How to Season Enameled Cast Iron (Guide)

Enameled cast iron is a beloved material in the world of cookware. It effortlessly combines the heat-retaining properties of a traditional cast iron skillet with a beautiful enamel coating that eliminates the need for seasoning. However, you may wonder, “how to season enameled cast iron?” and “can you season an enameled cast iron skillet?”.

Enameled cast iron does not need to be seasoned. The enamel provides a non-stick surface. However, any exposed iron edges can be lightly coated with a high smoke point oil and heated in the oven to season.

This guide will provide you with all the answers.

Understanding Enameled Cast Iron

Unlike regular cast iron, enameled cast iron cookware boasts a glossy, non-reactive surface that doesn’t require the same upkeep as its traditional counterpart.

This means you can enjoy all the benefits of a traditional cast iron skillet. Like its ability to maintain high heat even for slow-cooking meat without worrying about rust or time-consuming seasoning processes.

The Seasoning Process

The answer to the question, “what is the best way to season enameled cast iron?” is actually quite simple: you don’t need to! The enamel coating provides a smooth, stick-resistant surface that doesn’t require seasoning.

However, the exposed cast iron on the cookware’s edges and the underside of the lid might benefit from a light coating of oil.

Although the enameled surface layer is resistant to rust and damage, small chips, scratches, and areas of exposed cast iron can still occur.

Seasoning your enameled cast iron can help protect these areas from rust and corrosion. The thin layer of oil acts as a barrier to moisture, extending the lifetime of your cookware.

To season the exposed cast iron parts, simply apply a thin layer of oil to those areas and heat the cookware as recommended.

Does enamel cast iron really need to be seasoned this article explains all!

How to Season Enamel Cast Iron

Follow these simple steps;

Preparation

Before you start seasoning your enamel cast iron cookware, the first step is to ensure that it is thoroughly clean and dry. If there is any residue soak, use soap, hot water, and a nylon non-abrasive pad to scrub it off.

Remember to particularly pay attention to the thin border of exposed cast iron along the rim of the vessel and lid, as these are the parts that need seasoning.

Selecting an Oil

When seasoning enamel cast iron, choosing the right oil is essential. Opt for a neutral oil such as canola, vegetable, or flaxseed oil. These oils have a high smoke point and will create a durable seasoning layer on your cookware.

Application of Oil

Apply a thin layer of your chosen oil to the exposed cast iron areas of your cookware using a soft cloth, brush, or paper towel. Be sure to cover the edges evenly, as this will ensure an even seasoning layer.

Baking and Curing

Next, place your pot or pan upside down in a preheated oven set to 350°F (175°C). This will prevent any drips or pooling of cooking oil below.

You can place a piece of aluminum foil or a baking sheet on the oven rack beneath the cookware to catch any potential drips.

Bake the cookware for approximately one hour, allowing the oil to polymerize and create the seasoning layer.

Cooling Process

After the baking process, carefully remove your enameled cookware from the oven using heat-resistant gloves or tongs. Allow it to cool completely on a heat-resistant surface before using or storing it.

Season like this and your enamel cast iron cookware is now seasoned and ready for use in your cooking adventures!

Maintaining Your Enameled Cast Iron Cookware

Keeping Your Enameled Cast Iron from Sticking

To keep your enameled cast iron cookware from sticking, always preheat it on low to medium heat before adding food. Cast iron retains and maintains heat well, so there’s no need for high heat.

Add a bit of cooking oil for extra assurance and remember to let your food come to room temperature before adding it to the hot pan.

I recall one of my earliest cooking adventures with my brand-new enameled cast iron skillet. In my excitement, I cranked up the heat to high and threw in my marinated chicken straight from the refrigerator.

The result? A sticky mess that took me a considerable amount of time cold water, and elbow grease to clean up. This was a valuable lesson in the importance of heat management with enameled cast iron cookware.

Cleaning and Caring

HandWash

Hand-washing with hot water and mild soap is recommended for enameled cast iron even though they are dishwasher safe.

Thermal Shock

Avoid putting cold water into a hot vessel, as this can damage the enamel.

Drying

Dry your pan immediately after cleaning to prevent rust on exposed iron parts.

Stains

For stubborn stains, a paste made from baking soda and water can be gently applied. To avoid staining when using acidic food like tomato wash straight away.

Re-Seasoning When Necessary

Your enameled cast iron doesn’t need the same level of seasoning as traditional cast iron cookware, but there might still be parts that require attention. Pay special attention to the thin border of exposed cast iron along the rim of the vessel and lid.

Re-season these areas as needed, by applying a thin layer of oil and heating the enameled cookware at a medium setting or a low temperature for a short period. By following these tips, your enameled cast iron cookware will stay in top shape, and you’ll enjoy many years of delicious meals.

Special Considerations

Enameled Cast Iron Dutch Oven

For those who wonder, “do you season an enameled cast iron Dutch oven?” the answer is similar to the skillet. Season only the exposed cast iron parts if needed. Your Dutch oven is perfect for slow cooking on low to medium heat.

Utensils to Use

Metal utensils can chip the enamel coating. Opt out of metal utensils for silicone or wooden utensils instead.

I learned this the hard way when a favorite metal spatula left a small chip in my beautiful enameled cast iron Dutch oven. Since then, I always use wooden and silicone utensils, and no chipping or scratching has occurred.

Wrapping Up: How to Season Enameled Cast Iron

Your enameled cast iron cookware, whether a skillet, a Dutch oven, or another piece, is a valuable kitchen asset.

Keep in mind care for it by maintaining a steady heat on low heat avoiding thermal shocks, and always hand washing. With these tips, your enameled cast iron will provide you with years of cooking enjoyment.

One-Pot Cooking Rocks!