Maintaining Seasoned Cast Iron: Is It Really Necessary to Red Season After Every Use?

Do you have to season cast iron after every use? The short answer is no. While it is essential to maintain the seasoning, the process is not as frequent or complicated as many think. In this article, we will explore the importance of seasoning, how to properly maintain your cast iron, and debunk common myths about the seasoning process. Whether you are a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this guide will help you make the most of your cast iron utensils.

The Importance of Seasoning

Cast iron skillet should be kept seasoned even between uses. A non-seasoned cast iron pan can cause food to stick to it, leading to disappointment and extra cleanup. Contrary to popular belief, it is the cooking process that creates seasoning, not the seasoning process. When you cook acidic foods or use soap to wash the pan, you can remove the existing seasoning. Therefore, it is imperative to keep your cast iron properly seasoned to ensure it stays non-stick and durable over time.

How to Properly Maintain Your Cast Iron

A well-seasoned cast iron pan will last a long time without needing to be redone, depending on how you use it. For instance, I have a cast iron griddle that I use only for pancakes. I seasoned it three times using the long method, and it remains non-stick at least two years later. This process, known as seasoning, creates a durable, non-stick surface on your cast iron.

The Long Method

Place your cast iron skillet in a cold oven and heat it to 250 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the hot pan, apply a light coat of oil (such as Crisco, lard, or vegetable oil) to the surface, and place the pan back in the oven upside down. Cook for one hour, then turn off the oven and do not open the door. Let the pan cool completely, preferably overnight. Repeat steps 1-3 two or three times in a row to create a long-lasting, non-stick surface.

Common Myths and Misconceptions

Many people believe that they need to perform special maintenance on their cast iron after every use. However, this is not necessary. Here are some common myths and misconceptions debunked:

Is Seasoning Cast Iron Only Done Once?

In theory, you only have to season cast iron once. However, in practice, you may need to season it several times when new to get a good enough coating. After that, you can maintain the seasoning by just using the pan for cooking. Your cast iron will remain non-stick as long as you avoid scrubbing with soap or heavily burning grease in it. Simply wipe out the pan while it is warm, wipe the outside with a rag or towel with a little oil, and put it away for the next use.

Does It Require Special Care After Cooked Food?

No, unless you scrub the pan with soap or heavily burn grease in it, no special care is needed. Here is what you need to do:

Wipe out the pan while it is warm. Clean the outside with a rag or towel with a little oil if needed. Store it for your next use.

Is Oil Necessary After Every Use?

No, and here is why:

What is seasoning? Seasoning is the polymerization of fats and organic compounds that bond to the iron, essentially creating a nearly indestructible, non-reactive layer. How does it work? Every time you use the pan, you start to season it. As you cook, the fats and organic compounds bond to the iron, creating a better, non-stick surface with each use. What does this mean? You do not need to wipe the pan with oil after every use, nor do you need to clean it with salt or avoid dish detergent and water. Simply maintain it by using it regularly and caring for it properly.

By understanding these key points, you can enjoy the benefits of your cast iron cookware without the hassle of frequent maintenance. Your cast iron will continue to get better with use, providing you with a durable, non-stick surface that will last for generations.