As soon as I heard the man say “ole” instead of “oil” I knew I could trust this man for anything in terms of southern cooking. Thank you for making this video🤝
There are a lot of “influencers” out there who are perfectly coiffed, with perfectly staged backgrounds... and they over-complicate everything. I prefer down-to-earth people who have actually done what they are talking about for years. Thank you, sir!
Lol thanks @JR Perez!! There is so much stuff out there on TH-cam but I feel like you got to do what works best for you!! Bacon works for this southern boy lol!! You know what I mean don't you!!??
@@MrCastIron yes sir I lived in Texas when I was a kid now live in nebraska always wanted to learn how to cook in a skillet thats where the best foods are made thank you sir!!!
@@jrperez7921 That’s cool!! Cooking in cast iron is not hard. A couple of things to remember, though, is to pre-heat your skillet first and add a little oil of some kind to it. Well, three, lol! Don’t cook over medium heat unless you are searing meat and especially a good ole fatty ribeye!!
Yes, I seen plenty of cast iron videos on TH-cam, but Mr. Cast Iron's videos are the best. When it comes to care and maintenance of my cast iron I listen to this gentleman. Thank you.
@@MrCastIron Thank you very much for your reply. I have seen videos where Bar Keepers Friend is used on cast iron skillets, but on the actual container of Bar Keepers Friend it says Do Not Use on cast iron. I value your opinion; so can you please tell me what you think of using Bar Keepers Friend on cast iron. Once again, thank you very much.
He's right, it is not rocket science. I worked at one of the Lodge stores and I told anyone new to cast iron "there are as many ways to season cast iron as there are people who do it. It comes down to what is easiest and most convenient for you." As long as you're using it and putting a little oil on it immediately after cleaning, you're doing fine.
People be tripping about the seasoning of their iron constantly. There are times after I get through using it that I just dump it into the sink with some soap water. Ohhhhh nooooooo. And then there are times that I scrub it out with salt. Stripping most the seasoning. And then there are times I leave it bear dry. And each time I just put an oil in the skillet . And it cooks fine every time. I think the majority of people are bad with heat mastery. When you learn how to master the heat you’re cooking with. A lot of food no longer sticks. Or even understanding just a little bit of science. Yields non stick food. Don’t trip over having the perfect Seasoned skillet. Cook on low
I have 60+ pieces of cast iron. Many of them were rusty, rescue pieces that needed some TLC to make them usable, but that is easy. I have used either bacon grease or Crisco to season it, just like my mother and her mother did. Excellent video!
Youre a diamond, I've just bought one it will be delivered later. I find it hard to trust all these fancy videos but then a bacon-frying American with a Southern accent comes along and shows how its done, I feel confident in my purchase now. And yes sir, I will be frying bacon in it. Much love from the UK 🇬🇧
Lol, that’s funny right there! I’m happy to hear you are getting into cast iron cooking, my friend! We are not fancy, but we are real, and we really like bacon, lol!! Take care across the pond, and let me know how your first pan of fried bacon turns out!! Also, if I can ever help you with anything or answer a question about cast iron, don’t hesitate to reach out, and we will do our best to help! Have a great weekend!
First off, you sir are exactly what I expected when I wanted to learn how to season an iron skillet. Secondly you did EXACTLY what I thought you would do, cooked bacon!!! Thank you for the confirmation!
Any time i get a new cast iron i strip it down to metal and put my own seasoning on it. Not only will it build your confedence in maintaining your cookware, but you will get it almost as good as teflon. I will never buy anything other than cast iron and stainless steel now. With proper care they both will last a life time, so much better than teflon or any "wonder pan"
YAY! Tell 'em seasoning comes as you cook! It's not rocket science and it won't save you if you don't heat your skillet first and add at least a little bit of oil before you put food in your skillet. I see so many people saying they learned from the "experts", seasoned their skillet with a nice thick coat or multiple coats and the first time they cooked, the seasoning flaked off and their food stuck. Cast iron is good for that. It's sad, so many quit because they got bad advice.
You’re welcome, and thank you too, my friend! I know you must be excited about getting your new skillet. If you ever have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll do my best to help you!
Good job bud! Alot of people don't realize that a thin layer of wax is put on these pans before leaving the factory so you always have to wash with mild soap to get that wax layer off. I never understood why they don't give you notice on the packaging of the pan.
You’re welcome, and thank you too, my friend! I sure appreciate you stopping by and checking it out! If I can ever help answer any questions about cast iron, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, ok!!??
This video was so helpful because I just bought my first cast iron Lodge Skillet the other day. I will be following your instructions step by step. Thank you for making this video.
You're welcome, and thank you too, Keri! I know you must be very excited to get started cooking in your new cast iron! I would love to see what you make in it! I hope you will consider subscribing to our channel if you haven't already, so you will be informed of our latest content! Also, if I can answer any questions you may have, don't hesitate to reach out to me, ok!? Have a great day, my friend!
I’m 23 years old and Just bought my very first cast iron lodge 10.5 inch skillet today thanks for the video I’m extremely excited to learn how to use this
Wow, that's good news!! I know you will love your new cast iron! Thanks for watching, and don't forget to subscribe so you can see our latest content as it comes out! If you have any questions about any of them, don't hesitate to reach out to me, and I help you any way I can!! Take care, buddy, and have a great weekend!
Love this video. This feller could be family. My momma always said "it ain't that hard. heat the pan on the stovetop til the handles hot. light coat of bacon grease. in oven upside down 450 for one hour. and it gets better the more you cook in it. and you ALWAYS keep that bacon grease." I can hear her talking when he's talking....definitely they are from the same old school. 😃
Thank you, my friend! It sounds to me like your momma was a very smart lady! And as a matter of fact, we may have been in the same class together at school! I think I might have set across from her in class lol! 🤣🤣
Just bought one of these from a sports warehouse. I was told 20 contradictory facts about using cast iron. Thank you for the video. I didn't want to use a dirty skillet from the store without washing and seasoning it if needed. Miss growing up everyone using these.
You’re welcome, Michael, and thank you too for checking out our video. I agree that there are a lot of myths and misinformation out there. But on the other hand, there is good information too. If you ever have any questions about cast iron, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll do my best to help you out. I’d also like to ask you to subscribe to our channel if you haven’t already done so. That way, you will receive all of our latest content as we create it! Thanks again, my friend and have a great day!
My mom was from Mississippi. I'd never listen to anyone about cast iron unless they have an accent like Mr. Cast Iron. You must completely ignore the "i" in "oil"... Plus, anyone whose opinion is "bacon is the best" gets two thumbs up from me...
Lol! Thanks for stopping by and checking us out! I sure appreciate you, my friend!! You get two thumbs up, too, because bacon makes everything better, lol!! 🤣🤣
Good to see you not sand down the Lodge, it's really not needed. Another good tip to season cast iron is to fry in it. Some peanut oil and fry fish, chicken or whatever. Good video sir.
You are right. It is not needed! All we need to do is cook in it, lol!! Frying is good too!! You’re starting to make me hungry now, lol!! Thanks for stopping by and checking it out, my friend!!
You’re welcome anytime, my friend! If you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll do my best to help you, ok!?
Bacon grease can work well if you use your cast iron pan very regularly. If you don't, the grease coating the pan will go rancid. Even after baked on. I have 1 cast iron pan I use regularly and use bacon grease on for flavor and constant use. My other less used cast iron pans I season with a high temp oil because that has better long term storage qualities.
Recently picked up a Lodge 11" square flat griddle pan and it is absolutely superb. It said pre-seasoned so I tested it first with some pork chops and it performed very well. I seasoned it properly myself though before I put some premium steak on there - and again it was excellent. I think animal fats are a great seasoning for people who use their skillet regularly. If you are the kind of person who only uses it for special occasions however, then I'd avoid them as they can go off and add a rancid taste.
