Do you have a pie iron that’s been sitting in your cupboard for ages, unused and forgotten? Bring it out into the light of day – if you season your handy little tool correctly, it could become your favorite baking accessory! Pie irons can be used to create delicious sandwiches, desserts, and breakfast treats on an open fire. With some seasoning guidance provided here today, anyone can master the art of using their pie iron fireside cooking!
There is no more quintessential outdoor cooking experience than making s’mores over an open flame with family and friends. Read on how to season a pie iron it really is to use this practical item to venture beyond the limits of traditional campfire cuisine.
Needed Tools and Materials
- A Pie Iron (Any Shape or Size)
- Cooking Oil (Vegetable, Canola, or Olive Oil)
- Paper Towels
- Aluminum Foil
- Fireplace or Campfire With Open Flames
11 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Season a Pie Iron
Step 1: Preheat Your Fireplace or Campfire
You want a good amount of hot coals to ensure even cooking. It’s recommended to wait until your fire is fully established before starting the seasoning process. You can also use a portable fire pit or grill if needed. You’ll know your fire is ready when the coals are glowing red and have a thin layer of white ash on top. It usually takes approximately 30 minutes for this to happen.
Step 2: Clean Your Pie Iron
If your pie iron is brand new, it will have a protective coating on the surface that needs to be removed before seasoning. Use hot water and soap or a scrub brush to clean off any debris or residue from previous use. If your pie iron has been used multiple times, make sure to clean off any remaining food particles. This will prevent them from burning and ruining the seasoning process.
Step 3: Dry Thoroughly
After cleaning your pie iron, dry it completely before proceeding to the next step. Any moisture left on the surface can lead to rusting or an uneven coating of oil. This step is crucial to ensure a successful seasoning process. You can use paper towels or a clean cloth to dry your pie iron. But if you have the time, it’s recommended to let your pie iron air dry in the sun for a few hours. However, make sure to avoid leaving it outside overnight as dew or rain can cause rusting.
Step 4: Apply Cooking Oil
Take a small amount of cooking oil and pour it onto a paper towel. Rub the oil over the entire surface of your pie iron, including both sides and the hinge. Make sure to use a good quality cooking oil that can withstand high heat. Vegetables, canola, or olive oil are all great options for seasoning. It’s essential to use a thin layer of oil to prevent any excess from dripping onto the fire and causing flare-ups.
Step 5: First Coating
Once you have applied oil to your pie iron, it’s time for the first coating. Place your pie iron in the hot coals of your fire, making sure it’s fully immersed in them. Close the lid and let it sit for approximately 10 minutes. This will allow the oil to heat up and bond with the metal surface. This step is crucial for creating a non-stick surface.
Step 6: Second Coating
After 10 minutes, remove your pie iron from the coals and let it cool down for a few minutes. Once cooled, repeat the oil application process described in step four. This second coating will create an even stronger bond between the metal and the oil, resulting in a better non-stick surface. It will also help fill in any gaps or imperfections on the surface of your pie iron.
Step 7: Third Coating
For an even more robust seasoning, you can repeat steps five and six one more time. This third coating will ensure a long-lasting non-stick surface for your pie iron. However, if you feel that your pie iron is well-seasoned after two coatings, you can skip this step. You don’t want to overdo it and end up with a layer of oil that’s too thick, leading to a sticky surface instead of a non-stick one.
Step 8: Cool Down
After the final coating, let your pie iron cool down completely before using it for cooking. This will ensure that the seasoning process is complete and that there are no hot spots on the surface. It’s also essential to allow your pie iron to cool down before cleaning it after use. It will make the cleaning process much more manageable, and you won’t risk damaging the seasoning.
Step 9: Store Properly
Once your pie iron is cooled down and cleaned after use, make sure to store it properly. Always keep it in a dry place to prevent rusting or moisture from ruining the seasoning. If possible, wrap it with aluminum foil or store it in a sealable plastic bag to keep out any air or moisture. This will help maintain the non-stick surface and ensure that your pie iron is ready for use whenever you need it.
Step 10: Re-Season as Needed
Over time, with repeated use, the seasoning on your pie iron may start to wear off. You’ll notice food sticking more often and difficulty cleaning it. When this happens, it’s time to re-season your pie iron. Follow the same steps mentioned above, starting with a good cleaning and drying before applying oil for a new coating.
Step 11: Experiment With Different Recipes
Now that you know how to season your pie iron correctly, it’s time to experiment with different recipes! You can use your pie iron to cook up delicious sandwiches, desserts, and even breakfast foods like French toast and omelets. The possibilities are endless, so have fun and get creative with your outdoor cooking. Always remember to clean and re-season your pie iron after each use for the best results. Now, let’s get cooking! Happy camping!
Following these simple steps will ensure that your pie iron is always ready to use and will last for many camping trips to come. Happy seasoning! The great outdoors await you with all sorts of delicious treats made possible by a well-seasoned pie iron. So go out there and try out some new recipes, impress your family and friends, and make unforgettable memories around the campfire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do I Have to Season My Pie Iron Before Every Use?
No, seasoning your pie iron is a one-time process. However, if you notice that the non-stick surface starts to wear off after multiple uses, it’s time to re-season your pie iron. It’s recommended to re-season it at least once a year for optimal performance.
Q2: Can I Season My Pie Iron on a Stove?
Yes, you can season your pie iron on a stove if you don’t have access to an outdoor fire. Follow the same steps mentioned above, but instead of placing your pie iron in hot coals, you can place it on a stovetop burner. Just make sure to use caution and protect your hands from the heat.
Q3: Can I Use Any Oil for Seasoning?
It’s best to use cooking oils that can withstand high heat, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or olive oil. Avoid using butter or margarine as they have a lower smoke point and can lead to a sticky surface instead of a non-stick one.
Q4: Can I Wash My Pie Iron After Seasoning?
Yes, you can wash your pie iron after seasoning as long as you use mild soap and water. Avoid using any abrasive materials or harsh chemicals that can damage the seasoning. It’s also recommended to dry it thoroughly before storing it to prevent rusting. So now that you know how to season a pie iron, it’s time to gather around the campfire and enjoy some delicious meals cooked in your trusty pie iron. Happy cooking!
Conclusion
With a few simple steps on how to season a pie iron, you can make family time special and delicious with pie-iron cooking. Gather the ingredients you need, assemble the sandwich, grease your iron, and help your children create a unique and fun meal that is sure to be enjoyed by everyone.
Not only will pie-iron cooking ensure a memorable outdoor experience for your family, but it will also guarantee plenty of flavorful combinations for everyone to try. So no matter which seasonings you use, it’s sure to make your summer campfire or backyard fire pit session an unforgettable treat. So get out there, have some fun, find the perfect spots to cook up some of these tantalizing flavors, and don’t forget to bring along your trusty pie iron!
