To season a carbon steel pan, apply a thin layer of oil to the surface and heat it until smoking, then let it cool completely before wiping off excess oil. Carbon steel pans are an excellent choice for cooking as they’re light, durable, and retain heat well.
However, before using your new pan, it’s important to season it properly. Seasoning protects the pan from rust and creates a non-stick surface. Carbon steel pans don’t come pre-seasoned like cast iron pans, so you’ll need to take a few easy steps to get yours in tip-top shape.
In this article, we’ll discuss the steps for seasoning a carbon steel pan, so it’s ready for cooking.
Credit: madeincookware.com
Preparing The Pan For Seasoning
Before seasoning your carbon steel pan, you need to prepare the surface to achieve optimal results. Here are the essential steps in preparing your pan for seasoning:
The Cleaning And Drying Process
- Wash the pan with hot, soapy water and a soft sponge. Avoid using abrasive cleaners that could scratch the surface of your pan’s seasoning.
- Rinse the pan with warm water to remove all soap residue.
- Use a lint-free towel or paper towel to dry the pan thoroughly.
Importance Of Removing Any Protective Wax Coating From New Pans
- If you’re working with a brand new carbon steel pan, there’s a good chance that it came with a protective wax coating.
- Use warm soapy water and a soft sponge to remove the protective wax coating from the surface of your carbon steel pan.
- Rinse the pan with warm water, and dry it thoroughly with a lint-free towel or paper towel.
How To Scrub The Pan Dry
- Use a sponge or scrubber to get rid of all spots, stains and rust from the surface of your pan.
- If there is any tough, stuck-on food residue, use a little bit of kosher or sea salt to scrub the spot.
- Rinse the pan with warm water and wipe it dry with a lint-free or paper towel.
How To Heat The Pan After Cleaning
- Preheat your oven to 400°f (205°c).
- Place your clean and dry carbon steel pan in the oven for 10-15 minutes to ensure that it’s completely dry.
- Use oven mitts to remove the pan from the oven and let it cool down for a few minutes before applying the seasoning.
Carbon Steel Vs. Cast Iron Pan Seasoning
- Carbon steel pans are lighter and easier to maneuver than cast iron pans, but both require a similar seasoning process.
- The seasoning is a thin layer of oil that is baked onto the surface of the pan, creating a natural, non-stick coating that will improve with use and time.
- Before using your carbon steel pan, be sure to season it correctly with high heat oil, such as vegetable, soybean, or grapeseed oil, for the best cooking experience.
Choosing A Seasoning Oil
Why Oil Is Important In Seasoning
Seasoning a carbon steel pan is a vital step in maintaining its quality. The seasoning process creates a non-stick layer on the pan’s surface that prevents food from sticking and protects the pan from rust. Oil is an essential component in seasoning a carbon steel pan because it helps create the non-stick layer.
Different Types Of Oil For Seasoning Carbon Steel Pans
Choosing the right oil for seasoning your carbon steel pan is an important decision. Here are different types of oils that can be used for seasoning:
- Vegetable oil: Most commonly used is vegetable oil. It is affordable, readily available, and has a high smoke point.
- Flaxseed oil: Flaxseed oil is a preferred option for many because it creates the best seasoning layer. It can be expensive, but its benefits outweigh the cost.
- Canola oil: Another popular option is canola oil. It has a high smoke point and is relatively affordable. Moreover, it has less saturated fat than vegetable oil.
- Soybean oil: Soybean oil is a good option because it is affordable and has a high smoke point. However, its seasoning layer is not as robust as that created by other oils.
Benefits And Drawbacks Of Using Different Types Of Oils
Although most oils can be used for seasoning carbon steel pans, each type has its benefits and drawbacks. Here are some of them:
Vegetable Oil
- Benefits: It is cheap, easy to find, and has a high smoke point.
- Drawbacks: The seasoning layer created is not as rugged as that created by other oils, and it is not as healthy as some of the other choices.
Flaxseed Oil
- Benefits: It creates the toughest and most long-lasting seasoning layer, is healthy to use, and provides a nutty flavor to food.
- Drawbacks: It is the most expensive type of oil, is not readily available, and has the lowest smoke point of all the oils.
Canola Oil
- Benefits: It is affordable, easy to find, and has high smoke points.
- Drawbacks: It is not as healthy as some of the other choices and creates a seasoning layer that is not as durable as that created by flaxseed oil.
Soybean Oil
- Benefits: It is cheap and easy to find.
- Drawbacks: It creates a seasoning layer that is not as durable as that created by other oils, and it is not as healthy as some of the other choices.
Considerations For Making Your Choice Of Oil
When selecting which oil to use to season your carbon steel pan, consider the following:
- Smoke point: Choose oil that has a high smoke point to prevent the seasoning from flaking or burning off.
- Affordability: Choose an oil that fits into your budget.
- Health: Consider your health-related goals when selecting an oil.
- Availability: Choose oil that is readily available.
How Much Oil Should Be Used
The amount of oil used for seasoning a carbon steel pan is crucial. Use only enough to create a thin layer on the pan’s surface. Too much oil will create an uneven seasoning layer, which can lead to flaking and reduced non-stick capabilities.
Seasoning The Carbon Steel Pan
Seasoning a carbon steel pan is the process of creating a non-stick surface on the pan by heating oil onto its surface. This process is crucial for the overall longevity and performance of your carbon steel pan. Here are the steps you need to follow to season your carbon steel pan.
The Steps Needed To Season Your Carbon Steel Pan
To get the best results, follow these steps in order.