I love your advice. Bought a cast iron skillet a couple of years ago and seasoned it the way you recommended and was very impressed with the result. Since then, I've enjoyed cooking with my pan. Thank you for the simple and common sense approach to this confusing process. I should've made this comment much sooner but better late than never 😊
Thank you for this video. I've just been given a Lodge 10.25" cast iron skillet as a Christmas present and wanted to know how to prepare it properly. Your video was clear and to the point without the unnecessary waffle. And by chance, the first thing I intend to cook in it to test it out is bacon :-)
You’re welcome, and thank you too, my friend! Congratulations, and I know you must be excited to get started cooking in your new pan! If I may suggest to you when starting to cook the bacon is to add a little oil in the pan and go no higher than medium on heat, or the pan will smoke, and you will burn the bacon! Happy cooking, and if you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, ok!?
@@MrCastIron hello and many thanks for responding to my comment and the additional advice. I managed to cook with the pan ok today. The first 2 rashers did unfortunately stick (suspect I had the heat a little too high), but the remaining rashers cooked fine. I cleaned the pan afterwards and I've re-seasoned it with ghee fat rather than vegetable oil (which I used the first time - unfortunately I didn't have any bacon fat) and left it in a warm oven for an hour. I'll see how things go next time. I appreciate this may take a bit of getting used too.
A good friend from the south taught me how to season cast iron 20 years ago and I’ve never had a problem yet. His technique was exactly the same as yours! I cook fatty foods in it for a while before trying anything acidic like chili or anything tomato based. To be honest I have my enameled cast iron Dutch oven for those dishes. Thank you for posting and I’m subscribing 😊
Here in germany most people use potatoes to "burn in" a pean. Use the potatoe peals oil and salt and cook them till they are burned black. That also works as good seasoning. Also what you told us is so true. Nothing better than using the pan allot exists.
it's totally fine and safe to wash em with detergents whenever. dawn dish soap and such wont harm the seasoning or patina in any way. Used to be an issue back in the day when we had stuff like Lye in our detergent which would rip right through a patina. just important to make sure its completely dry after and then gets its thin coat of protected oil and its good.
Exactly! When the soap was made with lye, it caused a problem. Big time! But as you say, mild detergent is not a big issue anymore. But because of the way it used to be, the old lesson keeps being taught and passed down with no consideration that even Lodge says it’s ok to use a mild detergent when cleaning and especially before the initial seasoning process! Thanks for sharing this with us, my friend! I hope you consider subscribing to our channel if you have not done so already!? We welcome your feedback here!
Think someone from Lodge stated they mostly preseason to prevent rust while in storage at the warehouse and stores. It's an alternative to covering it in Beeswax that is a bit of a pain to clean off
Picked up a new Lodge 12" skillet exactly like yours here in the video. For this pan after washing off, Im opting for coconut oil as I have a big jar of it to use. Always appreciate your videos, Mike! Take care brother!
Everybody loves bacon! Thanks for the wonderful video, I’ve watched it at least a dozen times over the years and just watched it with my kids to teach them about seasoning our new cast iron pan. Fun education for the whole family.
lol all the crazy theories and techniques people use and this is exactly the way i was taught to do it. A 10.25” Lodge is my daily driver. When I first got it I was living in an apartment with two window units that barely kept the place cool and it was 90 degrees outside so I didn’t want to use the stove. I also didn’t want to use olive oil and have the whole place smoked out. I washed it, cooked a pound of bacon in it, poured the grease in a container for later, seared a NY strip, browned some brussel sprouts, and washed it. Then after I cleaned it I used the bacon grease to re-oil it. I did that every day after work for a week. I only cooked a whole pound of bacon the first day and I used it for sandwiches during the week. I did sear a strip in it with bacon grease every day though.
I love cast iron so much that I enjoy YT videos watching people season and cook in cast iron 😅 I have what I call my own Lodge family: my baby 6”, mama 10.25”, papa 12”, and grandpa griddle/grill. Great video and thank you, Mr. Cast Iron! Cheers from 🇨🇦 Canada
The southern accent is like a melody 😊. I just bought my cast iron yesterday. This was the most helpful video I’ve seen. You made the concept of a cast iron make sense to me. I’m vegetarian so I will be using vegetable oil in the oven.
Lol! Thanks, Camille! I’m happy to hear you are starting your journey with cast iron! If you ever have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, and I’ll do my best to help you out ok!!??
I got 4 lodge cast iron skillets they said preseasoned and they didn’t stick at all for me. I used avocado oil like I do on my blackstone. Has worked great so far but I’m no expert.
I'm so glad I found you or I would never use my new Lodge cast iron pan. I didn't know where to start so I just let it sit. Thank you! Cornbread, here I come.
You’re welcome, my friend, and thank you too! I’m happy to hear you found us, and I hope you will consider subscribing, so you get our latest content as we produce it! Save me a corner piece of that cornbread, ok!!?? Lol 😂
Thank you sir. Love the message here - seasoned 2 cast iron skillets before and just got my third. Wish I never got stressed out with the previous times, going to take your advice for this one especially as I’ve used cast iron for a couple of years so I know a few things about them … not rocket science for sure!
My last Lodge cast iron skillet lasted me six years and I took the advice of a different TH-camr and scrubbed the hell out of it and seasoned it personally but they look so beautifully seasoned right from the get-go I'm wondering if I should even bother removing the original seasoning this time around
1:03 seasoning should not be affected just by washing your pan with soap and water you really need to scrub it off despite what a lot of people think it's definitely okay to wash your cast iron skillet you just need to make sure you're getting off the thin layer of nasty stuff and not scrubbing off your seasoning and make sure you put it back on the burner for a few minutes to dry it
@Mr. Cast Iron thanks for the video. What I do is (and I own several Lodge Cast Iron pans-the heavy ones) is I use Cowboy Kent Rollins’ advice. I take the pan and sandpaper it down. I use a 40-60 grit, get near the base and then wash and rinse it off well. Then, I oil it with Avocado Oil or Flaxseed Oil or Grapeseed Oil and pit it in the oven on 450 for 60-90 minutes. Repeat the process 3-4 times. Beats me, after listening to others, why some take the seasoning off by dumping it in a big plastic garbage bag and pour some chemical on it. I’ll de-season it with sandpaper and then get a nice shiny coat. Thanks for the video.
You’re welcome, and thank you too! I haven’t ever sanded one, but I know some folks do. I like avocado oil and grapeseed, but I won’t use flaxseed. I think it’s way overrated. I sure appreciate you sharing your thoughts with us, though, my friend!
@@MrCastIron Ok. Good to know about your view on Flaxseed oil. Why do you think it’s overrated, if you don’t mind my asking? Yeah, I sand them down. In the process as we speak of sanding one. I sand the entire interior and the walls of the pan. It actually has a silverish color patina. This is when I then add a good coating on it and pop it in the oven. 3-4 time cycle.
Well I made a video about it but in case you haven’t seen it yet you can check it out here: The BEST OIL FOR CAST IRON SEASONING Is NOT Flaxseed Oil! th-cam.com/video/IRrb7b0jW-s/w-d-xo.html
@@MrCastIron I like the way you think....Flax seed oil seems like a yuppy way to do it ....I like to season with something I use every day. My lodge has olive 🫒 oil. My rv skillet has canola oil that I spay on. Nothing fancy.
I'm dead honest, the first thought that came to my mind when I started this video was "He's going to say 'cook in it', isnt he?" 😂 I was right! Lovely advice, and I agree. You get some more flavors in there when you cook with it.
Thin layer is the trick. No matter what you use to season. But bacon grease smells the best. Thank you for the lesson. Mike. Stay safe and stay cool. I put this important PSA on the CIW play list.
