oiling and baking the cookware. This process will restore your cast iron cookware to its pre-seasoned state. Re-seasoning the cookware is simple and can be done safely at home, by following the steps below.

1. Place the oven rack in the top third of the oven and heat the oven to 350ºF.
2. Rub a thin layer of Crisco or oil-bacon grease over the inner bottom and sides of the pan with a paper towel.
3. Place your pan upside down on the oven rack with a rimmed baking sheet or a roasting pan underneath to catch the drippings and to keep the inside of your oven clean.
4. Bake the pan this way for 1 hour. Then turn off the oven and allow it to cool with the pan inside.

When correctly seasoned, the cooking surface should be smooth and shiny. The re-seasoning process will need to be done time after time to ensure that your cookware remains nonstick, smooth and shiny. So do not be disappointed if you notice your cast-iron cookware has changed in appearance. This is due to the nature of the cookware and it can be restored to its original state.

Audrey Hosten is the owner of http://www.cookwaresellar.com and she knows the importance of picking the right cookware for all for cooking needs. If you have questions she will help you pick the right cookware for the right job.

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