Season cast iron so it actually works

Thin coats, high heat, and patience. LaLa's method for seasoning a cast iron skillet, and how to rescue one somebody ruined.

Here's what we're going to do

01
Wash it. Yes, wash it.
Hot water, a little soap, a stiff brush. Modern soap will not strip good seasoning.
02
Dry it completely.
Towel, then two minutes on a burner. Water is the only real enemy here.
03
Oil it, then wipe it off.
A teaspoon of neutral oil rubbed all over, then wipe like you're trying to remove all of it. Too much oil is why pans come out sticky.
04
Bake it upside down at 450°F for an hour.
Pan on the top rack, foil on the bottom. Let it cool in the oven.
05
Do it again.
Two or three rounds builds a floor you can cook eggs on.

Here's where we stop

Cracked cast iron is done. A hairline crack turns into a hot-oil accident. Hang it on the wall and buy another one, they're cheap.

LaLa Knows

Cook bacon in it for a week. That's the real seasoning. The oven method just gives you a head start.

Wash it. Yes, wash it.