How to Season Cast Iron with Avocado Oil: So it Lasts Forever

Seasoning is the key to unlocking the full potential and longevity of your cast iron cookware. A properly seasoned skillet not only offers a non-toxic, non-stick surface and also prevents rust, ensuring your pan lasts a lifetime. Whether you’re new to cast iron or looking to refresh your cookware with something non-toxic instead of traditional non stick cookware, knowing how to season a cast iron is essential. In this guide, we’ll show you the best way to season cast iron using avocado oil.

What Does It Mean to Season a Cast Iron Pan?

Seasoning refers to bonding a thin layer of oil to the cast iron's surface by heating it. This process creates a durable, non-stick coating that makes cooking easier and protects the skillet from rust. Over time, seasoning improves, making your skillet smoother and more non-stick with each use.

How to Season Cast Iron Cookware: Step-by-Step Process

1. Preheat Your Oven Set your oven to 400°F (204°C) to prepare for the seasoning process. Proper heat is crucial for allowing the oil to bond with the cast iron.
2. Clean the Skillet If your skillet is new or needs re-seasoning, give it a thorough cleaning. Rinse the skillet with warm water and use a brush or scrubber to remove any food particles. You can use a little soap if needed for the first cleaning, but make sure the pan is completely dry before moving forward.
3. Apply a Thin Layer of Avocado oil. Avocado oil is an excellent choice for seasoning cast iron due to its high smoke point. Avocado oil creates a durable, non-stick layer. Pour a small amount of avocado oil onto the skillet. Using a paper towel, or a kitchen rag rub the oil into every part of the pan, including the bottom and handle. Be sure to wipe off any excess oil, leaving just a thin, even layer.
4. Bake the Skillet Place your oiled skillet upside down in the oven, with a baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any oil drips. Bake the skillet for one hour. This process bonds the oil to the cast iron, creating a protective layer of seasoning.
5. Cool the Skillet After the baking time is up, turn off the oven and let the skillet cool inside. This gradual cooling helps the oil set and creates a strong seasoning layer.

Why Avocado oil is the Best for Seasoning Cast Iron

• Avocado oil has a high smoke point of around 520°F (271°C), making it perfect for seasoning cast iron without burning or smoking during the process. It's also not highly processed like many seed oils that are typically used for seasoning cast Iron. It has a mild flavor and as a natural, healthy fat, avocado oil offers an excellent, non-toxic option for maintaining your cast iron cookware, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Alternatives to Avocado Oil

Coconut oil also works well, with a smoke point of 350°F (177°C). It's a natural, non-toxic oil that forms a strong bond with the cast iron, though it may require lower oven temperatures for seasoning.

Flaxseed oil: flaxseed oil is known for creating a durable, long-lasting seasoning. Unfortunately Flaxseed oil has a relatively low smoke point of around 225°F (107°C). While flaxseed oil is sometimes recommended for seasoning cast iron due to its ability to polymerize and create a durable layer, its low smoke point makes it less ideal for general cooking, and it requires careful attention during the seasoning process to avoid burning.

Both oils are rich in healthy fats and offer a natural, effective way to season your cast iron skillet without using synthetic or processed oils. However avocado oil is the clear winner, as it has a higher smoke point, is nontoxic rich in healthy fat and offers the best nonstick coating for your cast iron cookware.

How Often Should You Season Cast Iron?

If you're wondering how frequently you should season your cast iron cookware, it depends on how frequently you use your skillet, and how you care for your cast iron cookware. Ideally, you should season your pan every few months or whenever you notice the surface dulling or food starting to stick. If you cook with oils and healthy fats like avocado, coconut, or even butter and tallow regularly, your skillet will naturally maintain its seasoning over time.

Quick Tips for Seasoning Cast Iron with Avocado or Coconut Oil

1. Use Thin Layers of Oil: Applying too much oil can result in a sticky finish. Always wipe off excess oil before baking the skillet.
2. Preheat the Skillet: Heating the skillet before applying oil can help the oil bond better to the surface, creating a more durable seasoning.
3. Cook with Oil-Rich Foods: Regular cooking with high-fat foods like eggs, bacon, or even sautéed veggies helps maintain the skillet’s seasoning.
4. Avoid Soaking in Water: Extended exposure to water can weaken the seasoning. Always dry your skillet immediately after washing.

Re-Seasoning: How to Restore a Cast Iron Pan

If your skillet has developed rust or lost its non-stick surface, don't worry! You can restore it with a fresh seasoning process.

1. Remove Rust: Scrub away any rust using steel wool or a stiff brush, ensuring the skillet is smooth and rust-free before re-seasoning.
2. Clean and Dry: Rinse with warm water and dry the skillet completely. Any moisture left behind can cause rust.
3. Season with Oil: Follow the same process for seasoning using avocado or coconut oil. Repeating this step a few times can help restore the pan to its former glory.

FAQs About How to Season Cast Iron

1. Can I use olive oil to season cast iron?
Olive oil has a lower smoke point and can result in a sticky finish, so it’s not the best option for seasoning. Stick with avocado oil for better results.

2. How often should I season my pans?
If you cook with your skillet often, re-seasoning every few months or whenever the surface looks dull is ideal. Regular cooking with oils helps build and maintain seasoning naturally.

3. What if my cookware is still sticky after seasoning?
A sticky skillet usually means too much oil was applied. To fix this, heat the skillet and wipe off the excess oil, then repeat the seasoning process with a thinner layer.

Knowing how to season a cast iron skillet is essential for maintaining a long-lasting, non-stick cooking surface. With healthy options like avocado and coconut oil, you can create a durable seasoning layer that’s both effective and safe. By following these steps and using your cast iron regularly, you'll enjoy perfectly seasoned cookware that performs beautifully with every meal.

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By learning how to season cast iron with avocado oil, you’ll ensure your skillet remains rust-free and non-stick for years to come. Give your cast iron the care it deserves, and it will reward you with incredible cooking results!