CAST IRON: The Original Non-stick Cookware

Cast iron is practical, durable and easy to care for. Used often, it is also a good source of iron in food. It’s also ideal for use on the grill.

START WITH SEASONING. Some cast iron comes seasoned, but if yours does not, smear the pan and lid with shortening or lard (not oil), and bake in a 300° oven for about 15 minutes. Pour off any excess grease and return to the oven for 1 1/2–2 hours (do not add food). Let cool. Repeat if you like (the more you season, the easier it is to clean.)

KEEP IT OILED. When you are ready to cook, film the pan with oil, and heat it on the stove for a few minutes. (Be careful when touching the handle, it will also be hot, especially when using on a grill.) Add food and cook.

CLEAN PROPERLY. After cooking, rinse the pan with very hot water and remove any leftover food with a kitchen scrub brush. DO NOT USE SOAP OR SCOURING PADS! (Soap and scouring pads will ruin the seasoning.) The heat generated in heating the pan before you cook is effective in killing any bacteria not already gone from the hot water you cleaned with.

STORE PROPERLY. Let dry completely before storage. Do not store food in cast iron. Store with the lid off or the pan will rust.

Properly cared for cast iron will last a lifetime.