The Science of Seasoning Cast Iron

The science behind cast iron, and the difference it makes in the long run

Cast-iron skillets and griddles seem to appear on every “foodie” home cook gift guide around the holidays. And, for good reason: A cast-iron skillet is one of the best tools to have in the kitchen. 

But, want our recommendation? 

Get it out from under the tree and put it to use for all your holiday cooking.

A cast-iron skillet holds onto an impressive amount of thermal energy and it radiates that heat steadily, not dropping in temperature even when something cool enters the pan. This makes cast iron great at creating the deep sear and crisp edges we want from holiday food like large cuts of meat, golden breads and biscuits, and crispy vegetables. 

Cast iron takes longer to heat up than a lighter pan like copper or steel, but once it gets hot, it has that superior heat retention. This means a dish cooked in cast iron will stay warm longer once it hits the table or family buffet line.

Cast iron’s surface is naturally rough and porous, and heating a small amount of oil in the pan triggers a chemical process called polymerization. The oil bonds to the surface and transforms it into a hard, protective coating that helps create a naturally nonstick surface, often called “seasoning.” The seasoning protects the iron from moisture and rust. And unlike a delicate chemical nonstick finish, the seasoning actually improves with each use. So, every time you cook with oil or fat, you’re helping build that protective layer making cooking, cleaning, and care much easier. 

Speaking of easy: One of the best things about cast iron at the holidays, when oven and counter space is precious and the last thing anyone wants to do is more dishes? Cast-iron skillets can move from stovetop to oven without changing pans. The cook can sear a pork tenderloin, then finish it in the oven and only one dish is dirty. A true gift!

But, cast iron isn’t just cooking chemistry. It can also set the tone and serve as an aesthetic tool for baked goods like a Dutch baby, cinnamon rolls, or a fruit crisp. Serve these items straight from the skillet after baking for a rustic, family-style presentation that will look straight out of Christmas Past at your holiday table.