Question

I bought a new lodge cast iron skillet. The cooking surface is rough. Should I smooth it out or try seasoning it as is?

Answer 1

Congratulations on your new Lodge cast iron skillet! The rough cooking surface you're experiencing is quite common with new cast iron cookware. It's important to note that Lodge cast iron skillets come preseasoned, but the initial factory seasoning may not be as smooth as you'd like.

Here are the steps you can follow to prepare your skillet for optimal cooking:

1. Wash the Skillet: Start by washing the skillet with warm, soapy water to remove any factory residues and dirt. Use a sponge or brush to scrub it gently.

2. Rinse and Dry: Thoroughly rinse the skillet to remove any soap residue, as soap can interfere with seasoning. Dry it completely using a towel or by placing it on the stove over low heat for a few minutes.

3. Seasoning: Lodge pre-seasons its skillets with vegetable oil, but adding an additional layer of seasoning will help smoothen the cooking surface. Apply a thin, even coat of cooking oil (such as vegetable oil, flaxseed oil, or grapeseed oil) to the entire skillet, inside and out, including the handle.

4. Bake the Skillet: Preheat your oven to around 350°F (175°C) and place the skillet upside down on the oven's center rack. You can place a foil-lined baking sheet on the lower rack to catch any drips. Bake the skillet for about an hour.

5. Cool Down: Turn off the oven and let the skillet cool down inside the oven. Once it's cool enough to handle, you can remove it.

6. Repeat the Process: If the surface is still rough after seasoning, you can repeat the seasoning process a few more times until you achieve the desired smoothness.

By seasoning the skillet with a thin layer of oil and baking it in the oven, you're creating a protective coating that enhances its non-stick properties and improves the cooking surface over time. Regular use and proper care will also contribute to making the surface smoother and more non-stick.

Remember to avoid using metal utensils that could potentially damage the seasoning and the surface of the skillet. Instead, opt for wooden or silicone utensils that are gentle on the seasoning.

With time and proper care, your Lodge cast iron skillet will become a reliable and versatile cooking tool, providing you with delicious meals for many years to come. Enjoy your cooking adventures!