Season that pan?

[jennifer75]

I've got a brand spankin new cast iron frying pan. What would you suggest I make first? Do I really need to season it first? Or is there a dish that will be great for doing that?

[Andy M.]

If it's dark grey, it's not seasoned and must be before cooking anything.

If it's black, it's already seasoned. You can start cooking right away.

Jen, if you check out the cookware forum, you will find detailed instructions for seasoning cast iron.

[jennifer75]

It is black. And heavy ;)

I skimmed the different methods for seasoning. I was hoping I wouldn't have to do the baking method of seasoning on my own. Swew for pre-seasoned.

Thanks!

[Andy M.]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jennifer75 It is black. And heavy ;) I skimmed the different methods for seasoning. I was hoping I wouldn't have to do the baking method of seasoning on my own. Swew for pre-seasoned. Thanks!

It's already seasoned, great! (Lodge Logic?).

Go ahead and cook a meal.

[Alix]

Bacon!

[jennifer75]

Lets just say it isn't pre-seasoned....and I go to cook something in it......any harm in not pre-seasoning?

[Andy M.]

Moisture will make it rust almost instantly. Acidic ingredients will draw iron out of the pan tainting the flavor of the dish and changing its color.

[Alix]

Bacon!

[jennifer75]

Ok, ok, BACON.

[Andy M.]

Quote:

Originally Posted by jennifer75 Ok, ok, BACON.

Cooking high fat stuff like bacon, frying pork chops, fried chicken, etc., will improve the seasoning on the pan.