Cast iron cookware has been a staple in kitchens for centuries. It is durable, versatile, and can last a lifetime if properly cared for.
One of the most important aspects of maintaining cast iron cookware is seasoning.
Seasoning is the process of coating the surface of the cookware with oil and heating it to create a non-stick surface.
Traditionally, vegetable oils like canola or soybean oil have been used for seasoning.
However, in recent years, avocado oil has gained popularity as a healthier and more sustainable alternative.
This article will explore the benefits of using avocado oil for seasoning cast iron cookware.
What is Avocado Oil?
Avocado oil is a nutritious and beneficial type of oil that is extracted from the flesh of avocados.
It is high in monounsaturated fats, known for their positive effects on heart health and reducing inflammation.
In addition to being a healthy cooking oil, avocado oil is also used in skincare products due to its moisturizing properties.
With its numerous health benefits and versatility in both cooking and skincare, avocado oil is a great addition to any healthy lifestyle.
Avocado oil also has a high smoke point, which means it can be heated to high temperatures without breaking down and producing harmful compounds.
Why Use Avocado Oil for Seasoning Cast Iron?
There are several reasons why avocado oil is a great choice for seasoning cast iron cookware:
- Health Benefits: As mentioned earlier, avocado oil is high in monounsaturated fats, which are considered to be healthy fats. Using avocado oil for seasoning cast iron cookware means that some of these healthy fats will be transferred to the food you cook in the cast iron.
- High Smoke Point: Avocado oil has a high smoke point of around 520°F, which means it can be heated to high temperatures without breaking down and producing harmful compounds. This makes it ideal for seasoning cast iron cookware, which requires high heat.
- Non-Toxic: Unlike some other oils that are commonly used for seasoning cast iron cookware, such as flaxseed oil, avocado oil is not toxic if ingested.
- Sustainable: Avocado oil is a more sustainable choice than some other oils because it is made from a fruit that is already being grown for consumption. This means that there is no need to grow additional crops specifically for oil production.
How to Season Cast Iron with Avocado Oil
Seasoning cast iron with avocado oil is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps:
- Clean the Cast Iron: Before seasoning, make sure the cast iron is clean and free of any rust or debris. Scrub it with hot water and a stiff brush, then dry it thoroughly.
- Apply the Avocado Oil: Using a paper towel or a clean cloth, apply a thin layer of avocado oil to the surface of the cast iron. Make sure to cover the entire surface, including the handle and any crevices.
- Bake the Cast Iron: Preheat your oven to 400°F. Place the cast iron upside down on the middle rack of the oven and bake for one hour. After one hour, turn off the oven and let the cast iron cool down completely before removing it.
- Repeat: Repeat the process of applying avocado oil and baking the cast iron two or three more times, or until the surface is smooth and non-stick.
Conclusion
Seasoning cast iron cookware is an important step in maintaining its durability and non-stick surface.
While traditional vegetable oils like canola or soybean oil have been used for seasoning in the past, avocado oil is a healthier and more sustainable alternative.
Avocado oil is high in monounsaturated fats, has a high smoke point, is non-toxic, and is made from a fruit that is already being grown for consumption.
Seasoning cast iron with avocado oil is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps.
By using avocado oil for seasoning, you can ensure that your cast iron cookware will last a lifetime and provide healthy, non-stick cooking for years to come.