I can confirm with a skillet it is not a fast Gordon Ramsey type. I cooked 2 steaks on my skillet and it took about 15 minutes. I prefer my steak medium rare and my momma liked hers medium. Boy I tell ya. I thought the amount of time it took I thot it was gonna be like eating some rubber tires but they came out great. In addition the skillet not only made those steaks perfectly. It got a nice well addition of seasoning layer for the next time I use it
Excellent episode Mike. It’s very important to get your Cast iron primed and seasoned so you can make some great food! Nothing like a cast iron skillet! A good cook should be able to cook just about anything in a cast iron skillet. Good point about seasoning being a thin layer of oil on your skillet . I like using bacon grease too. Left you a like my friend. Keep up the good content!
Mike might know better. But my understanding is: Back when lye was a common ingredient in soaps, it was not recommended to use such soaps on cast iron because it could break down the seasoning. Modern dish washing soap is milder and it's okay to use on cast iron. Having said that, I don't use soap. Right after cooking while the pan is still hot, I run it under very hot water and use a spatula to scrap/clean. Then I wipe it dry and put it back on the burner and do what Mike said - let it dry out then a thin coat of oil and I'm done.
Very well explained Hobie!! Lisa I usually only use soap on a brand new skillet like in this video to clean anything and everything off of it. After that I dry and heat it and add a thin coat of oil as Hobie said and then it’s ready for the next time I’m ready to cook in it!!
I just found an old (20+ years) lodge pan on the bottom of my grandmothers closet. It is rusted and will need a complete restoration but I am looking forward to doing it while learning more about cast iron. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
I’m a first time user with cast iron and I bought the same one you have except mine is a 10”. I’m going to follow this advice. Thanks this really helps especially that I never used one or even seasoned one 😬😅
You’re welcome, and thank you too, Robin. I know you are excited to get started cooking in your new skillet. If you ever need any help or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll do my best to help you.
This was SO informative Mike!! I saw this very pan at Costco just yesterday and was ALMOST going to get it..but was afraid to because I wasnt sure if I needed to season it. Im gonna go back and get it..because it was 2 pack for like $14!!! You are the Cast Iron King my Friend!!!
I bought that exact one and didnt season it prior to using. Bad mistake. It got rusted after the first wash and I noticed it the next day when i went to use it again. Ended up seasoning it afterwards and works good now
I thank you are amazing for saying it's not rocket science to season a skillet lol. Some of the fancy folks will act like you need a degree to learn how to do it. You showed us the easiest way to season that can last us many years of cooking.
This seemed more helpful than other videos that talked about smoke points and everything. I think I'm gonna try it like you did, just using some other oil (I don't have bacon grease at the moment)
There ain't nothing better then a beautiful ribeye steak on a nicely seasoned cast iron skillet. Steak butter and Skillets go together like red white and blue. A cast iron skillet 🍳 is like man's best friend. A good ol dog that's always by your side. If you ain't cooking with cast iron you ain't cooking
Hello! Just discovered your channel! I got a new GSI brand lightweight cast iron 10" pan. It's not seasoned which is ok. Ive washed it with mild dish soap and hot water a few times. I thought i was done with the initial cleaning so started wiping it with light coat oil to put in oven. BUT- my paper towel kept wiping up black dirt! How many times do i need to keep washing and wiping to get all that machine oil out b4 I can start the seasoning process? Heeelp! I want to take camping with me soon and want to use it a few times first.
Hello and welcome to our channel! I made this video, and I hope it helps you: Why Is There Black Residue On My Cast Iron Skillet? th-cam.com/video/BfUdX52kt8Q/w-d-xo.html. We also have other videos of using salt to clean the cast iron. Be sure to subscribe and check these videos out. But if you still have questions, reach out, and we will do our best to help you, OK!?
Great to hear that! I know you must be excited to get started cooking in it too! I'm glad this video helped you, and if you ever have any questions about your cast iron, don't hesitate to reach out to me, and I'll do my best to help you, ok!??
This video was perfectly timed for me. I recently got a brand new cast Iron and not done anything with it yet. Going to follow your lead on my days off. Thanks for sharing Mike 🙌🏼😊
@@MrCastIron at work it’s mostly aluminium. Our char grill is cast Iron and the stove tops are cast iron . One of the stove tops is a flat top which you can put food directly on you but we tend not to and just use it for pot and pans. At home I’ve got a griddle that goes over 2 stove tops at a time. I use that a bit.
Finally actual southern advice i can use🤣🤣🤣... when looking up this topic I was open to other videos but I was really looking for a southern opinion LMAO. Since I cant ask my grandma whose dancing with Jesus😉. Thankyou
Lol! Well that’s too cool! I’m about as Southern as I can get 🤣🤣!! I hope this helped you and I’d ask you to subscribe if you haven’t already. That way you will get all of our newest content as we create it! Thanks again my friend!! Oh, and I look forward to dancing with Jesus someday too!! 👆👆
I have been wanting a cast iron skillet for awhile and on vacation I happened to go by where Lodge makes their pans and went to their factory store. I am probably going to wish I bought more than I did because the prices were fantastic. Now I must season it and start using it.
Feels like I’m in the kitchen with you! I was gifted a cast iron skillet (exact same as the one in the video) a few weeks ago and have never cooked with one before. After thorough research I’ve decided I’m finally ready to give it a go! Thank you for such an informative, simple video. :)
You’re welcome, my friend! I love cast iron, as you can tell, and I think you’ll enjoy your new skillet too! I’d like to see what you cook!! Take care, and if I can ever help you with anything, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, ok!?
Stripping the pan of the pre-seasoning is the key to a true non-stick skillet. Place it upside down on your oven's rack and run the self-cleaning mode for 60-90 minutes, then turn off and let cool in the oven for several hours. Remove, wash with warm water and a light dish soap, rinse, then dry completely and heat up to ~200F. If some of the grit of the pre-seasoning remains, you can remove the remnants with steel wool. Season with your oil of choice (mine is flaxseed) and bake at 350-375 for 90 minutes. Let cool in the oven and repeat this oiling process 2 to 3 more times and you'll have a perfect, non-stick skillet.
I found my grandmas old skillet, and I am 60 so it is a good find and an old pan. It was smooth .I have re seasoned it at 450 like instructed with canola oil cooking spray before I saw your video . I just bought a 3 pack Mesquite 3 pack at Menards before I found the old pan . I have seen videos of people sanding all the rough surfaces with a paint stripping wheel and then 2 different grits of flapper wheel and the sand paper wheels by hand to get them smooth, and then the oil seasoning. I have also seen videos of these type of skillets shedding the coating into the food when used new even though they say pre seasoned ?? I would like to use one of them on an upcoming Ice fishing trip, along with Grandma's old one . Martha Stewart uses Crisco at 350 for an hour and has a video of her treating a new pan and an old pan. I have jarred Bacon rendered fat I bought at the store I add to certain dishes, would that work for seasoning anew pan too along with cooking bacon too?? Cooking bacon in the pan over time makes the most sense to me. I have a month until the fishing trip. I will cook bacon in both pans and see if they becomes more non stick Thank you very much for any opinion and advise you could offer for the brand new pre seasoned pans. I heard canola and Grapeseed oil are high temp for seasoning and acceptable / recommended . treatment on Grandma's pan. I am confused by all the info and want reliable advise and never have to think of the seasoning details again. Thank you very much
Thank you for sharing this with us, my friend! I don’t sand or grind on any skillets, and I don’t recommend anyone do that. I know there are big-name channels that have videos doing that, and there is a lot of other information, some good, some bad. My recommendation is, as I mentioned in this video and that is to cook in it. Bacon is good, and so is any kind of fatty meat. Sautéing onions is good, and so is baking cornbread! I hope this works out for you, and if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, ok!?
@@MrCastIron thanks for the reply . I am going to take my new pan and old pan on a fishing trip in late February . I will just baconize it as much as I can , same with my grandma's pan that I did season at high heat. Thank you so much ! Do you have any special cleaning techniques ?
