Carolina Cooker® offers a full line of affordable cooking tools, with quality and tradition baked into each piece. Backed by a team that stands behind each product with service and support, our mission is to equip passionate cooks with the tools that will help them serve deliciousness – every time they prepare a dish.

WHAT TO EXPECT:

The use of our polished cast iron is as simple as – cook, wash, dry, oil, and repeat! During the first couple of uses, the seasoning layer may flake off and the color will change, but not to worry, this is normal and when cared for properly our cast iron is built to last generations.

FIRST TIME USE:

It’s a good idea to use a little extra cooking oil, or cook some meat with a bit of fat, for your first few meals in order to begin developing a strong seasoned layer. Over time and after you have built up a strong layer of seasoning, your polished cookware should become more resistant to sticking food. The more you use this piece, the more established it becomes.

WHAT SHOULD YOU COOK FIRST

It’s a good idea to use a little extra cooking oil, or cook some meat with a bit of fat, for your first few meals in order to begin developing a strong seasoned layer. Over time and after you have built up a strong layer of seasoning, your polished cookware should become more resistant to sticking food. The more you use this piece, the more established it becomes.

SOME FOODS CAN BE TOUGH ON NEW CAST IRON

Sugary and acidic foods such as tomato sauce can be harsh on new cast iron. We suggest cooking these types of foods after your cast iron is worn in, and you have built up a good seasoning layer of your own.

HEATING UP YOUR CAST IRON

Be sure to preheat your cast iron fully before putting food in. Normally, cooking bacon in cold cast iron is a great method because it allows the fat to render out as the cast iron and bacon heat up, but with brand new cast iron it will be prone to sticking. To check if your cast iron is properly warmed up take a couple droplets of water and if they sizzle on the pan, it’s ready!

SEASONING

1. While heating up your cookware, use a pair of tongs and a paper towel to carefully apply a thin layer of oil. Be conservative when applying oil; using too much can result in a sticky residue. Use an oil with a relatively high smoke point like canola, grapeseed or sunflower.
2. Place a sheet of aluminum foil or a rimmed baking sheet on the lower rack of the oven underneath where you’ll be placing your cast iron.
3. Bake at 450° for about an hour. Turn the oven off and let your cast iron cool in the oven. Repeat as necessary to achieve desired layer of seasoning.

CLEANING

Rinse your cookware out with hot water and wash it with a gentle soap and sponge. If needed, use a pad or our Carolina Cooker® Chainmail Scrubber to scrape off any stuck on food.

Once your cast iron is rinsed, it is important to make sure that it is completely dry before storing away. Towel dry with a lint free towel and if necessary place your cast iron back on the stove on a low heat for 5-10 minutes to allow it to fully dry.

While your cookware is still warm, apply a thin layer of oil (½ teaspoon) and wipe thoroughly throughout the interior of your cast iron. Make sure to dry off any excess before storing in a cool and dry place.