Modern, synthetic materials have been developed to produce cooking utensils and accessories that are durable, safe to use, and easy to clean and maintain. In spite of these discoveries, there is one material, cast iron, that has held its own over the years. Cast iron is still a preferred material for cooking utensils because of its durability, heat retention and diffusion properties.

However, cast iron rusts especially outdoors and reacts with some types of food if not seasoned. If properly and regularly seasoned and properly cleaned, a cast iron skillet can have a "non-stick" surface suitable for egg dishes. Aside from skillets, other popular cookware made of cast iron include woks, deep fryers, griddles and dutch ovens. If well seasoned, cast iron cookware has a smooth, black surface.

How to Season

Before seasoning, check the condition of the iron surface. Is the cookware a new or used? If it is new, remove any stick on labels and/or surface cover that might have been placed to protect it while on stock or display. If it is a used one, the surface must be free of heavy dirt or rust. There are cleaning methods to remove excessive rust or dirt depending on the material that stuck on the cookware surface. After ensuring that the surface is clean, the seasoning process can be started based on the following procedure.

1. Apply a thin layer of fat ( shortening, lard or oil high in saturated fat)

2. Put the cookware up side down in an oven heated to 220degC or 425degF for one to two hours. There must be an aluminum foil under the cookware to catch the excess oil that has melted off. The excess oil can contaminate the oven.

3. After turning off the oven, let the cookware remain inside to cool down.

4. Use or store the cookware.

Seasoning is an easy and simple way to preserve the cookware and maintain an easy cooking experience for a long time. In outdoor cooking , there is sometimes a limited supply of water. Isn't it a treat instead of speeding time scouring the cookware to remove the food residue you just rinse it out and you're on your way to enjoy the moment?

It is advantageous to use cast iron cookware for outdoor cooking. It doesn't require special handling. With proper seasoning it can function like the expensive and delicate "non-stick" types of cookware.