Being a California boy who loves visiting the south to visit my X-pat Cali friends to go hunting and fishing…. One thing I’ve learned among many is, if you want to learn how to make proper biscuits and gravy, listen to a rednecks momma, if you wanna know how to tell good moonshine from bad, make friends with the old man with the long beard… and, if you wanna learn how to season an iron pan, listen to this guy…. “ it’s not rocket science “ typically means, here’s how it’s done!
Every time I cook a steak I trim the fat cap. --But I don't waste it. I cut it up in small pieces and render it down in the skillet into beef tallow. It adds flavor to steak while also giving the skillet an old-fashioned coat of seasoning.
I really like that idea! Beef tallow is great for cooking with and seasoning your cast iron! That’s for sure! Thanks for sharing this with us, my friend!
Interesting presentation. You obviously know your way around cast iron, and I don't disagree with anything you said. But... (There's always a "but", isn't there?) You really didn't answer the original question: "Do I NEED to season a new Lodge cast iron skillet?" You basically said, "It says "pre-seasoned", but I'm going to season it first, anyway, and here's how I'm going to do it." And that part looked good. But what you did not do is tell us why you believe that it needs to be seasoned again before use, nor did you test the new pan in any way to demonstrate that your belief was correct. So, interesting video. But we still don't know if we NEED to season a new Lodge cast iron skillet...
I recently bought a lodge cast iron skillet. It stated pre seasoned but want this skillet to last so I looked into it further and found a guy on tiktok telling his followers that originally he said to go ahead and cook with it but after a lot of feedback from multiple people he now recommends seasoning it 1 or 2 times before cooking with it because people were saying that they'd cook on it how it came and the next day it had rusted. So then I found this video on TH-cam and I think it's simple very direct and very easy to understand directions. Although he didn't say why his opinion would be to season it before cooking I agree with him seeing as I want this cast iron to last for a while 😊
@@brittanymiller917 Thanks for sharing. Your post is suggestive. Your tiktok reference appears not to comment on how the skillet cooked on the first attempt, only that some of his viewers reported rust "the next day". I would submit that has more to do with how they cleaned and treated their skillet after cooking than it does on how it was delivered from Lodge. That being the case, your post does not reveal whether or not we NEED to season a new Lodge skillet before we cook in it. But that's all second hand. What was your experience? Did you cook on your new Lodge skillet before seasoning? Or did you season it first?
We all grew up with Mamaw cooking with cast iron but when my wife paid $70 for a big lodge I figured I’d take a peak at what other people do. I figured just cook some bacon, leave the grease in it and then fry a burger for lunch, leave the grease and fry a steak for dinner. Now it’s ready to fry up some rabbit.
I know you are excited to get started! If you ever have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll try to help any way I can, ok!?
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Thanks. I have a 12, but only use it for fried chicken.
You’re welcome Danny!
As soon as I heard the man say “ole” instead of “oil” I knew I could trust this man for anything in terms of southern cooking. Thank you for making this video🤝
There are a lot of “influencers” out there who are perfectly coiffed, with perfectly staged backgrounds... and they over-complicate everything. I prefer down-to-earth people who have actually done what they are talking about for years. Thank you, sir!
You’re welcome and thank you too my friend! We are just trying to help lol!
Didn't trust anybody on TH-cam showing me how to season a skillet i heared somone with a southern accent thanks for the video
Lol thanks @JR Perez!! There is so much stuff out there on TH-cam but I feel like you got to do what works best for you!! Bacon works for this southern boy lol!! You know what I mean don't you!!??
🤣
@@MrCastIron yes sir I lived in Texas when I was a kid now live in nebraska always wanted to learn how to cook in a skillet thats where the best foods are made thank you sir!!!
@@jrperez7921 That’s cool!! Cooking in cast iron is not hard. A couple of things to remember, though, is to pre-heat your skillet first and add a little oil of some kind to it. Well, three, lol! Don’t cook over medium heat unless you are searing meat and especially a good ole fatty ribeye!!
@@MrCastIron we should cook over lower heat? Is that why my pancakes burned?
I would trust this man's seasoning advice over anyone else on TH-cam.
Is the the voice and look?
Yes, I seen plenty of cast iron videos on TH-cam, but Mr. Cast Iron's videos are the best.
When it comes to care and maintenance of my cast iron I listen to this gentleman.
Thank you.
Hey, we sure appreciate that, my friend! If you ever have any questions or need help with cast iron, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, ok!?
@@MrCastIron Thank you very much for your reply.
I have seen videos where Bar Keepers Friend is used on cast iron skillets, but on the actual container of Bar Keepers Friend it says Do Not Use on cast iron.
I value your opinion; so can you please tell me what you think of using Bar Keepers Friend on cast iron.
Once again, thank you very much.
Yes, it’s a great cleaner for many things. I’ve seen folks use it on cast iron before, but I never have.
Honestly the most helpful video on TH-cam about cast iron skillet care, bless this lad.
Thank you, sir!
He's right, it is not rocket science. I worked at one of the Lodge stores and I told anyone new to cast iron "there are as many ways to season cast iron as there are people who do it. It comes down to what is easiest and most convenient for you." As long as you're using it and putting a little oil on it immediately after cleaning, you're doing fine.
People be tripping about the seasoning of their iron constantly. There are times after I get through using it that I just dump it into the sink with some soap water. Ohhhhh nooooooo. And then there are times that I scrub it out with salt. Stripping most the seasoning.
And then there are times I leave it bear dry. And each time I just put an oil in the skillet . And it cooks fine every time.
I think the majority of people are bad with heat mastery. When you learn how to master the heat you’re cooking with. A lot of food no longer sticks. Or even understanding just a little bit of science. Yields non stick food.
Don’t trip over having the perfect Seasoned skillet. Cook on low
I don't trust anyone to teach me about cast iron pans unless they pronounce oil that way! 😅 Reminds me of my grandpa.
Lol! That’s the only way I know how! 😂😂
And “seasonining”. And “warsh”.
I have 60+ pieces of cast iron. Many of them were rusty, rescue pieces that needed some TLC to make them usable, but that is easy. I have used either bacon grease or Crisco to season it, just like my mother and her mother did. Excellent video!
That's awesome! Thanks for sharing this with us my friend!!
Youre a diamond, I've just bought one it will be delivered later. I find it hard to trust all these fancy videos but then a bacon-frying American with a Southern accent comes along and shows how its done, I feel confident in my purchase now. And yes sir, I will be frying bacon in it. Much love from the UK 🇬🇧
Lol, that’s funny right there! I’m happy to hear you are getting into cast iron cooking, my friend! We are not fancy, but we are real, and we really like bacon, lol!! Take care across the pond, and let me know how your first pan of fried bacon turns out!! Also, if I can ever help you with anything or answer a question about cast iron, don’t hesitate to reach out, and we will do our best to help! Have a great weekend!
First off, you sir are exactly what I expected when I wanted to learn how to season an iron skillet. Secondly you did EXACTLY what I thought you would do, cooked bacon!!! Thank you for the confirmation!
Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you too!
@@MrCastIron yes sir! I cooked bacon on it this morning then scrambled eggs in the leftover bacon grease! Yummy
The old saying about not using soap on cast iron pans is from when lye soap was used. Most soaps and mild detergents are usually fine nowadays.
Smart ninja here.
Any time i get a new cast iron i strip it down to metal and put my own seasoning on it. Not only will it build your confedence in maintaining your cookware, but you will get it almost as good as teflon. I will never buy anything other than cast iron and stainless steel now. With proper care they both will last a life time, so much better than teflon or any "wonder pan"
I like this dude!!
Makes me want to sit on a screened-in porch during a thunderstorm and drink ice-cold sweet tea!!
Lol!! If you were here, we would do just my friend!!
