You can use a cast iron skillet for most anything as long as you take the time to maintain it and keep it in good condition. This week's Spoonful tells you how.

A few years ago I remember looking at a cast iron skillet in my local grocery store and wondering if I should buy one. I went home and researched, studied up on the benefits of cooking with one, learned how to care for cast iron, asked some friends, read a few blog posts about the topic and ultimately decided against it. Just a few months ago, on a whim, I bought one. And I fell in love. It’s one of my most used kitchen tools. It’s the perfect vessel to cook up a great pork chop, make a frittata, small pizzas and even bake a great batch of cornbread. I love being able to transfer things from the stovetop to the oven and even to the table with ease. And oh, did I mention that they are super easy to care for?

There is science behind the seasoning process and the skillet’s durability and longevity. A properly maintained cast iron pan can become a kitchen essential passed on from generation to generation.

Let’s start at the beginning.

How To Season A Cast Iron Skillet

1. Preheat oven to 325°F.
2. Wash the skillet with warm, soapy water and a sponge or stiff brush. Cast iron should not normally be washed with soap, but it's fine here since the pan is about to be seasoned.
3. Rinse and thoroughly dry the skillet.
4. Using a cloth or paper towel, apply a thin coat of vegetable oil to the inside and outside of the skillet.
5. Place the skillet upside down on the oven's center rack.
6. Place a sheet of aluminum foil below the rack to catch any drips.
7. Bake for an hour.
8. Turn off heat and allow to the skillet to cool completely before removing from oven.

TIP: If your cast iron skillet isn't smooth, shiny, and non stick, you know it's time to re-season.

And now that your skillet is properly seasoned,

How To Clean A Cast Iron Skillet After Each Use

• Clean the skillet immediately after use, while it is still hot or warm. Avoid soaking the pan or leaving it in the sink, or it may rust.
• Wash the skillet by hand using hot water and a sponge or stiff brush.
• To remove stuck-on food, scrub the pan with a paste of kosher salt and water. Stubborn food residue may also be loosened by boiling water in the pan.
• Thoroughly towel dry the skillet.
• Using a cloth or paper towel, apply a light coat of vegetable oil to the inside of the skillet. Some people also like to oil the outside of the skillet. Buff to remove any excess.
• Store the skillet in a dry place.

Read the original on: Time for Dinner