How To Season New Cast Iron Skillet With Olive Oil

Seasoning Your New Cast Iron Skillet with Olive Oil

Welcome to the world of cast iron cooking! If you’ve recently acquired a new cast iron skillet, you may be wondering how to properly season it for optimal cooking performance. Seasoning a cast iron skillet not only helps prevent rusting but also creates a natural non-stick surface for cooking. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to season your new cast iron skillet using olive oil.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin the seasoning process, gather the following supplies:

• A new cast iron skillet
• Dish soap
• Warm water
• Paper towels or a clean cloth
• Food-grade olive oil
• Aluminum foil
• Oven mitts

Cleaning the Skillet

Start by washing your new cast iron skillet with warm water and a small amount of dish soap. Use a sponge or brush to gently scrub off any manufacturing residue or dirt. Rinse the skillet thoroughly and dry it completely with paper towels or a clean cloth.

Applying the Oil

Once the skillet is clean and dry, it’s time to apply the olive oil. Pour a small amount of olive oil into the skillet and use a paper towel to spread it evenly across the entire surface, including the bottom, sides, and handle. Make sure to coat the skillet inside and out, as this will help create a protective layer against rust and food sticking.

Baking the Skillet

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a sheet of aluminum foil on the bottom rack of the oven to catch any drips during the seasoning process. Carefully place the oiled skillet upside down on the top rack of the oven. Let it bake for 1 hour to allow the oil to polymerize and form a durable seasoning layer.

Cooling and Storing

After an hour, turn off the oven and use oven mitts to remove the skillet. Allow it to cool completely before handling. Once cooled, your new cast iron skillet is ready to use! To maintain the seasoning, avoid using harsh detergents or abrasive scrubbers when cleaning. Instead, simply rinse with hot water and use a brush or sponge to clean off any food residue.

With proper care and maintenance, your cast iron skillet will develop a beautiful non-stick patina over time, making it a versatile and reliable tool in your kitchen.

Now that you’ve seasoned your new cast iron skillet with olive oil, you’re ready to start cooking up a storm! Whether you’re searing steaks, frying eggs, or baking cornbread, your well-seasoned skillet will enhance the flavors of your favorite dishes and become a beloved kitchen essential for years to come.

Happy cooking!