YAY! Tell 'em seasoning comes as you cook! It's not rocket science and it won't save you if you don't heat your skillet first and add at least a little bit of oil before you put food in your skillet. I see so many people saying they learned from the "experts", seasoned their skillet with a nice thick coat or multiple coats and the first time they cooked, the seasoning flaked off and their food stuck. Cast iron is good for that. It's sad, so many quit because they got bad advice.
That's right, Jerry! You can’t quit because you had something burn or stick. You have to learn what works and what doesn’t!
Just ordered this skillet today, will follow your instructions once it’s delivered. Thank you for taking the time to show us how to season it 👍
You’re welcome, and thank you too, my friend! I know you must be excited about getting your new skillet. If you ever have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll do my best to help you!
Good job bud! Alot of people don't realize that a thin layer of wax is put on these pans before leaving the factory so you always have to wash with mild soap to get that wax layer off. I never understood why they don't give you notice on the packaging of the pan.
Yeah I like to wash anything that has been sitting on the shelf. Who knows what might be on it lol!
Brilliant video from a genuine Southern Gentleman! Greetings from England from a newcomer to the cast iron crew and many thanks indeed, sir.
You’re welcome, and thank you too, my friend! I sure appreciate you stopping by and checking it out! If I can ever help answer any questions about cast iron, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, ok!!??
@@MrCastIron Thanks a million, friend.
My pleasure!
This video was so helpful because I just bought my first cast iron Lodge Skillet the other day. I will be following your instructions step by step. Thank you for making this video.
You're welcome, and thank you too, Keri! I know you must be very excited to get started cooking in your new cast iron! I would love to see what you make in it! I hope you will consider subscribing to our channel if you haven't already, so you will be informed of our latest content! Also, if I can answer any questions you may have, don't hesitate to reach out to me, ok!? Have a great day, my friend!
I’m 23 years old and Just bought my very first cast iron lodge 10.5 inch skillet today thanks for the video I’m extremely excited to learn how to use this
Wow, that's good news!! I know you will love your new cast iron! Thanks for watching, and don't forget to subscribe so you can see our latest content as it comes out! If you have any questions about any of them, don't hesitate to reach out to me, and I help you any way I can!! Take care, buddy, and have a great weekend!
Love this video. This feller could be family. My momma always said "it ain't that hard. heat the pan on the stovetop til the handles hot. light coat of bacon grease. in oven upside down 450 for one hour. and it gets better the more you cook in it. and you ALWAYS keep that bacon grease." I can hear her talking when he's talking....definitely they are from the same old school. 😃
Thank you, my friend! It sounds to me like your momma was a very smart lady! And as a matter of fact, we may have been in the same class together at school! I think I might have set across from her in class lol! 🤣🤣
Just bought one of these from a sports warehouse. I was told 20 contradictory facts about using cast iron. Thank you for the video. I didn't want to use a dirty skillet from the store without washing and seasoning it if needed. Miss growing up everyone using these.
You’re welcome, Michael, and thank you too for checking out our video. I agree that there are a lot of myths and misinformation out there. But on the other hand, there is good information too. If you ever have any questions about cast iron, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll do my best to help you out. I’d also like to ask you to subscribe to our channel if you haven’t already done so. That way, you will receive all of our latest content as we create it! Thanks again, my friend and have a great day!
@@MrCastIron Thank You! I'll subscribe now
Awesome!
My mom was from Mississippi. I'd never listen to anyone about cast iron unless they have an accent like Mr. Cast Iron. You must completely ignore the "i" in "oil"...
Plus, anyone whose opinion is "bacon is the best" gets two thumbs up from me...
Lol! Thanks for stopping by and checking us out! I sure appreciate you, my friend!! You get two thumbs up, too, because bacon makes everything better, lol!! 🤣🤣
Good to see you not sand down the Lodge, it's really not needed.
Another good tip to season cast iron is to fry in it. Some peanut oil and fry fish, chicken or whatever.
Good video sir.
You are right. It is not needed! All we need to do is cook in it, lol!! Frying is good too!! You’re starting to make me hungry now, lol!! Thanks for stopping by and checking it out, my friend!!
As a New cast iron skillet owner, I appreciate the video
You’re welcome anytime, my friend! If you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll do my best to help you, ok!?
Bacon grease can work well if you use your cast iron pan very regularly. If you don't, the grease coating the pan will go rancid. Even after baked on. I have 1 cast iron pan I use regularly and use bacon grease on for flavor and constant use. My other less used cast iron pans I season with a high temp oil because that has better long term storage qualities.
Recently picked up a Lodge 11" square flat griddle pan and it is absolutely superb. It said pre-seasoned so I tested it first with some pork chops and it performed very well. I seasoned it properly myself though before I put some premium steak on there - and again it was excellent.
I think animal fats are a great seasoning for people who use their skillet regularly. If you are the kind of person who only uses it for special occasions however, then I'd avoid them as they can go off and add a rancid taste.
Thats great!! Thanks for sharing this with us my friend!
I love your advice. Bought a cast iron skillet a couple of years ago and seasoned it the way you recommended and was very impressed with the result. Since then, I've enjoyed cooking with my pan. Thank you for the simple and common sense approach to this confusing process. I should've made this comment much sooner but better late than never 😊
It's great to hear that, and congratulations on your new cast iron! If you ever have any questions just give me a shout, ok!?
Thank you for this video. I've just been given a Lodge 10.25" cast iron skillet as a Christmas present and wanted to know how to prepare it properly. Your video was clear and to the point without the unnecessary waffle. And by chance, the first thing I intend to cook in it to test it out is bacon :-)
You’re welcome, and thank you too, my friend! Congratulations, and I know you must be excited to get started cooking in your new pan! If I may suggest to you when starting to cook the bacon is to add a little oil in the pan and go no higher than medium on heat, or the pan will smoke, and you will burn the bacon! Happy cooking, and if you ever have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to me, ok!?
@@MrCastIron hello and many thanks for responding to my comment and the additional advice. I managed to cook with the pan ok today. The first 2 rashers did unfortunately stick (suspect I had the heat a little too high), but the remaining rashers cooked fine. I cleaned the pan afterwards and I've re-seasoned it with ghee fat rather than vegetable oil (which I used the first time - unfortunately I didn't have any bacon fat) and left it in a warm oven for an hour. I'll see how things go next time. I appreciate this may take a bit of getting used too.
You’re welcome! It gets better and better over time! If you like cornbread, cast iron makes the best!
A good friend from the south taught me how to season cast iron 20 years ago and I’ve never had a problem yet.
His technique was exactly the same as yours! I cook fatty foods in it for a while before trying anything acidic like chili or anything tomato based. To be honest I have my enameled cast iron Dutch oven for those dishes.
Thank you for posting and I’m subscribing 😊
That's cool, Steve! Thanks for sharing this with us, and thanks for subscribing, too, my friend!!
Here in germany most people use potatoes to "burn in" a pean. Use the potatoe peals oil and salt and cook them till they are burned black. That also works as good seasoning.
Also what you told us is so true. Nothing better than using the pan allot exists.
That is very interesting Zydia! Thanks for sharing this with us my friend!!
it's totally fine and safe to wash em with detergents whenever. dawn dish soap and such wont harm the seasoning or patina in any way. Used to be an issue back in the day when we had stuff like Lye in our detergent which would rip right through a patina. just important to make sure its completely dry after and then gets its thin coat of protected oil and its good.
Exactly! When the soap was made with lye, it caused a problem. Big time! But as you say, mild detergent is not a big issue anymore. But because of the way it used to be, the old lesson keeps being taught and passed down with no consideration that even Lodge says it’s ok to use a mild detergent when cleaning and especially before the initial seasoning process! Thanks for sharing this with us, my friend! I hope you consider subscribing to our channel if you have not done so already!? We welcome your feedback here!
Think someone from Lodge stated they mostly preseason to prevent rust while in storage at the warehouse and stores. It's an alternative to covering it in Beeswax that is a bit of a pain to clean off
Picked up a new Lodge 12" skillet exactly like yours here in the video. For this pan after washing off, Im opting for coconut oil as I have a big jar of it to use. Always appreciate your videos, Mike! Take care brother!
