Instructions

1. Wash a new cast iron skillet with hot water and a nylon dish scrubber. Dish soap isn't necessary to clean the pan. In fact, soap will cause the seasoning to wear off after the pan has been cured. New cast iron cookware often has a gray film that washes off.

2. Season the cast iron skillet prior to the first use. Rub vegetable oil around the entire surface with a paper towel to coat it lightly.

3. Place the skillet in an oven that's been preheated to 450 degrees. Leave the pan in the oven for 30 minutes; then remove it and allow it to cool.

4. Heat the stove top or oven to the appropriate cooking temperature before cooking with your skillet for the first time. Allow the skillet to heat up for a few minutes before adding food to create an even cooking surface.

5. Use wooden cooking utensils during the cooking process to prevent the pan from being scratched. Grasp the pan with an oven mitt when removing the pan from the heat source, as heat is absorbed into the handle.

6. Wash the pan immediately after use by scrubbing it with a nylon dish scrubber and water. Dry immediately with a kitchen towel to prevent rusting.