- Apply oil to the pan and spread it: First, coat your pan with a thin layer of oil. You can use any high smoke point oil like vegetable, flaxseed, or canola oil. Spread the oil evenly across the pan’s surface, making sure to coat the entire pan, including the sides and handle.
- Heating the pan in the oven or stove: Preheat your oven to 400°f or heat your stovetop burner to high heat. Place your oiled pan on the oven rack or stovetop burner with the burner on for around 15 minutes, or until you see smoke from the oil.
- Repeat the process: After 15 minutes, turn off the oven or reduce the stovetop heat to medium-low, keeping the pan on for another 15 minutes until it cools down to room temperature. Repeat this process at least three times, or until the pan turns dark black and develops a shiny hardened surface.
The Frequency Of Seasoning
Your carbon steel pan requires frequent seasoning to maintain its non-stick surface. You should season your pan before using it for the first time and then after every use if possible. However, if you haven’t used your pan in a while, it’s essential to season it again before using it.
Understanding The Signs That Your Pan Needs Re-Seasoning
You’ll know it’s time to re-season your carbon steel pan if you notice the following signs:
- The surface of the pan is sticky
- Food sticking to the pan despite adequate oiling
- Uneven colour on the surface
The Impact Of Seasoning On Cooking Performance
A well-seasoned carbon steel pan will perform better than a non-seasoned one. The cooking surface becomes virtually non-stick, making it easy to fry, sear, and saute foods. The seasoning process also creates a chemical reaction that helps prevent rust and protects the pan from wear and tear.
Additional Tips For Maintaining A Well-Seasoned Pan
Here are a few tips to keep your carbon steel pan well-seasoned:
- Clean the pan after each use with hot water and mild detergent.
- Avoid using a dishwasher or metal utensils that could scratch the surface.
- Dry the pan thoroughly after cleaning to prevent rust.
- Store your pan in a dry place where it can’t get damaged.
Seasoning your carbon steel pan is essential for achieving excellent cooking performance. While the process may take time, you’ll benefit from a non-stick surface that makes cooking and cleaning a breeze. By following these steps and tips, your carbon steel pan can last you for years to come.
Additional Resources
Seasoning a carbon steel pan is essential to enhance its non-stick properties, longevity, and rust resistance. If you want to gather some more information on the topic, we have listed some additional resources for you below.
Recommendations For Related Reads
- Understanding carbon steel cookware: Pros & cons: this article gives a detailed comparison between carbon steel and other cookware materials, plus their benefits and drawbacks.
- The secret to perfectly seasoned cast iron: This post is dedicated to seasoning cast iron cookware, but it will also give you an idea about the carbon steel seasoning process.
- All about seasoning: This article explains what seasoning is all about and why it’s crucial to take care of pans’ seasoning before cooking.
Recommended Products To Buy
- Flaxseed oil: One of the most popular oils used for seasoning carbon steel and cast iron pans. Its high smoke point helps in creating a hard, non-stick surface.
- Carbon steel pan seasoning wax: Made with natural ingredients, these waxes help in creating a protective barrier on the pan surface.
- Stainless steel chainmail scrubber: After seasoning, you need to clean and maintain the pan’s surface, for which this scrubber works great while taking care of the seasoning layer.
Seasoning a carbon steel pan is a time-consuming process, but it’s worth it to make cooking easier and enhance your cooking experience. The right resources and tools can make the job simpler, which is why we’ve recommended some related reads and products.
Happy seasoning!
Frequently Asked Questions For How To Season A Carbon Steel Pan?
How Do I Season A Carbon Steel Pan?
To season a carbon steel pan, first wash it thoroughly with soap and water, then dry it completely. Apply a thin layer of oil and heat the pan on the stovetop or in the oven until it starts to smoke.
After cooling, repeat this process a few times until the pan develops a non-stick coating.
Why Is Seasoning A Carbon Steel Pan Important?
Seasoning a carbon steel pan creates a non-stick surface that prevents food from sticking and rust from forming. This also allows for even heat distribution and prevents the pan from warping. It is an essential step to maintain and prolong the life of your carbon steel pan.
Can I Use Soap To Clean My Seasoned Carbon Steel Pan?
Yes, you can use soap to clean a seasoned carbon steel pan. Use warm water and a gentle dish soap to clean, and always ensure the pan is completely dry after cleaning. Avoid using harsh scrubbers or abrasive cleaners that may damage the seasoning layer.
How Often Do I Need To Season My Carbon Steel Pan?
You should season your carbon steel pan whenever the non-stick coating starts to wear out. This can happen after a few uses or after an extended period of use. It’s recommended to re-season your pan every few months to maintain its non-stick properties.
What Oil Should I Use To Season My Carbon Steel Pan?
You can use any oil with a high smoke point, such as canola, grapeseed, or flaxseed oil, to season your carbon steel pan. Avoid using low smoke point oils like olive oil, which can smoke and burn during the seasoning process.
Conclusion
Finally, learning how to season a carbon steel pan can be a game-changer for your cooking experience. A well-seasoned carbon steel pan will not only prevent food from sticking but will also make it easier to clean after use. This process takes patience, time and effort but it’s totally worth the investment.
Remember to use high smoke point oils, heat the pan to the appropriate temperature, apply thin layers of oil and let it burn off completely between coatings. After seasoning is complete, store your pan in a cool dry place. Proper maintenance will help extend its lifespan.
By following these simple steps, the result will be a durable and non-stick surface pan that will last for generations. Start seasoning your pan today and elevate your cooking game.