Finally a simple explanation, thank you! Is there any vegan food you could recommend I use to cook first time?
You’re welcome, and thank you too, Mia. Yes, if you like onions, you can sauté onions to help season your skillet!
@@MrCastIron wow thank you so much I will definitely try that!
You’re welcome! Let me know how it turns out, ok?
@@MrCastIron I certainly will! Thank you for taking the time to reply, it’s so kind of you.
My pleasure!
Everybody loves bacon! Thanks for the wonderful video, I’ve watched it at least a dozen times over the years and just watched it with my kids to teach them about seasoning our new cast iron pan. Fun education for the whole family.
lol all the crazy theories and techniques people use and this is exactly the way i was taught to do it. A 10.25” Lodge is my daily driver. When I first got it I was living in an apartment with two window units that barely kept the place cool and it was 90 degrees outside so I didn’t want to use the stove. I also didn’t want to use olive oil and have the whole place smoked out. I washed it, cooked a pound of bacon in it, poured the grease in a container for later, seared a NY strip, browned some brussel sprouts, and washed it. Then after I cleaned it I used the bacon grease to re-oil it. I did that every day after work for a week. I only cooked a whole pound of bacon the first day and I used it for sandwiches during the week. I did sear a strip in it with bacon grease every day though.
I love cast iron so much that I enjoy YT videos watching people season and cook in cast iron 😅
I have what I call my own Lodge family: my baby 6”, mama 10.25”, papa 12”, and grandpa griddle/grill.
Great video and thank you, Mr. Cast Iron!
Cheers from 🇨🇦 Canada
Lol! I love the idea of a cast iron family! That’s too cool! Thanks for stopping by and checking us out, my friend! Stay warm up that way!! 🔥🔥
@@MrCastIron Thank you, sir, and a great day to you 🙂 Looking forward to more of your videos!
You’re welcome! We sure appreciate you following us! Out of curiosity, is there anything, in particular, you would like to see us address in a video?
I trust this guy! To the point with no BS
Got ahead of you there and tested if it was dry enough by putting three fingers directly into the middle of it….handle would have been a better option
Yeah either way can be a little warm to the touch lol!
Thank you dear Sir. Very helpful advice and use directions for a beginner Lodge cast iron skillet user. Regards from Greece!
Your welcome anytime my friend!!
The southern accent is like a melody 😊. I just bought my cast iron yesterday. This was the most helpful video I’ve seen. You made the concept of a cast iron make sense to me. I’m vegetarian so I will be using vegetable oil in the oven.
Lol! Thanks, Camille! I’m happy to hear you are starting your journey with cast iron! If you ever have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, and I’ll do my best to help you out ok!!??
@@MrCastIron Will do! Thank you!
You’re welcome anytime, my friend!!
There aren’t any vegetables 🥗 in vegetable oil. Use avocado oil.
@@OCAZZ1323 vegetable oil is not plant based?
I got 4 lodge cast iron skillets they said preseasoned and they didn’t stick at all for me. I used avocado oil like I do on my blackstone. Has worked great so far but I’m no expert.
Avocado oil is my go to as well. Almost no taste, high smoke point, clean oil
This was a great tutorial! I just received my new skillet. Thank you...Blessings
Can you use cast iron on a glass top stove?
Yes
Yes, not recommended. I do it all time! Job don't move it scrape the glass top.
Thank you for explaining what seasoning is.! Been watching alot of videos, and this is the first one that actually explained it. Great video!
You are so welcome! I'm glad it was helpful!
I'm so glad I found you or I would never use my new Lodge cast iron pan. I didn't know where to start so I just let it sit. Thank you! Cornbread, here I come.
You’re welcome, my friend, and thank you too! I’m happy to hear you found us, and I hope you will consider subscribing, so you get our latest content as we produce it! Save me a corner piece of that cornbread, ok!!?? Lol 😂
Thank you sir. Love the message here - seasoned 2 cast iron skillets before and just got my third. Wish I never got stressed out with the previous times, going to take your advice for this one especially as I’ve used cast iron for a couple of years so I know a few things about them … not rocket science for sure!
You’re welcome, and thank you too, my friend!
My last Lodge cast iron skillet lasted me six years and I took the advice of a different TH-camr and scrubbed the hell out of it and seasoned it personally but they look so beautifully seasoned right from the get-go I'm wondering if I should even bother removing the original seasoning this time around
1:03 seasoning should not be affected just by washing your pan with soap and water you really need to scrub it off despite what a lot of people think it's definitely okay to wash your cast iron skillet you just need to make sure you're getting off the thin layer of nasty stuff and not scrubbing off your seasoning and make sure you put it back on the burner for a few minutes to dry it
Dont bother removing the seasoning and re seasoning it again...its a waste of time of energy...its good to go if u buy a preseasoned skillet
What a great video. Especially enjoyed your accent and to finish it off with bacon, well just brilliant.
Finally a straight direct answer
Thanks Marcus!
@@MrCastIron no problem thank you
@Mr. Cast Iron thanks for the video. What I do is (and I own several Lodge Cast Iron pans-the heavy ones) is I use Cowboy Kent Rollins’ advice. I take the pan and sandpaper it down. I use a 40-60 grit, get near the base and then wash and rinse it off well. Then, I oil it with Avocado Oil or Flaxseed Oil or Grapeseed Oil and pit it in the oven on 450 for 60-90 minutes. Repeat the process 3-4 times. Beats me, after listening to others, why some take the seasoning off by dumping it in a big plastic garbage bag and pour some chemical on it. I’ll de-season it with sandpaper and then get a nice shiny coat. Thanks for the video.
You’re welcome, and thank you too! I haven’t ever sanded one, but I know some folks do. I like avocado oil and grapeseed, but I won’t use flaxseed. I think it’s way overrated. I sure appreciate you sharing your thoughts with us, though, my friend!
@@MrCastIron Ok. Good to know about your view on Flaxseed oil. Why do you think it’s overrated, if you don’t mind my asking? Yeah, I sand them down. In the process as we speak of sanding one. I sand the entire interior and the walls of the pan. It actually has a silverish color patina. This is when I then add a good coating on it and pop it in the oven. 3-4 time cycle.
Well I made a video about it but in case you haven’t seen it yet you can check it out here: The BEST OIL FOR CAST IRON SEASONING Is NOT Flaxseed Oil!
th-cam.com/video/IRrb7b0jW-s/w-d-xo.html
@@MrCastIron I like the way you think....Flax seed oil seems like a yuppy way to do it ....I like to season with something I use every day. My lodge has olive 🫒 oil. My rv skillet has canola oil that I spay on. Nothing fancy.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us, my friend!
I'm dead honest, the first thought that came to my mind when I started this video was "He's going to say 'cook in it', isnt he?" 😂 I was right! Lovely advice, and I agree. You get some more flavors in there when you cook with it.
Lol! Was I that obvious?? 😂😂
Thin layer is the trick. No matter what you use to season. But bacon grease smells the best. Thank you for the lesson. Mike. Stay safe and stay cool. I put this important PSA on the CIW play list.
Thanks, Sean!! We did a shoutout on our show Sunday night for this upcoming month's breaded meat challenge! Thanks again buddy for all you do!!
I can confirm with a skillet it is not a fast Gordon Ramsey type. I cooked 2 steaks on my skillet and it took about 15 minutes. I prefer my steak medium rare and my momma liked hers medium. Boy I tell ya. I thought the amount of time it took I thot it was gonna be like eating some rubber tires but they came out great. In addition the skillet not only made those steaks perfectly. It got a nice well addition of seasoning layer for the next time I use it
That’s awesome! I love hearing stories like this! You can’t beat a good steak in a cast iron skillet! Thanks for sharing with us, my friend!
