seasoning cast iron

[HooknHorns]

Is all you do is apply crisco or oil a few times and reheat? Or is there sometihing I'm missing. Not that its not working would just like to do it right the first time.

[McGurk]

From Lodge Cast Iron Cookware's site about reseasoning a CI pan, but can be applied to an initial seasoning:

Quote:

Wash the cookware with hot, soapy water and a stiff brush. (It is okay to use soap this time because you are preparing to re-season the cookware).

Rinse and dry completely.

Apply a thin, even coating of MELTED solid vegetable shortening (or cooking oil of your choice) to the cookware (inside and out).

Place aluminum foil on the bottom rack of the oven to catch any dripping.

Set oven temperature to 350 – 400 degrees F.

Place cookware upside down on the top rack of the oven.

Bake the cookware for at least one hour. After the hour, turn the oven off and let the cookware cool in the oven.

Store the cookware uncovered, in a dry place when cooled.

Also, Don't use soap when washing as it will break down the oil and you'll need to start over with your seasoning. Always towel dry as air drying can promote rust. Store it in the oven, but don't forget to take it out when preheating. When using, start it at a low heat, and slowly raise it up to your desired cooking temp. NEVER wash a hot pan!

[Ralph Wiggum]

I've used Lodge's reccomendation, except I have thrown in on my Weber upside down after grilling a meal and just let the coals burn down.

Also, it's a good idea to stick your pan in the oven or over low heat after you dry them to make sure they are 100% dry. I then give them a thin layer of oil while they're clean and warm.

[HooknHorns]

Thanks a million guys

[BLACKJACK]

A little soap and water doesn't hurt the pans, kind of unappetizing to pull out a greasy, smelly, sticky pan to cook good fresh meat in. I've had two cast iron fry pans for years, they get washed every time, but then onto the stove to get some heat to make sure they're 100% dry. No rust and the pans are going strong. I will occasionally put some cooking oil in the pan, and get it really hot to re-season, but can't remember the last time I did that either.