@Justin,
Seasoning during cooking.
Our preferred method.
I'm glad you said that the first thing to do is to remove the paper label. I almost left that on...
Lol! That’s right, Jeffrey! We might be surprised at who would leave it on, though!! Thanks for the laughs this morning, my friend!
I only trust people who call it ool. 😀
Just got one of these for Christmas. Reading through the comments I appreciate your ability to engage with your community.
Hope you enjoy it! Sorry I missed this comment somehow! Thanks for checking out our channel, my friend!
This man out straight bacon fat onto his pan to cook strips of bacon.
Legendary.
Yes sir!! You gotta love a little bacon and bacon grease!! Thanks for stopping by and checking it out my friend!! Have a great week ahead!
I love your video, your explanation of seasoning a cast iron pan is simple and logical. Thank you and god bless you
You’re welcome, and thank you too, my friend! God bless you also!
Excellent episode Mike. It’s very important to get your Cast iron primed and seasoned so you can make some great food! Nothing like a cast iron skillet! A good cook should be able to cook just about anything in a cast iron skillet.
Good point about seasoning being a thin layer of oil on your skillet . I like using bacon grease too. Left you a like my friend. Keep up the good content!
Thank you!! Yes a good oiled skillet and the right ingredients and we could have us a feast lol!! Thanks again for checking it out my friend!!
That's a good tip about the handle heating up. Great video.
Thanks bud!
This makes me want to run down to Lodge (15 minute drive) and buy something. I love their store.
Lol! I hear ya! If I lived 15 minutes away I’d be broke all the time!
That's the way I season my new pre-seasoned Lodge cast iron! Great tips Mike! Have a great day my friend!
Thanks, Charley! It works every time don't it buddy??
would you do the same for a dutch oven that you did for this pan for seasoning and cleaning 🤔 just came across you're channel today
Yes it’s the same basic principle. Let me know if you ever have any other questions or we can help with anything ok!!?
@@MrCastIron thanks for answering my question......cast iron is becoming my favorite thing to cook and bake with....
You’re always welcome my friend! Thank you!
I literally just ordered the Lodge 12-inch chef's skillet. I'm using the advice in this video for it's first use, hopefully this weekend.
That’s cool! Let me know how it goes, ok!?
I trust the accent, for sure. Thank you, unk
Lol! You’re welcome and thank you too my friend! Or is it nephew? Lol! 😂😂
Can you use a mild detergent on all cast irons or no right?
Mike might know better. But my understanding is: Back when lye was a common ingredient in soaps, it was not recommended to use such soaps on cast iron because it could break down the seasoning. Modern dish washing soap is milder and it's okay to use on cast iron. Having said that, I don't use soap. Right after cooking while the pan is still hot, I run it under very hot water and use a spatula to scrap/clean. Then I wipe it dry and put it back on the burner and do what Mike said - let it dry out then a thin coat of oil and I'm done.
Very well explained Hobie!! Lisa I usually only use soap on a brand new skillet like in this video to clean anything and everything off of it. After that I dry and heat it and add a thin coat of oil as Hobie said and then it’s ready for the next time I’m ready to cook in it!!
I just found an old (20+ years) lodge pan on the bottom of my grandmothers closet. It is rusted and will need a complete restoration but I am looking forward to doing it while learning more about cast iron. Thank you for sharing your knowledge!
That is awesome! If we can ever help in any way, don't hesitate to reach out, and we will do our best to help, ok!?
I’m a first time user with cast iron and I bought the same one you have except mine is a 10”. I’m going to follow this advice. Thanks this really helps especially that I never used one or even seasoned one 😬😅
You’re welcome, and thank you too, Robin. I know you are excited to get started cooking in your new skillet. If you ever need any help or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll do my best to help you.
This was SO informative Mike!! I saw this very pan at Costco just yesterday and was ALMOST going to get it..but was afraid to because I wasnt sure if I needed to season it. Im gonna go back and get it..because it was 2 pack for like $14!!! You are the Cast Iron King my Friend!!!
Thank you, Karen!! Go get it and clean it up and start cooking, lol!! Just don’t call me late for supper though lol!!
I bought that exact one and didnt season it prior to using. Bad mistake. It got rusted after the first wash and I noticed it the next day when i went to use it again. Ended up seasoning it afterwards and works good now
Thanks for sharing your experience with us, my friend. Did you lightly oil it after washing it?
@@MrCastIron yes sir, washed it then let it dry and i used canola oil since it was all i had. Baked it in the oven at 450f for an hour
Cool! As you continue cooking in it, layers will be added each time, and before long, it will look like a picture, lol!
@L that’s a great question and this may help you Does Apple Cider Vinegar Remove Rust From Cast Iron?
th-cam.com/video/sWNT9EEeXnw/w-d-xo.html
I have several seasoning videos, but I don’t think I made one after the vinegar video.
Thanks Mr. Cast Iron. I just forwarded this video to my buddy who was asking about seasoning his first ever piece of Cast Iron. 👍🏿
Awesome!! Thank you for sharing this with him! I hope it helps him!! Have a great day my friend!!
I thank you are amazing for saying it's not rocket science to season a skillet lol. Some of the fancy folks will act like you need a degree to learn how to do it. You showed us the easiest way to season that can last us many years of cooking.
You’re welcome and thank you for sharing this with us my friend! Happy cast iron cooking!!
This seemed more helpful than other videos that talked about smoke points and everything. I think I'm gonna try it like you did, just using some other oil (I don't have bacon grease at the moment)
There ain't nothing better then a beautiful ribeye steak on a nicely seasoned cast iron skillet. Steak butter and Skillets go together like red white and blue.
A cast iron skillet 🍳 is like man's best friend. A good ol dog that's always by your side.
If you ain't cooking with cast iron you ain't cooking
"Ain't that the truth"
???
Thanks for all your videos Mr Cast Iron
Hello! Just discovered your channel! I got a new GSI brand lightweight cast iron 10" pan. It's not seasoned which is ok. Ive washed it with mild dish soap and hot water a few times. I thought i was done with the initial cleaning so started wiping it with light coat oil to put in oven. BUT- my paper towel kept wiping up black dirt! How many times do i need to keep washing and wiping to get all that machine oil out b4 I can start the seasoning process? Heeelp! I want to take camping with me soon and want to use it a few times first.
Hello and welcome to our channel! I made this video, and I hope it helps you: Why Is There Black Residue On My Cast Iron Skillet? th-cam.com/video/BfUdX52kt8Q/w-d-xo.html. We also have other videos of using salt to clean the cast iron. Be sure to subscribe and check these videos out. But if you still have questions, reach out, and we will do our best to help you, OK!?
So why not use Peanut Awl?
Thank you boss I just got my new lodge cast iron today your video has been very helpful!
Great to hear that! I know you must be excited to get started cooking in it too! I'm glad this video helped you, and if you ever have any questions about your cast iron, don't hesitate to reach out to me, and I'll do my best to help you, ok!??
Right on! Thank you 🙏
@@tezsal1501 anytime my friend!
Straight to the point, thank you sir.
You’re welcome my friend!
This video was perfectly timed for me. I recently got a brand new cast Iron and not done anything with it yet. Going to follow your lead on my days off. Thanks for sharing Mike 🙌🏼😊
That’s cool, Jamie!! I love my cast iron, and I’m sure you will too!! You probably already cook in some now, don’t you!!??
@@MrCastIron at work it’s mostly aluminium. Our char grill is cast Iron and the stove tops are cast iron . One of the stove tops is a flat top which you can put food directly on you but we tend not to and just use it for pot and pans.
At home I’ve got a griddle that goes over 2 stove tops at a time. I use that a bit.
That’s cool!! You will love a good skillet and especially for a fatty ribeye steak, and cornbread, and bacon, and eggs and…. Lol
@@MrCastIron 😂 and everything
Eggsackly lol
Finally actual southern advice i can use🤣🤣🤣... when looking up this topic I was open to other videos but I was really looking for a southern opinion LMAO. Since I cant ask my grandma whose dancing with Jesus😉. Thankyou
Lol! Well that’s too cool! I’m about as Southern as I can get 🤣🤣!! I hope this helped you and I’d ask you to subscribe if you haven’t already. That way you will get all of our newest content as we create it! Thanks again my friend!! Oh, and I look forward to dancing with Jesus someday too!! 👆👆
I have been wanting a cast iron skillet for awhile and on vacation I happened to go by where Lodge makes their pans and went to their factory store. I am probably going to wish I bought more than I did because the prices were fantastic. Now I must season it and start using it.
That factory store is amazing, isn’t it!!??
I like your approach in seasoning a cast iron pan. Thanks!!
Thanks Susan! I sure appreciate you, my friend!
As soon as I saw him I trusted him with my pans
Thank you my friend!
Feels like I’m in the kitchen with you! I was gifted a cast iron skillet (exact same as the one in the video) a few weeks ago and have never cooked with one before. After thorough research I’ve decided I’m finally ready to give it a go! Thank you for such an informative, simple video. :)
You’re welcome, my friend! I love cast iron, as you can tell, and I think you’ll enjoy your new skillet too! I’d like to see what you cook!! Take care, and if I can ever help you with anything, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, ok!?
So bacon grease and then more bacon grease?
This is gonna be fun.
😁
Stripping the pan of the pre-seasoning is the key to a true non-stick skillet. Place it upside down on your oven's rack and run the self-cleaning mode for 60-90 minutes, then turn off and let cool in the oven for several hours.
Remove, wash with warm water and a light dish soap, rinse, then dry completely and heat up to ~200F. If some of the grit of the pre-seasoning remains, you can remove the remnants with steel wool. Season with your oil of choice (mine is flaxseed) and bake at 350-375 for 90 minutes.
Let cool in the oven and repeat this oiling process 2 to 3 more times and you'll have a perfect, non-stick skillet.
I’m not a flaxseed oil person, but thanks for sharing your thoughts and suggestions with us, my friend!!
Thanks for this video. Greetings from Poland 🇵🇱 , new subscriber here.
You’re welcome and thank you too my new friend!! Welcome!!
I found my grandmas old skillet, and I am 60 so it is a good find and an old pan. It was smooth .I have re seasoned it at 450 like instructed with canola oil cooking spray before I saw your video . I just bought a 3 pack Mesquite 3 pack at Menards before I found the old pan . I have seen videos of people sanding all the rough surfaces with a paint stripping wheel and then 2 different grits of flapper wheel and the sand paper wheels by hand to get them smooth, and then the oil seasoning. I have also seen videos of these type of skillets shedding the coating into the food when used new even though they say pre seasoned ?? I would like to use one of them on an upcoming Ice fishing trip, along with Grandma's old one . Martha Stewart uses Crisco at 350 for an hour and has a video of her treating a new pan and an old pan. I have jarred Bacon rendered fat I bought at the store I add to certain dishes, would that work for seasoning anew pan too along with cooking bacon too?? Cooking bacon in the pan over time makes the most sense to me. I have a month until the fishing trip. I will cook bacon in both pans and see if they becomes more non stick Thank you very much for any opinion and advise you could offer for the brand new pre seasoned pans. I heard canola and Grapeseed oil are high temp for seasoning and acceptable / recommended . treatment on Grandma's pan. I am confused by all the info and want reliable advise and never have to think of the seasoning details again. Thank you very much
Thank you for sharing this with us, my friend! I don’t sand or grind on any skillets, and I don’t recommend anyone do that. I know there are big-name channels that have videos doing that, and there is a lot of other information, some good, some bad. My recommendation is, as I mentioned in this video and that is to cook in it. Bacon is good, and so is any kind of fatty meat. Sautéing onions is good, and so is baking cornbread! I hope this works out for you, and if you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me, ok!?
@@MrCastIron thanks for the reply . I am going to take my new pan and old pan on a fishing trip in late February . I will just baconize it as much as I can , same with my grandma's pan that I did season at high heat. Thank you so much ! Do you have any special cleaning techniques ?
Being a California boy who loves visiting the south to visit my X-pat Cali friends to go hunting and fishing…. One thing I’ve learned among many is, if you want to learn how to make proper biscuits and gravy, listen to a rednecks momma, if you wanna know how to tell good moonshine from bad, make friends with the old man with the long beard… and, if you wanna learn how to season an iron pan, listen to this guy…. “ it’s not rocket science “ typically means, here’s how it’s done!
Lol! Thanks, Steven! You got to keep an eye on those bearded-overall-wearing guys too. Lol 😂
@@MrCastIron they always know where the best shine is😆
Lol! I can’t touch that! 😎
Every time I cook a steak I trim the fat cap. --But I don't waste it. I cut it up in small pieces and render it down in the skillet into beef tallow. It adds flavor to steak while also giving the skillet an old-fashioned coat of seasoning.
I really like that idea! Beef tallow is great for cooking with and seasoning your cast iron! That’s for sure! Thanks for sharing this with us, my friend!
Interesting presentation. You obviously know your way around cast iron, and I don't disagree with anything you said. But... (There's always a "but", isn't there?) You really didn't answer the original question: "Do I NEED to season a new Lodge cast iron skillet?" You basically said, "It says "pre-seasoned", but I'm going to season it first, anyway, and here's how I'm going to do it."
And that part looked good. But what you did not do is tell us why you believe that it needs to be seasoned again before use, nor did you test the new pan in any way to demonstrate that your belief was correct. So, interesting video. But we still don't know if we NEED to season a new Lodge cast iron skillet...
I recently bought a lodge cast iron skillet. It stated pre seasoned but want this skillet to last so I looked into it further and found a guy on tiktok telling his followers that originally he said to go ahead and cook with it but after a lot of feedback from multiple people he now recommends seasoning it 1 or 2 times before cooking with it because people were saying that they'd cook on it how it came and the next day it had rusted. So then I found this video on TH-cam and I think it's simple very direct and very easy to understand directions. Although he didn't say why his opinion would be to season it before cooking I agree with him seeing as I want this cast iron to last for a while 😊
@@brittanymiller917 Thanks for sharing. Your post is suggestive. Your tiktok reference appears not to comment on how the skillet cooked on the first attempt, only that some of his viewers reported rust "the next day". I would submit that has more to do with how they cleaned and treated their skillet after cooking than it does on how it was delivered from Lodge. That being the case, your post does not reveal whether or not we NEED to season a new Lodge skillet before we cook in it.
But that's all second hand. What was your experience? Did you cook on your new Lodge skillet before seasoning? Or did you season it first?
I appreciate the grass roots explanation. Just picked up the same skillet today and love it!
You’re welcome and congratulations on your new skillet my friend!!
We all grew up with Mamaw cooking with cast iron but when my wife paid $70 for a big lodge I figured I’d take a peak at what other people do. I figured just cook some bacon, leave the grease in it and then fry a burger for lunch, leave the grease and fry a steak for dinner. Now it’s ready to fry up some rabbit.
Thanks!
You're welcome, and thank you too, my friend!
Thanks for this good tutorial! Bonus that we all get a batch of bacon!
You’re welcome my friend!! Yes the bacon was what I was waiting for lol!!
Excellent presentation Mr cast iron!
I thoroughly enjoyed your energy and expertise! Keep up the good work...
Thank you sir! I sure appreciate the encouragement, my friend!
I love my Lodge cast iron skillet.
I heard that! I love mine too, lol! What is your favorite thing to cook in cast iron, Neonia?
@@MrCastIron steak.
Yes, they sure do help to make the best steaks ever!
I just got one I’m excited!!
I know you are excited to get started! If you ever have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to me anytime, and I’ll try to help any way I can, ok!?